Project Analyst, Shanghai “From Asia to the world, we empower consumers choice to reveal the true virtual of green electricity.” Mt.Stonegate is rapidly expanding! We are looking for someone who can take part in our extensive global network to learn and grow with us. This is your opportunity to learn more about the energy sector and impact the success of our business and your own personal growth. * This position is based at our Shanghai office located in Xuhui District. Who are we? Mt.Stonegate is one of the most active renewable energy traders and consulting firms in the Asia Pacific region. We are headquartered in Taiwan, with operations in Shanghai and Japan. From carbon credits, renewable energy to wind farm development, we unlock hurdles each stops along the way to make possible the sourcing of renewable energy for corporates. Our Core Values: Our globalized outreach has found us a passionate team of professionals with diverse backgrounds and ethnicity. We play diversity to our strength to support our mission and find genuine harmony in love and respect. Work with an Open-Mind: Being in a fast-changing market, we stay flexible with the solutions we provide and are not afraid to make mistakes. We love our work, and value our people: We devote energy and resources to building your skills and support your growth. We work as a team to support our mission and find genuine trust, love, and respect. Who are we looking for? We have an opening for Project Analyst, with visible career development pathway. This opportunity is currently open to new-grad students currently in their final year of study. Key Responsibilities Native Japanese speaker. Bachelor graduate or undergraduate student who is in their final year of study. Preferable in Environmental Science, Marketing, Public Policies, International Relationship, English or other related fields. Fluent English communication skills; both verbally and written. Chinesecommunication skill is a plus. Interested in global warming and environment-related topics . Stress resistant and capable of working independently. Proficient in MS office applications. Job Requirements Educate clients on international initiatives of renewable energy. Conduct market research on international renewable energy, electricity, carbon market and relevant policies. Assist project managers with project development along the project life-cycle. Provide other administrative support as needed. Job Highlights This role allows you to wear multiple hats to help you find your career passion. Become part of our great team and work with us towards a more sustainable planet. Employee may apply to work in our Japanese branch after one year of service. How to Apply? If you are willing to take on steep learning curve, AND appreciate work-life balance, we would love to hear from you.Please submit your interest with the following: Cover letter in English; Your CV in English, concisely demonstrating how you meet the required skills, experience or key responsibilities. To hr@mtstonegate.com and yiling.zhang@mtstonegate.com. -Visit Our Website: https://www.mtstonegate.com -Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/2472243874/?refId=Jdv4XiwQTgugoMP2bTdQ5g%3D%3D

Writer: Lynn HSIAO, Tiantai LING Social Media Team: Irina LIN Pic.1-TNFD website Background Owing to the loss of biodiversity and an imbalanced natural system, both of which have caused a crisis in our way of living, international society has an urgent need to emphasize not only the climate issues but also those related to nature. Consequently, countries have adopted Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework in 2022, committed to setting national biodiversity targets. Furthermore, various international initiatives appeal private companies to prioritize nature issues in their business management. Task Force on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) is one of them, developed to guide businesses and financial institutions in disclosing information regarding their exposure to natural hazards. It was established in 2020, and its latest 1.0 version of recommendation has been released in September 2023. Features and Recommended Disclosures The TNFD focuses on the identification of risks and opportunities related to nature and align itself with the goals set by the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which aims to halt biodiversity loss by 2030 and achieve a net gain by 2050. Moreover, the TNFD is consistent with the approach of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB)’s International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) sustainability standards. Its framework adopts the same four pillars as the TCFD: governance, strategy, risk management, metrics and targets. Both companies and financial institutions are recommended to follow the requirements below: 1.Governance: The organization reveals the roles and responsibilities of the board and management concerning nature-related factors such as dependencies, impacts, risks, and opportunities. Also, as per the TNFD structure, the organization should explain its human rights policy and stakeholder engagement related to those issues. 2.Strategy: The organization clarifies its strategy for the near and distant future and explain how it affects its business model, value chain, financial planning, and any transition plans under various conditions. Additionally, it should disclose the important locations of assets and activities in its operations and value chain. 