Establishing a Net Zero Emission Path Towards a New Blueprint for a Sustainable City - 臺北產經資訊網

As the capital of Taiwan, Taipei City has long been the center of economic, political, and cultural development in the country. In order to transform Taipei into a better and more sustainable capital, the city government is actively promoting policies and measures related to the net zero emission pathway, outlining a new blueprint for a sustainable city.

White Paper on Taipei City 2050 Net Zero Actions 2.0: Concentrating on Four Major Goals

The Taipei City Government is actively promoting policies related to net zero emissions and has introduced the “White Paper on Taipei City 2050 Net Zero Actions 2.0.” It revolves around four major goals: “smart and zero-carbon buildings”, “low-carbon green transportation”, “zero waste and full recycling”, and “increase of carbon sinks”.

Smart and Zero-carbon Buildings: Enhancing Efficiency for Sustainable Living

Regarding “Smart and Zero-carbon Buildings,” the Taipei City Government is committed to reducing urban carbon emissions through a strategic approach based on three principles: “from public to private sector,” “new first old later,” and “first demonstrate then require.” To achieve this goal, the city government has implemented multiple strategies, including implementation strategies for building energy efficiency management, strategies to improve energy efficiency, and renewable energy/hydrogen energy promotion strategies. Starting from 2050, except for general buildings, new buildings, commercial buildings, and public buildings will be required to utilize at least 55% renewable energy or hydrogen energy, meeting the standards of zero-carbon buildings. By continuously enhancing energy efficiency, it is estimated that Taipei City will achieve a 30% reduction in electricity consumption by 2050 compared to 2016. Through these comprehensive efforts, not only can the city effectively reduce carbon emissions from both new and old buildings, but it can also enhance citizens’ quality of life, ultimately achieving sustainable living.

Low-carbon Green Transportation: Enhancing Sustainable Infrastructure

Regarding “Low-carbon Green Transportation,” the Taipei City Government is actively increasing the deployment of charging infrastructure to create an electric vehicle-friendly environment. In addition, the city government promotes public transportation and bicycle lanes as alternative modes of transportation to reduce urban traffic pollution. The implementation of related strategies follows three principles: “subsidize first, control later,” “large vehicles first, small vehicles later,” and “electric first, hydrogen later.” The aim is to achieve an 80% usage rate of green transportation, provide 27,500 shared vehicles, establish 20,000 charging stations, use hydrogen fuel cell electric buses, and expand 20 hydrogen fueling stations. These sustainable infrastructure upgrades are intended to improve and reduce the carbon emissions of vehicles.

Zero-Waste and Full-Recycling: Gradually Reducing Waste

Regarding “Zero-Waste and Full-Recycling,” the Taipei City Government actively promotes waste recycling with the goal. Long-term waste management processes and treatment measures have been planned, including the transformation of incineration plants into green energy power plants, the establishment of biomass power plants and resource waste screening plants, and the complete reuse of incineration bottom ash. In the future, in combination with Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage (CCUS) technology, efforts will be made to reduce waste generation and achieve the goal of “Zero-Waste and Full-Recycling.”

Increase of Carbon Sinks: Enhancing the Benefits of Delayed Emissions for the Agricultural and Forestry Sectors

Regarding the “Increase of Carbon Sinks,” the agricultural and forestry sectors play a vital role in increasing carbon sinks through the management of existing forests and afforestation. Wetland conservation efforts are also crucial for offsetting greenhouse gas emissions that cannot be reduced in other sectors. Relevant strategies include strengthening the management of artificial forests and bamboo forests, promoting afforestation, promoting the circular use of wood-based products, and managing and maintaining wetlands in Taipei City. Expanding green spaces is essential to achieve carbon neutrality goals.

