Collective Complaint Regarding Environmental Damage Caused by Fine Dust to be “Resolved through Mediation by ACRC”

- Gunsan-si will purchase a woodchip factory through the farming area overhaul project contest-

(21, Nov, 2023, ACRC)

An intense conflict between Gunsan-si residents and a woodchip factory, ongoing for over a year, is resolved through mediation by the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission (ACRC, Chairperson Kim Hong-Il).

On November 21, ACRC Vice Chairperson Kim Tae-Gyu visited the woodchip factory located in Seongsan-myeon, Gunsan-si to inspect the site and formalized the resolution through mediation, inviting town residents, the head of the factory, and the deputy mayor of Gunsan-si.

In November 2022, the factory owner who previously operated a clay brick factory applied for a change in business type to a woodchip factory in Gunsan-si due to shifts in the business environment.

However, residents have continued their rally in front of the city hall, arguing that “the factory, located in the center of the town, will cause environmental damages, such as through producing fine dust, and adversely affect not only residents but also nearby areas of eco-friendly agricultural produce and a large number of people by causing a setback to the support for school meals provided by the integrated center for food support.”

With this regard, in July of this year, Gunsan-si requested ACRC for mediation and arbitration, which was followed by mediated plans as a result of multiple consultations among ACRC and relevant agencies.

According to the mediated plans, both residents and the factory owner related to the necessity of concessions to resolve conflicts, agreed with decision by Gunsan-si applying land and facilities within the premises of the woodchip factory for the “farming area overhaul project contest,” and decided to collaborate mutually for a seamless selection and promotion of the project.

In line with mediated plans, Gunsan-si will finalize its purchase of the woodchip factory by October 15, 2024, if it is chosen for the farming area overhaul project contest. Scope, price, and procedures of the compensation will be in accordance with the guidelines for the project contest.

In the event that the woodchip factory is not selected for the farming area overhaul project contest, Gunsan-si will establish alternative plans for projects serving public interest and purpose by the end of December 2024.

At the same time, the residents have agreed to conclude their rally and demonstrations immediately upon the signing of the mediation .

ACRC Vice Chairperson Kim Tae-Gyu said, “The complaint involved residents, the factory owner, and Gunsan-si, making it challenging to resolve. However, through mutual understanding and concessions among stakeholders, an opportunity for the resolution of the conflict emerged. ACRC will remain committed to protecting the rights and interests of citizens by fostering consensus, engaging in the resolution of intense public conflicts and actively offering alternatives.”