MOFA showcases Taiwan’s climate solutions at UN summit

2015/12/04

An event highlighting Taiwan’s commitment to combating climate change and its adverse effects will commence Dec. 4 at Grand Palais in Paris, according to organizer ROC Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The show, staged jointly by MOFA and Hsinchu County-based Industrial Technology Research Institute, comprises an exhibition showcasing the nation’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address related environmental concerns, as well as a diverse array of interactive activities designed to enhance eco-awareness among attendees.

Targeting representatives from more than 190 nations gathering in Paris Nov. 30 to Dec. 11 for the 21st Conference of the Parties to the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change, the event will underscore Taiwan’s steadfast support for the international body’s goals.

“Although not a party to the UNFCCC, the ROC has been a strong proponent of green energy and sustainable development in the global community,” a MOFA official said. “The country remains a pioneer in applying state-of-the-art solutions to address environmental concerns.”

One of the show’s main features is an introduction to Taiwan’s leading-edge innovations in recycling technology, he added. Local textile companies have found success in producing high-quality functional fabrics from recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles. These eco-friendly materials have been used to make high-end sports apparel, including jerseys worn by competitors at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

“Guided by the principles of recycling, reduction and reuse, Taiwan has achieved remarkable results in turning waste plastic bottles into valuable resources, while reducing the average waste volume per capita,” the official said. “The country is eager to share its valuable knowledge and experience so as to help further global climate solutions.”

As a responsible member of the international community, the ROC government demonstrated its commitment to the goals of the UNFCCC by publishing Sept. 17 its Intended Nationally Determined Contribution. Required of all COP 21 participating countries, INDCs outline members’ plans for cutting carbon emissions based on their respective circumstances and abilities.

Taiwan’s goal is to lower its 2030 carbon emissions by 50 percent from business-as-usual levels, or 20 percent lower than those in 2005, according to MOFA. The pledge is a testament to Taiwan’s determination to build a sustainable low-carbon future.

“As climate change is a global problem, all the nations of the world must work together to achieve a global solution,” the MOFA official said. “With a proven track record as an innovator of sustainable energy and a promoter of international cooperation, we have every reason to believe Taiwan can make meaningful contributions to tackling climate change.”

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=239736&ctNode=2194&mp=9)