[ { "no": "3793", "title": "Industrial Waste Reuse Management Regulations Tightened", "preview": "Waste\nIndustrial Waste Reuse Management Regulations Tightened \nTo improve regulations for the reuse of industrial waste and to implement resources cycling policy, the EPA revised the Industrial Waste Reuse Management Regulations (). Key areas for tightening regulations for the benefit of practical operations were permission reviews and operations management.", "content": "Industrial Waste Reuse Management Regulations Tightened \nTo improve regulations for the reuse of industrial waste and to implement resources cycling policy, the EPA revised the Industrial Waste Reuse Management Regulations (). Key areas for tightening regulations for the benefit of practical operations were permission reviews and operations management. \n\nThe revisions are in compliance with revisions made to the Waste Disposal Act Article 39, Paragraph 2 on 18 Jan 2017 and also the Regulations Concerning Common Industrial Waste Management, announced on 8 Jan 2018. Key revisions include:\n1. Permission review and operations management concerning reuse are tightened. Procedures and standards for permission approval are specified in order to protect the rights and interests of citizens.\n2. To improve the management of permissions, competent authorities can request a general case permission be converted to an individual case permission application. In addition, the revision adds key criteria for rejecting and returning permission applications, as well as requires product purposes and warnings on labels in accordance with regulations.\n3. If the reuse does not adhere to regulations, or a reused product is not in accordance with product standards, competent authorities can stop a reuse organization from accepting and reusing wastes, or selling reuse products. Enterprises that commit serious offenses will forfeit their reuse permissions, in addition to being subject to fines and a limited time period for correction, as stipulated by the Waste Disposal Act. \n4. Besides declaring the flow of reuse products online, when necessary competent authorities can request that a reuse organization track a product to its ultimate end user in order to better understand its flow.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Industrial Waste Reuse Management Regulations Tightened", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-7" }, { "no": "3792", "title": "EPA Presents R&D Results for Recycling Technology", "preview": "Recycling\nEPA Presents R&D Results for Recycling Technology\nEPA held the Symposium on Innovation, Research and Development in Recyclable Technologies on 24 June 2019. The themes of this years symposium were Environmental Design and Renewable Resources, and participants presented numerous breakthroughs from the past three years (2016-2018).", "content": "EPA Presents R&D Results for Recycling Technology\nEPA held the Symposium on Innovation, Research and Development in Recyclable Technologies on 24 June 2019. The themes of this years symposium were Environmental Design and Renewable Resources, and participants presented numerous breakthroughs from the past three years (2016-2018).\n\nThe EPA stated that its research plans over the past three years produced 29 academic papers and applications for nine special projects. With this year’s symposium, the EPA sought to bring industry and academia together and facilitate cooperation between the two, providing an opportunity to open the market to developed products. The ultimate aim is to have both industry and academia make strides toward a resources cycling society. This year’s symposium presented innovative research and development projects, including rudimentary research and development, producing high-value reused materials, and the commodification of technological products. Smart innovations are expected to provide breakthroughs in terms of existing recycling and disposal techniques used and promote diverse and innovative techniques for reusing waste resources.\n \nTransforming old ideas of economic development to promote a circular economy is a key strategy of the government, and to this end, Taiwan is implementing the 4-in-1 Recycling Program which emphasizes Extended Producer Responsibility. The program sets up a legal framework for recycling and provides economic incentives for forming a circular use of resources. Aside from waste reduction and proper recycling and treatment of waste, the program aims to improve reuse technology and increase the value of reused materials and products, allowing for resources to remain within Taiwan for future reuse. \n\nThis year’s symposium featured a number of presentations demonstrating the success of research on reuse techniques. Through research and development of manufacturing methods, it is possible to obtain highly-pure rare elements, which are increasingly seen as valuable. These elements come from dry batteries, home appliances, catalytic converters from vehicles, fluorescent powder from spent lights, and LCD displays. Through adjustments to manufacturing processes and procedural improvements, manufacturers can produce high-value reusable materials and products, such as porous absorption materials, environmental catalysts, and reusable bricks. \n\nIt is also possible to use recycled LCD displays to create smart energy-saving windows. Evaluations were done on using heat treatment of plastic labels and aluminum foil for energy. Environmentally-friendly reagents can be used in the tin-stripping process for home appliances, computers, and the motherboards of cell phones. There also have been developments in recycling metals from lithium batteries. Research was also done on reuse technology for waste tires, assessments of applications and material characteristics of rubber-asphalt pavement aggregate. All of these techniques and developments have shown promise. In the future these projects will assist industries to produce products in a circular way and reduce the acquisition and usage of raw materials. They will provide a diverse range of sources to promote a sustainable and closed-loop use of resources.