Sustainability Think Tank
Building Knowledge Capacity, Advancing Sustainable Development
As a national-level economic policy think tank, we fully recognize the critical importance of environmental protection, talent development, corporate responsibility, and financial stability in achieving sustainable development. The Chung-Hua Institution for Economic Research (hereinafter referred to as the “CIER”) actively responds to global trends by aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through concrete actions, the CIER promotes low-carbon transformation, innovative research, social responsibility, and sound governance—providing key guidance for businesses and policymakers alike.
The CIER’s sustainability efforts encompass climate change mitigation, green procurement, talent development, a supportive workplace, and sound financial management. While pursuing economic growth, we are committed to fostering balanced development across environmental, social, and economic dimensions—working together toward a more resilient future.
1. Environmental Sustainability and Climate Action
Advance environmental sustainability through carbon reduction practices, circular economy initiatives, and international climate advocacy. Key components of our sustainability strategy include:
- Implementing Carbon Reduction and Climate Action
- Greenhouse Gas Offset Projects: The CIER has participated in project evaluation and consulting, and hosted informational sessions attended by over 400 participants.
- Carbon Reduction Achievements: We have helped businesses reduce a cumulative total of 690 million metric tons of CO₂ equivalent (MtCO₂e), generating NT$5.9 billion in economic value.
- Green Commuting: 80% of the CIER’s employees use public transportation, significantly lowering carbon emissions.
- Enhancing Resource Circularity and Environmental Management
- Recycling Initiatives: Since 2000, the CIER has actively implemented resource recycling programs.
- Taiwan Circular Economy Awards: We have hosted this grand event 5 times to inspire corporate engagement in the circular economy.
- E-Waste Plastic Recycling: Established a plastic recycling platform, resulting in two procurement agreements for recycled plastic materials.
- Advocacy Initiatives: The CIER has launched the Taiwan Green Economy Initiative and the Circular Electronics Partnership and Initiative in collaboration with dozens of partners.
- Participation in International Climate Action
- RE100 Involvement: The CIER has supported at least 36 Taiwanese companies in joining the global RE100 initiative, promoting their transition to 100% renewable energy.
2. Green Procurement and Energy Transition
Accelerate the energy transition through green electricity procurement, smart water management, and low-carbon technology adoption. Our key strategies include:
- Enhancing Green Procurement and Low-Carbon Energy Use
- Green Procurement Value: NT$623,596 in 2024.
- Green Power Procurement: As Taiwan’s first think tank to procure green electricity, the CIER has purchased at least 12,000 kWh of solar power.
- Promoting Low-Carbon Transportation and Smart Energy Applications
- Electric Vehicle Procurement: Actively expanding EV adoption to support low-carbon transport.
- EV Maintenance Training: The CIER has hosted 192 training sessions in collaboration with eight major automakers to enhance maintenance skills for 4,403 motorcycle repair shops.
- International Energy Applications: Partnered with over ten companies to establish solar-powered e-bike rental stations abroad, showcasing Taiwan’s green soft power.
3. Talent Development and Innovation
Advancing institutional capabilities through professional research, technological innovation, and talent cultivation. Our key initiatives include:
- Cultivating a Pool of Professional Talent
- Multidisciplinary Expertise: The CIER’s staff have diverse backgrounds in economics, finance, social sciences, environmental studies, law, agriculture, and engineering, providing a solid foundation for policy and industry research.
- Carbon Management Certifications: Many staff members hold international certifications, including ISO 14064, ISO 14067, and ISO 50001, enabling support for industry sustainability efforts.
- Disseminating Knowledge and Shaping Policy Impact
- Publications: Over 10,000 works have been published in areas such as economics, industry, energy, and the environment.
- Conferences and Events: Over 20,000 sessions were held to facilitate discussions among government, industry, and academia while promoting policy and industrial innovation.
- Media Engagement: Staff are encouraged to participate in television, print, and online media interviews to engage in public policy discussions and advocacy.
- Strengthen Talent Training and Industry-Academia Collaboration
- Executive Courses: Provide courses designed for board members to stay informed on the latest domestic and international trends.
- Advanced Studies: Staff are encouraged to pursue doctoral programs while in service to further strengthen their expertise.
- Training Programs: We offer sustainability and carbon governance training to enhance both institutional and corporate competitiveness.
4. Friendly Workplace and Social Responsibility
Provide a harmonious and healthy workplace through flexible work policies and family-friendly practices.
- Work-Life Balance
- Flexible Work Arrangements: We offer flexible hours, remote work, and work-from-home options to improve employee well-being.
- Salary Adjustments: A structured and responsive compensation system.
- Optimized Leave and Maternal Protection
- Generous leave policies exceeding legal requirements.
- Parental Support: We provide breastfeeding rooms, flexible parental leave with job retention, and guaranteed return to the original position with the same salary.
- Labor Relations and Employee Benefits
- Labor-Management Communication: Quarterly meetings to foster dialogue and harmony.
- Emergency Assistance: Support programs available for employees facing hardship.
- Employee Welfare: An internal welfare committee organizes annual activities and benefits.
- Health Promotion and Family Care
- Health Checkups: Regular medical screenings to monitor employee health.
- Childcare Subsidies: Childcare subsidies are provided twice a year.
- Health Seminars: We offer topic-specific sessions based on employee needs to promote awareness.
- Wellness Activities: Clubs for yoga, aerobics, and more to support stress relief and holistic well-being.
5. Sound Governance and Financial Stability
Ensure long-term competitiveness through robust financial management, innovative investments, and strong corporate governance.
- Financial Strength and Operational Performance
- Research Projects: Over 3,000 were commissioned by the government and private sectors during the CIER’s 40+ years of operation.
- Organizational Scale: NT$1 billion in capital, reflecting strong financial health.
- Revenue Growth: Steady revenue increases over the past three years signal sustained upward momentum.
