Hualien Ranks No. 1 Nationwide in Good Air Quality Days: Where Breathing Fresh Air is the Daily Standard

(中央社訊息服務20260319 10:31:52)According to recent data from the Ministry of Environment’s monitoring network, Hualien enjoyed an impressive 315 days of “good” air quality in 2025, defined as an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 50 or below. This performance secured Hualien the highest proportion of clean-air days in Taiwan. To residents, these statistics represent a cherished way of life and a source of daily pride, while for visitors, they offer a refreshing experience that can be felt with every deep breath.

The Hualien County Government noted that since taking office, Mayor Hsu Chen-Wei has focused on building a “Glorious Hualien” through a distinctive city brand. Moving from concepts like “Slow, Boutique Hualien” to “Hualien Hertz,” the county has established a resilient and sustainable pace of development. By emphasizing smart governance, international standards, and public happiness, the administration continues to modernize air quality management to ensure that all citizens have access to the cleanest and healthiest air possible.

To maintain these high standards, the Environmental Protection Bureau utilizes 24-hour technology to monitor pollution around the clock. This includes Continuous Emissions Monitoring Systems (CEMS) at four major plants to ensure transparency and prevent violations. In the Heping Industrial Park, the county has introduced AI image recognition and Internet of Things (IoT) sensors to track dust levels in real time and issue immediate alerts if abnormalities occur. Similarly, smart sensors at construction sites and gravel yards can automatically trigger water-spraying systems to suppress dust whenever pollutant concentrations exceed set limits. The county also employs CCTV to oversee road cleanliness and uses license plate recognition and acoustic cameras to regulate high-polluting vehicles.

The Environmental Protection Bureau emphasized that Hualien’s most precious assets are its magnificent landscapes and deep cultural heritage. These elements serve as the foundation for the county’s various development policies. Although Hualien has long been a national leader in air quality, recent natural disasters have caused significant environmental damage. The road to recovery is long and requires a close partnership between the government, the private sector, and the public. Through the persistent enforcement of comprehensive control policies, the bureau aims to ensure that Hualien’s air quality remains superior to national standards.

Mayor Hsu Chen-Wei expressed her hope that businesses will embrace their social responsibilities and that every individual will practice sustainability in their daily lives. She believes that through these collective efforts, the community can work together to create a greener and more livable environment. By moving steadily toward becoming a sustainable, low-carbon city, Hualien is building a brighter and healthier future for everyone.