Traffic Sources Dominate High-Altitude Pollution; Environmental Ministry Holds Cross-Agency Meetings for Solutions

TAIPEI, July 15 (Central News Agency) - Research shows that air pollution between 500 meters and 2 kilometers in altitude over Taiwan, aside from some industrial emissions, is primarily attributed to traffic sources. The Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) announced today that to improve air quality, it has begun deputy-ministerial level meetings with the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC), aiming to implement improvements through transportation design.

The EPA hosted the "2026 7-SEAS International Symposium and 20th Anniversary Celebration of the Lulin Atmospheric Background Station," gathering over 100 experts and scholars from the United States, Europe, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, and Taiwan. They discussed critical issues such as transboundary air pollution, climate change, atmospheric monitoring, and environmental governance, showcasing Taiwan's long-term commitment and achievements in international environmental science collaboration.

EPA Minister Peng Chi-ming recalled his personal connection with Lulin Mountain, recounting how over 20 years ago, he and his doctoral advisor, Professor Lin Neng-huei of National Central University's Department of Atmospheric Sciences, worked together to establish the monitoring station.

Professor Lin explained that the Lulin Atmospheric Background Station is a high-altitude background monitoring site. Its 20-year record of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane provides invaluable data. As the only high-mountain observatory in the western Pacific, it represents the overall growth curve of greenhouse gases and reflects the environmental impact of Asia's dynamic economic development.

Lin noted that over the past two decades, greenhouse gas concentrations have consistently increased annually, with no signs of reversal despite fluctuating growth rates. Carbon dioxide, primarily from energy consumption and combustion processes, continues to rise due to growing populations, increasing demands for quality of life, and expanding industrial needs.

Lin pointed out that the early 2024 joint high-resolution 3D air quality monitoring project between the EPA and NASA clearly revealed that, between 500 meters and 2 kilometers in altitude, aside from some industrial emissions, most pollution originates from traffic sources. This pollution cycle is unique to Taiwan, shaped by a combination of topography, regional circulation, and emission sources.

Regarding traffic-related pollution, Minister Peng emphasized that emissions are not limited to vehicle exhaust—tire friction with roads also contributes. Therefore, transportation design is crucial. The EPA and MOTC have already initiated deputy-ministerial level meetings to jointly develop improvement strategies.

Peng cited the electrification of urban buses as a major challenge, noting that due to the recent amendment of the Fiscal Responsibility Act, central government budgets are constrained. He urged local governments to take greater responsibility, emphasizing that effective local air pollution control is closely tied to local governance. (Edited by Kuan Chung-wei) 1150715