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "EPA Presents R&D Results for Recycling Technology", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-7" }, { "no": "3791", "title": "Emission Reduction Standards for Class 3 Control Zones Preannounced", "preview": "Air\nEmission Reduction Standards for Class 3 Control Zones Preannounced\nThe Emission Reduction Standards for Existing Sources in Class 3 Air Pollution Control Zones were preannounced on 19 June 2019. The reduction standards were formulated to provide set standards for existing stationary sources of air pollution at both public and private premises within Class 3 air pollution control zones and local environmental bureaus. The reduction standards are to be followed when stationary sources implement mandatory pollution emission reduction and when local environmental bureaus implement air pollution control plans.", "content": "Emission Reduction Standards for Class 3 Control Zones Preannounced\nThe Emission Reduction Standards for Existing Sources in Class 3 Air Pollution Control Zones were preannounced on 19 June 2019. The reduction standards were formulated to provide set standards for existing stationary sources of air pollution at both public and private premises within Class 3 air pollution control zones and local environmental bureaus. The reduction standards are to be followed when stationary sources implement mandatory pollution emission reduction and when local environmental bureaus implement air pollution control plans. \n\nAir quality in Taiwan is significantly affected by topographic traits and seasonal weather patterns. Since PM2.5 is the primary pollutant type that often does not satisfy air quality standards in Taiwan, in order to accelerate air quality improvement in Class 3 air pollution control zones, experts and scholars recommend implementing control measures based on prioritized air pollutants. The prioritized order is: primary particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and sulfur oxides (SOx). \n\nThe main source of primary PM comes from fugitive emissions, such as dust from barren land, stacking operations and construction sites. To carry out PM control, the EPA has formulated the Management Regulations for Facilities to Control Fugitive Dust Air Pollution from Stationary Pollution Sources and the Management Regulations for Construction Project Air Pollution Control Facilities. In addition, fuel composition standards have been devised to implement SOx source controls. As for NOx emissions that primarily come from combustion, the EPA has formulated the Boiler Air Pollutant Emission Standards which will take effect on 1 July 2020. Moreover, the reduction standards mainly target specific industries with a large amount of NOx emissions (average annual emissions exceeding 40 metric tons) and other places for reduction, such as the power industry, the cement industry, the steel industry, and waste incinerators. The above mentioned industries are required to take NOx reduction measures to meet the emission standards within five years. In the meantime, the EPA will continue to strengthen air pollution control by reviewing emission standards for different industries. \n\nAny public and private premises in Class 3 air pollution control zones that meet the following conditions shall conduct NOx reduction in accordance with the reduction standards:\n1. Any public and private premises whose equipment or industry type fits the explanations listed in the table below.\n2. The existing stationary pollution sources in the premises are permitted to exceed an annual NOx emission of 40 metric tons based on their operation permissions.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Emission Reduction Standards for Class 3 Control Zones Preannounced", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-7" }, { "no": "3790", "title": "New Certification Program Launched for Exhaust Systems and Sound camera Technology", "preview": "Noise Control\nNew Certification Program Launched for Exhaust Systems and Sound camera Technology \nStarting from 1 July 2019, the EPA has been working with local environmental authorities, police, and motor vehicle agencies to strengthen controls on noise pollution caused by illegally modified vehicles. In addition, the EPA has introduced a new certification program for exhaust systems and sound camera technology to crack down on noisy modified vehicles.", "content": "New Certification Program Launched for Exhaust Systems and Sound camera Technology \nStarting from 1 July 2019, the EPA has been working with local environmental authorities, police, and motor vehicle agencies to strengthen controls on noise pollution caused by illegally modified vehicles. In addition, the EPA has introduced a new certification program for exhaust systems and sound camera technology to crack down on noisy modified vehicles. \n \nThere have been several recent media reports on the roaring sound of modified vehicles ruining the peace and quiet in neighborhoods. The causes of the loud noise are usually from illegally modified exhaust systems or the removal of mufflers. Therefore, the EPA reminds vehicle owners that any modifications to exhaust systems must not only be in compliance with traffic safety rules but also regulations regarding noise pollution and pollutant emissions. Furthermore, the EPA has implemented a new certification program for modified exhaust systems and has been assisting vehicle manufacturers and importers with the registration of the certification. In the future, vehicles with unregistered or uncertified exhaust systems will be barred from roads. \n\nThe EPA has been working in conjunction with local environmental authorities, police, and motor vehicle agencies to conduct inspections of noisy vehicles and protect citizens from nuisance noise. The inspections are done by first setting up sound cameras equipped with noise detection and license plate recognition systems at locations and times with frequent noise complaints. When a vehicle is determined as noisy by the camera, it will be further inspected for any violations. \n\nThe EPA urges vehicle owners not to make any modifications to the exhaust systems that would result in noise pollution. The EPA will continue cooperating with local environmental authorities, police, and motor vehicle agencies to conduct inspections with sound cameras, and offenders will be punished in accordance with the law.