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Introduction to Science & Technology in the Far East
Science and technology in the Far East are driving innovation and shaping the future. Countries such as China, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore have made significant technological advancements. For example, China has become a global leader in renewable energy, producing over 40% of the world's solar panels and wind turbines. Japan is globally recognized for its robotics industry, with over 300,000 industrial robots actively in use. South Korea continues to invest heavily in research and development, spending over 4.5% of its GDP on science and technology innovation. Singapore has established itself as a leader in biotechnology and medical research, hosting some of the world's most advanced research facilities. Taiwan has also played a vital role in technological innovation, particularly in the semiconductor industry, contributing over 60% of the global supply. These efforts reflect the Far East's dedication to science and technology, inspiring students worldwide to dream big and contribute to a brighter, innovative future.
China has rapidly become a global leader in science, making exciting progress in areas like space exploration, medicine, artificial intelligence and technology. Its space missions, like sending robots to the Moon and Mars, show how advanced its technology has become. China also created the first special satellite that uses the power of quantum science to send super-safe messages. In medicine, scientists are discovering new ways to help people using tiny tools to fix genes and grow healthy cells.
Space Missions
China has done amazing things in space! The Chang'e missions explored the Moon, and Chang'e 4 was the first spacecraft to land on the far side of the Moon, which no one had done before. These missions even brought back rocks from the Moon for scientists to study. China also built the Tianhe space station, where astronauts live and do experiments in space. This space station is part of a bigger plan to explore the universe. These achievements show how China is reaching for the stars and inspiring young explorers like you!
Quantum Computing
China is building super-powerful computers called quantum computers. These computers are way faster than the ones we use every day. One of China’s quantum computers, called Jiuzhang, did a task in seconds that would take regular computers millions of years. These computers can help solve big problems in medicine, science, and even security. They can also make sure your online messages stay private. With quantum computing, China is creating technology that could change the future in amazing ways!
Genome Editing
China is using an incredible science tool called CRISPR to study genes and find cures for diseases. This tool helps scientists understand how genes work and create treatments for problems like cancer. They’re also using CRISPR to grow better crops, which means more food for everyone. Imagine fixing a disease or making plants stronger just by editing genes—this is what China’s scientists are doing! These breakthroughs are helping people live healthier lives and improving the environment too.
Taiwan has emerged as a key player in global science, achieving remarkable progress in fields like technology, medicine, and renewable energy. Known as the "Silicon Island," Taiwan produces over 60% of the world’s semiconductors, powering everything from smartphones to supercomputers. In medicine, Taiwanese researchers are pioneers in cancer treatment, using advanced proton therapy to improve survival rates. Taiwan is also leading in renewable energy, with a goal to generate 20% of its electricity from renewables by 2025, including Asia’s largest offshore wind farm. These advancements highlight Taiwan’s growing influence in science and technology worldwide.
Semiconductors and Microelectronics
Innovations Powering the Future
TSMC: Shaping the World with Advanced Technology
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co.'s Research and Development Center in Hsinchu, Taiwan.
Taiwan is a global leader in the semiconductor industry, driven by the success of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC). TSMC is the world's largest and most advanced semiconductor manufacturer, producing over 60% of the global supply of semiconductors. It dominates 90% of advanced chip manufacturing, supporting industries like smartphones, AI, and consumer electronics. Taiwan's semiconductor industry is valued at over $100 billion annually, making it a key driver of its economy. TSMC produces chips using cutting-edge technologies like 3nm and 5nm processes, which are vital for high-performance computing and mobile devices. The country’s strategic investments in research and innovation ensure its continued leadership in the microelectronics sector.
Major Industries
With the rapid growth of four major industries—smartphones, high-performance computing, automotive electronics, and the Internet of Things (IoT)—TSMC is shaping the future of technology. As customers now focus more on how products are used rather than just how they're made, TSMC has created four technology platforms. These platforms help companies design products faster and bring them to market sooner. They include cutting-edge tools for logic processes, specialty technologies, and testing, ensuring TSMC stays ahead of the game.
Smartphones are a big part of our lives. We use them to browse the web, chat with friends, watch videos, and even manage our money. TSMC’s advanced chip technology powers the smartphones that keep us connected every day.
The future of transportation is here! Experts believe that ride-sharing services could soon replace car ownership. Hybrid and electric vehicles are becoming more popular due to stricter environmental laws. TSMC's technology is at the heart of this transformation.
