Smart Net-Zero

May 02, 2024 | UDN, Taiwan | 

On April 16, Taiwan's Ministry of Environment announced a draft plan to include "mangrove planting" and "seagrass restoration" as methods for greenhouse gas reduction. If approved, these methods could help companies obtain carbon credits. Scholars emphasize that incorporating mangroves and seagrass beds into the national greenhouse gas inventory would significantly aid Taiwan in reaching its 2050 net-zero emissions target. However, careful evaluation of restoration sites is crucial to ensure the effectiveness and prevent "greenwashing."

Historically, Taiwan's approved natural carbon sink methods focused on terrestrial reforestation. This proposal marks the first inclusion of marine carbon sinks, or "blue carbon" methodologies. Despite natural threats like disasters affecting their carbon storage capabilities, recent studies show that mangroves and seagrass beds can absorb up to 480,000 tons of CO₂ annually. Experts call for strict monitoring and management to ensure these ecosystems' growth does not adversely affect surrounding areas and that only native species are used.

Although the potential carbon reduction from these methods is relatively small compared to Taiwan's annual emissions of 297 million tons, they offer ecological benefits such as coastal erosion prevention and water purification. Proper implementation and monitoring are essential to maximize these benefits and avoid ecological risks.