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Noise Control", "titlename": "New Certification Program Launched for Exhaust Systems and Sound camera Technology", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-7" }, { "no": "3789", "title": "Vehicle Emission Standards Amended", "preview": "Air\nVehicle Emission Standards Amended\nOn 12 June 2019, the Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards were revised and renamed the Mobile Pollution Source Air Pollutant Emissions Standards. In accordance with Article 5 of the emissions standards, the Phase 6 diesel vehicle emission standards will take effect on 1 September 2019. The Phase 6 standards require the installation of pollution control equipment on heavy-duty diesel trucks, which increases the price of the trucks compared to the Phase 5 ones and may affect the publics’ interest in switching over. The EPA has thus extended the production, manufacture and import of Phase 5 heavy-duty diesel vehicles for two years to facilitate the replacement of old vehicles.", "content": "Vehicle Emission Standards Amended\nOn 12 June 2019, the Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards were revised and renamed the Mobile Pollution Source Air Pollutant Emissions Standards. In accordance with Article 5 of the emissions standards, the Phase 6 diesel vehicle emission standards will take effect on 1 September 2019. The Phase 6 standards require the installation of pollution control equipment on heavy-duty diesel trucks, which increases the price of the trucks compared to the Phase 5 ones and may affect the publics’ interest in switching over. The EPA has thus extended the production, manufacture and import of Phase 5 heavy-duty diesel vehicles for two years to facilitate the replacement of old vehicles. \n\nThe emissions standards were revised mainly to adjust Article 5 Part 9, so that it would allow all heavy-duty diesel vehicles with a certificate of conformity that was issued before 31 August 2019 to continue to be produced, manufactured or imported until 31 August 2021.\n\nAccording to the amendments to the emissions standards made on 27 December 2016, the Phase 6 diesel vehicle emission standards shall enter into force on 1 September 2019. The Phase 6 standards were formulated based on the EU 6 standards, among which the regulations for heavy-duty trucks and buses have already been in effect since 1 January 2014. Compared to the Phase 5 standards, Phase 6 standards for heavy-duty trucks and buses have stricter restrictions on air pollutants (NOx emissions tightened by 80% and PM emissions tightened by 50%). Additionally, the Phase 6 standards also offer an extended emission durability warranty and include emission limits for NH3 and solid particle number (PN).\n\nHowever, due to the stricter emission control policies, vehicles will need to install pollution control devices with higher performance and efficiency. Therefore, to reduce the impacts from the increase of cost in pollution control devices, the EPA has amended the emissions standards to include a grace period. According to Article 5 Part 9 of the revised emissions standards, all heavy-duty diesel vehicles with a certificate of conformity issued before 31 August 2019 may continue to be produced (date of production for domestic vehicles) or imported (shipped on board date for imported vehicles) until 31 August 2021.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Vehicle Emission Standards Amended", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-7" }, { "no": "3788", "title": "Co-firing Ratio and Composition Standards for Fuels Used by Stationary Pollution Sources Preannounced", "preview": "Air\nCo-firing Ratio and Composition Standards for Fuels Used by Stationary Pollution Sources Preannounced\nTo strengthen air pollution control at its source, the EPA preannounced the Co-firing Ratio and Composition Standards for Fuels Used by Stationary Pollution Sources on 26 June 2019. The standards stipulate the compositions of bituminous coal, fuel oil and solid biofuel used in public and private premises, and also the co-firing ratio limits for waste-derived fuels as an auxiliary fuel. Also, the standards will be implemented in combination with use permissions for fuels.", "content": "Co-firing Ratio and Composition Standards for Fuels Used by Stationary Pollution Sources Preannounced\nTo strengthen air pollution control at its source, the EPA preannounced the Co-firing Ratio and Composition Standards for Fuels Used by Stationary Pollution Sources on 26 June 2019. The standards stipulate the compositions of bituminous coal, fuel oil and solid biofuel used in public and private premises, and also the co-firing ratio limits for waste-derived fuels as an auxiliary fuel. Also, the standards will be implemented in combination with use permissions for fuels. \n\nThe standards were formulated based on the new revisions to the Air Pollution Control Act announced on 1 August 2018. The purpose of the standards is to regulate the fuels and auxiliary fuels used by stationary sources in public and private premises, including bituminous coal and other announced substances. \n\nAlthough petroleum coke is no longer used as a fuel in Taiwan, it is still included in the standards to ensure stricter control. In addition to the standards, to separate the controls on fuels used by stationary sources and other substances prone to cause air pollution, the EPA has preannounced the revised Management Regulations on Sales and Use Permissions for Bituminous Coal, Petroleum Coke and Other Air Pollution-Causing Substances.