Yang Ming Protects Biodiversity: Joining Forces with Supply Chain Partners to Remove the Mikania micrantha

Yang Ming Protects Biodiversity: Joining Forces with Supply Chain Partners to Remove the Mikania micrantha

Committed to preserving ecosystems, Yang Ming hosted an invasive species removal event at the Wugu Wetland Ecological Park in New Taipei City, led by President Cliff Pai. The initiative welcomed participation from over 10 supply chain partners, including Taiwan International Ports Corporation, Cathay United Bank, Taipei Fubon Bank, TRITON International, Bureau Veritas Taiwan, and SEACO Global…etc., as well as Yang Ming employees and their families, bringing together a total of 65 volunteers. The collective effort successfully removed 88 kilograms of Mikania micrantha, contributing to environmental sustainability and underscoring Yang Ming’s promise to biodiversity conservation.

Mikania micrantha, native to Central and South America and the Caribbean, is recognized by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as one of the world’s top 100 invasive species. The vine spreads by climbing over native plants, completely covering their surfaces. Its heliotropic nature blocks sunlight, preventing the host plants from photosynthesizing, eventually leading to their decline—earning it the notorious local nickname, the “Green Cancer.” Due to its astonishing reproductive and spreading capabilities, Mikania micrantha poses a severe threat to native plant ecosystems. Its rapid expansion disrupts indigenous vegetation, ultimately disturbing the ecological balance. Given its resilience and difficulty in complete eradication, manual uprooting is the most effective method, ensuring the root system is entirely eliminated. To control its spread, removal actions are needed to reduce its growth and ecological impact before its annual flowering period in October.

This event leveraged the extensive expertise of the Society of Wilderness, a longstanding advocate for ecological preservation. Their professional insights on invasive species gave Yang Ming volunteers with a deeper understanding of the importance of protecting the local ecosystem. Despite the cold, muddy terrain, the enthusiasm and determination of the volunteers remained unwavering. Braving the chilly wind, they stepped into the dense undergrowth to remove the invasive weed. Through their collective efforts, native plants were once again able to access sunlight, air, and water. By restoring space for indigenous vegetation to thrive, the volunteers reclaimed the wetland’s natural balance and ensuring a healthier ecosystem for native species.

Yang Ming upholds its corporate social responsibility by taking actions to fulfill its "Protecting Biodiversity and Zero Net Deforestation Commitment." Moving forward, the Company will continue promoting environmental awareness, safeguarding ecosystem balance and contributing to a better future.