# Taiwanese temples social and environmental initiatives > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/taiwanese-temples-social-and-environmental-initiatives > Updated: 2026-09-25T18:09:58.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2. Religious institutions in Taiwan are expanding their roles in community welfare and environmental stewardship. Initially, temples focused on direct social aid by repurposing ritual materials from the Hungry Ghost Festival. In New Taipei City, the Sanchong Xianse Temple donated rice and offerings valued at approximately 1.3 million TWD to local government bureaus. Similarly, in Kaohsiung, the Cifu Temple distributed rice and dry goods to over 600 low-income households. More recently, these institutions have integrated sustainability into their operations. In Yilan County, 20 temples earned ‘Environmental Low-Carbon Temple Certification’ by reducing air pollution through measures such as limiting the burning of joss paper and incense. Additionally, religious groups in Kaohsiung have received formal recognition for their ongoing contributions to public welfare and community support. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-25: Taiwanese temples advance environmental sustainability and social welfare Taiwanese temples are advancing social and environmental goals, with Yilan certifying 20 low-carbon temples and Kaohsiung honoring the Fengyi Kaizhang Shengwang Temple for its charitable contributions. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/taiwanese-temples-advance-environmental-sustainability-and-social-welfare ### 2026-09-04: Taiwanese temples donate festival offerings to support vulnerable communities Taiwanese temples, including Sanchong Xianse and Cifu Temple, are donating large quantities of rice and food offerings from Hungry Ghost Festival rituals to low-income families and local charities. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/taiwanese-temples-donate-festival-offerings-to-support-vulnerable-communities --- Cite as: Taiwanese temples social and environmental initiatives. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/taiwanese-temples-social-and-environmental-initiatives