Local activation using traditional knowledge and ecological resources of Korean islands

• Published in: Journal of Ecology and Environment Vol. 38; no. 2; pp. 263 - 269
• Main Author: Hong, Sun-Kee
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: The Ecological Society of Korea 01.05.2015; 한국생태학회
• Subjects: ecological knowledge; island ecosystem; island resources; local activation; sustainable island; 생물학
• ISSN: 2287-8327; 2287-8327; 2288-1220
• DOI: 10.5141/ecoenv.2015.027

When we consider changes in agro-fishery systems instigated by environmental changes in islands, rise in sea levels, and natural disasters such as tsunamis, there is an urgent need to carry out initiatives to enhance life standard and conserve ecosystem in island and coastal regions. To protect the region’s landscape from the effects of climate change, it is necessary to develop an integrated management system for ecosystem conservation, human settlements, and the local economy. This paper discusses the outline of a preliminary national plan for a sustainable island management system for remote (inhabited and uninhabited) islands in Korea. Two main ideas to enhance life standard are adapting to the natural environment by applying traditional knowledge and utilizing ecological resources of islands, i.e., improving the quality of life and creating added value. As a technique for improving the quality of life, the establishment of eco-villages based on energy-efficient passive houses and ecological welfare is suggested. Another technique for creating added value, the development of sea-farming islands that utilize islands’ new recyclable energy is also proposed. Finally, the suggested ideas are discussed in relation to island ecotourism and carbon zero islands.