TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Bank of Taiwan (台灣銀行) unveiled Taiwan's first wooden credit card Thursday (Aug. 28), launching an ambitious environmental initiative that targets 30,000 cardholders in its inaugural year. Chairperson Jong-Yuan Ling (凌忠嫄) introduced the Green Bank Card (綠行卡) as a groundbreaking step toward sustainable finance and eco-friendly banking innovation. The wooden card represents a significant departure from traditional plastic banking products in Taiwan's financial sector.
Bank of Taiwan hosted a press conference celebrating the revolutionary wooden card launch, emphasizing its environmental commitment. Ling described the Green Bank Card as marking a transformative new beginning in sustainable finance for the institution. The bank announced comprehensive plans to integrate sustainability principles throughout its core business operations and financial services.
Bank of Taiwan joined Mastercard's Priceless Planet Coalition, pledging to plant 17,250 trees during the Green Bank Card's first year. Lu A-kan (盧阿柑), consumer finance department manager, explained the cards utilize Forest Stewardship Council-certified wood materials. Production generates 45% fewer carbon emissions compared to traditional plastic cards, though manufacturing costs approximately triple those of conventional banking cards.
The Green Bank Card features an attractive cashback program offering up to 7% returns on various spending categories. Cardholders earn 1% on general domestic purchases, 5% on environmentally conscious green consumption, and 1% through special charitable rewards. The special rewards program partners with 15 charities aligned with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, actively encouraging cardholders to support meaningful charitable causes.