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Taiwan initiates carbon credit trading for zero-carbon goals
The Taiwan Carbon Solution Exchange (TCX) has launched international carbon credits trading, marking the start of a zero-carbon era. The Ministry of Environment (MOEV) is committed to achieving the net-zero goal and plans to implement carbon fees on businesses by 2024. Around 1,700 publicly traded companies in Taiwan will undergo carbon inspections within seven years, with those emitting 25,000 metric tons annually being the first to be taxed. However, the voluntary review report by the Climate Change Administration (CCA) revealed that three major greenhouse gas emission reduction goals were not met between 2020 and 2022, largely due to labor constraints. To accelerate progress, the CCA has doubled the number of inspection agencies from seven to 14 in the past two years.
2023/12/26 21:50
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Kaohsiung first in Taiwan to issue NT$2B green bonds
Kaohsiung City Government’s Finance Bureau has become the first in Taiwan to be granted the qualification to issue green bonds, with a total amount of NT$2 billion. This move is expected to save on interest payments and enact sustainable environmental practices without increasing the city’s debt. The green bonds will fund green investment projects, encompassing renewable energy development, enhanced energy efficiency, and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. These bonds, totaling NT$2 billion, will utilize their low, fixed interest rates to replace existing higher-interest bank loans, ensuring resources are invested in low-carbon construction. Under Mayor Chen Chi-mai’s leadership, the city has reduced its debt by NT$10.6 billion by the end of 2022, surpassing the goal of a NT$10 billion reduction. Kaohsiung aims to continue strengthening its financial and environmental sustainability and implement comprehensive net-zero policies as it works toward a 2050 net-zero goal.
2023/12/20 19:38
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Taiwan’s NYMCU joins forces with ACC for climate club
National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYMCU) has partnered with the American Climate Club (ACC) to establish the American Taiwan Climate Club. This collaboration aims to contribute to the global net-zero carbon emissions target by 2050. The two institutions have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to develop international carbon standards and propose a white paper on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) policies. NYMCU is committed to raising global citizens with sustainability awareness and plans to integrate the 17 Sustainable Development Goals into its academics and research. The partnership also has the potential to pave the way for Taiwan’s engagement in international carbon trading and promote green economic growth. The American Climate Club, registered in Texas, collaborates with government agencies, carbon reduction technology firms, carbon quality monitoring, carbon asset services, and climate and carbon finance funds. The newly formed American Taiwan Climate Club will focus on climate education, international cooperation, carbon project investment, carbon advisory services, and policy research to strengthen climate protection efforts.
2023/12/12 19:47
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Tsai urges firms to aid in Taiwan’s carbon emission cuts
President Tsai Ing-wen calls on businesses to collaborate with the government in conserving energy and reducing carbon emissions. During a meeting with representatives of the National Golden Award for Architecture and the National Brand Yushan Award winners, President Tsai highlights the significance of public-private partnerships in promoting urban renewal and the reconstruction of old and unsafe buildings. She emphasizes that Taiwan shares the global objective of achieving a "net-zero transition." President Tsai encourages award winners and industry leaders to continue offering suggestions to enhance Taiwan’s international presence.
2023/12/12 18:11
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Renewable energy becomes focus ahead of 2024 elections
Presidential candidates in Taiwan have unveiled energy policies that prioritize renewable energy and low-carbon gas as bridging fuels. Taipower, the national power company, has announced plans to accelerate the construction of gas turbine units across the country. The Hsieh-Ho Power Plant, which supplies electricity to the northern region, is currently undergoing an environmental impact assessment. Shifting from oil to gas can reduce air pollution by 96% and greenhouse gas emissions by 52%. In recent years, the government, private sector, and Taipower have made significant efforts to increase the capacity of renewable energy devices. As of September this year, the cumulative capacity of photovoltaic installations exceeded 11.55 million kilowatts, and wind power reached 2,583,000 kilowatts. By prioritizing green energy and using gas, Taipower has reduced air pollution emissions from thermal power plants by 60%, dropping from approximately 107,000 metric tons in 2016 to about 42,000 metric tons in 2022.
2023/11/04 14:02
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Taiwan, NASA set up Asia Pacific AERONET Calibration Center
The Ministry of Environment (MOENV) has established the Asia Pacific AERONET Calibration and Training Center (APAC) in collaboration with NASA. The center, located at the Lulin Atmospheric Background Station, aims to improve air quality monitoring data and contribute to climate change research. The project, co-run by the EPA, CWA, and TASA, will aid regional smog control and carbon reduction strategies, as well as elevate Taiwan’s global standing. The center will enhance Taiwanese scholars’ confidence in data mastery, research quality, and expert talent, increasing Taiwan’s international competitiveness and benefiting Southeast Asian nations. The calibration center is expected to enhance international cooperation and strengthen Southeast Asian countries’ capacity to use and analyze data. The data produced by AERONET will directly or indirectly contribute to global air quality and climate change research, highlighting Taiwan’s sustainable responsibility and proactive participation in environmental monitoring.
2023/11/03 21:22