At a green chemistry awards ceremony on Friday, Environment Minister Peng Chi-ming (彭啓明) stressed that the heart of green chemistry lies in reducing toxicity, cutting raw material usage, and minimizing waste. These efforts, he said, are essential to creating a safer, energy-efficient, and healthier environment for future generations.
The event was jointly organized by the Environment and Education Ministries to recognize outstanding contributions in sustainable science and education. Education Minister Cheng Ying-yao (鄭英耀) praised the winning students and teachers for their creative problem-solving and sharp observational skills, which allowed them to tackle pressing environmental challenges through scientific experimentation. He encouraged all participants to carry the values of sustainability into their everyday lives, turning awareness into action.
Peng also highlighted the ministry’s recent move to align Taiwan with global environmental standards. On Thursday, new control measures targeting perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS)—a harmful chemical—were introduced to better protect human health. Peng called for greater investment in green chemistry, emphasizing that the safe management of hazardous substances not only poses challenges for industries but also opens doors for innovation and growth.
He urged top domestic companies such as TSMC, China Steel, and Delta Electronics to collaborate with student innovators, integrate award-winning projects into their practices, and jointly pursue opportunities in international markets.