The Korea Environment Institute (KEI) participated in the 9th EU-Korea Civil Society Forum (CSF) in Brussels, Belgium, from September 3-6, 2023. The forum aimed to convene the Domestic Advisory Groups (DAGs) of each party, as outlined in Chapter 13 of the Free Trade Agreement between Korea and the European Union (EU), which addresses matters relevant to trade and sustainable development. The primary objective of the event was to contribute to the promotion of sustainability in trade, especially in the areas of the environment and labor, and to strengthen cooperation between the two parties. The discussions during the forum primarily focused on the digital economy and its connections to sustainability, circular economy initiatives, and developments in environmental policies, among other topics.

Inside the venue

Dr. Ji Hye Jo, Director of the Division for Resource Circulation at KEI, served as a guest speaker during Session 2, titled “Circular Economy and Biodiversity.” Dr. Jo discussed South Korea’s circular economy policies and future directions. She highlighted key policies and implementation plans aimed at advancing the circular economy in Korea, with a particular focus on the importance of governance and international collaboration for a successful transition. Dr. Jo also outlined other efforts made by Korea so far, including the enactment of the Act on the Promotion of Circular Economy Transition and the circular economy promotion strategy, which takes into account carbon neutrality and industrial revitalization.

Dr. Ji Hye Jo, Director of the Division for Resource Circulation

Dr. Jo mentioned Korea’s additional tasks, including the enhancement of market competitiveness through product design and manufacturing that prioritize resource efficiency and circularity. She emphasized the need to establish global standards for the circular economy, create a certification and tracking system for recycled materials, and develop a methodology for estimating carbon footprints, all of which require close international cooperation.

Dr. Jae-hyuck Lee, Research Fellow from the Division for Green Transition at KEI, took part in Session 2 as a debater. During the debate, there was an emphasis on the need to enhance regulatory consistency as EU enterprises operating in Korea face challenges due to discrepancies, such as variations in labeling standards. The EU proposed that if there is a joint circular economy initiative between Korea and the EU, relevant discussions should be addressed within the CSF by each DAG. Additionally, there was a discussion regarding the importance of taking precautions to prevent the emergence of trade barriers related to fundamental resources for the circular economy.

Dr. Jae-hyuk Lee participating in an online discussion (pictured on the right). 

Group photo (fourth from the right: Dr. Ji Hye Jo)