Ministry of Environment: Semiconductor capacity expansion increases fluorinated greenhouse gas usage in 2024

(Central News Agency, Taipei, June 3) Taiwan's Ministry of Environment today announced its 2024 carbon reduction results, reporting a 6.59% decrease from the base year (2005). However, further analysis revealed an increase in emissions of fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases). The ministry explained that this is primarily due to the expansion of AI and semiconductor production capacity, but overall emissions remain within regulatory limits.

The Ministry of Environment today released the "2026 Republic of China National Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report," showing net emissions of approximately 251.404 million metric tons in 2024, a 6.59% decrease from the base year (2005) and a 1.92% decrease from 2023.

Further analysis shows that carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions accounted for 95.73% of total emissions in 2024, a 1.93% decrease from 2023. However, emissions of non-CO2 greenhouse gases, such as fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases), increased by 16.01% compared to 2023.

Tsai Ling-yi, Director of the Climate Change Administration under the Ministry of Environment, told CNA that the domestic promotion of AI technology and the expansion of semiconductor production capacity have led to increased use of nitrogen trifluoride (NF3) in advanced wafer fabrication processes. Additionally, increased emissions from "magnesium metal production" processes in the metal industry have led to a rise in sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) emissions.

Tsai stated that as the semiconductor industry's production capacity grows, the usage of these fluorinated gases will also increase. However, she emphasized that a total usage cap is in place for these gases, and while usage may be slightly higher than before, it will not exceed the set quota.

Minister of Environment Peng Chi-ming reviewed the situation, noting that Taiwan's carbon reduction efforts are progressing steadily, but progress varies across different sectors.

Peng cited the development of renewable energy as an example, stating that it is slightly behind schedule. This is because amendments to the Environmental Impact Assessment Act have tightened regulations on solar photovoltaic installations, increasing costs for businesses. Regarding offshore wind power, progress has also been slower due to global trends.

However, Peng noted that no country in the world is "regressing" or saying it will stop reducing carbon emissions. This effort must continue, but adjustments are needed, meaning a more pragmatic approach is required.

Regarding electric buses, Peng believes this could become a future concern. Originally, the central government subsidized electric buses, but after the amendment of the Fiscal Revenue Allocation Act, the central government's budget is no longer as ample. Although local governments have increased funding, they may not prioritize electric buses.

Peng mentioned that other carbon reduction and sequestration projects, such as future urban forest expansion plans, are also key areas of focus. (Editor: Li Hsi-chang) 1150603