Gov't to create bureau to handle global environmental regulations

By Jung Da-hyun

The Ministry of Environment is planning to establish a new bureau focused on managing international environmental regulations and agreements.

According to the ministry, Thursday, an amendment to create a new organization, the International Cooperation Bureau, will soon enter the preannouncement stage of the legislative process, with plans for its establishment later this month.

The establishment of the bureau under the environment ministry requires a structural reorganization, which must receive approval from the Cabinet. The environment ministry stated that the reorganization will take effect Feb. 25.

The new bureau will be responsible for addressing international environmental regulations, including the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).

CBAM is a system that imposes tariffs on goods imported into the EU, based on the carbon emissions generated during their production. It currently applies to six categories — steel, aluminum, fertilizer, hydrogen, cement and electricity.

This initiative aims to avoid carbon regulations by relocating production to countries with weaker emissions standards, rather than actually reducing pollution. However, it has raised concerns that it may potentially act as a trade barrier.

The urgency to respond to international environmental regulations with trade implications has intensified after U.S. President Donald Trump's treasury secretary suggested the possible introduction of a carbon tax.

In addition to handling international environmental regulations, the new bureau will oversee global agreements, including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Convention on Biological Diversity.

It will also take charge of negotiations on a global treaty to combat plastic pollution. Despite two years of discussions, countries failed to reach an agreement during the most recent round of talks held last year in Busan.

Furthermore, the bureau will play a crucial role in promoting environmentally responsible cooperation, assisting developing nations in their efforts to address climate change and achieve sustainable growth.