Western economies, the pioneers of green economy, possess advanced technology and are keen to cooperate with Asia in the field of green economy because of the region's economic rise and business opportunities, said Kim. Aside from its own endeavors, Asia should boost international cooperation.

Nevertheless, no success story can be blindly copied and followed by Asian countries and regions. Modifications and adjustments to suit local conditions are necessary, said Kim.

"South Korea, Singapore and China have taken the lead in green economy in Asia, yet their models only serve as a reference for other countries since geological and economic conditions vary so much," said Dr. Kim. It's not practical to stress only one way of pursuing green economy.

South Korea, for example, has the highest population density in terms of arable landmass, two thirds of which are mountainous areas, she said. South Korea is poor in its ecological capacity and disadvantaged in promoting green economy. Singapore, however, is a city country with a high per capita GDP and advanced technology, which makes it easy to push forward green economy. People there have a strong awareness of environment and ecology protection.

Starting from 2009, South Korea began to implement green growth as a national strategy and declared the plans for a "Green Korea." It set up green goals, followed by basic laws and regulations. Its policy response capabilities are highly appreciated by the international community.

Exchange and proactive cooperation should be also encouraged among experts and related organizations, said Dr. Kim. During her term as minister of Environment in South Korea, Dr. Kim worked with China's environmental authorities and launched the Environment Technology Cooperation Center in Beijing, which facilitated the progress of both sides.

"As the economy grows, people's desire for better quality of life will grow accordingly," said Kim. "Yet we must let more people know the health of life is directly connected with the health of nature." Education is important at all levels.

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