As a flagship economy of Asia, South Korea stands out as a key player in digital transformation, with a clear ambition: to deploy advanced technological solutions to address 21st-century environmental challenges. Often referred to as a "smart nation", South Korea is investing heavily in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital infrastructure to establish a sustainable model.
$50.3 billion has been allocated under the Digital New Deal, a government initiative launched in 2020, aimed at modernizing industries and creating 900,000 jobs by 2025.
South Korea’s AI Investments for Sustainability and Innovation
In April 2024, South Korea launched the AI-semi-semiconductor program, committing $6.9 billion by 2027 to advance AI and dedicated chip technologies. An additional $1 billion is allocated to support innovative AI-focused semiconductor companies. South Korea aspires to become one of the top three global powers in artificial intelligence, adopting ambitious laws and strengthening public-private partnerships.
These efforts are not solely focused on economic growth; they also aim to tackle critical issues such as water stress, waste management, and carbon emissions reduction. AI technologies play a central role in monitoring, forecasting, and optimizing resource utilization across key sectors like water, energy, and waste.
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Why is South Korea Using AI for a More Sustainable Future?
Challenges Driving AI Adoption in South Korea
Dependence on Fossil Fuels: As of 2023, only 10% of South Korea's energy is sourced from renewables, highlighting the need for energy diversification and optimization.
Rising Water Stress: Rapid urbanization and climate change are exacerbating water scarcity, putting pressure on industries and municipalities to use resources more efficiently.
Waste Management Issues: Plastic waste remains a significant challenge, with growing demand for innovative recycling and circular economy solutions.
AI Solutions Driving Sustainability in South Korea
- Real-Time Resource Monitoring: Platforms like Hubgrade by Veolia enable industries to track water and energy consumption in real-time, identify inefficiencies, and implement immediate corrective actions.
- Process Optimization: AI-driven analytics optimize industrial processes, reducing energy and water usage while minimizing waste output.
- Predictive Insights: By forecasting production needs and resource demand, AI allows companies to proactively adapt their operations, improving both efficiency and sustainability.
AI Applications in South Korea: Smart Cities, Industry, and Agriculture
- Digital Agriculture: In collaboration with Indonesia, South Korea launched the Green Digital Economy Platform (GDEP) to empower 62 million farmers with AI-driven tools for sustainable farming practices.
- Partnerships with the European Union: In December 2024, South Korea and the EU held their first Digital Partnership Council in Seoul, committing to cooperative efforts in emerging technologies like AI to enhance inclusive and resilient digital transformation.
- Smart Cities: South Korea’s AI-powered smart cities are examples of how technology can be integrated to improve urban sustainability, addressing challenges in transportation, safety, and environmental management.
How Veolia is Leading AI-Powered Sustainability in South Korea
As a pioneer in sustainable digital solutions, Veolia plays a key role in both global and local environmental advancements. Through its ambitious GreenUp program, the Group is delivering tangible ecological and technological impact:
- Globally: Veolia aims to eliminate 18 million metric tons of CO2 from its clients' carbon footprints by 2027 and treat 10 million metric tons of hazardous waste, safeguarding ecosystems worldwide. With €2 billion invested in innovation, including €200 million dedicated to next-generation technologies, Veolia ensures it remains at the forefront of sustainability solutions.
- Locally in South Korea:
- Hubgrade: This AI-driven platform provides real-time monitoring of water and energy usage, helping industries identify inefficiencies and optimize resource consumption. For example, Hubgrade has enabled South Korean clients to achieve measurable reductions in energy costs and carbon emissions.
- Customer Portal for Energy Clients: Veolia has introduced a dedicated digital portal for its energy clients in South Korea, offering real-time access to data, performance analytics, and tailored insights to enhance operational efficiency.
- Smart Water Management: By utilizing predictive analytics, Veolia enhances wastewater treatment efficiency and expands water reuse, effectively mitigating South Korea’s growing water stress.
- AI in Waste Sorting: In the context of South Korea's plastic waste challenges, Veolia is exploring AI-powered sorting technologies to improve recycling rates and support the circular economy.
AI Applications in Wastewater Treatment and Industrial Water Management
Wastewater Treatment Facility in Songdo: In one of its wastewater treatment plants in the Incheon area, Veolia is implementing a process-control system that uses AI to predict the demand for chemicals needed to treat water. By correlating it with weather predictions and electricity tariffs, Veolia ensures optimal water quality while optimizing costs.
Industrial Water Facility (SEETEC): At another industrial water facility in the Ulsan region, Veolia leverages AI to extend the lifetime of its reverse osmosis membranes. This not only reduces costs but also enhances sustainability by minimizing resource consumption.
The Future of AI and Sustainability in South Korea
Through strategic investments in AI and digital transformation, South Korea is redefining its sustainability efforts. By integrating advanced technologies and collaborating with global leaders like Veolia, the country is tackling key environmental challenges while paving the way for AI-powered sustainability worldwide.
Veolia continues to develop AI-driven solutions that optimize resource management, strengthen industrial sustainability, and contribute to long-term environmental benefits.
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