By: H.E. Michael Lin Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis
As the global community faces unprecedented environmental challenges, Taiwan stands as a willing and capable partner in the fight against climate change. However, Taiwan’s meaningful participation in global climate initiatives, especially under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), remains limited due to political exclusion. With the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) approaching in Azerbaijan, it is vital to support Taiwan’s inclusion as a pragmatic and constructive contributor to climate governance. Taiwan’s contributions to renewable energy, adaptation strategies, and technological innovations underscore its potential to benefit the international community and reinforce the UNFCCC’s objectives.
Taiwan has shown extraordinary commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, underscoring its determination to address climate change alongside the international community. The establishment of Taiwan’s National Climate Change Committee in June 2024 exemplifies this commitment. The committee is dedicated to advancing renewable energy and building robust climate information platforms. President Lai Ching-te’s administration has prioritized these initiatives to propel Taiwan toward a sustainable future by fostering resilience and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, Taiwan’s focus on fair transition, green innovation, and climate adaptation aligns closely with the Paris Agreement’s goals.
Recent developments in Taiwan’s climate policy further demonstrate Taiwan's leadership in emissions reduction and climate adaptation. Following the enactment of Taiwan’s Climate Change Response Act, the Ministry of Environment introduced a carbon fee system in August 2024, marking Taiwan’s transition into the era of carbon pricing. This fee encourages businesses to shift to low-carbon practices, advancing Taiwan’s green economy and inspiring similar efforts among its diplomatic allies. Moreover, Taiwan plans to introduce an emissions trading system within the next four years, allowing it to integrate further with global carbon markets and collaborate on emissions reduction.
Taiwan’s achievements also extend to climate resilience and adaptation. In July, Taiwan published its first National Climate Change Science Report, laying the groundwork for a more resilient nation by analyzing the specific
threats posed by climate change to agriculture, health, and the environment. Taiwan’s emphasis on disaster prevention and early-warning systems enhances its adaptive capacity and demonstrates Taiwan’s commitment to Article 7 of the Paris Agreement, which calls for the promotion of adaptation policies. Taiwan’s focus on adaptation is particularly urgent given the recent severe droughts, typhoons, and flooding that have tested its infrastructure and resources.
As a prominent economy and technological powerhouse, Taiwan is also at the forefront of innovation in low-carbon technology and green finance. This expertise uniquely positions Taiwan to contribute to global climate goals. For example, Taiwan’s upcoming carbon pricing mechanisms will channel funds into the Green Growth Fund, Green Finance Innovation Fund, and the Taiwan Net-Zero Fund to foster the growth of net-zero industries. These funds not only support local industry in the transition to green energy but also attract global investment, creating a robust foundation for Taiwan’s role in climate governance. This proactive approach echoes Article 9 of the Paris Agreement, which calls for developed countries to mobilize financial resources for climate action.
Despite its exclusion from the UNFCCC, Taiwan has proactively engaged with international allies and organizations on climate issues. This year alone, Taiwan collaborated with the United States, Japan, Australia, and other like-minded countries on climate adaptation, energy transition, and green finance initiatives. Taiwan’s commitment to these partnerships, recognized in a resolution passed by the 52nd Asian-Pacific
Parliamentarians’ Union, underscores the importance of Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the UNFCCC. The international community would benefit from Taiwan’s expertise and resources, while Taiwan’s inclusion would help drive a collective response to climate change.
Climate change transcends national borders and political divisions, affecting all nations regardless of status or geography. It is therefore imperative that global mechanisms like the UNFCCC operate inclusively. Taiwan has shown itself to be a responsible global citizen, contributing significantly to international environmental goals and acting in accordance with the spirit of the Paris Agreement. As the world gathers at COP29 in Baku, we urge the global community to recognize Taiwan’s commitment and support its meaningful participation. Taiwan’s participation in the UNFCCC is not only a matter of fairness but also a pragmatic step toward a resilient, net-zero future.
Through its professional, pragmatic, and constructive contributions, Taiwan can play a pivotal role in global climate action. Supporting Taiwan’s engagement in the UNFCCC would enrich international climate governance, fostering innovation, resilience, and collaboration on the path to a sustainable world.
Disclaimer
This article was posted in its entirety as received by SKNVibes.com. This media house does not correct any spelling or grammatical error within press releases and commentaries. The views expressed therein are not necessarily those of SKNVibes.com, its sponsors or advertisers
