The Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) recently announced that, with the exception of a reduction in disposable tableware, eight types of restricted objects, including public departments and mass merchandisers, will not be permitted to provide disposable plastic (PLA) tableware as of August 1st of this year. Additionally, using tableware lessens the impact on the environment. Fines for violations range from NT$1,200 to NT$6,000.
EPA announced that starting from August 1, eight major places such as supermarkets shall not provide PLA disposable tableware.Photo provided by Environmental Protection Administration
According to EPA, it has been prohibited to provide plastic tableware since July 2002 in public institutions, private schools, mass merchandisers, supermarkets, chain convenience stores, chain fast food restaurants, and restaurants. PLA sisposable tableware, including cups, bowls, plates, lunch boxes, and plastic inner plates, cannot be offered after August 1 of this year.
The Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) noted that in recent years, the industry has primarily substituted disposable plastic (PLA) tableware because it can decompose quickly under specific circumstances, but Taiwan currently lacks appropriate recycling and composting practices. Additionally, it will put a strain on the current recycling system. Disposable dinnerware manufactured of PLA is thus included in the restriction by this amendment of the regulations. Furthermore, EPA anticipates further advancements in Taiwan's source reduction program's efficacy in the future.
