Resident Coordinator’s Remarks at the Republic of Korea (ROK)-Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) Tree Planting Ceremony

Mr. Hahm Jeong-han, Charge d’Affaires a.i., Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Thailand,

Mr. Chadchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok,

Ms. Jun Youngsuk, Country Director, Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) Office in Thailand,

And Ms. Ureerat Chareontoh, Director-General, Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA).

Let me begin by saying what an honor it is to be part of a tree planting ceremony together with the Governor of Bangkok, the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Thailand and the Thailand International Cooperation Agency.

Collaborations like this make the purpose of tree planting that much more meaningful.

It serves as an example for all of us, as individuals, to act in support of promoting a clean and greener environment in Bangkok.

The Chatuchak Park is special to the UN. Last December, together with Governor Chadchart, the UN, planted Fairy Petticoat and Ashoka trees not too far from here.

Honorable Governor, all of us here today share your vision of planting a million trees to turn Bangkok into one of the top 50 livable cities in the world, which I understand will contribute to nearly 2% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030.

We are very pleased to see more and more institutions join you in your tree planting campaign ranging from businesses, media organizations, citizens, and the international community.

Today’s generous donation of 10,000 tree saplings from the Republic of Korea is a powerful symbol of commitment to the environment and the community.

The partnership with Republic of Korea and UNEP on Clean Air for Blue Skies is showcasing how the country has reduced air pollution in 3 cities of the country - Seoul, Incheon and Gyoenggi – where half of the country’s population resides.

It took 15 years, backed by science, technology, and robust action from metropolitan governments to reduce PM2.5 to safe levels. For Seoul, it dropped by 75%, in Gyoenggi by half (52%) and a fourth (23%) for Incheon.   

These are lessons that could be learned across countries and cities.

According to WHO, 99% of the world’s population breathes polluted air.

We share the problem, but we also share the responsibility.

Collective endeavors like today's partnership is a step in this direction.

This is very fitting as we mark the 4th anniversary of the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies under the theme “Together for Clean Air”.

Today’s ceremony, together with the other events happening at the UN this week, are part of this year’s commemoration, to bring to bear stronger partnerships, increased investments, and shared responsibility to tackle air pollution.

The UN stands ready to work together with the Governor and the Republic of Korea to further deepen data driven and technology-based solutions for clean air in Bangkok.

Congratulations to all of you once again.