- Korea Forest Service to plant 36 million trees in 21,000 ha for low-carbon green growth-

On February 19, Korea Forest Service(Minister: Mr. Chung Kwang-soo) is to hold the first tree planting ceremony for this year in Jeju Island. It will be held at "Minak Orum*" of Namwon-eup, Seoguipo-si (*Orum: parasitic cone) with about 500 participants from the government, forester groups, and local communities. 3,000 Ring-cupped Oak(Quercus glauca Thunb.) which is a native oak of Jeju will be planted in 2 ha.

Korea Forest Service designated tree planting season from February through April and is planning to plant 36 million trees in 21,000 ha. The trees will be planted in forest fire, disease and pest affected areas, cleared plantation, fallow land, and small areas of leftover land in urban areas.

The Korean Government is planning to make extensive efforts to plant 6,000ha of carbon neutral forest to address climate change and supply raw materials for forest biomass which may replace fossil fuel. The Government will also encourage forest owners to plant trees by providing subsidy on planting cost especially for fast growing species like tulip trees (Liriodendron tulipifera) to be used for wood pellets.

Korea Forest Service noted that tree planting will be carried out nationwide starting with the initial planting in Jeju. Planting will be implemented all the way up to northern most region at the most suitable time for each region. Authorities added that tree planting will be carried out to support low-carbon green growth based on the objectives and regional condition.

During this planting season, Korea Forest Service will also hold "Own-a-tree campaign" to distribute seedlings to individuals to promote tree planting, and organize "Tree market" nationwide.