1. Study Objectives and Methods
▮ Research Purpose
○ Studies show that dietary choices not only have the potential to cause personal health problems but can also be associated with a large volume of greenhouse gas emissions during the production, consumption, and distribution of food products. In order to achieve a carbon-neutral society, an exploration of low-carbon dietary policies at the local government level is necessary.
○ Dietary habits are personal and determined by biological, economic, physical, social, psychological, and cultural factors, all of which may lower public tolerance for policies that push low-carbon diets.
○ The purpose of this study is to 1) investigate Jeollabuk-do's dietary transition as a carbon-neutral policy alternative, analyzing local conditions for policy establishment; and 2) to identify low-carbon dietary policies that Jeollabuk-do can implement to encourage the spread of carbon-neutral culture, such as creating a vegetarian environment.
▮ Research Methods
○ To investigate dietary issues and policy demands in Jeollabuk-do, qualitative research was conducted through in-depth interviews with stakeholders including suppliers, consumers, and managers, and the interview opinions were summarized.
○ To establish a basic path toward a carbon-neutral diet transition, we investigated the dietary conditions in Jeollabuk-do, performed a SWOT analysis, and identified policy goals and strategies.
○ A policy project for transitioning to a carbon-neutral diet was presented by comprehensively considering interview analysis results, SWOT analysis results, goals, and strategies.
2. Conclusion and Policy Suggestions
▮ Interview Results
○ While many respondents had positive experiences following a change in their eating habits, many complained of discomfort and difficulty in continuing practice.
○ The conditions for dietary change in Jeollabuk-do are superior to those of other regions, but it is still necessary to create a culture that dispels existing prejudices.
○ Various ideas were presented, including the creation of a dietary culture and policy cooperation linked to the food system.
▮ Policy Suggestions
○ To promote a low-carbon dietary policy, four objectives and five strategies are proposed, and 23 detailed policy projects are presented.
○ The four proposed objectives are: 1) promoting awareness and value of low-carbon eating habits by providing accurate information; 2) creating a sustainable eating culture that respects individual choices; 3) establishing a step-by-step food circulation system that coexists within the region; and 4) establishing a foundation for efficient dietary transition through departmental collaboration.
○ The five proposed strategies are: 1) perception change, 2) information campaigns, 3) culture creation, 4) local coexistence food circulation, and 5) foundation-building.
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