1. Study Objectives and Method

▮ Research purpose

￮ With the implementation of the Framework Act on Carbon Neutrality and Green Growth, there is an increased emphasis on the role played by metropolitan and basic local governments. They are increasingly viewed as critical actors in the practical implementation of the climate crisis and carbon neutrality policies, serving as arenas where shifts in the economy, society, and life are manifested. 

￮ Jeollabuk-do, comprising 14 cities and counties marked by notable disparities in economic conditions, industrial profiles, and topographical characteristics, necessitates fundamental research. This research entails a comprehensive examination, encompassing an analysis of emission characteristics reflective of each city and county’s unique characteristics, case studies, and the formulation of key strategies.

￮ This study analyzes the distinctive regional characteristics and greenhouse gas emission profiles of 14 cities and counties in Jeollabuk-do. It draws upon data from the Greenhouse Gas Inventory and Research Center (GIR), classifies these regions according to their basic local government characteristics, and analyzes greenhouse gas emissions in relation to both the national basic plan and other local governments. By analyzing cases of emission reduction policies, the aim is to identify strategies and basic directions for each type of greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the objective is to propose a carbon neutrality policy project tailored to local governments, guided by the insights gained from analyzing key emission characteristics by type.

▮ Research methodology

￮ The spatial scope of the study was set to Jeollabuk-do, encompassing its 14 cities and counties. The temporal scope for analyzing greenhouse gas emission characteristics relied on the data covering emissions from 2016 to 2020, which was made available by the GIR.

￮ The research employed a comprehensive and multifaceted approach involving statistical analysis, a thorough literature review, graphical trend analysis using graphs, typology, examination of policy case studies, expert consultations, and gathering input from city and county officials. These methods were employed to identify greenhouse gas emission characteristics unique to each city and county and to formulate strategies for achieving carbon neutrality.

2. Conclusion and Policy Suggestion

▮ Greenhouse gas emissions status and characteristics

￮ The inventory analysis of greenhouse gas emission characteristics was structured to include energy conversion and industrial sectors while excluding any overlap between indirect and direct emissions. Upon analyzing the changes over the last five years (2016-2020) and the emission characteristics in 2020, a general decreasing trend in overall greenhouse gas emissions was observed. However, the proportion of emissions and the patterns of change differ across various city and county sectors.

￮ Analyzing the relationship between various emission factors and sector-specific greenhouse gas emissions in the 14 cities and counties of Jeollabuk-do revealed several patterns. A positive correlation was observed between overall population, gross regional domestic product (GRDP), land area, and total greenhouse gas emissions. Similarly, there was a positive correlation noted between forests and fields. On the contrary, there was a negative correlation between the area and the ratio of the elderly population.

▮ Typification of emission characteristics by city and county

￮ Various methods were employed to distinguish greenhouse gas emission characteristics. These characteristics were divided into major types, detailed types, and auxiliary indicators to comprehensively reflect each analysis result.

￮ The major types, representing approximate regional characteristics, were further divided into 4 types: 1 city (Jeonju), 3 industrial areas (Gunsan, Iksan, Wanju), 3 urban and rural areas (Jeongeup, Gimje, Namwon), and 7 rural and fishing areas (Jinan, Muju, Jangsu, Imsil, Sunchang, Gochang, Buan).

￮ In order to formulate greenhouse gas reduction strategies, the detailed types were further divided into 7 types: 1 base city (Jeonju), 1 industrial focus (Gunsan), 2 industrial complexes (Iksan, Wanju), and 2 agricultural and livestock industrial complexes. (Jeongeup, Gimje), 3 agricultural and livestock complexes (Jangsu, Imsil, Sunchang), 3 absorption complexes (Namwon, Jinan, Muju), and 2 agricultural and fisheries complexes (Gochang, Buan).

￮ Auxiliary indicators, which provide insights into the emission level and priority of each city and county based on the total emissions of Jeollabuk-do, include the emission level of each city and county (classified as high emissions, key emissions, medium emissions, or low emissions). These indicators are then combined with priority indicator results (leading, key emissions, cooperation, and support).​