Prime Minister Jeong: "Reduce Fine Dust Emissions by 20%"

4th Fine Dust Special Committee... "Preparing for Carbon Neutrality by 2050"

Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun is delivering opening remarks at the State Affairs Coordination Meeting held at the Government Seoul Office in Jongno-gu, Seoul on the 15th. Photo by Kang Jin-hyung aymsdream@

[Asia Economy Reporter Moon Chaeseok] Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun announced on the 2nd, "We will set targets such as reducing fine dust emissions by 20% and implement bold reduction measures and public protection actions."

Prime Minister Chung made these remarks at the '4th Special Committee on Fine Dust Countermeasures' held at the Government Seoul Office Building that day.

He said, "As proposed by the public, we mobilized unprecedented policy measures, including the first-ever seasonal management system implemented for four months starting last December."

He added, "Winter is approaching again, and if external factors such as weather change, the situation can worsen at any time. Considering the imminent threat of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), it is necessary to further strengthen fine dust response measures this winter to protect public health."

Prime Minister Chung announced that the meeting would discuss the implementation plan for the seasonal management system, which will be promoted for the second time following last year. Based on the proposal from the National Climate and Environment Council, the focus was on strengthening scientifically based responses and enhancing on-site execution capabilities.

He stated, "This time, we will set tangible goals such as a 20% reduction in fine dust emissions and implement more bold reduction measures and public protection actions. In particular, the authority and role of local governments executing policies on the ground will be significantly strengthened."

He continued, "Above all, the participation and practice of the public are most important," and urged, "I believe you will join with the attitude of 'I am the fine dust resolver.'"

Prime Minister Chung also pledged to continue efforts for international cooperation. According to him, Korea, China, and the Northeast Asia region are promoting various research and exchanges based on the consensus of a 'respiratory community.'

Our government launched the world's first environmental satellite in February and recently started an Official Development Assistance (ODA) project to provide fine dust information and technology observed from satellites to Asian countries.

Prime Minister Chung said, "I urge the relevant ministries to actively strive so that we can play a leading role in solving the Northeast Asian fine dust problem."

He added, "To move toward the 2050 carbon neutrality goal, we will also prepare as needed based on social consensus," emphasizing, "This will be a process of turning the imminent climate crisis into an opportunity for coexistence and leap forward."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.