Lee Yuan-tseh Warns of Climate Crisis, Urges Young Generation to Forge Their Own Path

(CNA reporter Chang Hsiung-feng, Taipei, 17th) Nobel laureate Lee Yuan-tseh stated that the global goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and limiting temperature rise to within 1.5°C is merely an effort 'to prevent the situation from becoming worse.' He expressed hope that the younger generation will strive to forge their own path.

The Ministry of Environment specially invited Lee Yuan-tseh, Nobel laureate in Chemistry and advisor to the Presidential Office's National Climate Change Response Committee, to record a promotional short film titled 'High Schoolers, It’s Time for Class' to promote climate education, raise awareness of the climate crisis, and encourage youth to chart their own course.

In the video, Lee emphasized that while the global consensus aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 and limit warming to 1.5°C, even achieving these goals would result in a world that remains severely compromised—worse than today’s environment. He described this effort as merely 'to prevent things from getting worse.'

Lee noted that a 2-3°C rise in average temperature may seem tolerable, but the real danger lies in the resulting extreme heatwaves, which could leave people with nowhere to escape, even with air conditioning. Human survival itself could be at risk.

Lee pointed out in a speech at the Presidential Office that the energy transition has not succeeded, with greenhouse gas emissions still high. Beyond energy reform, he stressed the need for reduced consumption. He criticized the common focus on 'development' in discussions of 'sustainable development,' suggesting that humanity may need to downsize its economy and seriously reconsider reducing waste.

'At nearly 90 years old, I don’t believe the older generation can deliver a better world to you,' Lee said, urging young people to work hard and forge their own path for their future and that of humanity.

The Ministry of Environment today released a press statement announcing a collaboration with the Ministry of Education to launch an online course titled 'Dialogue with the 2050 Net-Zero Generation' to enhance youth climate literacy. A recent double-incentive campaign offers rewards to both previous and new course participants who complete a feedback survey: a NT$50 convenience store digital gift voucher and two hours of recognized environmental education credit. (Edited by Chang Ming-kun) 1150617

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