ID: 31
Presenting Author: YuLing Lee
Status: pending
MOENV combats solar PV misinformation through scientific verification, transparent communication, and public participation, promoting evidence-based EIA and trust in renewable energy.
In Taiwan, the rapid expansion of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems has been accompanied by a surge of misinformation concerning environmental impacts. False claims—such as “birds dying after drinking red water under PV panels” or “PV modules contaminating reservoirs”—spread widely across social media, eroding public trust and complicating environmental impact assessment (EIA) discussions.
To counter these challenges, Ministry of Environment (MOENV) established a comprehensive mechanism to identify, verify, and respond to misinformation. Working with its National Environmental Research Institute, MOENV conducted scientific investigations disproving viral videos and falsified data, and referred related cases for judicial review. It also conducted simulation analyses on potential drinking-water impacts of PV systems under extreme conditions, emphasizing that such results are for technical reference only and should not be misinterpreted as environmental standards.
To strengthen transparency and communication, MOENV enhanced live-streaming and open-data disclosure for EIA meetings, allowing citizens easier access to real-time environmental information. In parallel, an online public participation platform is being developed to promote interactive and evidence-based dialogue in EIA deliberations.
This poster illustrates Taiwan’s experience in combating misinformation through scientific verification, transparent communication, and participatory governance—offering practical insights for strengthening public trust and evidence-based decision-making.
Handled past-year EIA reviews, project management, and committee regulation amendments for Taiwan’s Ministry of Environment.
Coauthor 1: WanChing Chen