‘Corporations Are Partners Not Enemies of Environment’

Businesses, environmental groups and the government will have to find common ground by harmonizing their conflicting interests, said Lee Byung-wook, president of the Business Institute for Sustainable Development (BISD).

“Advanced countries, especially European countries, approach environment regulations with a partnership concept, but it’s the last thing to expect from the Korean government,’’ Lee said in an interview with The Korea Times.

Lee urged the government and the public to perceive businesses as their partners for sustainable development on a long journey. “Taking the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system for example, European countries let companies assume responsibility not only because they are the ones who have caused the problems but also they are the ones most suited to settle them.’’

The Korea Times