TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Environmental Minister Peng Chi-ming (彭啟明) called for a cooling of society's intense focus on ESG principles on Friday (Jan. 10), warning against the rapid wealth-seeking through carbon credits trend. He emphasized the need for a rational perspective on these issues in light of the proliferation of ESG courses and certifications, and advocated for reducing this excessive trend.
Peng highlighted the uneven pace of carbon reduction across industries, pointing out the lack of motivation for transformation in specific sectors. He acknowledged the difficulty in calculating the 2035 carbon reduction targets, citing the uncertainty of climate funds as a factor influenced by upcoming revisions to the "Act Governing the Allocation of Government Revenues and Expenditures" (財政收支劃分法). In late 2024, Peng announced the third phase of greenhouse gas control targets for 2030, aiming for a 28%±2% reduction. However, external critics questioned the transparency of the calculation basis and the industry's decarbonization plans.
Peng admitted the data's lack of scientific precision, noting it includes estimates and discussions based on socioeconomic parameters like population, households, and GDP. He further explained the uncertainties in energy projections and residential-commercial transformations, emphasizing Taiwan's export-oriented economy and the need to consider national competitiveness. He advised incorporating a ±2% adjustment into the targets.
The minister stated that the public's expectation for economic growth without integrating carbon reduction into planning poses additional challenges. As external observers deemed the carbon fee of NT$300 insufficiently aggressive, Peng stated that the environmental department is persuading the economic sector and encouraging businesses to adopt financial methods for assistance, though acknowledging that time is necessary.
He remarked on the pressure of advancing environmental goals amid societal consensus challenges and the significant gap in meeting the 2025 carbon reduction target.