In today’s world, where the effects of climate change are increasingly severe, sustainable development has become a key issue in urban governance globally. Taitung County, with its unique natural landscapes and cultural heritage, is actively promoting a transition to green transportation, with the most notable initiative being the upcoming bike-sharing program. The Taitung County Government understands that while pursuing economic development, environmental sustainability is equally crucial.
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In response to the global trend towards net-zero carbon emissions, the county government plans to introduce the YouBike 2.0 public bike system, aiming to establish at least 10 rental stations in Taitung City by the end of 2024, with 100 shared bicycles, including regular bikes and electric-assisted bikes. The vision for this project doesn’t stop there; it will eventually expand to 86 rental stations, providing up to 800 shared bicycles, creating a greener and more sustainable urban transportation network.
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Taitung, with its vast and scenic landscapes, including the renowned Rift Valley, offers ideal spots for cycling tourism, especially in areas like Guanshan and Chishang, attracting countless visitors each year. The county government plans to prioritize rental stations at major transportation hubs such as train stations and bus terminals, gradually extending them to popular tourist spots and essential areas, providing residents and tourists with more convenient green transportation options.
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Notably, this system will use the advanced YouBike 2.0 platform, equipped with smart technology that allows for rental options via electronic tickets and mobile QR codes. To further enhance convenience, Taitung’s bike-sharing system will include electric-assisted bicycles, making it easier for users to navigate some of the gentle slopes around Taitung City and encouraging broader usage among the public.
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Taitung County is also planning to integrate its bike-sharing system into the comprehensive “Taitung TPASS” transit pass. For a discounted price of NT$299 per month, residents can enjoy unlimited rides for 30 days on the county’s 59 city and highway bus routes, as well as Taiwan Railways services between Chishang and Dawu stations. This initiative significantly enhances the convenience of public transportation for residents. Together with the upcoming YouBike system, this policy is designed to create a more complete green transportation network in Taitung, advancing the county’s vision for low-carbon, sustainable development.
International experiences show that shared transportation systems have a significant impact on reducing carbon emissions. Research from the International Transport Forum (ITF) indicates that shared transport can replace up to 98% of private car use. For instance, in Dublin, Ireland, after introducing shared transportation systems, overall traffic-related carbon emissions dropped by 31%, with total travel distances reduced by 37.5%. In Lisbon, Portugal, the impact was even more striking, achieving a 62% reduction in carbon emissions. These figures confirm the vital role of shared transportation in promoting environmental sustainability.
In recent years, Taitung County has made significant strides in promoting green transportation. The county government actively implements an electric scooter promotion program, offering subsidies for 400 electric scooters each year and continuously expanding charging station installations. Up until 2024, they had established 19 charging and battery exchange stations, surpassing the original goal by 280%. Additionally, Taitung County maintains a network of 409.558 kilometers of bicycle paths and has introduced electric buses, progressively building a comprehensive green transportation system.
This year’s launch of the YouBike shared bicycle program is set to mark a new chapter in Taitung’s sustainable transportation development. According to the county government, the initial setup will focus on the Taitung urban area, with plans to extend to nearby tourist areas, including the Rift Valley townships of Beinan, Luye, Guanshan, and Chishang. This initiative not only meets the commuting needs of local residents but also offers tourists a low-carbon travel option, embodying the principles of “slow economy, slow living, and cultural immersion.”
