Climate Group calls on South Korea to accelerate efforts to reach net zero

In a letter to South Korea’s 22nd National Assembly, Climate Group’s CEO, Helen Clarkson, asks members to elevate the nation’s commitment to renewable energy and to accelerate efforts to reach net zero.

Climate Group warmly congratulates members elected to the National Assembly, stating that the recent general election presents a significant opportunity for the National Assembly to assert its role and influence in shaping policies that will define South Korea’s future. Regardless of political affiliation, we are all stakeholders in safeguarding the environment and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come. Committing to net zero and renewable energy requires collective action across all countries and sectors of society. 

In the letter, Helen Clarkson details how net zero presents a bold opportunity for Korea. By investing in decarbonisation opportunities, South Korea can not only mitigate the adverse effects of climate change but also foster economic growth as well as increase exports and bolster the international effort to combat climate change. To achieve this ambition, we urge each member of the 22nd National Assembly to prioritise transitioning to net zero and work collaboratively to enact ambitious policies that will propel South Korea towards a greener, more sustainable future. 

This letter specifically asks National Assembly members to:

• Elevate the nation’s commitment to renewable energy, addressing systemic barriers to renewables.
• Include subnational governments in the planning, financing, implementation and monitoring of climate strategies. 
• Mobilise finance, green public procurement, renewable electricity supply, and other market-enabling factors to achieve net zero steelmaking.

Use the links below to read the letter in full in English and Korean.