3.Risk management: The organization outlines how it tracks and identifies nature-related issues and includes those issues in its overall risk management processes. 4.Metrics and targets: The organization discloses the metrics it uses to evaluate risks related to nature and describe its targets for addressing nature-related issues as well as its performance against them. LEAP Approach In addition, the TNFD provides the LEAP approach as an internal tool to assist organizations in understanding and managing their interaction with nature. It's optional but can be helpful for getting started. The LEAP approach consists of four steps: 1.Locate: To ensure organizations pay particular attention to any sensitive locations where their business model or value chain may have an impact or dependency. For companies, it is advisable to identify the operation bases and initiate a dialogue with suppliers and customers to gather data on their locations for better visibility and analysis in value chains. 2.Evaluate: To gain insight into the organization’s potentially substantial dependencies and impacts on nature. For companies, the assessment team can identify and measure company’s environmental assets and ecosystem services, as well as factors (positive or negative impacts) affecting its organization's dependencies and broader society, including its value chains. 3.Assess: To determine important nature-related risks and opportunities that should be disclosed. It is helpful to create a list or risk matrix for the board or management team to make informed decision. Companies can acquire an understanding of how to integrate nature-related risks and opportunities with their existing organizations. 4.Prepare: To discuss how to respond to the assessment of nature-related factors. This involves conversations about how those issues and factors affect the organization's strategy, resource allocation, and capital allocation. The decisions should align with the overall corporate strategy and consider short, medium, and long-term aspects. Our Perspective “Climate change is a primary driver of biodiversity loss. And climate change depends on biodiversity as part of the solution. So clearly the two are linked, and cannot be separated,” said by Elizabeth Mrema, executive secretary of UN Convention on Biological Diversity. Hence, nature-related issues will probably be the next significant sustainability trend for corporates to focus on, following climate issues. However, businesses need not be concerned about the TNFD for being too challenging to get started with, as its structure is highly harmonized with the TCFD, especially in the four core pillars. Furthermore, since the TCFD framework forms the foundation for IFRS S1 and IFRS S2, it is anticipated that the adoption of the TNFD will seamlessly integrate with the existing processes that companies have already been working on. This alignment will make the pilot businesses easier to consider their relationship with nature. References: 1. The Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD), https://tnfd.global/recommendations-of-the-tnfd/ 2. Guidance on the identification and assessment of nature-related issues: the LEAP approach, https://tnfd.global/publication/additional-guidance-on-assessment-of-nature-related-issues-the-leap-approach/

Writer: Albert SUTANTO, Dongqi YANG Social Media Team: Irina LIN In an era marked by unparalleled environmental challenges, the imperative for collective action has reached unprecedented levels of urgency. The VERGE23 Climate Tech Event, a remarkable convergence of visionaries, thought leaders, and unwavering environmental advocates, serves as a compelling testament to our shared commitment to shaping a sustainable future for our beloved planet. This year's installment of VERGE, hosted in the innovation hub of San Jose, exceeded expectations, drawing over 5,000 participants from diverse backgrounds, all representing a wide spectrum of sustainability professionals. The sheer scale and diversity of attendance underscored the growing recognition of the significance of our collective efforts in addressing environmental challenges. The event provided a platform for dynamic discussions that encompassed a plethora of pivotal topics, highlighting the multifaceted nature of our journey towards sustainability. Amid the myriad subjects explored, decarbonization took center stage. The discourse ranged from tackling emissions within our own operations (scope 1) to those stemming from purchased electricity (scope 2), and even delving into the intricate web of emissions across the value chain (scope 3). These conversations were both enlightening and transformative, emphasizing the necessity of a holistic approach in tackling emissions. Moreover, VERGE23 placed a spotlight on the importance of moving "beyond carbon offsets." While carbon offsets have played a valuable role in mitigating emissions, the event emphasized that it's time for a paradigm shift. The focus should no longer be solely on compensating for emissions but on reducing them at the source. The message was clear: emission reduction and elimination must be prioritized as primary strategies for combating climate change. Clean energy, another prominent theme, underscored the pivotal role it plays in our journey toward sustainability. VERGE23 celebrated the remarkable strides made in renewable energy technologies and their seamless integration into our energy systems. The discussions elucidated that the transition to clean energy is not just an environmental aspiration but a key driver