FSC pushes net-zero with new sustainable finance project

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The "Cathay Sustainable Finance and Climate Change Summit" (國泰永續金融暨氣候變遷高峰論壇) drew over 5,000 participants from more than 700 listed companies on Wednesday (July 9). The summit, now in its ninth year, highlighted the Financial Supervisory Commission's (FSC, 金管會) efforts to aid businesses in transitioning to net-zero emissions.

FSC Chairman Peng Jin-lung (彭金隆) revealed that the commission launched a project to pormote sustainable finance policy last year, collaborating with various ministries to support corporate net-zero transitions through four strategic approaches. Peng emphasized financial industry tools to tackle climate change, including financial fund allocation, product design, and effective engagement mechanisms.

Since 2022, the FSC has been cooperating with the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA, 經濟部) and the Ministry of Environment (MOEN, 環境部) to release guidelines for sustainable economic activities. These guidelines help companies draft transition plans and inform financial institutions' investment and financing decisions.

Peng noted the creation of an ESG digital platform, which collects greenhouse gas emissions data from clients via questionnaires. The FSC plans to encourage data accumulation through a recognition mechanism next year.

Cathay Financial Holding Co. Ltd. (國泰金控) President Lee Chang-Keng (李長庚) highlighted that over 20% of summit participants were company directors or supervisors, indicating top executives' growing focus on sustainability and climate change. The FSC aims to host 18 seminars this year, engaging over 500 companies to foster dialogue between the financial industry and businesses. As of the end of 2024, the company low-carbon investment and financing amounted to NT$375.7 billion, marking a 13.7% annual growth.