Charles Huang, founder of the Taiwan Circular Economy Network, first entered into a collaboration with Netherlands Trade and Investment Office Representative, Guy Wittich, to advance the circular economy in Taiwan. Wittich notes that collaboration within the circular economy is necessary, especially as Taiwan is an active participant in the supply chain for many products across the globe, from plastics to electronics. There is thus an incentive to share knowledge and strategies regarding circular principles across the globe—and this is particularly relevant to Taiwan, which has a similar size, lack of resources and limited space to deal with waste. 

Taiwan’s interest in transitioning to a circular economy has been solidified by an executive order approving a promotion plan that aims to shift industries away from the linear economy, and ultimately use resources in a more efficient and sustainable way. The plan will promote circular technologies and materials innovation, establish a research and development centre for circular technology, establish a new circular economy demonstration park, encourage green consumption and exchanges and integrate energy resources and natural resources, promoting industrial symbiosis.