for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, bolstering energy security, and creating new economic opportunities. As we reflect on the VERGE23 Climate Tech Event, it is abundantly clear that the challenges we face, while formidable, are not insurmountable. Our collective commitment to environmental stewardship, innovative thinking, and cross-sector collaboration holds the promise of a sustainable future for our planet. In conclusion, VERGE23 is much more than a conference; it is a beacon of hope and a compelling call to action. It assembles some of the brightest minds in the field, inspiring us to think differently, learn, collaborate, and take meaningful steps toward a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future. The urgency of the environmental challenges we confront is palpable, but equally tangible is our unwavering resolve to confront them head-on. The path to a sustainable future begins with collective action, and events like VERGE23 exemplify that our shared commitment to environmental well-being is unwavering. By working together, we can overcome the challenges that lie ahead and leave a lasting legacy of a healthier planet for generations to come. #VERGE23 #Sustainability #ClimateAction #Decarbonization #CleanEnergy

Writer: Jonathan PHILLIP, Krishnan SRINIVASAN Social Media Team: Irina LIN In the race towards a sustainable future, our commitment to renewable energy is resolute. As countries unite to achieve net-zero emissions the monumental growth in renewable energy infrastructure presents both promise and challenges. The darker side of progress reveals the mounting waste from outdated models, such as discarded solar panels and wind turbine blades. As the demand for clean energy escalates, it becomes imperative to not only revolutionize our energy sources but also redefine the way we conceive, construct, and deconstruct the infrastructure that supports it. Below are some of the approaches towards Renewable Energy Infrastructure: 1. Designing for longevity Extending the lifespan of existing technologies, like wind farms and solar installations, reduces material demand. Prolonging a 500 MW wind farm’s life by a decade could cut copper demand by 4,400 tons over a century, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and biodiversity impacts linked to copper mining. Another simple example of lifetime extension is regular maintenance in Wind farms. Repairing and updating equipment is also impactful. With all these opportunities of maintaining and refurbishing renewable components, this could add 10 years to the lifetime of the renewable technologies. 2. Material Innovation and Recycling Circular economic thinking prompts a shift towards sustainable materials and recycling practices. In the realm of renewable energy infrastructure, this could mean exploring alternative materials that are not only eco-friendly but also conducive to recycling at the end of their life. By establishing efficient recycling loops, we can transform decommissioned infrastructure into valuable resources, reducing the burden on landfills and ensuring a stable supply of secondary materials for future designs, enhancing the sector’s resilience to supply chain disruptions. Incorporating these end-of use scenarios in the design phase, companies can position themselves strategically, ensuring resilience in the face of evolving market dynamics and regulatory landscapes. 3. Environmental Policy Revolution Policies act as essential enablers for integrating a circular economic approach into renewable energy infrastructure. Regulatory frameworks set by governments provide the necessary guidelines for businesses to adopt circular practices, emphasizing recyclability, longevity, and responsible end-of-life strategies. In China, for example, where the government has launched policies to promote circular economy in the renewable energy sector including subsidies for the recycling of renewable energy products and materials, and tax breaks for business that develop and use recycled materials and tax breaks for businesses that develop and use recycled materials. 4. Localized Production and Community Engagement Localized production in renewable energy, such as establishing solar panel manufacturing or wind turbine assembly plants within communities, not only reduces transportation emissions but also stimulates job creation and economic growth. Community engagement further supports circular economy practices by involving residents that own and operate renewable energy projects, ensuring equitable distribution of benefits. Collaborating with local developers allows communities to advocate for environmentally friendly practices, such as using recycled materials, and promote community-owned projects for affordable, sustainable energy solutions. In conclusion, integrating circular economy principles into the redesign of renewable energy infrastructure is not just a choice; it's a necessity. This approach offers a blueprint for a future where clean energy is sustainable in every aspect of its existence. By prioritizing longevity, recycling, closed-loop systems, and community involvement, we can pave the way for a resilient and regenerative energy landscape that benefits both the planet and its inhabitants. Let's power the world sustainably, leaving no waste behind! Source: Ellen Macarthur Foundation – We need to talk about renewables Part 2 https://shorturl.at/adezA

