Empowering Youth: How a Groundbreaking Project in Taiwan is Paving the Way to Net Zero

Sustainability Initiative: Youth Empowerment for Environmental Change

The Ministry of Environment is excited to kick off a new project focused on youth sustainability. Minister Peng Chi-ming shared this initiative is designed to help young people learn about important environmental policies abroad.

This program targets individuals aged 30 and under, offering financial support ranging from NT$1.5 million to NT$2 million (about US$45,500 to US$60,700). The goal is to study sustainability overseas and bring back valuable knowledge about low-carbon strategies to Taiwan.

Last November, the Executive Yuan introduced the “Youth Overseas Dream Fund” with a budget of NT$10 billion to help young people pursue their passions internationally.

As part of this initiative, approximately 60 participants will start with an internship at the Ministry of Environment. They will learn about the government’s efforts in low-carbon initiatives and net zero policies. After their training, they will travel to Europe to dive deeper into carbon cap-and-trade systems and engage in global climate discussions.

When they return to Taiwan, these participants will use their newfound knowledge to support local low-carbon policy implementation. More details about the application process will be revealed at the end of the month.

The Ministry is teaming up with major universities to outline a program focused on achieving net zero emissions. Plans include establishing training centers across Taiwan, ensuring students have access to high-quality education in this critical field. The National Environmental Research Academy will provide course materials and certification for the program, which aims to train around 3,500 students starting in April.

On another note, the Ministry will conduct the sixth environmental impact assessment (EIA) for Taiwan Power Co’s initiative to upgrade the Hsieh-ho Power Plant. This ambitious project aims to switch from oil to natural gas while also creating a new liquefied natural gas terminal in Keelung.

Earlier versions of this plan faced rejection due to environmental concerns, prompting a redesign that scaled back land use. However, local environmental groups, such as the Waimushan Protection Team, have raised flags about potential air pollution and the impact on Keelung’s marine ecosystem and port operations.

The protection team is organizing a press conference to voice their opinions and urge Keelung Mayor George Hsieh to honor his pre-election pledge to safeguard the harbor and coastal environment.