English II
Many environmental indicators in South Korea are steadily improving due to the efforts of the citizens, public organizations, and the govern- ment. With an aim to shape a healthy and safe environment for the nation, these entities are col- lectively strengthening preventive measures for environmental management. They are developing ef cient land utilization techniques, strictly con- trolling the use of chemical substances, and creat- ing response systems to environmental diseases. Since 2014, the establishment of the Integrated Approach to Environmental Management has individualized environmental management of in- dustries by acknowledging the speci city of each business type. In addition, water supply distribu- tion systems have been enhanced, supplying clean water to farming and shing villages. The sewer system supply rate is also increasing, while the concentration of water pollutants is continuously decreasing. Global concerns regarding climate change have led to proactive efforts on the local level to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Maintaining pace with the international society, Korea aims to reduce 30% of greenhouse gas emissions by 2020 while instituting a low-carbon socio-economic structure. The government is also maximizing resource circulation by recycling wastes and con- tinues to cultivate the environmental industry as the nation’s new growth engine. Since the export volume for Korea’s environmental industry has increased from 0.7 trillion KRW in 2004 to 7.9 trillion in 2014, the industry is expected to create new job opportunities and increase revenue. Other enhancements of environmental indica- tors include the expansion of ecological space, advancement in biodiversity management, resto- ration of stream ecosystems, and tightened regula- tions on ultra-particulate matter, noise, and odor. Parks and protected areas are steadily expanding as more natural parks are designated and managed as places of relaxation and ecological exploration.
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