The Embassy of the Republic of Korea and the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) successfully hosted the highly anticipated Climate Action Seminar under the theme “Rethinking Plastic: Building Resilient Communities and Ecosystems in PNG”.
The Seminar brought together representatives from the national government, the international diplomatic community, the private sector, development partners and technical experts to increase awareness of the devastating impacts of plastic pollution globally and in particular on PNG’s biodiversity, health, and economy and discuss actionable strategies including partnerships for addressing waste management and implementing the Plastic Pollution Treaty in PNG.
The Seminar was opened by the South Korean Ambassador to PNG, His Excellency Choi Jongho, who noted the seminar was especially timely as it aligned with the Fifth Session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5), which was held in Busan, South Korea. The INC-5 focused on developing global strategies to combat plastic pollution, including its effects on marine environments. He noted that the global and this national forum demonstrated the urgency needed to address this shared concern.
“It is an honor to address this seminar on plastic pollution, a threat to biodiversity, marine ecosystems, and livelihoods. Although PNG contributes just 1.3% of global plastic waste, approximately 280 tons enter its marine environment daily, impacting food security and tourism. PNG has shown leadership with its single-use plastics ban and global engagement. Inspired by South Korea’s success in waste management, let us collaborate on solutions to combat plastic pollution and secure a sustainable future,” said Excellency Jongho.
