In response to global issues such as climate change, food safety, and the circular economy, the Ministry of Environment has launched the new “Eco-Restaurant 2.0 (環保餐廳2.0)” policy in 2025. This policy introduces the “Green Food” concept, which embodies the spirit of sustainability and guides the food and beverage industry toward transformation and upgrading. Actively supporting this initiative, the Environmental Protection Bureau (EPB) of the Nantou County Government is drawing on local characteristics to create a new green dining culture that combines deliciousness with environmental responsibility.
The “Green Food” program not only continues the core values of eco-restaurants but also incorporates the Taiwanese pronunciation tsia̍h-pn̄g-toh (“dining table”), which conveys a sense of warmth and everyday familiarity. It sets out five mandatory principles of participation: not proactively providing single-use disposable tableware or plastic tablecloths, prioritizing the use of at least three types of locally produced ingredients, offering customized portion sizes and food-waste reduction services, promoting the concepts of net-zero and green living, and providing staff training. In addition, seven optional principles are available to encourage businesses to gradually transition and upgrade.
The Ministry of Environment has already sent emails to businesses that participated in the original eco-restaurant program, offering information and assistance on transitioning to the “Green Food” system. Businesses that wish to continue participating and confirm through self-assessment that they meet the standards may use the link and verification code provided in the email to complete the required forms and submit supporting documents for review. It is also noted that restaurants which have not previously joined the eco-restaurant program may register through the “Green Food” website, complete the required information online, and officially apply to join.
Starting in 2027, the Ministry of Environment will phase out the existing eco-restaurant program and replace it with “Green Food” as the new national standard, encouraging restaurants across the country to prepare for policy transition early and seize the business opportunities of sustainability. The Environmental Protection Bureau of the Nantou County Government will continue to guide local businesses in understanding the policy, implementing best practices, and working with consumers to achieve a lifestyle where “taste and sustainability coexist.”
Director-general Yi-shu Li of the Environmental Protection Bureau, Nantou County Government, emphasized that promoting green dining not only helps reduce carbon emissions but also raises local environmental literacy and awareness of green living. Looking ahead, the bureau will actively collaborate with communities, schools, and local businesses to expand the impact of Green Food, turning the idea of “eating locally and seasonally” into a daily sustainable action practiced by all, and shaping a new low-carbon food culture with Nantou’s unique characteristics.
Green Food Official Website: https://greenlifestyle.moenv.gov.tw/categories/resIntro
Green Food Registration Link: https://pse.is/7qtjjg
Contact Unit: Comprehensive Planning Division, Environmental Protection Bureau, Nantou County Government
Contact Person: Division Chief Ru-jie Lin; Tel: 049-2237530 ext. 1301