Sustainable Energy Taipei White Paper 2.0: Innovating Towards a Clean and Net-Zero Future

As a leading city in green initiatives, the Taipei City Government is actively promoting green energy development and sustainable urban construction. To further these efforts, the “Sustainable Energy Taipei White Paper 2.0” has been formulated, outlining systematic measures for energy transformation towards a sustainable net-zero future. Through energy efficiency, air purification, urban greening, and other strategies, the city government is accelerating the pursuit of Taipei City’s 2050 net-zero emission goals based on eight core items under the four core policies of “Advancing Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction,” “Promoting Diversified Energy Sources,” “Adapting to Climate Change,” and “Fostering Circular Economy.”

Advancing Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Towards a Low-carbon Green Energy Environment

Taking into account the equilibrium between urban development and economic requirements, the Taipei City Government is actively pursuing a trend of power conservation by capitalizing on the city’s dense architectural characteristics. The measures primarily focus on “enhancing energy efficiency for low-carbon models” and “promoting low-carbon transportation” to generate value in terms of urban green energy and low-carbon practices.

Regarding enhancing energy efficiency for low-carbon models, the city government is actively enhancing energy efficiency in government agencies and schools. By replacing outdated lighting fixtures and air conditioning systems, as of the end of 2022, a cumulative electricity savings of 22.34 million kWh and a carbon reduction of 11,629 tons have been achieved. This is equivalent to the energy saved by building 339 Daan Forest Parks.

Furthermore, subsidies are provided for energy-saving equipment in the service industry. Through integrated counseling services, technical exchanges, award programs, and regulatory checks, a total of 2,879 subsidy applications have been approved by the end of 2022, amounting to a total subsidy of NT$364.24 million. The cumulative electricity savings reached 87.49 million kWh, making Taipei City the top performer among the six special municipalities for the past six years. The city government aims to achieve an annual electricity savings target of 100 million kWh, continuing its efforts in energy conservation and carbon reduction.

At the same time, Taipei City is aligning with Taiwan’s comprehensive policy for full electrification of new vehicles by 2040 to create an electric vehicle-friendly environment. Since 2017, efforts have been made to install electric vehicle charging facilities, aiming to provide a friendly environment for electric vehicles. Once public parking lots are fully equipped with charging pillars, charging facilities will be further installed in parking lots belonging to municipal agencies and schools. As of 2021, Taipei City has installed a total of 400 electric vehicle charging spots, and there are plans to expand and add more charging spots in response to the growth of electric vehicles. Furthermore, in order to promote the use of public transportation, the metro network is being expanded continuously. This includes the Xinyi Line Eastern Extension, Wanda-Zhonghe-Shulin Line (Phase 1), and Circular Line north section and south section, which are expected to be completed by the end of 2023, 2025, and 2028, respectively. The Circular Line's north section spans approximately 14.93 kilometers, while the south section covers around 5.73 kilometers. As Taipei’s metro system becomes more extensive and efficient, the public will have access to safer and more convenient transportation options, reducing the reliance on private transport and supporting the development of low-carbon transportation services.

Promoting Diversified Energy Sources for a Smart Grid Domain

To effectively monitor the distribution of urban energy resources, the Taipei City Government has developed the “Taipei Renewable Energy Resource Information System” through the development of diversified energy sources and the implementation of “smart microgrid” systems that incorporate solar photovoltaics and energy storage devices. By visualizing energy information, the platform reveals the energy status and potential hotspots in Taipei City, providing valuable reference information for energy strategists and energy service providers. The platform includes thematic maps such as the current status of solar photovoltaic installations in public properties, distributed generation from self-owned PV sites, and average wind speeds at 10-meter height. It focuses on promoting industrial areas, including government-designated zones, Neihu Technology Park, Nangang Business Park, Shezidao, Beitou Shilin Technology Park, and other demonstration areas. In conjunction with the Taipei City Energy Management System (TP-CEMS), information on electric vehicle charging and battery-swapping stations was added in 2021. By opening up urban energy data, the transition towards green energy is improved and accelerated.

Regarding talent cultivation, the city government offers energy management training for professionals, courses on energy-efficient HVAC systems, and energy-saving training for community property managers to enhance their expertise in low-carbon practices. As of 2021, a total of 162 individuals have been certified through Taipei’s industrial and commercial energy management programs, with a target of training 60 individuals per year. Additionally, 235 individuals have received training in energy-efficient HVAC systems, with a target of training 70 individuals per year. Through talent cultivation, Taipei City aims to create a sustainable environment and enhance overall awareness of green energy.

