Taiwan’s Environmental Minister Peng Chi-ming (彭啟明) announced in a Thursday interview on POP Radio that the government will renew its strategy to reduce carbon emissions by 24±1% by 2030. Peng outlined Taiwan’s current low-carbon policy and suggested several potential strategies to achieve this target.
Peng explained that the 24±1% reduction goal is part of the country’s mid-term net-zero strategy. However, he noted that as of 2022, Taiwan had only achieved a 1.8% reduction in carbon emissions after over a decade of effort, falling significantly short of the initial target. He stated that his administration will propose a clearer, more practical, and feasible plan to meet or exceed the 24±1% reduction goal in the coming months.
Peng expressed concerns that the current approach might be insufficient and suggested exploring alternative and unconventional methods to reach the target.
He mentioned that new nuclear energy technologies are being developed globally and could become available by 2029 or 2030. These technologies could be a viable option if they are safe, if nuclear waste can be effectively managed, and if there is national consensus on their use.
Peng also highlighted the increasing importance of climate adaptation in response to extreme weather events caused by climate change. He pointed out that severe thunderstorms are expected to become more frequent and emphasized the need for infrastructure designed to help humanity adapt to and coexist with the changing environment.