Writer: Yvonne TSENG, George K. E. KIONGSON Social Media Team: Irina LIN Pic1.MOEA Minister Wang Mei-Hua (Source: MOEA) Manufacturers towards net zero by 2030 Ministry of Economic Affairs of Taiwan pointed out that the EU adopted rules for the carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) and began trial implementation on Oct.1st. The development of green electricity has become an international trend. Major global manufacturers are getting faster and faster towards net zero, and they also require the supply chain to achieve net zero carbon emissions. Under international pressure for net-zero carbon emissions, many small and medium-sized enterprises in Taiwan want to buy green electricity but cannot. For example, Apple requires the supply chain to be carbon neutral by 2030, which is vital for TSMC in the future. It significantly impacts end-related supply chains and shows that green electricity is already a rigid demand for Taiwan's export-oriented industries. Taipower will launch small-packaged of electricity sales plan Taipower (TPC) broke from the previous non-sales model and launched a small green electricity sales plan. In order to provide domestic enterprises with diversified green electricity choices from self-built renewable energy sites. It’s the first time to provide small and medium-sized enterprises with urgent green electricity needs. To release about 50 million kWh of green electricity by 2023 At the same time, taking the demand of small and medium-sized enterprises into account, it will launch different quantities. TPC Oct.13th announced for the first time a small-package green electricity sales plan. It is expected to release about 50,000 MWh of self-built green electricity from Nanyan Optoelectronics(南鹽光電) and Changbin Optoelectronics(彰濱光電) before the end of the year. October 25th will sell 10,000 MWh for the first batch TPC further explained that the first phase of 10,000 MWh of green electricity will be sold on Oct.25th. There are six combinations of 10 MWh and 50 MWh with different quantities and 1-year term, 3-year term, and 5-year term, which are publicly auctioned on the green electricity matching platform of the National Renewable Energy Certificate Center of the Bureau of Standards and Inspection of the Ministry of Economic Affairs The items of the second phase will be on the shelves on Nov.15th, releasing 40,000 MWh.TPC stated that to allow more companies to purchase green power, the first batch of winning bidders will not be allowed to participate in the second batch of bidding. Those who did not win the first batch of bids will still have the second batch of bidding opportunities before the end of 2023. As for next year, whether to continue to release green electricity will depend on the “trial” of this year. The final selling price will be determined through the National Renewable Energy Certificate Center platform mediation process, and the transfer is expected to begin in 2024. Pic2.TPC sales small-packaged green electricity (Data Source:TPC) The trial provides various green electricity products Through this trial, enterprises learn how to manage their renewable energy procurement. Therefore, enterprises will combine green electricity solutions to match their electricity consumption patterns. Besides, to maintain fairness, only one package can be owned for one electricity number. It can avoid large-scale acquisitions by specific users. TPC emphasized that the development of green electricity has become a rigid demand for domestic industries for export. It’s critical to Taiwan’s overall economy and strategic position. Therefore, the government, the private sector, and TPC have invested heavily in constructing green electricity facilities in recent years. It can reduce carbon emissions and help Taiwanese companies implement ESG sustainable development and meet international green supply chain requirements. TPC will continue to provide various green electricity products and jointly work toward net-zero carbon reduction. Enterprises have another choice to meet green electricity requirements According to the green electricity requirements of different small-medium sized enterprises, not only buy the small-packaged from TPC but also can buy I-REC, helping to meet RE100 and green electricity requirements. Renewable Energy Certificates, or I-RECs, are global certificates proving energy generation through renewable sources. As an I-REC provider, Mt.stonegate provided the I-RECs are sourced locally in Taiwan. Mt. Stonegate Group offers a one-step solution and assists corporates in fulfilling sustainability globally, which includes renewable energy solutions and consulting services. It also provides the most comprehensive solutions, leading them to a better future. Ref: https://money.udn.com/money/story/5648/7430232 https://www.cna.com.tw/news/afe/202309100034.aspx https://www.moneydj.com/kmdj/news/newsviewer.aspx?a=1c0c463e-5be4-49e4-b08d-95c47f5df96c

