The Hsinchu City Government specially crafted a large wooden sign in the shape of a tree using recycled wood, engraved with the cooperation goals between the city government and Tsing Hua University 🍀 symbolizing "endless vitality, passing on the concept of sustainability."
President Gao Weiyuan stated that the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals encompass not only sustainability but also various objectives and values such as gender equality, ending hunger, and quality education. This aligns with Tsing Hua University's interdisciplinary ethos, and we will address complex challenges through diverse approaches including technology, regulations, and humanities.
"We at Tsing Hua University and the Hsinchu City Government have always been able to talk the talk and walk the walk, and we will continue to collaborate in the future to enhance public awareness and action on sustainability," said President Gao.
Mayor Gao Chong-An mentioned that in the past, sustainability was often associated only with the Environmental Protection Bureau. However, today, representatives from 21 city government departments, including the Department of Industry Development, Department of Education, and Department of Civil Affairs, are present, demonstrating the city government's determination to promote sustainability across every unit. "Sustainability is not just the responsibility of the Environmental Protection Bureau; it is everyone's responsibility," Mayor Gao emphasized.
Mayor Gao Chong-An stated that many high-tech industries in Hsinchu have international clients and are part of the supply chain, hence attaching great importance to carbon credits, carbon trading platforms, and certifications. For example, TSMC planted 43,000 trees in Nanliao Fishing Port as windbreaks, and World Advanced adopted a park and air quality improvement program. These efforts require cooperation and assistance from the city government.
After signing the memorandum of cooperation, Professor Fan Jiande from our School of Law conducted the first sustainability class for the city government team. Professor Fan attended the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference last year, bringing back valuable experiences and perspectives to share with the city government team. During the class, it was mentioned that although cities only cover 3% of the Earth's land surface, they account for 70% of global carbon emissions. "Therefore, achieving net zero emissions is essential for cities," emphasized Professor Fan. 🌏
In addition to teaching sustainability to the Hsinchu City administrative team, Professor Fan Jiande also taught classes for the Kaohsiung City Government, the New Taipei City Council, and units under the Ministry of Economic Affairs. He is an ambassador for Tsing Hua in promoting sustainability impact!
Our university's student sustainable ambassadors, Liu Yancheng and Su Zhexuan, also attended today's event, hoping to contribute their efforts in the future cooperation between the school and the city government.