Smart Net-Zero

July 23, 2024 | News&Market, Taiwan | (In Chinese)

Taiwan's plan to expand mangrove forests for blue carbon has sparked significant controversy. On July 23, environmental groups and scholars criticized the proposal, warning that it could disrupt coastal ecosystems, exacerbate land encroachment, and negatively impact drainage and fisheries. They argued that large-scale mangrove planting might harm biodiversity and deliver minimal carbon sequestration benefits. Experts, such as Lin Huizhen from Tunghai University, suggested that Taiwan's coastal conditions were unsuitable for extensive mangrove planting, which could lead to further ecological damage.

The Ministry of Agriculture acknowledged the carbon benefits of mangroves, including coastal protection and habitat provision, but also recognized the associated ecological risks. In response, they were revising their methodology to better balance carbon capture with environmental protection. The Ministry of the Environment emphasized that the guidelines were advisory rather than mandatory and was also exploring alternative carbon sequestration methods, such as seagrass, for a more comprehensive approach to carbon management. This initiative is part of Taiwan’s broader efforts to meet its carbon reduction goals and enhance ecological resilience.