Writer: George K. E. KIONGSON, Yvonne TSENG Social Media Team: Vivian CHUANG ART TAIPEI 2023 has entered its 30th year, organized by the Taiwan Art Gallery Association (TAGA), which will be held from October 20th to 23rd. As Asia's oldest contemporary art fair, it brings 145 galleries together from 11 countries. This year, the important theme of the exhibition is the promotion of sustainability within the art industry, whereas the emissions from transportation were calculated. The way the artwork is transported will be the exhibition’s main target for carbon reduction. Thus, as the exhibition partner, Mt. Stonegate Green Asset Management Ltd. provided the event with Verified Emission Reductions (VERs) from Gold Standard that assist in achieving carbon neutrality. This initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and signifies a proactive effort to acknowledge and raise awareness about low-carbon emission artworks. Low carbon emissions artwork is no longer impossible. Dr.Jules Chuang (right one), director of MSG, participated in the opening press conference and VIP preview of ART TAIPEI 2023. Picture from: ART TAIPEI, UP MEDIA. The Mt. Stonegate Group provides a one-stop solution and assists corporates in fulfilling sustainability globally, which includes renewable energy solutions, carbon asset management, and consulting services. Mt.Stonegate provides the most comprehensive solutions tailored to the corporation’s needs and goals, leading them to a better future. As of writing, Mt.Stonegate has successfully traded more than 20 million Energy Attributed Certificates (EACs) and over 2 million tons of carbon credits. 2023 ART TAIPEI Information ​2023/10/20 (Fri) 14:00-19:00 2023/10/21 (Sat) 11:00-19:00 2023/10/22 (Sun) 11:00-19:00 2023/10/23 (Mon) 11:00-18:00 Taipei World Trade Center Exhibition Hall 1 (No.5, Sec.5, Xinyi Rd., Xinyi Dist., Taipei City 110, Taiwan)

Writer: George K. E. KIONGSON, Irina LIN Social Media Team: Irina LIN In September 2023, the Renewable Energy Institute (REI) released a report titled "Renewable Energy: The Top-Priority for Southeast Asia to Fully Blossom" that tackles the potential and challenges of renewable energy in Southeast Asia. The region has rapid demographic and economic advancements in which energy consumption increased by 26%, and half is solely from the power sector [1]. Also, there is a vulnerability regarding energy security, as all Southeast Asian countries except Indonesia and Laos rely heavily on coal imports, consuming more coal than they produce. The report highlights the potential for domestic renewable energy electricity to replace coal and gas. Southeast Asia has abundant renewable energy resources that can be harnessed economically. The report argues against considering natural gas as a "bridge fuel," as is sometimes advocated by fossil fuel lobbyists. Southeast Asia's estimated renewable energy potential greatly surpasses the region's current total electricity generation of 1,158 terawatt-hours (TWh). Solar photovoltaic stands out among various renewable energy technologies, with Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam taking the lead in manufacturing solar photovoltaic components. Additionally, Southeast Asia has favorable conditions for onshore and offshore wind energy, with Myanmar, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Thailand having the best onshore wind potential. Indonesia has the most enormous offshore wind potential, Vietnam, and the Philippines benefit from higher wind speeds. The region's other renewable sources, such as hydro, biomass, and geothermal resources, are less abundant but still noteworthy. Indonesia, Myanmar, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Laos show the most promising hydropower potential. For biomass, Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam stand out as having the most favorable potential. Lastly, geothermal energy prospects in Southeast Asia are primarily concentrated in Indonesia and the Philippines. However, despite the enormous opportunity for renewable energy, the potential of each technology is unevenly distributed across the region. Also, the weak medium-term decarbonization policies are unaligned with long-term decarbonization objectives and coal power lock-in. In contrast, coal power plants are young and expected to operate until the early 2060s, pose substantial challenges that hinder the advancement of renewable energy in Southeast Asia. To fully harness and optimize the region's renewable energy potential, all the stakeholders should cooperate closely to accelerate the growth. [1] International Energy Agency, Energy Statistics Data Browser: Balances ASEAN 2010 and 2020 Renewable Energy Institute, Renewable Energy: The Top-Priority for Southeast Asia to Fully Blossom (Tokyo: REI, 2023), 35 pp.

Writer: Rose LIAO, Vivian CHUANG Social Media Team: Irina LIN ISSB issues inaugural global sustainability disclosure standards: IFRS S1 and S2 The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) has released its first-ever standards, namely IFRS S1 and IFRS S2, marking the beginning of a new era for sustainability-related disclosures in global capital markets and officially published in June 2023. These standards aim to enhance trust and assurance in companies' sustainability disclosures, providing essential information for making informed investment choices. Both S1 and S2 standards fully integrate the recommendations put forth by the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD). Major Issues Promoted by ISSB Development of Uniformity Standards: developing standards for a global baseline ofzsustainability disclosures; Sufficient disclosure information: meeting the information needs of investors; Transparent Sustainability Program Revealed: enable companies to provide comprehensive sustainability information to global capital markets; and Focus on interactions with stakeholders: facilitating interoperability with disclosures that are jurisdiction-specific and/or aimed at broader stakeholder groups. Difference between IFRS S1 and S2 S1 emphasizes the linkage between sustainability information and financial statement information (including the reporting of individuals, materiality standards, and material assumptions that are