Over the last two decades, Taiwan's increasing prosperity and democratization have been accompanied by growing popular concern for the environment. As environmentalism has become a mainstream part of Taiwan's society and politics, the authorities have signaled their willingness to accommodate the public's wishes by confronting all types of pollution, as symbolized by new pollution control laws as well as recent moves to cut back on the use of both disposable utensils and plastic bags. In addition, the island already appears to be at the forefront of solar technology.
Today, Earth Day, the US marks its own deep commitment to preserve the bounty and beauty of the Earth for future generations everywhere.
PHOTO: EPA
Across the expanse of the US, Americans of all ages are engaged in activities that celebrate the wonders of nature and highlight the efforts required to maintain a healthy environment. For example, one of Taipei's sister cities, Dallas, Texas celebrated Earth Day 2004 last Saturday with free events that included eco-educational booths and vendors, organic garden explorations, composting demonstrations and butterfly conservatory tours.
San Diego, California -- one of Taichung's sister cities -- holds an annual EarthFair that is reportedly the largest free annual environmental fair in the world. April 25 is the date set for San Diego's 15th such EarthFair, and will include activities such as a "Children's Earth Parade" where, the organizers have advertised, "All Species Are Welcome."
In addition, US activists, business leaders, sportsmen and government representatives are engaged in the kind of public discussions upon which thoughtful economic and environmental policies are founded.
It is through such sustained, combined efforts of governmental institutions, businesses and civil-society organizations as well as individual actions that the US has made substantial progress in reversing the environmental degradation evident in the 1970s, while supporting the nation's extraordinary population and economic growth. Even as the US faces increasingly complex challenges, I am confident that America's current three generations of environmentally-conscious citizens have the commitment, education, energy and ability to pursue the greatest good.
The US recognizes its responsibility to work with others to create more favorable living conditions for its citizens while ensuring judicious care of natural resources. For example, we have cooperated with the Taiwanese authorities in programs concerning air quality, energy conservation, toxic emissions, hazardous waste management and watershed protection. Taiwan's Energy Star program and toxic release inventory system were both adopted as a result of cooperation under our bilateral environmental agreement.
It is within our joint ability to ensure the bounty and beauty of our natural world. With the world's population expected to double in the next few generations, it is the duty of everyone -- including the US and Taiwan -- to prepare today's children not only to march in Earth Day parades, but to make informed choices in order to sustain our Earth.
Douglas Paal is the director of the American Institute in Taiwan.
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