2023 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Monitoring Plan
Chonnam National University (CNU) has implemented a structured process for managing and reducing carbon dioxide emissions, as demonstrated by its 2023 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Monitoring Plan (MP) verification service. This process ensures the accurate assessment of the university's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and complies with national regulations, specifically the Emission Trading Act, which mandates monitoring and reporting of emissions.
Carbon Management and Reduction Process
In 2023, CNU initiated a verification service for its Greenhouse Gas Emissions Monitoring Plan (MP) in accordance with the relevant national laws. The main purpose of this process is to verify the university’s GHG emissions and submit the necessary documentation to the Ministry of Environment for compliance.
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Targeted Facilities: The verification service covers 14 major university facilities, including Yongbong Campus, Hakdong Campus, Dundeok Campus, and other related facilities such as academic forests and research institutes.
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Verification Procedure: An external professional institution, designated by the Ministry of Environment, is responsible for conducting the GHG emissions verification. This includes reviewing the university's energy usage data, conducting on-site inspections, and submitting a final verification report.
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Verification Timeline:
- Contract initiation: September 2023
- Completion of on-site inspections: October 2023
- Submission of verification report: November 2023 (final submission due November 15, 2023)
This process allows CNU to accurately track and manage its carbon footprint, setting a foundation for long-term carbon reduction strategies and ensuring compliance with the national emissions trading system.
Expected Outcomes
- Carbon Emissions Management: By systematically managing its carbon emissions, CNU can set realistic goals for reducing CO2 emissions and contribute to the broader national goal of carbon neutrality.
- Public Responsibility: As a public institution, CNU demonstrates its commitment to addressing climate change by fulfilling its legal obligations and actively participating in national carbon management efforts.
※ Evidence: 2023 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Monitoring Plan
Operation of Experimental Forests at Chonnam National University
Chonnam National University not only focuses on campus vegetation but also manages two experimental forests: Bogildo Experimental Forest and Jangseong Experimental Forest. These forests play a significant role as carbon sinks.
Bogildo Experimental Forest: The Bogildo Experimental Forest is the only subtropical experimental forest in Korea, making research on the expansion of subtropical forests and the superior carbon storage capacity of evergreen broad-leaved trees essential due to climate change. This forest is located within the Dadohaehaesang National Park, which adds the responsibility of national land conservation and social public interest. The unique environmental conditions and the limitations imposed by forest management regulations make forest management planning more challenging. Initially, the primary goal of the forest was to restore and protect the degraded forest land, and now it serves as a foundation for supporting student practice, research, and the preservation of subtropical forests.
- Location: Bogil-myeon, Wando-gun, Jeollanam-do
- Area: 1,262 hectares
Jangseong Experimental Forest: The Jangseong Experimental Forest operates with the goal of ecosystem restoration and carbon storage enhancement through multi-purpose forest management. In alignment with international environmental agreements on climate change, biodiversity, desertification prevention, and wetland conservation, the forest has focused on protecting and restoring ecosystems in its 6th and 7th forest management plans. As a result, the forest's timber accumulation has significantly increased, along with noticeable improvements in biodiversity, including mammals, birds, freshwater fish, and insects. The forest also serves as an educational and research site for various academic departments. Despite challenges in forest management due to its location in a national park, the forest is managed with strict adherence to environmental and educational regulations, focusing on public benefit and sustainable forest functions.
- Location: Bukha-myeon and Buki-myeon, Jangseong-gun, Jeollanam-do
- Area: 916.18 hectares
Role of the Experimental Forests: Both experimental forests contribute to Chonnam National University’s sustainable forest management and climate change mitigation efforts, with a particular focus on carbon sequestration. Research on subtropical forests and improvements in carbon storage capacity are critical components that can significantly contribute to addressing global environmental challenges.
※ Evidence
- Bogildo Experimental Forest Management Plan
- Jangseong Experimental Forest Management Plan
Eco-Campus Development Plan
Chonnam National University has established an Eco-Campus Development Plan in order to transform into an eco-friendly university that realizes a sustainable life for future generations as a higher education institution. This is in conjunction with the government's Green New Deal national project. The plan is aimed at nurturing talents who can lead the Green New Deal in cooperation with the local community, thereby fulfilling its role and responsibilities as a pivotal university in the Gwangju-Jeonnam region.
To create an eco-friendly campus, the university plans to increase the use of renewable energy within the campus based on an understanding of the various environmental pollutions and climate change impacts caused by the use of fossil fuels.
Projects: Implementation of a total electricity usage quota by institution, installation of automatic control programs for electric heating and cooling systems, construction of an integrated energy management system, installation of air source heat pumps, installation of eco outlets, and use of energy-saving mice, etc.
※ Evidence: Eco-Campus Development Plan
