From commitments to action: Taiwan and the world creating climate solutions together - opinion

Taiwan is advancing its net-zero climate goals through concrete actions including carbon pricing, green industry development, and adaptation measures. The article details the 2026 carbon fee generating NT$4.97 billion, sectoral reduction programs for 2026-2030, and the planned Taiwan Emissions Trading System. Emissions in 2024 were 6.59% below 2005 levels with declining carbon intensity, and the UK recognized Taiwan's carbon fee under its CBAM.

Taiwan is advancing its net-zero climate goals through concrete actions including carbon pricing, green industry development, and adaptation measures, according to an opinion piece by Peng Chi-ming. The article states that Taiwan began collecting carbon fees this year, generating NT$4.97 billion ($154.5 million) in revenue for the Greenhouse Gas Management Fund. Taiwan's third-phase greenhouse gas reduction action programs for 2026-2030 cover six sectors with 20 flagship mitigation plans and 63 performance indicators. Net greenhouse gas emissions in 2024 were 6.59% below 2005 levels, declining for the third consecutive year, while carbon dioxide emission density fell 48.59%. The UK listed Taiwan's carbon fee as a qualifying carbon pricing scheme under its Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism. Taiwan plans to develop a cap-and-trade system called the Taiwan Emissions Trading System. The article also notes Taiwan established a national-level Urban Forest Promotion Committee and uses a 40°C extreme-heat scenario for adaptation planning. The piece frames these actions as aligning with international norms despite Taiwan not being a party to the UNFCCC.