Methane is a critical greenhouse gas and a pressing challenge in ASEAN. Reducing methane emissions requires scalable solutions in the major emitting sectors, including agriculture, livestock, and waste management. New technologies layered on top of existing approaches—from practices such as Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) in rice cultivation to improved livestock methane management—can address barriers that have hindered scalability and lead to greater competitiveness of ASEAN exporters.
This session will bring together climate technology (“climate tech”) and AI companies, policymakers, and development partners to explore how the layering of climate and AI technology can streamline and improve MRV of methane emissions. The discussion will focus on (i) solutions offered by climate and AI technology firms, (ii) the policies and processes needed for rapid deployment of such solutions in ASEAN, and (iii) the role development partners and policymakers could play to support these initiatives.
Haewon Kim is the Co-Founder of Thanks Carbon, a venture dedicated to reducing agricultural emissions and enhancing soil carbon sequestration. Inspired by the Paris Agreement’s “4 per 1000 Initiative,” Thanks Carbon develops satellite-based MRV solutions to track emission reductions and promote low-carbon practices in rice farming. With a mission to transition 3 million hectares of rice paddies in Asia by 2029, the company works across Vietnam, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Laos, and Sri Lanka to scale Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) technology. She collaborates with governments and corporations to create carbon credits and drive climate-resilient farming for a healthier planet.
Jihyun Kang works on ASEAN regional programs at GGGI, focusing on multi-country cooperation that advances climate mitigation and resilience. Her recent work centers on methane-related initiatives across ASEAN Member States, while also contributing to projects in climate technology and green health, supporting GGGI’s mission of sustainable and inclusive development. Before joining GGGI, she served at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, where she worked on climate change policy and official development assistance (ODA), including humanitarian support.
Jisu Min manages GGGI’s programs in Thailand and ASEAN, as well as their presence in the country and the region. He has held this role since September 2024. He works with the Thailand country team to support Thailand’s transition and economic growth while promoting enhanced regional cooperation.
Jisu holds a JD from the University of Toronto Law School and a BA from the University of Toronto’s Department of Economics. He is fluent in English and Korean.
Jaewhang Lee works on low-carbon agriculture at the Korea Rural Community Corporation (KRC), focusing on initiatives promoted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, including methane, through sustainable farming practices. At KRC’s Environment Management Department, he conducts critical soil and water environment surveys, manages agricultural water infrastructures, and leads research on environmental resource restoration. His work supports Korea’s effort to lower methane emissions in agriculture, contributing to climate resilience and the broader goal of sustainable, low carbon rural development.
Steve is a seasoned US attorney and business executive with over 25 years of experience. He served as senior counsel for Samsung, then Secretary General of Korean Arbitration Board and advised start-up companies in entering both regional and global markets. His business executive experience includes serving as a country manager for a multi-billon dollar IP management company and head of legal business for a top 10 European law firm. He holds a doctorate in law and is fluent in English and Korean.
Methane is a critical greenhouse gas and a pressing challenge in ASEAN. Reducing methane emissions requires scalable solutions in the major emitting sectors, including agriculture, livestock, and waste management. New technologies layered on top of existing approaches—from practices such as Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) in rice cultivation to improved livestock methane management—can address barriers that have hindered scalability and lead to greater competitiveness of ASEAN exporters.
This session will bring together climate technology (“climate tech”) and AI companies, policymakers, and development partners to explore how the layering of climate and AI technology can streamline and improve MRV of methane emissions. The discussion will focus on (i) solutions offered by climate and AI technology firms, (ii) the policies and processes needed for rapid deployment of such solutions in ASEAN, and (iii) the role development partners and policymakers could play to support these initiatives.