Adapting to Climate Change through Utilization of Green Resources

To meet the 2050 net-zero emission goals and in response to international initiatives, the Taipei City Government aims to utilize water resources effectively and actively mitigate the urban heat island effect. By promoting permeable pavements, rainwater retention systems, and expanding green areas, the city is striving to become a sponge city and provide solutions for temperature reduction in Taipei.

In Taipei, permeable pavements are being implemented on sidewalks, park roads, and plazas. These pavements allow rainwater to infiltrate the soil beneath, contributing to groundwater recharge. During sunny days, the permeable surfaces help lower the temperature and mitigate the urban heat island effect. Additionally, they prevent water accumulation and provide high-quality walking spaces. As of 2021, a total of 194,409 square meters of permeable pavements have been installed on sidewalks, and 105,810 square meters have been implemented in parks, effectively expanding the utilization of water resources.

Fostering Circular Economy to Drive Industrial Innovation

The Taipei City Government has long been aligning with international development trends to promote the concept of sustainable resource utilization. Since 2007, in accordance with the policies of the Environmental Protection Administration, the city government has been encouraging private enterprises and organizations to implement green procurement programs. By motivating businesses with opportunities for green growth and improved corporate image, the city government provides guidance to these entities in implementing green procurement and applying for environmental certification, thereby increasing the market share of green products.

Furthermore, efforts are made to encourage consumers to choose green products. Through promotional activities and other related measures, awareness and recognition of green consumption and environmental certification among the public are raised, leading to a preference for purchasing green products. In 2021, the total amount of green procurement by private enterprises and organizations in Taipei City reached NT$12.8 billion. From 2015 to the end of 2021, the accumulated amount reached a total of NT$71.5 billion, ranking first nationwide. The city government aims to drive the trend of green consumption, encouraging private enterprises to invest more in green production.

The Taipei City Government will continue to support the development of the environmental protection industry, promote industrial transformation and upgrading, and advocate for the long-term trends of green finance and green consumption. Through these strategies, the city government aims to gradually achieve the goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.

A multi-faceted approach, Taipei City establishes a Team for the Net-Zero Transition

The Taipei City Government’s commitment to net-zero carbon emissions extends beyond the formulation of the “White Paper on Taipei City 2050 Net Zero Actions 2.0” and the “Sustainable Energy Taipei White Paper 2.0. It has also introduced a series of policies and initiatives, including the “Taipei City Self-Government Ordinance for the Management of Net-Zero Emissions,” the “Taipei SElect” program, and the “Taipei City Net Zero Leadership Award,” to encourage active participation in sustainable development by businesses and the public through diverse channels.

Taipei City Self-Government Ordinance for the Management of Net-Zero Emissions: Demonstrating a Strong Determination

In June 2022, the ordinance was passed after the third reading by the Taipei City Council, making Taipei the first city among the six special municipalities to incorporate greenhouse gas reduction goals and climate policies into local self-government ordinances. Recognizing the significance of climate governance, the city government has established a “Climate Change Response Supervisory Board” to oversee the implementation of climate adaptation, energy conservation, and carbon reduction across the city. It has also established the “Climate Transformation Fund” as an incentive to promote various professional efforts, including energy-saving and carbon reduction initiatives, the increase of carbon sinks, climate adaptation, and a fair and just transition.

The ordinance places emphasis on several key areas, including: defining city-wide carbon reduction targets, organizing low-carbon transportation zones, establishing the Climate Translation Fund, conducting carbon assessment and reduction in designated businesses and public/private facilities, promoting electric buses, waste reduction in accommodations, and prohibiting disposable tableware. By implementing these diverse strategies, the ordinance enables the attainment of the eight core items: carbon removal, green energy, energy conservation, green transportation, waste reduction, carbon sink, adaptation, and sustainability. This renders the ordinance a pivotal component in mitigating climate change and expediting the achievement of net-zero emissions.

