Korea’s not just all about Samsung or Hyundai

Many are set to take advantage of a new program in South Korea that will offer “green credits” for consumers who embrace a low-carbon lifestyle. We already know that you can get discounts on cinema tickets, food and other fun stuff, but now the South Korean government will add energy consumption incentives to that list of goodies. Just saying no to a paper cup at coffee shops can add to carbon points.

A new 2011 policy plan announced by the Ministry of Environment, details that buying eco-friendly products or living green in ways such as taking public transit by using a so-called green credit card, will be good both for the environment and your pocket. The credits can be redeemed for cash or be used to lower utility bills.

The combination of credit and green consumerism, the ministry said, is part of a drive to reduce the country’s greenhouse gas emissions by 30 percent from projected levels before 2020. So whether you buy a carbon-less labeling detergent or collect used batteries, you can earn bonus points. Innovation in South Korea just keeps on greening up – Korea’s not just all about Samsung or Hyundai at all.