The Ondol heating system is one of the oldest heating systems in the world and has been a prominent feature of traditional Korean homes for centuries. It is a unique form of underfloor heating that uses direct heat transfer from smoke generated by woodstoves or outdoor furnaces to heat the underside of the floor in the adjacent room, allowing for more efficient use of heat.
The environmental and societal effects of Ondol, a traditional Korean heating system, have been a topic of concern. According to historical records, from the early 17th century to 1910, during the late Joseon Dynasty period, the excessive demand for fuelwood required to operate Ondol was thought to have contributed to widespread forest degradation on the Korean Peninsula before the Japanese occupation.
Before the mid-Joseon Dynasty, forest resources were abundant, and demand for forest products was low. The Korean Peninsula has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons and an annual mean temperature ranging from 2.5 to 15 °C. In January, the temperature can drop to -6 °C, and over half of all rainfall comes in the summer during the monsoon season, with annual mean precipitation of 1000–1400 mm. Most areas contain deciduous broad-leaf and coniferous trees, and over 70% of the peninsula is mountainous, with more than 900 tree species.
Factors Contributing to Increased Fuelwood Demand
However, the Little Ice Age, a period of cooler temperatures from the mid-16th to mid-19th centuries, played a significant role in the increased demand for fuelwood due to the need for additional heating. Population growth also played a role in the increased demand for fuelwood, as the number of households requiring fuel for heating and cooking increased.
After the 17th century, a significant increase in demand for fuelwood and charcoal emerged, with fuelwood used for both household heating and cooking. The Ondol heating system became popular in the late Joseon period when the population increased, and there was a decline in the availability of alternative heating sources. The system was especially popular among the middle and upper classes and was commonly found in traditional Korean homes of the time.
Despite the benefits of the Ondol heating system, its high demand for fuelwood had a significant impact on the forests of the Korean Peninsula. Forest degradation was frequently attributed to the astronomical amount of fuelwood demand due to Ondol. This has led to concerns over the sustainability of the Ondol heating system and its impact on the environment.
Sustainability Concerns and Dependence on Imported Energy
Today, South Korea has become the only country to have successfully reforested since the 20th century. However, the country’s lush forests are now grown using imported coal, oil, and gas. With the recent war in Ukraine, the dependence on imported energy has become a concern, and it has raised questions about the sustainability of South Korea’s energy consumption. The country’s forests are a vital part of its ecosystem, providing numerous benefits to both the environment and society. They help regulate the climate, prevent soil erosion, and provide habitats for wildlife. They are also important for the country’s tourism industry, attracting visitors from all over the world to experience the beauty and tranquility of the Korean countryside.
From the mountain top, gazing upon the thick hardwood forests sprawling across the hillside, a sense of concern arises about the future of these green mountains. To preserve these natural wonders, it’s crucial to adopt a less energy-intensive lifestyle, which includes minimizing the use of heating systems and water heaters. Given the decline of the coal industry, which was initially established through tree planting, South Korea must transition towards sustainable practices to safeguard its thriving forests and reduce reliance on imported energy. This includes promoting energy-efficient practices and encouraging the use of renewable energy sources.
Transitioning Toward Sustainable Practices
While the Ondol heating system remains a cherished cultural heritage of Korea, it is important to find alternative solutions to minimize the impact on the environment. With the growing concern over climate change and the need to transition to a sustainable economy, a shift towards a more sustainable lifestyle is necessary to protect the environment and reduce dependence on imported energy.
