The Structure and Political Dynamics of Regulating “Yellow Sand” in Northeast Asia

This article examines the structure and political dynamics of the environmental cooperation network in Northeast Asia for the “yellow sand” problem as well as the interplay of ideas and interests among its participants in Korea, China, and Japan. Despite the existence of a complex and multi-layered network and discussion channel, regional environmental cooperation remains in a rudimentary stage due to the governments’ and NGOs’ different ideas about the issues and the priorities of economic resources. Cooperation in solving the Northeast Asia yellow sand problem is difficult because the most important functions are being carried out by intergovernmental national actors. The highly integrated transnational ecosystem is being managed by sovereign states with different interests and political dynamics. In order to solve a regional problem like that of yellow sand, transnational solidarity between civil societies must be promoted. In addition, a coordination organization and regional leadership that can manage cooperation networks and promote solidarity among Northeast Asian countries are required.