consistent with the financial statements) and the need for sustainability information to be reported simultaneously with the financial statements, so as to facilitate investors' overall consideration of corporate value in their investment decisions; S2 integrates the relevant recommendations of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosure (TCFD), and strengthens the disclosure of restructuring plans, climate resilience, and GHG emissions, and also incorporates indicators for industry disclosure. The Taiwan Financial Supervisory Commission (TFSC)'s attitude towards the ISSB's new guidelines Currently, the TFSC has preliminarily indicated that it will follow the schedule set out in the "Action Plan for the Sustainable Development of Listed Counterparties" for the time being, and will make assessment and adjustment after 2025. In the first stage, a total of 83 listed counter companies with a capital of 10 billion NTD will compile sustainable information in 2026 and disclose it to the public in 2027. The existing TFSC only requires companies to disclose their own GHG emissions then the scope only need to cover to scope 1 (directly emissions) and 2 (in-directly emissions), and not required to deal with environmental impact and prevention, subsequent risk management and assessment. Immediate Challenges for Taiwan's FSC if it Fully Complies with S1 and S2 Difference in GHG inventory scope: The inventory of IFRS S1 and IFRS S2’s scope includes scopes 1, 2, and 3 reports with a third party’s validation statement. However, TFSC only need to report scope 1 and 2 with a third party’s assurance report. Framework and requirements: IFRS S1 and IFRS S2 focus more on "management and strategies in the face of climate change risks", while Taiwan's FSC only requires "disclosure of GHG emissions". For those enterprises that don’t yet have experience in publishing sustainability reports, or that haven’t yet conducted ESG information gathering, risk identification, and climate resilience assessments, future operational risks will be elevated and will be the next topic of discussion at senior executive meetings. Taiwan’s FSC is planning to gradually integrate international standards with the local system, however, in the short term, it will still conduct supervision in accordance with the issued guidelines. Ref . https://www.ifrs.org/news-and-events/news/2023/06/issb-issues-ifrs-s1-ifrs-s2/ https://www.ifrs.org/groups/international-sustainability-standards-board/ https://www.fsc.gov.tw/ch/home.jsp?id=96&parentpath=0,2&mcustomize=news_view.jsp&dataserno=202307060002&dtable=News https://www.fsc.gov.tw/ch/home.jsp?id=96&parentpath=0,2&mcustomize=news_view.jsp&dataserno=202307060002&dtable=News https://udn.com/news/story/7239/7283767 https://esg.gvm.com.tw/article/11124

Writer: Albert SUTANTO, Jonathan PHILLIP Social Media Team: Irina LIN Over the last few decades, Southeast Asia has experienced a remarkable surge in socio-economic growth, rapid urbanization, and booming industrialization, resulting in an ever-increasing demand for energy. The region's development has been driven by favorable economic policies, abundant natural resources, and a thriving entrepreneurial spirit. As urban centers expand and industries thrive, the need for energy has grown exponentially, contributing significantly to the region's overall energy consumption. Consequently, Southeast Asia has become a pivotal player in shaping the global energy landscape. However, amidst this impressive growth, there is a growing recognition of the urgent need to address climate change and its adverse impacts. As part of the global effort to combat climate change, the majority of national authorities in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have pledged to set ambitious net-zero targets, reflecting their determination to balance greenhouse gas emissions with removal efforts to achieve a sustainable, low-carbon future. The carbon market, encompassing both compliance and voluntary mechanisms, has emerged as a crucial tool in the pursuit of carbon neutrality. Within the countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), regulatory frameworks pertaining to the carbon market have begun to take shape, and a summary of these initiatives is provided below. Indonesia Earlier this year, Indonesia achieved a significant milestone in the fight against climate change by introducing a groundbreaking Emissions Trading System (ETS) for the power sector. This landmark initiative marked the first-ever ETS scheme to be implemented in Southeast Asia. The program's inaugural phase, which commenced in the same year, targeted 99 coal-fired power plants, collectively responsible for a substantial 81.4% of the nation's power generation. This momentous step towards carbon pricing and emission reduction came as a logical progression following the national government's release of a comprehensive framework for the economic valuation of carbon instruments in 2021. Building on this foundation, the Ministry of Environment and Forestry took decisive action in 2022, providing essential guidelines for the effective implementation of carbon economic valuation. With these combined efforts, Indonesia is now at the forefront of combating climate change, spearheading regional efforts to create a more sustainable and environmentally responsible energy sector. Singapore Singapore has been at the forefront of adopting carbon pricing measures in the Southeast Asian region, setting a precedent for climate action. Commencing in 2019, the country