In pursuit of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, promoting technological research and development, advancing sustainable industry operation, and bolstering international collaboration, the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) has recently held two events the "2023 Innosight Workshop" and the "APEC Workshop on Innovative Agro-Industrial Technologies: Exploring New Opportunities in Sustainable and Resilient Agriculture and Food" with the support of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) on October 12th and 13th. The events brought together government, industry and academia representatives from the APEC economies.  The discussions revolved around two themes: "net-zero emissions" and "sustainable agriculture."  The primary objective was to facilitate dynamic international exchange of innovative technologies and policies, empowering industries to harness technological advancements for a transition towards low-carbon sustainability and intelligent transformation.  This illustrates Taiwan's dedication to collaborating with the global community in a united effort to achieve net-zero emissions.

The Vice Minister Lin Chuan-Neng of the MOEA emphasized the Ministry's decade-long to commitment supporting the "Innosight Workshop." Over the years, this annual gathering served as a pivotal platform for bringing together an array of experts from the Asia-Pacific regions.  It enabled joint exploration of various topics such as the circular economy, green transformation, and strategies for strengthening resilience in the post-pandemic economy.  Through these sustained efforts, Taiwan established itself as a prominent contributor to discussions concerning technology policy in the region.  This year's event theme is " Utilizing Innovative Technologies to Develop a Low-Carbon Sustainable Ecosystem."  Given Taiwan's pivotal role in the global supply chain as an export-oriented economy, it is essential to proactively align itself with the global movement towards achieving net-zero emissions.  To support industrial development, the MOEA closely evaluates international supply chain demands, carbon reduction regulations, methodologies for carbon auditing and the best practices.  The Ministry offers comprehensive guidance and resource support, enabling businesses to identify optimal solutions that expedite their journey toward achieving net-zero emissions, all while embracing the prospects presented by a greener future.

Dr. Lai Chiou-Chu, Deputy General Director of the Material & Chemical Labs at the ITRI, delivered a presentation on "Innovation Research for 2050 Net Zero Emission."  Dr. Lai underscored ITRI's proactive approach in advancing net-zero technologies, placing particular emphasis on critical areas such as "energy supply," "demand utilization," "low-carbon manufacturing," and "environmental sustainability." ITRI has made significant advancements.  An example is their " Neo-Chromato Process", which was designed to repurpose discarded polyester textiles into high-quality, color-consistent recycled polyester. This recycled polyester can then be spun into fibers, contributing significantly to the promotion of sustainable textile recycling.  Furthermore, ITRI has entered into a collaborative effort with China Steel Corporation to promote the concept of "Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU)" within the manufacturing process, often referred to as "Co-production of Steel and Chemicals".  ITRI utilizes advanced technologies to help businesses find the right strategies and resources, driving the industry towards transformative net-zero emission goals.

Dr. Hwanil Park, who serves as the Director of the Science and Technology Policy Institute (STEPI) in South Korea, highlighted the government's key role in national carbon neutrality and sustainable growth.  In April 2023, South Korea introduced a policy focusing on developing 100 essential carbon-neutral technologies, ranging from low-carbon materials and advanced rechargeable batteries to semiconductor progress and recycling innovations.  The European Chamber of Commerce in Taiwan also shared insights into the European Union's efforts for a low-carbon economy, promoting industrial tech modernization, sustainable energy, and eco-friendly building materials, addressing climate change challenges.  Collaboration between public and private sectors, guided by comprehensive policies, is crucial for achieving net-zero emissions and a sustainable, eco-friendly future.

The discussions at the "APEC Workshop on Innovative Agro-Industrial Technologies: Exploring New Opportunities in Sustainable and Resilient Agriculture and Food" aimed to contribute to the realization of the APEC Putrajaya Vision 2040 by leveraging innovative technologies and policies to assist APEC economies in identifying the best practices of transition with an in-depth exploration of green economics and ecological benefits.

Mr. Collier Isaacs, the Independent Director and Acting Chairman of the New Zealand Agricultural Greenhouse Gas Research Center, provided an explanation of the implementation of low-carbon agriculture transformation practices.  Dr. Julius Leano Jr., the Director of the Philippine Textile Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology, discussed the integration of science, technology, and creativity to promote the transformation and value addition of low-carbon agriculture.  The use of vermicomposting technology to ensure food security, the local process of agricultural modernization, the indigenous-led food innovation enterprises, the training and support of local women to participate in the food and agriculture industry were also mentioned.

Dr. Hsin-Chien Huang, the General Director of ITRI Central Region Campus, emphasized the world has faced various challenges such as climate change. Accelerating the transformation to low-carbon agriculture and strengthening the resilience of the food and agriculture supply chain have become key focuses on promoting the development of sustainable agriculture.  In collaboration with Changhua Winery in Taiwan and a kiwi farm "Flying Phoenix Orchard" in New Zealand showcases the use of the "ecological material digital control production equipment" to enhance the quality of agricultural products while achieving the recycling of waste by ITRI.  Additionally, agricultural materials that prevent kiwi ulcer disease are incorporated.

ITRI continues to focus on emerging market values, outlining the "ITRI's 2035 Technology Strategy and Roadmap."  Within the "Sustainable Environment" domain, ITRI is driving cross-domain integration to establish globally competitive green energy technologies and industrial ecosystems, fostering a future marked by net-zero emissions and sustainable environment.