Shincheonji Volunteer Group Celebrates World Environment Day Across Korea

From urban clean-ups to eco-friendly crafts, 

a nationwide wave of green action unfolds

To mark World Environment Day on June 5, branches of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group across South Korea came together in a powerful display of environmental care and public engagement. Under the campaign title “Green Nature, Let’s Protect It” (자연아 푸르자), five major regional branches carried out diverse, hands-on activities rooted in local needs—from eco-crafts and upcycling to river restoration and carbon-neutral living education.

Seoul East Branch: Making Sustainability Tangible

At the foot of Suraksan Mountain, the Seoul East Branch hosted a dynamic environmental fair centered on carbon neutrality and resource circulation. Booths invited citizens to explore upcycling displays such as straw-cord organizers, plastic-cup pencil holders, and milk-carton towel bins. Visitors also took part in eco-quizzes and promise cards for the Earth.

“Our goal was to help people understand complex environmental issues through practical, everyday actions,” said a representative from the branch.

Yongin Branch: Restoring the Health of Local Ecosystems

In Gyeonggi Province, the Yongin Branch partnered with local ecological groups for an impactful river preservation project at Gyeongan Stream. Volunteers removed invasive plants such as ambrosia and vines that threaten native biodiversity, and tossed EM mud balls into the river to improve water quality.

“It was tiring but fulfilling. I didn’t realize how much damage invasive plants could cause,” shared one volunteer.

Ulsan Branch: Promoting Public Transit and Clean Communities

The Ulsan Branch focused its efforts near the Mugeo-dong area with their “Ride the Bus, Save the Earth” campaign. Activities included bus stop clean-ups, a carbon footprint quiz, and a pledge station encouraging citizens to use public transport. Children joined in by making eco-badges and learning simple ways to protect the environment at home.

“Even kids understood the value of reducing emissions. This was environmental education at its best,” noted the branch leader.

Guri-Namyangju Branch: Hands-on Learning Through Eco-Crafts

At Dasan Station, the Guri-Namyangju Branch welcomed over 160 citizens to a carbon-neutral living experience. Using recycled materials like sock yarn and used coffee grounds, participants made hanging planters and coasters.

“The plant I received will help purify the air at home,” one participant shared. “Next time, I’d love to join as a volunteer too.”

Uijeongbu Branch: Carbon-Neutral Living Made Simple

Outside Shinhan University, the Uijeongbu Branch engaged local students and residents with an informative yet interactive campaign. Environmental trivia games, giveaways of air-purifying plants, and eye-opening facts (e.g. saving 120L of water by reducing your shower by one minute) encouraged attendees to see how small changes can make a big difference.

“I never thought about shower length affecting the environment. Now I know,” said a university student.

 

A Nationwide Message: Environmental Action Starts With Us

Though each branch focused on different activities, all were united by a shared goal—to make sustainability personal, accessible, and communal. From ecological restoration to waste reduction, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group continues to lead grassroots movements that encourage everyday citizens to care for creation.

As one organizer emphasized:

“Environmental protection isn’t the work of a few—it’s the responsibility of us all.”