The city of Busan has begun a full-scale push to secure carbon emissions credits through large-scale tree planting as part of its plan to reach carbon neutrality by 2050.
The initiative is designed to strengthen the city’s ability to respond to climate change while supporting eco-friendly industries and stimulating the local economy.
The city aims to create 300 hectares of forested land by 2040, securing approximately 15,000 tons of carbon credits in the process.
The project will initially focus on large-scale planting areas, such as restoration sites at Haeundae Arboretum and wildfire-damaged areas on Unbongsan Mountain, with gradual expansion to smaller spaces like parks, apartment complexes, and green zones.
Busan’s recent selection in a national Forest Service support program saved roughly 550 million won in consulting fees and helped pave the way for registration with the Ministry of Environment.
The city plans to begin securing credits in 2026, targeting 235 tons per year, with long-term carbon offset rights lasting up to 45 years.
