LG wins in green column

Customers look at LG Electronics’ bottom-freezer refrigerator Maison & Objet in France during the weekend. [YONHAP]

LG Electronics’ new bottom-freezer refrigerator has been selected as the best example of “eco-chic” products at Maison & Objet in Paris, one of the largest international trade exhibitions on home style and interior trends.

LG was the first company singled out for an eco-friendly product at the exhibition.

According to officials at Korea’s second-largest electronics maker, the 385-liter refrigerator offers the industry’s biggest capacity in a standard size while adopting green technology. The refrigerator uses LG’s unique linear compressor technology, which, by circulating refrigerant without unnecessary motions, provides energy savings of up to 20 percent annually - the equivalent of 24 pine trees.

“Helping people lead more eco-friendly lives has been a focus for many consumer electronics companies. We are focusing on ‘eco-chic’ lifestyle, and we believe the home is where green innovation must start,” said Lee Young-ha, president and CEO of LG Electronics’ Home Appliance Unit.

LG has set up a zone dedicated to its latest built-in appliances, such as oven doors that remain cool and dishwashers with UV sterilization function, as well as Urban Cafe, which displays LG’s products in a cafe setting and offers culinary workshops.

By Kim Hyung-eun [hkim@joongang.co.kr]