introduced a carbon tax targeting facilities emitting a minimum of 25,000 tCO2e of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions annually. At present, this program encompasses approximately 80% of Singapore's total GHG emissions and applies to around 50 facilities across diverse sectors, including manufacturing, power generation, waste management, and water treatment. The carbon tax was initially set at SG$5/tCO2e, signifying a starting point for incentivizing emission reductions. Over time, the tax is designed to progressively increase to SG$25/tCO2e during 2024-2025, further rising to SG$45/tCO2e in 2026-2027, and finally reaching SG$50-80/tCO2e by 2030. This gradual escalation aims to drive behavioral change and encourage companies to invest in cleaner technologies and practices to curb their carbon footprint. Furthermore, Singapore's commitment to environmental responsibility is evident in its provision for companies to utilize high-quality international carbon credits from 2024 onwards. Up to 5% of taxable emissions can be offset using these credits, promoting global cooperation in achieving emission reduction goals and fostering a more sustainable future. By spearheading carbon pricing initiatives, Singapore is setting an exemplary model for other nations in the region to take decisive steps towards mitigating climate change and achieving a low-carbon economy. Malaysia In March of this year, Bursa Carbon Exchange, a subsidiary of Bursa Malaysia, achieved a significant milestone by successfully conducting its first voluntary carbon credit auction. During this groundbreaking auction, 15 buyers from diverse industries participated, collectively purchasing 150,000 tons of carbon credits registered under the VERRA Registry. Although no domestic carbon projects were involved in this auction, the credits were sourced from two projects based in China and Cambodia. The project in China focused on technology-based initiatives, incorporating biogas recovery and power generation activities. On the other hand, the project in Cambodia was nature-based, operating under the REDD+ framework. This auction's successful outcome served as a strong signal to project proponents and developers, highlighting the economic viability of carbon credits. However, it is worth noting that all the credits were sold at the minimum reserve price, reflecting the cautious approach taken in the early stages of this emerging carbon market. Nonetheless, this landmark event represents a significant step forward in promoting carbon offset projects and fostering environmental responsibility within the region. Thailand and Vietnam Thailand and Vietnam are among the countries actively exploring the implementation of carbon market mechanisms within their borders. Thailand has already taken strides in this direction, having initiated its voluntary carbon offsetting scheme, known as T-VER, back in 2013. On the other hand, Vietnam is progressing towards establishing a comprehensive framework for national crediting mechanisms and domestic Emissions Trading Systems (ETS), with the ambitious goal of achieving full operational status by the year 2028. Thailand's T-VER program has provided a voluntary platform for individuals and businesses to participate in carbon offsetting initiatives, encouraging the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Meanwhile, Vietnam's national authority's efforts to lay the groundwork for national crediting mechanisms and ETS represent a major step forward in their commitment to combat climate change and move towards a more sustainable future. Reference: 1. https://icapcarbonaction.com/en/ets/indonesia 2. https://icapcarbonaction.com/en/ets/thailand 3. https://icapcarbonaction.com/en/ets/vietnam 4. https://www.nccs.gov.sg/singapores-climate-action/mitigation-efforts/carbontax/#:~:text=Carbon%20Tax%20in%20Singapore%20from,period%20for%20emitters%20to%20adjust. 5. https://bcx.bursamalaysia.com/web/auctiondetails

Writer: Lynn HSIAO, Clary CHEN Social Media Team: Vivian CHUANG Mt. Stonegate Green Asset Management Ltd.(MSG), a sustainable solutions provider in Taichung City, Taiwan, assisted ART TAICHUNG 2023, held from June 13 to June 16, to achieve carbon neutrality. As a show partner, MSG supported the exhibition by utilizing 100% renewable energy and offsetting carbon emissions by offering International Renewable Energy Certificates(I-RECs) and Verified Emission Reductions(VERs) from Gold Standard. This carbon standard corresponds to Sustainable Development Goals. These I-RECs and VERs provided to the exhibition are sourced locally in Taiwan, in alignment with the Taiwan government’s net-zero policy, fostering the development of local low-carbon projects. Dr. Jules Chuang (left one), director of MSG, participated in the opening press conference and VIP preview of ART TAICHUNG 2023. "We Lead to a Better Future" is the spirit of MSG," said Jules Chuang, the director of Mt. Stonegate Green Asset Management. “As a sustainable solution provider founded in Taichung for 15 years, we should take the responsibility to give back to the community for what we have taken. To carry out this plan, we decided to collaborate with Taiwan Art Gallery Association(TAGA), putting sustainability concepts into city art so visitors can experience a low-carbon lifestyle closely when they attend the exhibition.” Mt.Stonegate is dedicated to providing a one-stop solution to source green electricity globally, assisting corporates in fulfilling sustainable goals. Branches of Mt. Stonegate focus on different fields, providing various services. To name but a few, Mt. Stonegate Green Asset Management has traded over 20 million I-REC globally while Nanjitan Carbon Asset Management has sold over 2 million carbon credits. Lately, Mt. Stonegate has put a lot of effort into launching ESG ratings consulting services in Taiwan, and also starting to prepare for the new round of carbon credits auction, providing carbon credits trade opportunities for companies in every industry. Chinese News (中央社): https://www.cna.com.tw/postwrite/chi/346144

