In an effort to reduce plastic waste, Taipei City is putting in place a ban on PLA (Polylactic) utensils starting August 1. On the first day of implementation, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) dispatched staff members to conduct inspection at businesses under eight categories (see below).
The agency pointed out that roughly 11,000 stores are classified for monitoring in Taipei. Those with physical stores are on the priority list for inspection. Violators will be fined between NT$1,200 and NT$6,000, in accordance with the Waste Disposal Act.
According to DEP, the central government’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the revision to “Objects and Means of Restricting the Use of Disposable Tableware” on June 29. In compliance with the updated regulation, the use of cups, bowls, plates, dishes, takeout boxes, and other disposable utensils made from biodegradable plastic is banned for establishments under eight categories being monitored, including: public agencies; public and private schools; department stores and malls; big box retailers; supermarkets; convenient store chains; fast food chains, and beverage shops and restaurants with brick-and-mortar stores.
To familiarize businesses with the new policy ahead of time, DEP has conducted a campaign in July to inform merchants on details of the upcoming regulation. This is to make sure that businesses comprehend the new guidelines and comply with the measures.
The EPA began limiting the use of disposable utensils for venues under the eight categories in 2002. The latest revision targets PLA tableware, since the material cannot recycle the material due to the lack of related compost processing facility on the island. As it is hard to distinguish PLA products from plastic ones by looking, these utensils are often sent to the incinerator, which is not effective for reducing plastic-use.
Sorces：Taipei City Government
