IGEE Proceedings

Evaluating How the Concentration of Chitosan Affects the Properties of Bioplastic in Terms of its Biodegradation Rate: Czarina Royce H. Rebanal; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(1):43-52. Published online February 27, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.010

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We encounter plastic materials daily. Many companies opt to use plastic in manufacturing their products to keep production costs low, hence making it affordable for consumers. Though this makes it easier for consumers to buy daily necessities, plastic industries release 1.34 billion tons of greenhouse gas annually. Additionally, plastic persists in the environment because of its extremely low rate of biodegradation. The plastic build up has led to dangerous levels of plastic pollution which has affected wildlife, climate, and human health. A prominent solution to this problem is the ongoing research on bioplastics, plastics made from renewable sources (like microbes and plants) instead of petroleum. The current issue with these bioplastics though, is that they are not as durable as normal plastic since these renewable materials easily degrade. The rigorous search for a material that combats synthetic plastic’s durability has led to the research on chitosan, a biodegradable sugar found in the exoskeleton of shellfish. Due to its antimicrobial properties, it has a lower degradation rate compared to other bioplastics. This makes the durability of chitosan-based bioplastics comparable to synthetic plastics. Through this research, the durability of chitosan-based bioplastics will be tested through a soil burial test and tensile strength test. This research discusses how varying the concentration of chitosan in chitosan-based bioplastics mimics natural biodegradation mechanisms whilst combating the durability of synthetic plastics.; Summary

The Current Status and Future of Yonsei University's Transition to a Carbon-Neutral Campus: Focused on Energy Consumption and Greenhouse Gas(GHG) Emission Characteristics: Haeyeong Choi; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(1):31-42. Published online February 27, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.009

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This study presents the current status of Yonsei University’s efforts toward carbon neutrality, with a focus on energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emission characteristics. Based on these findings, the study proposes directions and solutions for transitioning to a carbon-neutral campus from three perspectives: energy-saving strategies, changes in governence , educational and academic accessibility. Among them, the first one is the main focus of this study. On November 27, 2024, Yonsei University participated in the 'Joint Declaration Ceremony of Four Universities for the Sustainable Campus Initiative', held in Global Green Growth Institute(GGGI). In declaration, Yonsei University committed to the fulfillment of its environmental and social responsibilities and laying a foundation for addressing global challenges with Seoul National University, Korea University, and Postech. Analyzation was conducted from various perspectives: energy consumption, GHG emission, the correlations between the two, energy usage patterns by building types, and change in the pattern of energy usage over a year and a month. The following briefly presents three scenarios from different perspectives. Firstly, Buildings - especially STEM and research centers - and energy fixing facilities should be strictly managed to reduce energy. Plus, assessing energy consumption during non-peak hours, such as late at night and on weekends, is also needed to determine if it aligns with actual activities. Installing more energy-efficient heating/cooling systems. Secondly, enhancing governance structure dealing with this issue is suggested as the solutions. It can be efficiently conduced by leveraging its existing systems in a way to collaborate and discuss together. And they should annually publish carbon-neutral scenarios, ESG reports, and current status of renewable energy. They also should improve the transparancy and accuracy of publicly available energy-related information. Third, the study suggests increasing financial support for students and researchers in environmental-related departments. In addition, fostering interest among the broader Yonsei community and establishing a symbolic Carbon Neutrality Center are also proposed.; Summary

Technological Determinism in Smart Cities: AI’s Role in Urban Transformation and Workforce Disruption in Singapore: Jee Won Kim; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(1):20-30. Published online February 27, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.008

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Through the perspective of technological determinism, this study investigates the dual effects of artificial intelligence (AI) in Singapore's Smart Nation plan. Artificial intelligence has been incorporated into waste management, energy systems, and transportation to enhance resource efficiency and reduce carbon emissions, targeting positive impacts on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. However, the development of AI has raised concerns about SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, as workforce disruptions disproportionately affect low-skilled employment. This essay critically assesses these trade-offs, highlighting the ethical and human factors that are frequently disregarded throughout technological advancements. It draws attention to the pressing need for legal frameworks that strike a balance between workforce inclusion, technological innovation, and ethical AI deployment by comparing data from before and after AI implementation. Additionally, it highlights how external factors–such as the infrastructure, regulatory policies, and public engagement–may alter the effectiveness and society impact of AI in smart cities. Through the suggested policies, this paper aims to guide nations around the world toward a sustainable, smart city while critically examining the setbacks and benefits of AI.; Summary

Yonsei University’s Commitment to Sustainable Development: Advancing Global Sustainability Through Education, Research, and Service: Dong-Sup Yoon; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(1):1-5. Published online February 27, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.006

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An Introduction to IGEE Proceedings’ 2025 Student Research Award Competition: Younah Kang; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(1):17-19. Published online February 18, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.005

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The Importance of Trust and Empowerment in Advancing Human Knowledge: Insights from the 2024 Nobel Week: In Han Song; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(1):14-16. Published online February 13, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.004

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Global Peacebuilding: Miriam Coronel Ferrer; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(1):12-13. Published online February 13, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.002

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Care Economy in Korea: Beyond COVID-19 and Towards a Sustainable Caring Society: Nancy Folbre; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(1):9-11. Published online January 21, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.001

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A Visionary Leader's Reflections: Reimagining the SDGs Through a Majority World Lens: Puleng LenkaBula; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(1):6-8. Published online January 20, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.003

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No Planet B: Embracing Data and Collaboration to Advance Sustainable Development: Ki-moon Ban; IGEE Proc. 2024;1(1):1-3. Published online September 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2024.012

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Empirical Study on the Usage and Promotion of Sustainable Feminine Hygiene Products^†: Chaeni Park, Eunsol So; IGEE Proc. 2024;1(1):78-89. Published online September 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2024.011

