NEW TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Deputy Mayor of New Taipei City, Liu Ho-jan (劉和然), participated in the "Local Governments for Sustainability" (地方政府環境永續發展理事會, ICLEI) conference in Brazil this June, presenting the city's strategies for improving urban resilience and advancing climate action. At the event, he also signed the "ICLEI São Paulo Strategic Vision 2024 – 2030."
Liu showcased the transformation of Shoude Park in the Zhonghe District into a vibrant green space from a former concrete lot. "Following the park's renovation, we've seen the return of 14 fish species, 21 bird species, and 73 plant varieties, reestablishing it as a thriving ecological area," he noted during his presentation.
He continued, "New Taipei is the first in Taiwan to implement autonomy regulations for permeability and water retention. Moving forward, whether constructing new government buildings, schools, roads, or parks, we will integrate these crucial concepts." The conference attendees were notably impressed by his insights.
Additionally, Shoude Park is designed to act as a retention pond capable of containing up to 12,340 tons of floodwater, a strategic response to extreme weather conditions.
The New Taipei City Environmental Protection Department (新北市環保局) stresses the need for urgent action on climate change, given Taiwan's diverse geography and susceptibility to natural disasters.
ICLEI, an international coalition of local governments committed to sustainable development, convenes its world congress triennially. The 2024 congress was hosted in Sao Paulo, Brazil, from June 18 to 21.
New Taipei City remains dedicated to participating in global environmental initiatives, from reducing carbon emissions to enhancing climate adaptation, eagerly sharing its successes with fellow ICLEI members.