Taiwan Airport, MOENV Partner on Recycling

Why this is here: The airport plans to create cultural and creative products—like soap boxes—from recycled materials to be sold to passengers.

Taiwan’s Resource Circulation Administration and Taoyuan International Airport Corporation signed an agreement to collaborate on plastic recycling efforts. Deputy Minister of Environment Shen Chih-hsiu noted Taiwan’s household recycling programs began in 1997 with paired garbage and recycling trucks. The airport, which handled roughly 47.8 million passengers last year, aims to showcase a “green lifestyle” for international travelers arriving in Taiwan.

The airport will eliminate single-use utensils at eateries and incorporate recycled materials into cultural products sold on-site or during flights. Taoyuan airport previously received carbon accreditation from Airports Council International. Administration Director-General Lai Ying-ying stated the agreement initiates a long-term partnership, involving the airport’s 200 companies and 38,000 personnel.

Lai indicated the immediate goal is to establish a system for reusing recycled resources, not necessarily a specific reduction target within one year. The ministry will support the airport by connecting it with recycling businesses and offering technical assistance. The collaboration continues with further development needed.