Last year, Korea exceeded its greenhouse gas reduction target by 6.5 percent thanks to multiple factors: improved industrial infrastructure, favorable global economic conditions and ramped up carbon-free power generation in nuclear power plants and other fields. (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)

Korea achieved an environmental milestone by surpassing its ambitious climate goals in 2023. The country significantly reduced its greenhouse gas emissions in areas ranging from energy production to industrial operations and building efficiency. Several factors that contributed to this outcome were an expansion of clean energy production, a reform of industrial practices and a seizing upon of favorable economic conditions to drive sustainable change.

The country submitted its Biennial Transparency Report to the United Nations, documenting progress toward its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). While global energy-related emissions rose to 37.4 billion tons in 2023, Korea has maintained steady emissions reductions since 2018 while sustaining GDP growth – demonstrating that economic development need not necessarily compromise environmental goals. This achievement reflects years of coordinated effort across government agencies, industry sectors and civil society organizations.

In a bold reimagining of waste management, Korea has transformed an environmental challenge into a climate solution: By turning livestock waste into fuel, it is tackling multiple environmental threats simultaneously. A by-product that once polluted the water and produced greenhouse gases is now helping to power communities. This creative solution has caught global attention, with other nations looking to Korea as a pioneer in sustainable waste management. The program exemplifies the country’s knack for finding unexpected answers to complex environmental challenges, turning problems into opportunities.

The Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs signed a business agreement with NongHyup Financial Group and KEPCO to promote the use of manure as solid fuel. (Photo courtesy of NongHyup)

In the forestry sector, the Korea Forest Service is leading ambitious efforts to cut carbon emissions by 32 million tons before 2030 – representing 11 percent of the national target. The agency comprehensively manages forests and keeps them healthy through systematic thinning and road construction. Complementary efforts include the expansion of urban forests and the conversion of unused land into carbon sinks. Also, in a shift toward more sustainable building practices, the government has begun promoting wooden architecture, starting with public buildings. These initiatives demonstrate the country’s commitment to mitigating climate change through the use of natural solutions.

The Korean government established stakeholder-inclusive monitoring groups to evaluate progress and identify areas that require further attention. By forming groups that comprise academic experts, industry representatives, environmental organizations and government officials, it is assured that policy decisions will be informed by diverse perspectives. The groups have pointed to several challenges – the slow adoption of electric vehicles, limited impact from livestock reductions and increases in emissions from waste incineration – while recommending more investment in eco-friendly technologies, enhanced environmental policies and broader implementation of emission reduction strategies across sectors.

Local governments have played a crucial role in implementing national environmental policies. Cities and provinces have considered their own unique industrial profiles and natural resources in order to develop tailored approaches to curbing emissions. Urban areas have focused on improving efficiency and transportation, while rural regions have emphasized agricultural innovations and forest management. This localized approach has helped ensure that national policies are applied effectively to regional contexts.

To help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the Korea Forest Service is promoting the construction of wooden structures like the Hangreen Wood Tower - Korea’s tallest wooden building - at the National Academy of Sciences in Yeongju. (Photo courtesy of Korea Forest Service)

The private sector has also demonstrated a higher commitment to environmental sustainability. Major corporations have established ambitious carbon reduction targets, invested in renewable energy infrastructure and developed innovative technologies for slashing emissions. Small and medium-size enterprises have received government support to upgrade facilities and adopt cleaner production methods. This public-private partnership has been essential for achieving national environmental goals.

International cooperation has further strengthened Korea’s environmental initiatives. The country has actively participated in global climate forums, shared technological innovations and collaborated on cross-border environmental projects. These international partnerships have facilitated knowledge exchange and accelerated the adoption of best practices in reducing emissions.

Despite these achievements, Korea continues to face challenges in its pursuit of environmental sustainability. The transition to renewable energy sources requires significant investment in infrastructure and careful management of economic impacts. Industrial sectors must balance competitiveness with environmental responsibility. However, the country’s comprehensive approach – combining technological innovation, policy reform and sector-specific initiatives – demonstrates strong commitment to sustainability. Korea’s ability to reduce emissions while maintaining economic growth serves as a model for balanced development, proving that environmental protection and economic prosperity can be achieved at the same time.