Kaohsiung becomes first Taiwan city to set carbon budget

高雄成為台灣首個制定碳預算的城市

City aims to reduce emissions 3.83 million metric tons over 2 years


TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Kaohsiung has become the first city in Taiwan to pass a carbon budget, aiming to reduce emissions by 3.83 million metric tons over two years.

The reduction plan, which passed its third reading on Tuesday, includes sectors like transportation and energy use, per CNA. The initiative calls for using cleaner energy sources, waste reuse, expanded EV adoption, and sewage upgrades, per Liberty Times.

According to a press release, the city enacted its net-zero ordinance last June. Article 4, modeled on the UK system, mandates a biennial emissions control target and carbon budget.

EPB Director Chang Jui-hun (張瑞琿) explained that the cap for the two years is set at 50.93 million tons – 23% below 2005 levels and based on 2022 baseline emissions of 52.35 million tons.

Chang added that the budget sets a clear limit on emissions while allowing for flexibility in implementation. She thanked the council and local stakeholders for backing a practical path to climate resilience.

Developed through over 10 consultation meetings with experts, companies, and civic groups, the plan was vetted by Kaohsiung’s sustainability council. Lawmakers also made suggestions on monitoring mechanisms and carbon credits.