Fifteen hands-on programs — from upcycling workshops to AI ocean conservation experiences — await families at Gangdong Re&Upcycle Plaza on Saturday
Seoul's Gangdong-gu will host the "2026 Gangdong Environment Festival" at Gangdong Re&Upcycle Plaza on Saturday, marking the 31st World Environment Day, which falls on June 5.
Held under the theme "Cut Carbon, Add Joy," the event is designed to help residents learn about resource circulation and eco-friendly lifestyle habits through a range of fun, accessible programs.
This year's festival will draw participation from a variety of organizations — including the Gangdong-Songpa Office of Education, social enterprises, the Cool City Gangdong Network, and the education cooperative Deoham — each running distinctive programs to raise awareness of environmental conservation.
A total of 15 hands-on environmental programs will be on offer, including upcycling workshops where visitors can make custom keyboard keycaps, natural beeswax kitchen wraps, denim card wallets, and terrarium bottle gardens from disposable cups. Rounding out the lineup are an AI ocean conservation experience and an environmental education board game.
The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with all programs tied to environmental education curricula. Children and families can deepen their understanding of environmental issues and naturally absorb the value of resource circulation through the varied activities.
In addition, the award ceremony for the "2026 Gangdong Environmental Art Contest" will be held at the same venue. A total of 50 students will be recognized across two categories — drawing and writing — and their winning works will be displayed in an on-site exhibition.
Further attractions include a recycling center prize giveaway and a photo zone, rounding out a full day of family-friendly activities centered on the importance of protecting the environment.
"In an era of climate crisis, it is more important than ever for all residents to practice environmental conservation in their daily lives," Gangdong-gu District Mayor Lee Su-hee said. "We will continue to create diverse environmental education and hands-on opportunities to spread a culture of resource circulation and strengthen environmental awareness among future generations."
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