The EPA participated in the 2023 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Asia from 21 to 23 July in Taipei, setting up a display focused on two key strategies, Net Zero Green Living and Resource Recycling and Zero Waste, and also including Low-Carbon and Sustainable Homes. The EPA showcased relevant policies and practices and, through interactive activities, helped members of the public learn how to build a future that achieves all three objectives focused on in the exhibit.

Organized by the Taiwan Institute for Sustainable Energy (TAISE), the 2023 SDGs Asia took place in Exhibition Building 1 at the Taipei World Trade Center under the theme "Towards a Net Zero Future." The EPA created an interactive and educational environment by presenting clear and concise visual explanations, model displays, and audio-visual materials, enabling visitors to gain an understanding and virtual experience of the concepts and practices of sustainable development. The EPA engaged with visitors both in the 2023 SGDs Asia and from around the world to discuss future challenges and opportunities related to resource recycling, zero waste and a net-zero, sustainable lifestyle. Additionally, there were periodic interactive quiz activities with prizes at various booths within the exhibition venue, and attendees from all walks of life were welcomed to participate.

 

The introduction of “Taiwan's Pathway to Net-Zero Emissions in 2050" and the 12 Key Strategies for this policy demonstrate Taiwan's commitment to addressing climate change, environmental protection, and development toward a sustainable future. Among these, both Net-Zero Green Living as well as Resource Recycling and Zero Waste are spearheaded by the EPA and have been implemented with full force.

Net-Zero Green Living is a comprehensive lifestyle transformation aimed at encouraging individuals to adopt eco-friendly lifestyles and reduce their environmental footprints. The EPA is continually promoting, educating, and guiding the public through its policies. It published the Clean Zero Green Living Action Guide as a resource and guideline for taking daily environment-friendly actions, encompassing aspects such as food, clothing, housing, transportation, education, recreation, and purchase choices. Meanwhile, actual measures aim for reduced carbon emissions and plastic usage, low-carbon diets, and green transportation and consumption.

Resource Recycling and Zero Waste go hand in hand with the establishment of a circular economy. The EPA has been advancing five major strategies to achieve a transition towards net-zero emissions and the visions under Resource Recycling and Zero Waste. They include "Waste Prevention by Green Design," "Resource Circulation," "Well-Functioning Circulation Networks," "Innovative Technologies and Systems," and "Value-added Waste Disposal." Coupled with the formulation of specialized legislation for resource circulation, these strategies aim to transform the thinking behind waste management, maximize resource circulation, and minimize waste disposal.

 

Both of the two exhibits specifically focused on resource recycling policies at 2023 SDGs Asia featured policy demonstrations, areas showcasing recycling practices, and interactive checkpoints. The EPA's resource circulation policies were clearly illustrated, and various recycled materials and products made of reutilized wastes were featured to encourage purchasing of products incorporating the concept of resource circulation. Through this exhibition, members of the public were able to gain a deeper understanding of resource circulation and further implement it in their daily lives, so they can cooperate together with government and industry to build a sustainable and circular future.

Excerpt from Major Environmental Policies, July 2023