TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of Labor (MOL, 勞動部) warned on Tuesday (Oct. 22) that Taiwan might face 28,000 job losses by 2045 if carbon reduction efforts remain stagnant.
The ministry based its prediction on a study analyzing employment strategies in eight countries, including the U.S., Japan, and Germany, to assess potential labor impacts from Taiwan's net-zero transition.
A ministry official, Lin Shih-teng (林詩騰), noted that 2023's study assumed a carbon fee starting at NT$300. She said the net-zero policy's impact on most industries would stay within a 5% margin, but energy-intensive sectors like gravel and petroleum could see significant effects.
Lin emphasized the study only considered carbon fees and renewable energy development, not other reduction measures such as carbon trading.
Lin highlighted that additional measures could drive innovation and expand carbon reduction effects, fostering industry growth and job creation. She observed a growing demand for personnel with carbon management and engineering expertise.
Lin also mentioned that companies are upgrading equipment and improving high-temperature and high-pollution work environments.
More than 70% of businesses understand the government's 2050 net-zero emissions policy, though preparation levels vary, with larger firms showing greater awareness.
The survey revealed that 89% of companies maintained their human capital, while 10% reported an increase. Over half of the businesses identified a need for more technical expertise and insufficient funds as major challenges in achieving net-zero emissions.