The Ministry of Environment has launched a project aimed at improving air quality in several districts, including Yeongdong, which has faced numerous air pollution complaints.
The air quality in the Yeongdong Yongsan-myeon Beophwari industrial and agricultural complex is set to improve significantly following the launch of the 'Clear Air in Our Neighborhood' initiative. This location has been notorious for having seven establishments emitting air pollutants, leading to 196 complaints related to air and odor pollution last year alone. The initiative will target a total area of 2.34 million square meters around the industrial cluster, indicating a significant commitment to public health in the region.
Launched in collaboration with the Ministry of Climate Energy and Environment and local government bodies, the project has selected 18 locations nationwide, including industrial complexes in Daejeon, Gangwon, and Jeju. The main goal is to provide technical advisory services, improve pollution prevention measures, and enhance monitoring mechanisms specifically for small-scale emitters of air pollutants. This is part of a broader effort to mitigate air quality issues across South Korea, focusing on areas most affected by pollution.
In terms of funding, the initiative will see an investment of 1.71 billion KRW, with 950 million KRW from the national budget and 760 million KRW from local funds. Upgrades to pollution prevention facilities and strengthened post-management processes are also included in the framework of this project. Local authorities are optimistic that these efforts will lead to a significant reduction in complaints and an enhancement in the quality of life for residents in Yeongdong.
