Seoul National University

The 18th SNU-HU Joint Symposium

Event: The 18th SNU-HU Joint Symposium
Date: November 26 (Thu), 2015
Venue: Hoam Faculty House

Dear SNU and HU colleagues,

It is a great privilege to welcome you to Seoul National University for the 18th SNU-HU Joint Symposium.

On behalf of Seoul National University, let me welcome you to this joint symposium of the annual plenary meeting of SNU and Hokkaido University. Needless to say, this endeavor is very important to us. I appreciate that many of you have come a very long way to be here, and I trust you will find the experience of these two days rewarding.

The theme of this year’s meeting is “The Impact of Climate Change on Natural Disasters”. The term is used to refer specifically to climate change caused by human activity, as opposed to changes in climate that may have resulted as part of Earth's natural processes. There is one issue that will define the contours of this century more dramatically than any other, and that is the urgent and growing threat of a changing climate. Moreover, the climate is changing faster than our efforts. We know what we have to do to avoid irreparable harm. We have to cut carbon pollution in our own countries to prevent the worst effects of climate change. We have to adapt to the impacts that, unfortunately, we can no longer avoid. Most importantly, we have to work together as a global community to tackle this global threat before it is too late.

You are probably aware that The United Nations Climate Change Conference in Paris will be held on Nov. 30. A SNU alumnus of Ban Ki-moon, Secretary General of the United Nation, acknowledged the carbon emissions proposals submitted ahead of the international climate conference will not be enough to effectively slow down the pace of global warming. Ban also emphasized that a final climate deal should lead to a “comprehensive, long-term vision” of creating a lower-emission economy around the world. Developed countries should lead the way in reducing emissions and providing funding for developing countries. Now is the time for compromise and consensus. I urge you to look beyond the national boundaries and work towards our interest.

Building momentum towards a new mission is never easy, but we can make it happen by working together. Over the course of the coming day, we will have the chance to share ideas, pursue common goals and renew connections. It is our hope that you find the satellite sessions to be productive and rewarding, and that you enjoy your time with us in Seoul.

Thank you very much.