Expat Professionals Going Green In South Korea

South Korea may not be the top of the list for aspiring expat professionals, but its green credentials are attracting those concerned about the state of the planet.

It seems that climate change activists as well as those who just try their best to help save the earth from its most populous species may have a better chance of making a difference in South Korea. This Asian country may not be on every would-be expat’s wish list, but an increasing number of its citizens are taking the threat seriously, especially as regards the endless number of plastic bags ending up in its rubbish disposal plants. Online articles and blogs on this controversial subject suggest the government’s banning of plastic bags in supermarkets is a start, but most small retailers haven’t yet caught on.

This sad fact gives expats living and working in the country a chance to make their views known by carrying cloth bags and insisting they’re used. Another must is to learn how the country’s recycling initiative works, with separating the various type of waste into their specific bins. For expats used to simply chucking everything into one huge bin, it’s irritating at first, but most feel virtuous after a few weeks!

For expats who’ve settled in and are beginning to realise global warming isn’t a hoax, joining a Korean climate action group is a practical idea, as well as giving practice for those attempting to learn the language. Seoul is home to many such groups and, for those unable to speak any Korean, donations to local action groups are more than welcome. For expats all over the world, it’s becoming more and more obvious global warming is an all too real threat to the survival of the planet and all its species, including humanity.