Suncheon City (Mayor Noh Gwan-gyu) is a city in Jeollanam-do. They announced that they are taking the lead in expanding green space and improving living environments in local communities by creating a ‘Resident Group Participation Forest’ in which citizens actively participate in accordance with the project.
This project is aimed at increasing citizens’ interest in and voluntary participation in tree planting, such as by allowing citizens to directly propose projects and take care of trees. It was designed to contribute to improving the urban environment and provide an opportunity to participate in nature-friendly activities to respond to the climate crisis.
This year’s resident group participation forest project was centered on Woldeung Galpyeong and Maesan parks. In Woldeung Galpyeong, a pleasant walking path and a colorful wild flower complex were created under an elegant pine forest, and in Maesan Park, a bright multi-story flower bed and a green grass plaza were created to provide a space where local residents and visitors can comfortably relax.
Suncheon Mayor Noh Gwan-gyu said, “The community participation forest is an activity in which citizens directly participate in cultivating local forests, and it will be an opportunity to raise citizens’ awareness of the importance of tree planting.” He added, “We will continue to expand green spaces that grow together with citizens.” “We plan to continue to pursue this,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Women’s Association of the Hyundai Apartment in Saengmok-dong, Suncheon City (Chairman Choi Mi-sook) is setting a positive example for the local community by refurbishing the old mural at the apartment entrance in early November and practicing ‘keeping a clean village.’
The mural in the apartment entrance was painted about 10 years ago, and over time it had faded and become worn, somewhat damaging the first impression of the apartment. Accordingly, the women’s association, along with about 10 members, volunteered to paint the mural for 10 days, giving it a new and pleasant look. It was hard work, but the members helped each other and added bright colors to the apartment entrance.
Choi Mi-sook, president of the women’s association, and Kim Seon-hee, president of the residents’ representative group, said, “With the refurbishment of the mural, the entrance to the apartment has become a much warmer atmosphere. Through these activities, communication between neighbors has occurred naturally, and the apartment has grown into a more harmonious community.” “I think it was an opportunity to do it,” he said.
Kim Yang-hee, head of Deokyeon-dong, said, “It is impressive to see residents taking care of their surroundings on their own and fostering community bonds. I hope that this voluntary practice will spread widely as a model example of resident autonomy.”
This mural decoration was done through the voluntary efforts of the women’s association of Hyundai Apartment in Saengmok-dong, and they are constantly sharing warm feelings with their neighbors through environmental purification activities such as picking up village waste and removing weeds, and agricultural product sharing projects by cultivating village gardens.
Economy Queen Reporter Kim Hong-mi / Photo Suncheon City
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Interview between Time.news Editor and Urban Greening Expert
Time.news Editor: Good day, and welcome to Time.news! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Jina Lee, an expert in urban greening and community engagement. Dr. Lee, it’s great to have you here!
Dr. Jina Lee: Thank you! I’m excited to be here and discuss such an important topic.
Editor: Suncheon City recently announced its initiative to create a “Resident Group Participation Forest.” Can you explain the significance of this project for local communities?
Dr. Lee: Absolutely! This initiative reflects a growing trend in urban planning that emphasizes community involvement in green space development. By allowing residents to propose projects and actively participate, such initiatives not only enhance environmental awareness, but they also strengthen community bonds. This kind of participatory approach can lead to more sustainable and cherished urban greenspaces.
Editor: That’s fascinating! The project involves innovative features like colorful wildflower complexes and walking paths. How do these specific elements contribute to community well-being?
Dr. Lee: These features serve multiple purposes. Firstly, colorful wildflower complexes can attract pollinators and enhance biodiversity, which is critical to a healthy ecosystem. Secondly, creating pleasant walking paths encourages physical activity, promoting mental well-being. Spaces that are aesthetically pleasing and functional can significantly improve the quality of life for residents, providing them with areas to relax and connect with nature.
Editor: Mayor Noh Gwan-gyu emphasized improving awareness about tree planting within the community. In your opinion, how crucial is this awareness in combating the climate crisis?
Dr. Lee: It’s incredibly crucial. Awareness leads to action. When people understand the importance of trees in combatting climate change—such as their role in absorbing carbon dioxide and providing oxygen—they’re more likely to participate in conservation efforts. Community involvement, like that encouraged in Suncheon City, also cultivates a sense of stewardship towards nature, which is essential for sustainable environmental practices.
Editor: Speaking of community involvement, we also saw an initiative by the Women’s Association of the Hyundai Apartment, who refurbished an old mural and promoted cleanliness. How does such community action complement larger environmental initiatives?
Dr. Lee: It adds a cultural and social dimension to the environmental movement. Art, like the mural, fosters a sense of pride in the community and makes the space more inviting. Moreover, small actions, such as promoting cleanliness, create an environment conducive to larger initiatives. When community members actively take care of their surroundings, it lays the groundwork for greater environmental stewardship.
Editor: It seems that local initiatives can foster a sustainable and participatory approach to urban planning! What do you see as the next steps for Suncheon City and similar communities in expanding green spaces?
Dr. Lee: The next steps should focus on education, outreach, and collaboration. Educating residents about environmental issues and sustainable practices will be vital. Collaborations with local schools, NGOs, and businesses can enhance participation and bring in resources. Moreover, continuous community feedback will ensure that projects meet the needs of the residents effectively.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Lee, for sharing these insightful perspectives on urban greening and community initiatives. It’s clear that projects like those in Suncheon City are paving the way for a healthier and more engaged community.
Dr. Lee: Thank you for having me! It’s inspiring to see how communities can come together for a sustainable future.
Editor: And to our readers, we hope you’re inspired to get involved in your local communities and contribute to making our cities greener! Until next time, stay engaged and informed.