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Compared with disposable equivalents, sustainable feminine hygiene products are promising for reducing pollution and could lead to the amelioration of the menstrual cycle, with overall health benefits for women. Through empirical research and online promotion, this study aimed to examine the efficiency and comfort of reusable menstrual products and address the SDGs that target climate change and a healthy lifestyle for global citizens. The data were collected by distributing products to 26 women aged 18--28 years and collecting responses through curated questionnaires before, during and after usage for 2 months. Our main findings showed that women reported a better sensory experience with reusable products with improved comfort and positive changes in their perception, which led them to continue using the pads in the future. Thus, we can conclude that sustainable feminine hygiene products may garner positive reviews from their users; with adequate promotion and support, we can work toward the goal of prospective benefits both for women and the environment.; Summary

Effective solution-building to prevent dropouts in Korea: The case of Q&A diary development^†: Sumin Kim; IGEE Proc. 2024;1(1):65-77. Published online September 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2024.010

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The number of out-of-school youth in South Korea has been increasing recently, leading to a corresponding rise in school dropouts. Moreover, the importance of schools is also diminishing. However, schools are a national system designed to protect adolescents, and the collapse of this system is far from desirable. Despite this crisis, support policies for out-of-school youth remain overly simplistic. Current policies in South Korea regarding out-of-school youth are based on a fragmented understanding of these adolescents, focusing primarily on preventing dropouts. These policies fail to consider the various sociocultural backgrounds and contexts influencing adolescents’ decision to leave school. For example, “dropping out” and “academic discontinuation” are more problematic issues. The ultimate goal of this study is not only to prevent dropouts but also to assist adolescents in making the best decisions on the basis of a deep understanding of their identities. As a first step, a diary was designed to enhance self-understanding by fostering narrative identity formation. A user test was conducted to create a Q&A diary that can assist out-of-school youth, and a literature review was performed to design practical solutions for preventing dropouts. Ultimately, this paper proposes increasing the flexibility of the school system and strengthening self-understanding activities in career education as measures to prevent dropout.; Summary

Revitalization and Awareness of Domestic and International Food Upcycling Industries^†: MinJoo Kim, JiHyun Choi; IGEE Proc. 2024;1(1):56-64. Published online September 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2024.009

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Food upcycling refers to the process of reprocessing food by-products generated in the food production process into new products with higher added value. This study aims to achieve a sustainable food system by promoting consumer awareness of food upcycling and revitalizing the domestic food upcycling industry in alignment with UN-SDGs 17 and 2. We utilized the 5 Forces Model and SWOT Analysis to evaluate the domestic market and analyzed financial statements from CRETOP for food upcycling companies. Additionally, we conducted interviews with industry CEOs to understand trends and consumer perceptions. The market analysis indicates that while the industry faces initial profitability challenges, its growth potential is strong, driven by increasing sales and positive market conditions. The analysis highlights the need for consumer awareness and producer sustainability. Through consumer surveys and corporate interviews, we identified a rejection and prejudice towards "food upcycling" and "upcycling jam," as well as effective marketing strategies. South Korea's food upcycling industry shows promise despite its smaller scale compared to North America and Europe. Positive market conditions and consumer responses suggest significant growth potential through in-ternational benchmarking and private investments. Government support and corporate involvement are crucial for sustaining operations and achieving long-term economic, nutritional, and environmental benefits. The government can facilitate a long-term sustainable food system through policies that boost private investments and enhance funding to ensure product safety and reliability. Establishing food upcycling certification systems and legal proposals will be essential in this process.; Summary

Mitigating the Problem of Local Extinction through Pilot Operation of the Gyeongbuk Theme City: Focusing on a comparative analysis between Kawaba Village and the Bu-Ul-Gyeong megacity^†: Gaeun Seo, Yeeun Doh, Hyunbin Gwon; IGEE Proc. 2024;1(1):90-101. Published online September 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2024.008

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As of 2023, over half of South Korea's 228 regions face population extinction, despite substantial local government efforts. This study examines why the "Busan-Ulsan-Gyeongnam (Bu-Ul-Gyeong) Megacity" initiative failed to address this issue. By analyzing the successful revitalization of Kawaba village in Japan, which attracted more than 2.5 million tourists, this study proposes an innovative solution tailored to South Korea—the "Gyeongbuk Four Seasons Theme Park." This project aims to revitalize the Gyeongbuk region's economy and reverse population decline, contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 11: "Sustainable Cities and Communities." This study uses a comparative case study methodology to analyze the Bu-Ul-Gyeong Megacity initiative and Kawaba Village. Data collection involved a review of policy documents and academic literature for the former and fieldwork, including interviews and observations, for the latter. The key participants included local government officials and employees in Kawaba Village. Insights from Kawaba were applied to design the "Gyeongbuk Four Seasons Theme Park," which integrates successful elements from Kawaba's model while addressing the shortcomings of the Bu-Ul-Gyeong initiative. The Bu-Ul-Gyeong initiative failed because of a lack of economic revitalization planning, insufficient community engagement, and poor cooperation between governments. Kawaba village succeeded in establishing partnerships, fostering local enterprises, and maintaining effective government communication. These factors are critical in overcoming challenges in regional development. This study proposes the "Gyeongbuk Four Seasons Theme Park," a rotating, seasonal attraction across four cities, emphasizing local specialties and resident participation. This project aims to increase population inflow and establish sustainable agricultural enterprises, contributing to the economic revitalization of the Gyeongbuk region.; Summary

IGEE Proceedings’ Commitment to Sustainable Development: Shinki An; IGEE Proc. 2024;1(1):4-5. Published online September 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2024.007

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