The Ministry of Environment (MOENV) began implementing the “reduction at the source” management policy in 2002 to progressively restrict the use of single-use products, such as plastic shopping bags and disposable tableware, and thereby reduce the production of single-use products by manufacturers in order to prevent plastic products from causing environmental hazards. The MOENV also encourages manufacturers and citizens to develop the habit of using reusable tableware.

    In accordance with the Parties Subject to and Means for Disposable Tableware Use Restrictions amended and promulgated on 1 August 2023, the eight parties subject to the ban include government departments, government and private schools, department stores and shopping centers, hypermarkets, supermarkets, convenience store chains, fast food store chains, and eating and drinking establishments with storefronts. When supplying cooked, ready-for-use foods, beverages, or seasonings to consumers, these parties cannot contain them in plastic (including biodegradable) cups, bowls, plates, meal boxes, and trays inside meal boxes. Eating and drinking establishments with storefronts refer to enterprises that provide catering services, conduct business operations within buildings or extending from buildings to arcades, sidewalks, or other public areas, and which provide seats for customers to consume food on-site after ordering. They include restaurants and beverage stores. However, this provision shall not apply to catering stores (vendors) in public or private markets or night markets.

The following plastic products are not included in the scope of restriction:

(1) Lids, cup stands, and sealing film on paper cups.

(2) Bowl lids.

(3) Food packaged in sealing film and placed on racks as products for display and purchase.

    According to the Nantou County Environmental Protection Bureau, it will enhance inspection of these eight parties in Nantou County in the immediate future to support the policy of the MOENV. It thus urges these eight parties in the county not to use plastic disposable tableware and follow the Parties Subject to and Means for Disposable Tableware Use Restrictions. These restrictions are authorized in accordance with Article 21 of the Waste Disposal Act. Violation of these restrictions will be fined from NT$1,200 to NT$6,000 in accordance with Article 51, paragraph 3, of the Waste Disposal Act. Those failing to make corrections by the given deadline will be fined consecutively daily.