August 28, 2023 | Environnemental Information Center, Taiwan |
In 2021, Taiwan experienced a 4.56% increase in net greenhouse gas emissions, with the manufacturing industry's increased energy consumption being a major contributing factor. The nation's carbon emissions rose due to strong industrial activity. To achieve the legally mandated 10% reduction target by 2025, it's estimated that Taiwan would need to reduce emissions by 3% each year for the next 2-3 years. Environmental experts are urging the new Minister of the Environment, Xue Fusheng, to follow Germany's example by convening a Climate Expert Committee to reassess carbon reduction measures across various sectors.
In 2021, post-pandemic economic growth, along with increased investment from Taiwanese businesses returning home, resulted in a 4.4% increase in electricity consumption in the manufacturing sector. With an additional 12 billion kWh of electricity consumed, manufacturing accounted for 10.7 billion kWh. It is worth noting that the government has not introduced proactive policies in the energy-intensive manufacturing sector, which is a major contributor to carbon emissions, in areas like industrial energy efficiency, renewable energy usage, and the retirement of coal boilers. Experts emphasize that to meet Taiwan's 2025 carbon reduction goals, more ambitious policies are needed, especially in the manufacturing sector.
The Climate Action Network in Taiwan is encouraging the government to promote energy efficiency and a low-carbon transformation in manufacturing, as well as to stimulate the use of renewable energy and energy-saving practices.
These efforts would help the nation meet its carbon reduction targets and move towards a more sustainable future.