TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of Environment (MOENV, 環境部) convened food delivery platforms and chain restaurants on Tuesday (Oct. 29) to discuss reducing packaging waste. Environment Minister Peng Chi-ming (彭啓明) highlighted the increase in waste and plastic bag use by delivery services, underscoring the importance of resource recycling and waste reduction.
Lai Ying-ying (賴瑩瑩), head of the Resource Circulation Administration (資源循環署), stated that the government will prioritize restaurants offering reusable containers in procurement and internal training. She acknowledged the inevitable rise in delivery costs, urged companies to provide circular container options, and asked delivery platforms to draft pilot plans in high-demand areas.
Lai noted that these plans have yet to be legalized, emphasizing the need for companies to approach this from a corporate social responsibility perspective. She mentioned that time is needed to discuss details such as app adjustments and return points. Lai stressed that Tuesday's meeting marked the first discussion, with further talks planned with platform operators.