The impacts of climate change have drawn attention from international communities, with carbon emissions becoming one of the challenges we must jointly confront. In response to this challenge, countries around the world have enacted net-zero carbon emission policies, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Taiwan has also declared its goals of '2050 net-zero emissions' and '2050 net-zero transformation target'.

"Medical Affairs Bureau (MAB) under Ministry of National Defense (MND) leads 14 military hospitals within Taiwan Military Health System, not only dedicated to providing medical services to military personnel and the public but also bearing the responsibility of social welfare. Medical environment, social responsibility, and corporate governance are essential components of our daily work. In order to integrate the concept of sustainable development into diverse aspects of the hospital operations and management, on March 27th, 2024, Medical Affairs Bureau (MAB) held the 'Signing Ceremony for Sustainable Development Initiative of Taiwan Military Health System' at the Tri-Service General Hospital Neihu Main Campus. Superintendent Hong Yi-Ren of the Tri-Service General Hospital represented Taiwan Military Health System, and Ambassador Jian You-Xin, Chairman of the Taiwan Sustainable Energy Research Foundation, jointly signed the Sustainable Development Initiative, committing to implementing ESG policies and implementations of all military hospitals. This includes reducing carbon emissions, promoting green energy, developing AI intelligent operations, enhancing social care, and other initiatives, to fully implement the concept of sustainable development."

Under the leadership of Lieutenant General Tsai Chien-Sung, Director General of Medical Affairs Bureau and Surgeon General of Defense, there has been a proactive effort to create high-quality smart hospitals, providing patients with a superior medical environment, which has been the continuous endeavor of Taiwan Military Health System. In line with national energy-saving and sustainability policies, taking Tri-Service General Hospital (TSGH) as an example, it became the first medical center in the northern region to subscribe to green power in 2018. In the following year, it also obtained ISO 50001 Energy Management System certification. In addition to enhancing medical care services, TSGH also places significant emphasis on energy conservation, actively supporting government energy-saving policies through practical actions.

Taiwan Sustainable Energy Research Foundation Chairman Ambassador Jian You-Xin mentioned that last year, for the first time, the United Nations COP28 Conference established a "Health Day," attracting 143 countries worldwide to sign a declaration on climate and health, vigorously promoting the development of climate resilience and strengthening the transformation of health systems. "Health sustainability" has become a focal point of attention in the global medical community. He praised the long-standing commitment of Taiwan Military Health System to safeguarding the health of military personnel and civilians. Now, under the leadership of the Medical Affairs Bureau, with the comprehensive signing of the Sustainable Healthcare Initiative, there is a commitment to implementing Healthcare Facilities ESG initiatives, actively reducing carbon emissions, and strengthening resilience and adaptability. This is in response to the national net-zero transformation goal and the pursuit of sustainable development. Their determination and courage are truly admirable.

The joint signing of the initiative by Medical Affairs Bureau and the Taiwan Sustainable Energy Research Foundation marks a significant milestone in the steadfast journey of Taiwan armed forces hospitals towards sustainable development. By adopting more environmentally friendly energy sources, we not only reduce our impact on the environment but also lower hospital operating costs, achieving a win-win situation. This is also a way for military hospitals to give back to society. As guardians of the health of both military personnel and civilians, military hospitals will continue to strive to provide higher quality and more environmentally friendly medical services, making a greater contribution to societal health.