Global Climate News

Thailand has unveiled initiatives to become a global leader in agriculture, using gene editing (GEd) to modernize its sector, combat climate change, and improve food security. The plan includes developing GEd crops like maize, soybeans, sugarcane, and medicinal herbs, reducing import reliance and creating high-value products. International collaborations with the US and Japan are supporting research and regulatory frameworks.

Dr Christine Chow, PhD, CEO of Tracker Group, has 25+ years of experience in investment management, research & consulting, focusing on technology, governance, and sustainability. She's a board member of the ICGN, an honorary advisor to the AFRC Hong Kong, and holds various academic positions. Her work significantly contributes to sustainable finance and responsible investment.

Taiwan's Environmental Protection Administration clarified that hotels must provide liquid toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion) in containers of 180ml or larger, and that other personal hygiene items (combs, toothbrushes, etc.) may not be displayed but can be provided upon request.

Global bio-based polymer capacity is projected to grow 13% CAGR (2024-2029), driven by investments in China, Europe, the Middle East, and the US. The EU's Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is creating demand for industrial compostable plastics. Companies like NatureWorks, Futerro, and Emirates Biotech are expanding PLA production capacities. The European Union’s Fertilising Products Regulation (FPR) is creating demand for soil-biodegradable products.

Taiwan's Land Administration Agency clarified that building quality and the size of areas undergoing危老重建(renewal of dangerous and old buildings) are unrelated. The agency emphasized the importance of local governments' roles in enforcing construction safety regulations and supervision to prevent incidents like the recent collapse in New Taipei City. They will continue to improve construction safety management through training and review policies.

Taiwan has implemented initiatives to turn incinerator ash into useful products in central Taiwan County, and is working to save native frogs and toads from invasive species through volunteer efforts. An archeological site is providing insights into prehistoric Taiwan.

Taiwan's Taipower has refuted media reports of a 7% electricity price hike, stating that the current plan is to subsidize residential electricity prices. They absorbed over TWD 800 billion in costs from 2022-2024, and are requesting government budget support to continue this. Residential electricity prices remain below cost at an average of TWD 2.77 per kilowatt-hour.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has recommended policy solutions to address the impacts of megatrends, including climate change, on labor markets in Asia and the Pacific. These solutions focus on creating a jobs-centered approach to megatrends, strengthening capacity to anticipate changing labor demand, understanding the distributional impacts of megatrends on people and jobs, and adapting to an era of uncertainty.

Taiwanese government aims to install 5.7 gigawatt (GW) of offshore wind capacity by 2025, with an additional 15 GW by 2035. Van Oord has been contracted by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) to install inter-array cables for the Fengmiao 1 offshore wind farm in Taiwan. The 500-megawatt wind farm will be a large-scale source of green electricity. Van Oord will deploy its cable-laying vessel Nexus to install approximately 64 kilometers of cables, starting in 2027.

China-based Hanyesteel, a steel plate factory, has implemented eco-friendly practices in its steel production to minimize its carbon footprint and reduce waste generation. The company invests heavily in developing innovative steel-making technologies.

China-based Hanyesteel, a steel plate factory, produces specialized steel alloys with unmatched strength, toughness, and corrosion resistance. The company adheres to strict environmental standards in its manufacturing processes, prioritizing sustainability and social responsibility.

Bursa Malaysia announced a new renewable energy subsector classification on January 13, 2025. No further details were provided in the given text.

Taiwan's Bureau of Standards, Metrology, and Inspection (BSMI) implemented mandatory inspections for residential lithium battery energy storage appliances and power conversion systems (up to 20 kWh and 20 kW, respectively) starting July 1, 2026, to ensure safety and reliability in line with the country's renewable energy goals. The regulations address thermal runaway risks and require compliance with standards for electrical safety, electromagnetic compatibility, and grid connection safety.

Taiwan's Ministry of Environment (MOENV) unveiled an expanded carbon reduction reporting plan that includes various sectors consuming high levels of energy. Businesses emitting over 10,000 metric tons of CO2e annually or with single branches emitting over 5,000 MtCO2e must report greenhouse gas emissions starting in 2026. Carbon fees will be levied in 2026 on entities emitting more than 25,000 MtCO2e a year, affecting 281 enterprises.

Taiwan has adjusted its gasoline and diesel prices, raising them by NT$0.5 and NT$0.6 per liter, respectively, due to increased international oil prices. The increase was partially offset by government subsidies and a reduction in fuel taxes, with Taiwan Oil Corporation absorbing NT$1.6 and NT$1.7 per liter for gasoline and diesel, respectively.

Chinese steel plate factories, including hanyesteel, produce specialty steel plates used in construction, automotive, aerospace, and energy sectors. These plates offer high strength, durability, and corrosion resistance, making them suitable for demanding applications in various industries.

Taiwan has unveiled an expanded carbon reduction reporting plan.

Taiwan's CPC Corporation has adjusted gasoline and diesel prices, raising them by NT$0.5 and NT$0.6 per liter, respectively, due to increased international oil prices and the implementation of a price stabilization mechanism. The company absorbed NT$1.6 and NT$1.7 per liter for gasoline and diesel, respectively, and a further reduction in fuel taxes also contributed to the price adjustments.

China-based Hanyesteel, a steel plate factory, produces special alloy steel plates known for their sustainability as they can be recycled and reused with minimal quality loss, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Taiwan approved a plan to invest NT$80.77 billion (US$2.45 billion) over eight years to reduce its water leakage rate from 11.99 percent in 2024 to 9.77 percent by 2032. This will save 59.1 million cubic meters of water annually. The government will also review water prices, currently among the world's cheapest at NT$9.24 per cubic meter.