As the global transition toward net-zero emissions accelerates, healthcare systems face a dual responsibility: safeguarding public health while addressing their own carbon-intensive operations. This article examines Taiwan’s healthcare net-zero transition from the perspective of the competent authority, highlighting the sector’s unique position within the national climate strategy as well as current policy progress and challenges.
Drawing on governance practices from countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, and Singapore, the article demonstrates that there is no single transferable model for healthcare decarbonization. Instead, successful approaches share common foundations, including clear governance positioning, sustained institutional support, and continuous capacity building within healthcare systems.
The article further explains how Taiwan’s Ministry of Health and Welfare, building on the integration of existing government subsidy programs and policy resources, supports healthcare institutions through institutional arrangements, resource coordination, and capacity enhancement. This approach helps reduce initial investment and operational burdens for hospitals, enabling a gradual and feasible transition toward sustainability.
Ultimately, healthcare net-zero is framed not as an obligation or burden, but as a pathway toward shared value—one that aligns environmental sustainability with healthcare quality. Through collaboration under the principle of “United in Care, Committed to Net Zero” Taiwan aims to build a resilient and sustainable healthcare system for the future.