Taiwan has implemented a single-use plastic ban, aiming to be plastic-free by 2030, with measures including replacing plastic cups with paper or fiber alternatives and launching a reusable cup rental program.

Despite its history as a major producer of plastics and plastic machinery, Taiwan is committing to reducing its plastic footprint under the guidance of the newly established Ministry of Environment. These efforts mirror global initiatives, like Canada’s, which start with small-scale bans to achieve broader sustainability goals. 

Taiwan’s Single-Use Plastic Ban

Similar to Canada, Taiwan aims to be plastic free by 2030. In 2020, an estimated 2.2 billion single-use plastic cups were used in Taiwan. Shops now have to pivot to paper or fibre-based cups, encourage customers to bring their own reusable cups or offer a reusable cup service. The Taiwanese Ministry of Environment (MOENV) estimates with the ban, 790 million paper cups will be used every year!

Taiwan is also implementing a reusable cup rental program, similar to the one Ottawa is slowly implementing. Customers can rent the reusable cups at one location and return them at other participating locations. As of July 2023, the Taiwan Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) also banned the use of plastic packaging materials!

Taiwan’s single-use plastic ban goals are similar to the goals that Canada and other countries have set in place. Starting small with items like plastic bags and other takeout containers helps provide stepping stones to the larger goal of being plastic-free!

LeKAC, Oct 31, 2024. 

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