Amazing things like artificial intelligence (AI), 5G, virtual reality (VR), and smart factories are creating a massive demand for computing power. TSMC helps power these advancements with their innovative chips
Smart devices like fitness trackers, connected homes, and even entire smart cities are shaping the future. The Internet of Things (IoT), combined with AI and 5G, is making everything more connected than ever. TSMC plays a big role in building the technology that makes this possible.
Cool gadgets like smart TVs, set-top boxes, and cameras are becoming smarter and more advanced. TSMC provides the technology needed to make these devices work better and offer exciting new features.
Biotechnology and Medicine
Building a Healthier Tomorrow
Taiwan is at the forefront of biotechnology and medicine, driving innovation to improve health and change lives. With groundbreaking advancements in gene editing, vaccine development, and regenerative medicine, Taiwan is shaping the future of healthcare. To keep up with growing global health challenges, Taiwanese companies and researchers are developing advanced tools and medicines faster than ever before. Let’s explore some key areas where Taiwan is making an impact!
Imagine treatments designed specifically for each person! Taiwan is leading in precision medicine, where doctors use a person’s genes and medical data to find the best cure. This makes treatments more effective and personalized. Taiwan is building powerful databases to make this possible, helping patients recover faster and live healthier lives.
Taiwan’s scientists are working hard to create new medicines and vaccines that save lives. For example, Taiwan developed its own COVID-19 vaccines, helping millions stay safe during the pandemic. Companies are also focusing on cancer treatments, using cutting-edge technologies to fight one of the world’s deadliest diseases.
What if we could repair or regrow damaged body parts? In Taiwan, scientists are making progress in regenerative medicine, such as creating lab-grown tissues and using stem cells to treat injuries and diseases. These incredible discoveries could change how we heal in the future.
From advanced surgical robots to wearable health devices, Taiwan is a leader in medical technology. Hospitals are using Taiwanese-made robots to assist in surgeries, making them safer and more accurate. Meanwhile, wearable devices like smartwatches help people track their health in real time.
Keeping the planet healthy is part of keeping people healthy too! Taiwan is using biotechnology to clean up pollution and create sustainable products. For example, researchers are developing eco-friendly materials to reduce waste and protect the environment.
Taiwan's progress in biotechnology and medicine is inspiring the world. With a focus on innovation and care for people, Taiwan is helping build a healthier and brighter future for everyone.
Renewable Energy and Sustainability
Formosa 2: Taiwan’s Offshore Wind Power
Taiwan is expanding offshore wind energy, including the Formosa Wind Farm project, one of Asia’s largest, aiming to produce 20 GW by 2025.
Formosa 2: Taiwan’s Next Big Clean Energy Project
Formosa 2 is a huge wind farm located in the Taiwan Strait, just off the coast of Miaoli County. It was built by three companies working together: JERA from Japan, Macquarie’s Green Investment Group, and Swancor Renewable Energy, a company from Taiwan.
Powering Homes with Offshore Wind: The Story of Formosa 2
This wind farm is part of Taiwan’s big plan to use more clean energy. By 2025, the government aims to add 5.5 gigawatts (GW) of wind power to the country’s energy supply, and Formosa 2 plays a major role in reaching that goal. It officially started producing electricity in September 2023 and generates enough power for 380,000 homes every year!
Clean Energy at Sea: Formosa 2 in Taiwan
Formosa 2 helps reduce pollution by replacing energy from fossil fuels. Over its lifetime, it will prevent 18.75 million tons of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere. That’s a big step toward making Taiwan’s energy cleaner and better for the planet.
Synera Renewable Energy’s Big Step: Formosa 2
The wind farm sits near the Formosa 1 wind farm and is located 3.8 kilometers (about 2.4 miles) from the west coast of Taiwan, with its furthest point about 9.5 kilometers (around 5.9 miles) offshore. Construction started on land in 2019, and the big wind turbines were installed in the sea in 2020.
Formosa 2: Building a Greener Future for Taiwan
Taiwan is aiming high with renewable energy, planning to build over 1,000 wind turbines by 2030 and produce 20 GW of wind energy by 2025. Formosa 2 is a shining example of how the country is leading Asia in creating a cleaner and more sustainable future.
AI and Smart Technology
Taiwan is developing smart cities and leveraging AI in sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing, driven by government initiatives such as the AI Taiwan Action Plan.
Space Technology
Taiwan’s Formosat satellite series is a major contribution to Earth observation and disaster monitoring, providing critical data for global scientific research.
ICT and Smart Manufacturing
Taiwan’s ICT companies are central to global supply chains for 5G, IoT, and AI technologies.