TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of Environment (MOENV, 環境部) announced on Thursday (Jan. 23) that efforts to minimize plastic waste in tourism, received overwhelming public support, with nearly 90% of survey respondents backing the policy of the hospitality industry reducing single-use items.
Starting in 2025, regulations require hotels nationwide to limit single-use items, such as combs, toothbrushes, toothpaste, razors, shaving cream, and shower caps. Instead, the ministry encourages guests to bring their own supplies. The policy also mandates that products like shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, and lotion must be offered in containers of more than 180 milliliters, with officials expecting to cut 460 million disposable items annually.
A survey revealed that 74% of respondents support the regulations, while 13.6% remain opposed. The ministry plans to continue promoting the initiative. If guests forget their toiletries, 56.9% expressed willingness to purchase them from hotels, with 80% preferring to buy individual items. The ministry advises hotels to cater to these preferences.
Some hotels plan to offer discounts to encourage compliance and increase participation. By fostering this shift toward sustainability, the Ministry of Environment aims to make green tourism more enduring and impactful. As the regulations take effect, the hospitality industry will play a crucial role in transitioning toward a more sustainable future.