The “Taipei SElect” Program: Promoting ESG Transformation for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises

In April 2023, the Department of Economic Development of the Taipei City Government organized the “Industrial ESG Trends Forum and Key Dialogue Sharing Event,” where they unveiled the “Taipei SElect” ESG innovative transformation program. This program aims to encourage and support the active participation of small and medium-sized enterprises in a comprehensive ESG transformation. The program primarily emphasizes the following four aspects: Providing ESG consultation and guidance, defining sustainable transformation topics, setting phased objectives, fostering innovative collaborations and generating benefits. The '“Taipei SElect” program initiated by the Taipei City Government aims to develop ESG transformation case studies in diverse industry sectors, serving as outstanding models for promoting sustainable living in Taipei City.

2022 Taipei City Net Zero Leadership Award: Promoting Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction in Communities and Enterprises

As global climate change escalates, Taipei City assumes a vital role in advancing sustainability. In 2022, the city initiated the “Taipei City Net Zero Leadership Award” to incentivize businesses’ active engagement in sustainable development. The Taipei City Net Zero Leadership Award, jointly organized by the Department of Environmental Protection and the Department of Economic Development of the Taipei City Government, aims to acknowledge enterprises that actively champion carbon reduction and sustainable development. The award facilitates collaborations between enterprises and the city government, thereby accelerating Taipei City’s journey towards achieving net-zero emissions.

The “Net Zero Leadership Award” held in 2022 went beyond the scope of the previous “Conservation Leadership Awards” by integrating ESG and greenhouse gas reduction considerations into the evaluation criteria. Its objective is to guide industries and communities in strengthening their dedication to achieving net-zero emissions and sustainable development, while collectively striving towards a vision of net-zero emissions in Taipei. In 2022, the Net Zero Leadership Award introduced four new categories, including ESG achievements, greenhouse gas inventories, carbon reduction results, and energy-saving and carbon reduction management measures.

Enterprises and communities are encouraged to review their sustainability and climate change response strategies, conduct regular assessments of their energy-saving and carbon reduction performance and management policies, and strive for excellence recognized by the city government. The award-winning units collectively achieved a total electricity saving of 8.1 million kWh, a reduction of 44,000 cubic meters of natural gas, a savings of 34,000 liters of gas, and water conservation of 150,000 cubic meters, resulting in an estimated reduction of approximately 4,253 metric tons of carbon emissions. First Commercial Bank was awarded the High Distinction Award in Industrial and Commercial Group A (energy-intensive users), while Taiwan Cooperative Bank received the High Distinction Award in Industrial and Commercial Group B.

The First Commercial Bank demonstrated exceptional commitment to sustainability by implementing an internal carbon pricing mechanism within its domestic business units. Additionally, the bank received certifications for ISO 50001 Energy Management System and ISO 14064 Organizational GHG Inventory Management. In 2021, their efforts led to an impressive overall carbon reduction of 227 metric tons, marking an 8.98% decrease in carbon emissions. They also achieved reductions of 37.8% in natural gas consumption and 20.2% in water usage. On the other hand, Taiwan Cooperative Bank allocated a dedicated budget for replacing inefficient equipment with high-efficiency chillers, VFD pumps, and LED lighting. Moreover, they conducted a review of space illumination and made improvements such as upgrading energy-saving elevators and enhancing existing computer rooms. In 2021, the bank achieved an overall carbon reduction of 136 metric tons, a 5.3% reduction in carbon emissions, and a 19.3% reduction in gas usage, demonstrating significant accomplishments that serve as valuable benchmarks for others to learn from.

In response to the rapidly evolving international trends, Taipei City effectively adapts to global advancements, ensuring the practical implementation of policies. The Taipei City Government aspires to see an increasing number of enterprises and communities embrace the net-zero transition, fostering a green lifestyle that is sustainable and environmentally friendly. Through collective endeavors, a sustainable and net-zero Taipei City can be realized.