They are seeking solutions to the climate crisis in forests. The Presidential Commission on Carbon Neutrality and Green Growth, in conjunction with National Assembly member Jeong Hee-yong and the Korea Forest Service, held a ‘Parliamentary Forum for Forest Adaptation to Climate Crisis’ on March 18 at the National Assembly Hall.
Approximately 60 participants, including forest climate experts, civic groups, and foresters, attended this forum. The attendees discussed issues such as the discovery of new afforestation species due to forest climate change, the provision of facilities and equipment for stable forest product supply, and the national strategy for responding to the climate crisis and the role of forests.
Forests are a vital carbon sink covering 63% of South Korea’s territory and are pivotal resources for climate crisis response. Topics such as the creation of urban forests for carbon neutrality, strategies for utilizing timber, and strengthening responses to forest disasters were also key subjects of discussion.
Han Hwa-jin, Co-Chair of the Carbon Neutrality Commission, stated, “Forests are not merely resources; they are carbon storage facilities, repositories of biodiversity, and critical environmental assets that enhance quality of life. We will actively support forest sector adaptation to climate change and the realization of carbon neutrality.”
The discussions held at this forum are expected to be reflected in future forestry policy formulation and will serve as a stepping stone toward developing sustainable forest management strategies to address climate change challenges.
