Basic Environmental Policy Act
The Basic Environmental Policy Act is South Korea’s framework environmental legislation. Enacted in 1990, the Act establishes the basic principles of environmental policy, the responsibilities of the government and citizens, and the framework for environmental conservation. The Act requires the government to prepare Basic Environmental Plans and establishes the Ministry of Environment as the principal environmental authority.
Legal area: Law governing environmental protection and conservation.
Year enacted: 1990
Full text: https://elaw.klri.re.kr/eng_service/law_view.do?hseq=south-korea-basic-environmental-policy-act
Key Provisions
- Chapter I: Basic principles (sustainable development, prevention)
- Chapter II: Environmental conservation (measures, targets)
- Chapter III: Pollution prevention (emission standards, liability)
- Chapter IV: Environmental impact assessment
- Chapter V: Environmental committees and councils
- Chapter VI: Environmental education and information
Significance
The Basic Environmental Policy Act provides the overarching framework for South Korea’s environmental law. The Act’s principles have influenced subsequent environmental legislation. South Korea has been working to strengthen environmental protection, particularly regarding air quality and climate change. The Act has been supplemented by specific environmental statutes including the Clean Air Conservation Act and the Water Environment Conservation Act. South Korea has committed to carbon neutrality by 2050.