Korean Expat Community for National Disasters

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The "On-Maepsi" Campaign is a winter environmental initiative in South Korea that promotes warm and comfortable attire to conserve energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The term "On-Maepsi" combines "온(溫)" meaning warmth, and "맵시," a pure Korean word signifying stylishness or neatness, encouraging individuals to dress warmly yet fashionably during the colder months.

Why is the On-Maepsi Campaign Important?

During winter, heating demands lead to a significant increase in energy consumption, resulting in higher greenhouse gas emissions. The On-Maepsi Campaign addresses this issue by advocating for lowering indoor heating temperatures and maintaining body warmth through appropriate clothing, thereby achieving energy conservation and environmental protection simultaneously.

How to Practice On-Maepsi

1. Maintain Appropriate Indoor Temperatures: Keep indoor temperatures between 18-20°C (64-68°F) for healthy adults. Lowering the heating temperature by 1°C can save approximately 7% of energy consumption.

2. Dress Warmly: Wear thermal underwear, sleep socks, lap blankets, cardigans, and vests to enhance body warmth. Wearing thermal underwear can increase body temperature by 2.4°C, aiding in reducing heating needs.

3. Use Warm Accessories: Utilize scarves, hats, and gloves to protect areas prone to heat loss.

4. Layer Clothing: Wearing multiple layers of thin clothing creates air pockets that provide better insulation.

Benefits of On-Maepsi

• Energy Conservation: Lowering heating temperatures by 2.4°C can save approximately 1.35 trillion KRW (about 1.2 billion USD) in annual heating energy costs.

• Reduction of Greenhouse Gases: A 2.4°C reduction in heating can decrease annual greenhouse gas emissions by 3.04 million tons, equivalent to planting about 450 million 30-year-old pine trees.

• Health Improvement: Proper attire helps maintain body temperature and boosts immunity, preventing skin dryness and wrinkles caused by excessive indoor heating.

Community Participation in On-Maepsi

Incheon’s Michuhol District implemented the On-Maepsi Campaign as part of their winter energy-saving and greenhouse gas reduction efforts. Officials distributed promotional materials and warm insoles to residents, encouraging voluntary participation in carbon-neutral practices.

Conclusion

The On-Maepsi Campaign demonstrates how small actions can lead to significant environmental benefits during winter. By dressing warmly, individuals can protect their health while contributing to energy conservation and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Join the movement to safeguard our planet this winter season.