(Figure 1) The opening ceremony is presided over by Professor Hsing-Lung Lien from the National University of Kaohsiung. Mt. Stonegate Green Asset Ltd., in collaboration with the National University of Kaohsiung, organized a seminar titled "ESG Opportunities and Challenges for Business under Taiwan's Climate Change Response Law: New Carbon Market" at the Taipei IEAT Convention Center in June 29. The seminar was chaired by Professor Hsing-Lung Lien from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the NUK. Distinguished speakers at the seminar included Dao K. Wu, CEO of Taiwan Impact Investing Association; Masaya Ishida, Senior Manager at Japan Renewable Energy Institution; Ou Ko, Senior Manager at E-square Inc.; Flemming Fang, General Manager at Nanjitan Carbon Asset Management Ltd.; and Mavis Liu, Key Account Sales at Bureau Veritas Certification (Taiwan) Co. Ltd. They gathered to explore how businesses can effectively respond to climate change regulations and international trends and capitalize on growth opportunities within the sustainable wave. The event attracted significant attention, with hundreds of registrations received. (Figure 2) A panel of Speakers - From left to right: Dr. Jules Chuang, Director of Mt. Stonegate Green Capital; Professor Hsing-Lung Lien, National University of Kaohsiung; Dao K. Wu, CEO of the Impact Investing Association; Masaya Ishida, Senior Manager at the Japan Renewable Energy Institution; Ou Ko, Senior Manager at E-square Inc.; Flemming Fang, General Manager at Nanjitan Carbon Asset Management Co., Ltd.; Mavis Liu, Key Account Sales at Bureau Veritas Certification (Taiwan) Co. Ltd. (Figure 3) Flemming Fang, General Manager at Nanjitan Carbon Asset Management Co., Ltd., shares experiences in applying for offset projects with the Environmental Protection Administration. 2023 marks a crucial milestone for climate governance in Taiwan, with the passing of the Climate Change Response Law and the imminent implementation of carbon fees. Carbon reduction has become a top priority for businesses. The seminar commenced with CEO Dao K. Wu sharing insights on how businesses can seek new opportunities through impact investing. Masaya Ishida, drawing from his extensive experience in the Japanese corporate sector, discussed the current state of the renewable energy market in Japan and presented case studies of corporate decarbonization. Senior Manager Ou Ko subsequently provided winning strategies for improving ESG ratings within enterprises. Flemming Fang, the General Manager of Nanjitan, delved into the prospects of Taiwan's carbon market based on domestic carbon credit development experience. Mavis Liu, Key Account Sales from BV, shared international trends in sustainable standards and practical greenhouse gas verification. The seminar's content, which blended in-depth analysis and practical insights, left attendees inspired. The overall event concluded successfully with vibrant discussions and exchanges. (Figure 4) Dr. Jules Chuang, Managing Director of Mt. Stonegate, responds to attendees' questions. The seminar was organized by Mt. Stonegate Green Asset Ltd., an affiliated company of the Mt. Stonegate Group. Mt. Stonegate Group provides comprehensive one-stop sustainability solutions to businesses worldwide, assisting corporations in achieving their sustainable goals. Each affiliate under Mt. Stonegate Group specializes in different areas, offering diverse services to cater to the unique net-zero needs of businesses. Mt. Stonegate Green asset has achieved successful global transactions of over 20 million renewable energy certificates, while Nanjitan has traded over 2 million tons of carbon credits. Furthermore, Mt. Stonegate Group has collaborated with E-square Inc. in Japan for many years, facilitating the improvement of ESG ratings for over ten major Japanese enterprises and aiding their inclusion in the investment targets of the Government Pension Investment Fund. Recently, Mt. Stonegate Group has actively launched ESG rating consulting services in Taiwan and is preparing for a new round of carbon credit bidding, providing opportunities for off-takers from different industries.

In the way of implementing national “Dual-Carbon” policies, Carbon neutrality and renewable energy become the most trending topics nowadays. Successfully shifting to low-carbon economy has become a key competitiveness of enterprises. Many large enterprises and supply chains have been involved in the wave of carbon reduction. However, lots of them have drawn up carbon reduction goals but don’t have a clue how to start. How do corporations from various industries choose the most suitable GHG emission scheme? How to ensure investment effectiveness and maximize long-term profits? And what can ESG department do to balance environmental, social and governance issues? The organizer of this seminar——Mt. Stonegate Green Asset Management Ltd., a leading carbon asset and green certificate trader in Asia, will help you figure out these answers.