The green belt, established by law to curb the disorderly expansion of cities, preserve natural surroundings, and foster sustainable development, is also known as a development-restricted zone. Originating in the UK to safeguard green spaces around urban areas and manage farming practices like greenhouses, it was introduced in South Korea in 1971 and persisted until 2024.
Initially, green belt zones in Korea encircled cities such as Seoul in Gyeonggi Province, Incheon, Busan, Daegu, Jeonju, and Yeosu. However, areas like Jeonju, Yeosu, Jinju, and Cheongju, previously designated as green belt zones, are now witnessing the release of their green belts for development and industrialization. Various factors contribute to the disappearance of the green belt, with skyrocketing housing prices being the most significant, attributable to restricted development in designated areas. Additionally, as the scope of the Green Belt expanded, local economies failed to develop evenly, and the installation of vital infrastructure like roads, water, electricity, and gas was restricted, prompting the decision to release the Green Belt significantly.
This policy of green belt release has ignited intense debates. Advocates argue that soaring housing prices and uneven regional development, reaching uncontrollable levels, are outcomes of the green belt. The stringent implementation of the green belt has been criticized as a significant impediment to cities' normal development and growth. Technological advancements since its inception in the 1970s and 1980s have rendered the era of cities expanding alongside environmental pollution obsolete. Moreover, rigid regulations have distorted urban evolution. It is argued that sufficient land for businesses, research facilities, and schools should be readily available near major cities. However, once designated as a green belt, developing the area has proven challenging.
However, only considering the positive aspects of green belt release is wrong. Balanced development is necessary, but removing the safety net of the green belt all at once will inevitably lead to environmental destruction. The damage is significant once the environment is damaged, and recovery is not easy. It is essential to consider whether regional economic collapse is due to a lack of factory sites. While mentioning the infringement of property rights due to regulations, there are concerns that development benefits will only accrue to specific landowners. Therefore, decisions regarding the complete release of the green belt require deeper consideration and thorough evaluation.
Even though the Green Belt may seem distant, it is a crucial factor directly linked to our daily lives, existence, and future. It requires the attention and efforts of many citizens. Environmental pollution is not only a severe social issue but also particularly significant in this modern age, where incidents like the Fukushima contaminated water release are occurring one after another.
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