Management strategy of plastic wastes in Taiwan

Abstract

The success and dominance of plastic products used in modern society have improved the quality of life but come with extensive environmental consequences. As a result, the United Nations, European Union, and several industrialized countries have put forth goals and action plans to expedite the recycle and reuse of plastic wastes to minimize their releases to the environment. To keep pace with the world trends of achieving environmental and resource sustainability, Taiwan developed the roadmap in 1997 to reduce the generation of plastic wastes (Phase I). The successful endeavors were further incorporated into the “5 + 2” program in 2019 which underscores the nation’s commitments towards circular economy and environmental awareness (Phase II). As a result, a domestic recycle rate of 51% was attained in 2019. This paper describes the strategy of managing the plastic wastes in Taiwan that has evolved over time. Selected highlights of the efforts involved (the four focal points of green designs, source reductions, recycling enhancements, as well as circulations and regenerations) are discussed. Along with the successful experiences in households and industries, recycle and reuse of plastic wastes has been expanded to the agricultural and fishing sectors as well.