Busan Introduces New Certification System for Carbon Reduction through Tree Planting Program

Busan City has announced the implementation of a new certification system that calculates and certifies the amount of greenhouse gas reduction resulting from tree planting programs sponsored by companies and organizations. The “Greenhouse Gas Reduction Contribution Certification System,” which is the first of its kind in the country, aims to recognize and incentivize companies and organizations that voluntarily engage in tree planting programs to reduce their carbon footprint.

Certificates will be issued to companies and organizations that reduce over one ton of carbon dioxide per year, and those that reduce over 6.7 tons of greenhouse gases per year will be recommended for the Busan Green Environment Award.

The certification system will apply to any company or organization that establishes a reforestation initiative in Busan. The city has set a standard amount of greenhouse gas reduction at 0.01 tons of carbon dioxide per tree. This will enable the city to calculate the amount of greenhouse gas reduction resulting from the trees planted.

Currently, eight companies and organizations have planted trees for reforestation initiatives worth about KRW 3.1 billion in Haeundae Arboretum since 2021. The reforestation initiatives are equivalent to the planting of about 20,666 trees that absorb 0.01 tons of carbon dioxide per year, resulting in a total annual reduction of approximately 206.6 tons of greenhouse gases.

The city aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 47% by 2030. To meet this target, 3.8 million trees need to be planted, and the city expects the certification system to play a significant role in achieving the greenhouse gas reduction target.

The city also plans to expand its investment in climate crisis response projects, such as supporting vulnerable people and small and medium-sized enterprises.

According to Busan Mayor Park Hyung-jun, "Carbon neutrality by 2050 is a global trend and a community obligation. We are committed to implementing the GHG reduction contribution certification system to encourage voluntary participation from companies and organizations in addressing the climate crisis, and to position Busan as a leading carbon-neutral city. We believe that by working together, all members of society can make a meaningful impact towards achieving our carbon neutrality goals."