The global issue of climate change is at the forefront of the agenda for a number of the world’s governments and now Korea has committed approximately five trillion won up to 2012 to secure green technology.
In a meeting on Friday, presided over by Prime Minister Seung-soo, it adopted a carbon tax system that will help to regulate greenhouse gas emissions. It is estimated that around 31 trillion will be required over the next five years if the government is to meet commitments to reduce emissions and so plans have been revealed to strengthen the financial support.
In particular, the government will encourage consumers to use green cars, and constructors to build green houses and buildings which emit less carbon dioxide (CO2) and use less energy.
In addition, the government will invest around five trillion won into research and development of green technology such as thin-film solar cells and it plans to expand annual exports of equipment that generates solar and wind power to 10 trillion won by 2012.
As part of its plans, a more environmentally friendly transportation system will be established, such as the use of light railways, and development of green industries will create around 200,000 jobs by 2030.
What do you make of the Koreans commitment to going green? Would you like to see similar investments in your country? Let us know your thoughts.
