The Bank of Taiwan (BOT) partnered with the I Plant for Life Corporation Aggregate, Kaohsiung (iPlanting) on October 30, 2024, to launch a forestation program for the Cieding Wetland in Kaohsiung as part of its commitment to sustainability and net zero emissions. BOT Senior Executive Vice President Tai Shih-Yuan led branch managers from the Kaohsiung region by inviting corporate customers in taking action on the environment, protecting the precious wetland ecology of southern Taiwan, and doing their part for planet Earth.

Environmental sustainability is important to BOT. For “Earth Hour”, a global campaign to promote energy-efficiency, the bank launched the “You Advocate and I Plant” green action plan promising to plant one sapling for every 1,000 participating customers. More than 28,000 advocates joined the campaign to reduce carbon emissions, purify the air, and mitigate the Greenhouse Effect. In response to the support and advocacy of BOT customers, 100 sun- and salt-resistant coastal plants were planted today at the Cieding natural wetlands on the coast of southern Taiwan. The region is renowned for its eco-diversity and as an important habitat for migratory birds. Cieding Wetland lies on the western coast. Severe soil salinity means it is inhospitable to most plants. Native vegetation have also come under threat from invasive species. The planting of native coastal plants will help with the rehabilitation of the local ecosystem, and restore the bio-diversity of plant life in the wetlands. This will in turn contribute to a new, greener future that is more sustainable and inclusive.

Global warming is having a major impact on ecosystems around the world so BOT strives to build a low-carbon environment based on green energy. Forestation is promoted by BOT due to the tremendous carbon capture potential of trees. BOT is also committed to protecting trees and their growing environment. The bank has even appointed dedicated staff to patrol the 81 trees that form part of the city's precious natural heritage. Annual funding is provided for tree maintenance including treatment of pests/diseases, regular pruning, and clean-ups.

BOT is therefore not only exerting its influence in the financial sector but also embracing its responsibilities on environmental protection. The bank calls upon the general public to value their green cultural heritage due to its importance as a cultural resource as well as the ecological value of old trees. In the future, BOT will continue to promote more green finance initiatives based on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in order to make an even greater contribution in sustainable corporate development and environmental protection. Putting the “Great Deal, Great Life!” philosophy into practice will shine the spotlight on the core values of BOT.