The National Park Service and Tzu Chi collaborate to create a sustainable action network, protecting precious ecological resources in Taiwan. | Photo: Tzu Chi Foundation

On May 19, the Tzu Chi Foundation signed Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) with the Ministry of the Interior's National Park Service and the Taiwan Power Company (Taipower). These agreements aim to integrate resources from both the public and private sectors to strengthen disaster response capabilities, deepen social care, and promote environmental sustainability. Through these collaborations, the organizations are injecting new momentum into Taiwan's transition toward a net-zero society.

Integrating disaster response and community care

The partnership with Taipower focuses heavily on disaster relief and the efficient integration of emergency response resources. A key component of the agreement establishes a reciprocal mechanism for utilizing physical spaces during crises. Tzu Chi will open its Jing Si Halls to serve as temporary relay stations for Taipower crews, significantly shortening the travel and operational distances required for emergency power restoration. In return, Taipower will offer its regional bases to function as Tzu Chi relief service stations. This strategy ensures that power repair and humanitarian aid can be deployed simultaneously within disaster zones, expediting recovery for affected communities.

Tzu Chi and Taipower will join hands in disaster repair logistics, charitable care for vulnerable groups, and environmental education. | Photo: Tzu Chi Foundation

Po-Wen Yen (顏博文), CEO of the Tzu Chi Foundation, noted the foundation's strategic approach to emergency support and its focus on both physical and emotional needs.

Tzu Chi plays the role of a first-line backup and a second-line vanguard during disasters. Besides providing material assistance, we emphasize bringing spiritual stability to those affected, elevating overall response efficiency through comprehensive planning.
— Po-Wen Yen, CEO of the Tzu Chi Foundation

Taipower Chairman Wen-Sheng Tseng (曾文生) highlighted the complementary strengths of the two organizations, noting that Taipower brings technology and speed, while Tzu Chi provides an extensive volunteer network. He described the partnership as a combination of light and heat, adding that they will leverage grassroots networks to expand care for vulnerable populations and deepen community support.

Advancing ecological conservation and sustainability

On the environmental front, the MOU signed with the National Park Service focuses on biodiversity conservation, natural carbon sinks, forest preservation, and environmental education.

Director-General of the National Park Service, Cheng-Chi Wang (王成機), stated that in the face of climate change and ecological challenges, the government must rely on private sector support and volunteer networks. By promoting shared ideals, offering practical experiences, and exchanging knowledge, the partnership aims to advance environmental education and align local conservation efforts with international standards.

Together, we combine government expertise with private-sector experience to build a highly influential environmental education platform. | Photo: Fu-Chiang Yen (顏福江)

Reflecting on the deeper purpose of these agreements, CEO Yen reminded attendees of the profound connection between human well-being and the natural world, emphasizing the need for a shift in perspective.

Yen quoted Master Cheng Yen’s teaching: "Only when the earth is peaceful can people live in peace.”

Humanity must transition from being mere users of resources to becoming active guardians and practitioners of environmental sustainability.
— Po-Wen Yen, CEO of the Tzu Chi Foundation

Through these strong public-private partnerships, dedicated teams will continue to work together to protect communities and natural landscapes, building a more resilient future.

Written by Yi-Ting Wang (王藝婷)