Environmental group Greenpeace Taiwan has unveiled a carbon neutral mobile charging station to be placed along this year’s Dajia Mazu Pilgrimage. The organization held a joint press conference with Xianse Temple to debut the tricycles with solar-powered batteries on Friday.
Around this time of the year, hundreds of thousands of Taiwanese watch pilgrims pass by with a palanquin carrying statues of the sea goddess Mazu. The tricycles will follow the pilgrims as they travel, providing carbon-free electricity. Greenpeace campaign director Lena Chang (張皪心) says she hopes they can gain exposure for the importance of renewable energy through their project. The tricycles also contain information on how individuals can reduce their carbon emissions.
Chang says since the beginning of this pilgrimage tradition in 1988, the average temperature has increased by two to three degrees Celsius. Chang says if actions are not taken to reduce carbon emissions, by 2050 the temperature and humidity may reach levels which could be deadly to pilgrims.
Chang adds she hopes the 2024 presidential candidates prioritize combating climate change. She urges policymakers to protect natural carbon sinks, expand renewable energy, and create environmentally sustainable infrastructure for Taiwan.