Ministry outlines carbon guidelines

The Ministry of Environment in Taiwan has released guidelines for corporations to declare carbon neutrality, aiming to prevent greenwashing and ensure transparency in environmental claims. The guidelines, which are voluntary, encourage companies to follow a three-stage process: calculating carbon emissions, publicly stating a decarbonization pathway with independent verification, and using accredited carbon credits to offset emissions. The guidelines are based on international standards such as ISO14068-1 and the Greenhouse Gas Protocol. Deputy Minister of Environment Shih Wen-chen emphasized the importance of avoiding false declarations and misleading the public by providing adequate information. The World Economic Forum defines greenwashing as selective disclosure or symbolic actions, such as purchasing carbon credits without substantial emission reduction efforts. The ministry s guidelines aim to prevent such practices and promote genuine carbon neutrality. Currently, there are no penalties for noncompliance with the guidelines. However, consumers can report false or misleading advertising to the Fair Trade Commission, which will assess the case based on the ministry s guidelines. The ministry s focus is on education and advocacy, and public discussion is needed to consider making the guidelines compulsory. In summary, the Ministry of Environment has issued voluntary guidelines for corporations to declare carbon neutrality, with the goal of preventing greenwashing and promoting transparency. The guidelines are based on international standards and encourage companies to follow a three-stage process. While there are no penalties for noncompliance, consumers can report false advertising to the Fair Trade Commission. The ministry s focus is on education and advocacy, and compulsory guidelines may be considered in the future.

Source: taipeitimes.com
Published on 2024-09-28

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