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Kumho Petrochemical invests in migratory bird conservation
Employees of Kumho Petrochemical Group pose during a volunteer program to restore natural habitats for migratory birds in Yeosu, South Jeolla Province, March 6. Courtesy of Kumho Petrochemical Group
By Ko Dong-hwan
Major chemical conglomerate Kumho Petrochemical Group is expanding its environmental stewardship efforts through a habitat restoration project for migratory birds in Korea's southwestern coastal region.
The group said Tuesday that five affiliates — Kumho Petrochemical, Kumho P&B Chemicals, Kumho Mitsui Chemicals, Kumho Polychem and Kumho T&L — are participating in the initiative in Yeosu, South Jeolla Province.
The project involves paddy fields surrounding Yeosu Gasari Ecology Park, a key habitat for migratory birds. Kumho plans to invest 260 million won ($172,000) over the next three years in partnership with Thanks Carbon, a provider of corporate environmental project solutions.
Under the project, the company will transform idle paddy fields into seasonal wetlands that can provide food and shelter for migratory birds during the winter months, when farming activities are suspended.
Wetlands created on fallow farmland are widely recognized as an effective ecological restoration method because they support biodiversity while enhancing soil carbon storage capacity, helping mitigate climate change.
Kumho said it will establish approximately 4,000 square meters of wetlands in the first year and expand the area to 11,000 square meters by the third year. Sensor cameras will be installed throughout the site to monitor bird populations and habitat conditions, enabling more systematic management of the restored ecosystem.
The project also involves local farmers, who provide rice seeds and sweet potatoes once a week as feed for migratory birds visiting the area. In March, employees from Kumho Petrochemical Group participated in volunteer activities at the site as part of the company's environmental outreach efforts.
Kumho operates manufacturing facilities within Yeosu National Industrial Complex, an area where rapid industrial development has contributed to a decline in paddy fields and the deterioration of natural habitats around nearby Suncheon Bay. The wetlands of Suncheon Bay and Yeosu's coastal areas serve as important stopover and wintering grounds for migratory birds.
“Preserving the ecological value of Yeosu and protecting the city's biodiversity are responsibilities of a company that has grown together with the local community,” Kumho Petrochemical CEO Baek Jong-hoon said.
“We will continue to strengthen our ESG (environmental, social and governance) management through meaningful environmental initiatives.”