Friday 25 August 2017

South Korea ‘could go 100% green by 2050’

South Korea could go 100% renewable by 2050 if it stays committed to its green targets.

That's according to the WWF, who says transitioning to a clean energy system would offer a major opportunity for new jobs and economic growth, as well as significant environmental benefits.

Renewable energy currently accounts for just 2% of the country’s electricity production, with coal-fired and nuclear plants generating about 40% and 30% of power respectively.

The current government is making a strong push for renewables, aiming to raise its share to 20% by 2030 - if this continues through to a totally clean energy system energy, consumption is estimated to fall by 24% and greenhouse gas emissions could fall 90%.

Manual Pulgar-Vidal, WWF's Leader of Climate and Energy Practice, said: "Fortunately, South Korea has already begun to take a leading approach like phasing out the coal powered plant but the current reduction targets are considered insufficient to meet the global goals outlined in the Paris Agreement, which aims to keep warming below 1.5℃."

He added Korea should rethink green infrastructure, which is effective, economical and also enhances national quality of life.