The research and development of ecomaterials in Taiwan

Taiwan’s booming industrial development within the last 40 years have not only raised the living standards of its people but also aroused their environmental awareness. The latter is an important driving force for environmental improvement activities in Taiwan. A balance between economic prosperity and a clean environment is essential for pursuing sustainable development. It is found that advanced materials and related technologies are not only the driving forces for industrial developments, but are also the essential means for solving environmental problems. Thus, it is necessary for Taiwan to develop and to effectively use these environmental materials and technologies in order to achieve a balance between economic growth and environment protection.