First 'Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures' (OECM) Recognized in Taiwan

On International Day for Biological Diversity, the Ocean Affairs Council (OAC) announced the first batch of Other Effective area-based Conservation Measures (OECM). CPC Corporation's undeveloped Guanyin LNG site, Taipower's first-phase offshore wind farm, and TCC's Heping Industrial Port were recognized, with OAC Minister Kuan Bi-ling presenting the certificates. The OAC held a ceremony in Taipei to announce the results. Kuan stated that although Taiwan is not a UN member, it is actively working toward the global 2030 goal of protecting at least 30% of land and sea areas. During the legislative process of the Marine Conservation Act, the team actively considered how to include businesses, local communities, fishermen, and research teams as key participants in marine conservation. With the Marine Conservation Act taking effect on July 1, 2025, completing the OECM recognition for three sites within one year demonstrates administrative efficiency and innovative governance. Kuan emphasized that conservation and industrial development are not mutually exclusive and can coexist through scientific monitoring, long-term management, and public-private cooperation. The recognized units shared their conservation features. CPC introduced its Guanyin site, which hosts protected little tern habitats and precious algal reef ecosystems. Taipower shared that its offshore wind foundations in Changhua act as artificial reefs, increasing fish resources and supporting the food chain for nearby Chinese white dolphins. TCC's Heping Industrial Port has transformed into a site for coral restoration and environmental education. OAC Ocean Conservation Administration Director-General Lu Hsiao-yun explained that OECM emphasizes result-oriented conservation. Annual assessments will be conducted, and certifications will be revoked if biodiversity standards are not met. Currently, there are only 229 OECM sites globally, indicating significant room for development.