The Mekong - ROK Carbon: Innovative Materials from Carbon Dioxide Capture project aims to address climate change and promote green growth in the Mekong Countries and the Republic of Korea (ROK) by developing and applying innovative technologies for carbon dioxide (CO₂) capture and utilization. The initiative focuses on converting captured CO₂ into valuable materials, such as construction products, polymers, and alternative fuels, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions while creating economic opportunities. By leveraging scientific collaboration between Mekong countries and the Republic of Korea (ROK), the project seeks to build capacity in carbon capture technologies, promote sustainable materials research, and support regional climate commitments under the Paris Agreement. The project integrates public and private sector involvement, fosters cross-border cooperation, and encourages knowledge sharing to support a low carbon and circular economy. Key components include: Research and bench scale projects on CO₂ capture, storage, and conversion, Development of innovative CO₂ based materials, Technology transfer and joint R&D between ROK and Mekong institutions, Capacity building workshops, training, and policy dialogue. This project contributes to regional sustainability goals and strengthens environmental resilience through innovation driven carbon management strategies. The Mekong–ROK Carbon initiative, supported through the Mekong–ROK Cooperation Fund, aims to bridge carbon capture technologies with sustainable material development for climate action. Its mission is to: Capture CO₂ emissions from industrial or agricultural energy sources in Mekong region countries using emerging carbon capture techniques. Convert captured CO₂ into innovative low carbon products such as bio composite materials, carbon based construction additives, or industrial feedstocks creating new local value chains. Promote local pilot projects in Mekong countries (e.g. collaboration with universities or technology hubs) to demonstrate feasibility across diverse sectors: agriculture, infrastructure, and manufacturing. Build capacity by training regional stakeholders: researchers, technical staff, SMEs, and policymakers, to ensure knowledge transfer and adoption across the region. This summary reflects the logical structure and aims behind such an initiative under MKCF, combining carbon capture technology and sustainable materials to drive climate smart development in Mekong countries.
