In the face of increasingly severe extreme climate challenges, Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen has been actively promoting the “Urban Cooling - Citywide Tree Planting Action Plan” since taking office, with the core concepts of “Harnessing Wind, Boosting Greenery, and Preserving Water Resources.” The city has planted 237,239 trees in public parks and along streets, leading all six municipalities. In addition, the city government has introduced innovative planting and pruning guidelines, as well as an expert review mechanism, becoming a leading example for the country. By combining smart management, public-private collaboration, and robust regulations, Taichung has become a tree-friendly. Regarding the Public-Private Urban Greening initiatives, Mayor Lu said: “We welcome companies and organizations to contact the city government to collaborate in fostering a more livable and beautiful city.”
Mayor Lu highlighted that Taichung has been dedicated to becoming a livable, cool, and ecologically sustainable city in recent years. With 237,239 trees planted in parks and along streets, the city government has consistently achieved its annual tree-planting targets. The city has set a national benchmark by introducing innovative planting and pruning guidelines, along with an expert review mechanism. In addition, the spaces beneath three major elevated infrastructures (MRT, railways, and Provincial Highway 74) have been transformed into green spaces, including bikeways, parks, and parking areas. The city government is also working to manage the space beneath national highways for greenbelt development. Mayor Lu encourages businesses to join in the greening initiatives, promoting greater public-private collaboration to enhance the city's green coverage and sustainable development efforts.
During today's (22nd) city council meeting, Construction Bureau Director Chen Da-tian delivered a presentation themed “Creating a Tree-Friendly City and Protecting Road Safety.” Taichung has completed a survey of over 230,000 trees. In terms of tree numbers, it ranks the top of Taiwan's six municipalities. The city also boasts an average of 9.46 square meters of green space per person, exceeding the World Health Organization's recommended standard. The Construction Bureau continues to apply the “Right Tree, Right Place” principle, planting local tree species like Taiwan Golden-rain Trees, Camphor Trees, and Fragrant Maples. Since 2019, the city has planted over 40,000 trees, contributing to ecological diversity.
Director Chen noted that in terms of regulations, Taichung City has taken the lead in the country by introducing various tree management standards and pruning mechanisms. The city government also organizes technical training and seminars to improve the expertise of professionals in the field. Annually, high-risk areas are targeted for preventive aerial pruning to ensure the safety of residents. In terms of smart management, Taichung has introduced the Tree-Friendly Space Information Management System, which uses LiDAR 3D point cloud technology to track the growth and health of trees. This system effectively predicts potential health risks and enables immediate responses. It also helps manage tree diseases like root rot, showcasing the city’s technological capabilities in urban greening management.
Director Chen added that public-private collaboration is a key feature of Taichung's greening initiatives. Projects like the Green Ring Project beneath Provincial Highway 74 and the Meichuan Riverbank Environmental Improvement Project have been carried out through corporate sponsorships, improving the city’s appearance. Additionally, collaborations with TSMC and common camellia expert Wang Jiang-ren have helped promote afforestation, and the planting of common camellia and cherry blossoms. The city government encourages business-government collaboration, with Director Chen noting that ESG has become a global trend. In the future low-carbon economy, businesses that work with the city government can receive carbon credits through government recommendations and joint projects, which could help them secure carbon rights or reduce carbon fees, creating a mutually beneficial outcome for both the businesses and the city government.
Director Chen stressed, “Planting a tree is like making a wish for future generations.” Moving forward, the city government will keep protecting green resources by leveraging smart technology, public-private collaboration, and educational efforts, working toward building a sustainable, safe, and beautiful Taichung that is ideal for living.