South Korea is facing significant challenges with ozone layer depletion, as recent studies indicate alarming increases in ozone levels. According to the Korea Environment Institute (KEI), the average ozone concentration across the nation has risen markedly since 1990, with 2019 data highlighting South Korea's position as the country with the highest ozone levels among OECD members when adjusted for population. This is not just local news; it reveals broader trends affecting air quality and environmental health.
On June 16, KEI released findings from its research on strategies for managing high ozone concentrations domestically. The report pointed out the persistent rise of ozone levels, raising concerns about the health of the population and the environment. It emphasized, "Ozone levels have been continuously increasing since 1990, particularly notable by 2019 when South Korea recorded the highest levels among OECD countries." To support their findings, the researchers noted, "Globally, tropospheric ozone concentrations are on the rise, but particularly concerning is the situation facing East Asian countries like South Korea and China, where increases are pronounced."
To understand the worsening conditions, it's important to analyze the pollutants responsible for this phenomenon. The KEI report indicated two major contributors: nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These pollutants are primarily emitted from vehicle exhausts, industrial processes, and various household activities. Particularly, it was noted, "Approximately 50% of NOx and VOC emissions as of 2021 originated from just four out of the 17 metropolitan areas across South Korea."
Among these regions, Gyeonggi Province topped the charts for NOx emissions, followed by Jeollanam-do, Gyeongsangbuk-do, and Chungcheongnam-do. The pollution from VOCs similarly showed Gyeonggi Province leading the emissions, with significant contributions also from Jeollanam-do, Gyeongsangnam-do, and Gyeongsangbuk-do. KEI's experts highlighted, "While there has been some progress in reducing NOx emissions, VOC emissions have remained relatively stable, which poses additional challenges for ozone reduction efforts."
The report pointed to the need for more comprehensive monitoring of pollutants to formulate effective policies. The increase of NOx and VOCs directly contributes to higher ozone concentrations, indicating pressing challenges to South Korea’s air quality. These pollutants tend to accumulate during the summer months from April to September, impacting public health and the environment.
Experts at KEI are emphasizing the urgency of implementing enhanced diagnostic responses to the growing ozone challenge. "Regular monitoring and detailed analysis of emission sources must be prioritized to assess variations and developments properly," they insisted. They also called for collaborative frameworks to establish zoning strategies, which could lead to data-driven decision-making and enable the identification of specific regional emission sources.
International cooperation is also seen as pivotal. With the ozone concentration problems straddling national boundaries, KEI recommended extending the scope of discussions during international environmental ministerial meetings, such as the Korea-China-Japan Environmental Ministers' Conference, to cover ozone issues explicitly. The exchange of information and strategies across countries tackling similar challenges could bolster efforts for solutions.
By sharing data on effective policies implemented elsewhere, countries can work together against this growing environmental issue. The KEI proposes establishing mechanisms for nations to share the outcomes of their actions aimed at reducing emission sources for ozone creation.
Researchers note the importance of not just reducing NOx but also addressing VOC emissions: "To effectively manage high ozone levels, steps must be taken to reduce both NOx and VOC concentrations. A localized approach, taking unique regional characteristics and source contributions, is necessary for successful policy development.”
This comprehensive research released by KEI sheds light on the pressing need for enhanced environmental regulations and intergovernmental collaboration to combat air pollution and ozone layer depletion actively. If South Korea is to effectively tackle these challenges, it must adapt and implement targeted strategies to reduce emissions, improve monitoring, and engage with neighboring nations to tackle shared concerns over ozone concentration.
