Europe is the global leader in driving sustainability through collective efforts that extend beyond the European Union's borders to encompass the entire continent and its global trading partners. This ambitious movement is characterised by a shared commitment among European nations to address the pressing challenges of climate change and environmental degradation. The European Green Deal, while primarily driven by the EU, serves as a guiding framework for countries across Europe to align their policies and initiatives with the common goal of achieving a sustainable future. This includes a broad range of efforts, such as transitioning to renewable energy sources, promoting energy efficiency, and adopting circular economy principles and best practices to reduce waste and promote the sustainable use of resources. The involvement of non-EU countries highlights a collective understanding that sustainability is a global issue that requires a united front. By working together, Europe aims to lead by example, showcasing the benefits of embracing renewable energy, sustainable practices, and climate-resilient policies. This collaborative approach not only strengthens the continent's response to climate change but also fosters a sense of unity and shared responsibility among nations in Europe in the pursuit of a greener and more sustainable future for all.

The Taiwan government recognises the pioneering role of Europe in driving sustainability and has integrated numerous European strategies into its own approach to sustainability. For instance, Taiwan has implemented the EU’s standards on vehicle fuel emissions, elements of Germany's renewable energy legislation, examined the building standards of the UK, and observed the deployment of renewable energy in Denmark, among other examples.

Local communities in Taiwan are increasingly acknowledging the significance of localised efforts to reduce carbon emissions and pollution, thereby enhancing the overall quality of life. The central government understands that the current trajectory of industrial development is unsustainable, placing an immense strain on public finances and limiting the competitiveness of local businesses. Moreover, a substantial number of Taiwanese companies have initiated their own sustainability or green technology programmes.

The ECCT LCI serves as a pivotal platform to advance these local initiatives, aligning them with the priorities and strategies of ECCT committees. This collaboration aims to benefit ECCT stakeholders in Taiwan, fostering a mutually advantageous partnership in the pursuit of sustainability.

INDUSTRY & SUPPORT COMMITTEES

The ECCT currently has 29 industry & support committees where advocacy is the primary objective. Committee members collaborate to advance common industry-wide advocacy issues, primarily by drafting recommendations in annual position papers, which are presented to and discussed in ongoing dialogues with government agencies throughout the year.

Advocacy issues primarily address technical barriers to trade (TBT), market access and alignment with European and international standards. In addition to advocacy, committees also arrange networking and best practice sharing events, forums and seminars, in collaboration with the ECCT’s best practice platforms.

CROSS INDUSTRY PLATFORMS

The ECCT currently has 2 cross industry platforms, the Low Carbon Initiative (LCI) and the Family Friendly Alliance (FFA). The platforms serve to work with key leaders to showcase and promote the extensive and diverse expertise within ECCT member companies and their contributions to addressing issues of significance and importance. The platforms afford members the opportunity to furnish practical best practices for relevant government agencies and stakeholders to consider when formulating solutions. Additionally, they serve as avenues for the dissemination of softer approaches aimed at echoing the pivotal and significant issues brought forth within the ECCT committees.

The platforms collaborate with government, industry and NGOs by facilitating and organising events, activities and publications that enhance awareness of global issues, trends and solutions. Activities include large-scale summits, conferences, forums, seminars and cross-industry networking opportunities.