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Co-firing Ratio and Composition Standards for Fuels Used by Stationary Pollution Sources Preannounced", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-7" }, { "no": "3787", "title": "Simultaneous Inspection Launched Nationwide Following Start of Ban on Single-use plastic straws", "preview": "Waste\nSimultaneous Inspection Launched Nationwide Following Start of Ban on Single-use plastic straws\nAfter a ban on single-use plastic straws took effect on 1 July 2019, audits of the item were conducted in every county and city in Taiwan, which took place simultaneously at 1,138 sites on the first day. Two enterprises were found not compliant with the ban and subsequently received warnings. Nationwide implementation of the ban has generally gone well overall.", "content": "Simultaneous Inspection Launched Nationwide Following Start of Ban on Single-use plastic straws\nAfter a ban on single-use plastic straws took effect on 1 July 2019, audits of the item were conducted in every county and city in Taiwan, which took place simultaneously at 1,138 sites on the first day. Two enterprises were found not compliant with the ban and subsequently received warnings. Nationwide implementation of the ban has generally gone well overall.\n\nThe Targets and Implementation Methods of the Single-use plastic straw Ban, announced by the EPA on 8 May 2019, requires roughly 8,000 enterprises in four categories, namely, the public sector; schools; department stores and shopping malls; and fast-food chain restaurants to stop providing single-use plastic straws for onsite dining. Before 30 June 2020, violators will receive warnings for breaking the ban for the first time, with fines ranging from NT$1,200 to NT$6,000 for breaking it a second time while showing no improvement. Before the ban officially took effect, the EPA formulated regulations concerning audits and compiled lists of enterprises in the four categories as references for local governments to conduct audits and awareness campaigns.\n\nThe EPA stated that as reducing marine waste is a pressing issue globally, it hoped more and more people would voluntarily answer the call to reduce waste at-source in the face of increasingly severe environmental and ecological challenges. The main goal of the ban on single-use plastic straws that begun on 1 July 2019 is to implement phased controls and for the public to become less reliant on such straws. Citizens and enterprises can learn to adapt to such a measure starting with the first targets subject to the ban, which are onsite, indoor dining environments where use of single-use plastic straws is not necessary.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Simultaneous Inspection Launched Nationwide Following Start of Ban on Single-use plastic straws", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-7" }, { "no": "3786", "title": "Control of Dengue Fever Takes No Break at Schools and in Communities", "preview": "Environmental Management\nControl of Dengue Fever Takes No Break at Schools and in Communities\nBased on the data of the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control, there had been 35 indigenous cases (31 in Kaohsiung City and four in Tainan City) and 188 imported cases of dengue fever in 2019 as of 4 July. Moreover, now is the peak season of mosquito-transmitted diseases, with recent downpours significantly raising the risk of the outbreak of dengue fever. The EPA particularly urges the public to immediately clean up containers holding stagnant water.", "content": "Control of Dengue Fever Takes No Break at Schools and in Communities\nBased on the data of the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control, there had been 35 indigenous cases (31 in Kaohsiung City and four in Tainan City) and 188 imported cases of dengue fever in 2019 as of 4 July. Moreover, now is the peak season of mosquito-transmitted diseases, with recent downpours significantly raising the risk of the outbreak of dengue fever. The EPA particularly urges the public to immediately clean up containers holding stagnant water.\n\nThe EPA noted that this year the Bureau of Environmental Inspection, as well as regional environmental protection bureaus were deployed earlier than usual for dengue fever control in northern, central, and southern Taiwan. Efforts have been intensified to inspect breeding grounds such as residential vegetable gardens, recycling facilities, vacant buildings, outdoor dumping sites for tires, construction sites, dirty spots, and so on. Schools have also been listed as an inspection target after summer break started in July.\n\nDuring disease control meetings, the EPA repeatedly reminded regional environmental protection bureaus to ask education bureaus to increase the frequency of checking building roofs to clean up stagnant water, and also perform general clean-ups of schools. All schools have been urged to diligently continue performing this task during summer vacation, so that schools would not become breeding grounds for mosquitoes during the summer break. In 2019, as of the end of June, the EPA and regional environmental protection authorities received 35 reports of school sites becoming outdoor mosquito breeding grounds. Among them, nine were universities, while 26 were facilities of the elementary and high schools. These reports will be followed up with tightened inspections so as to lower the risk of mosquito-borne diseases spreading.\n\nIn response to the outbreak of dengue fever, since June 2019, the EPA has held six training seminars on the clean-up of mosquito breeding grounds for disease control staff in environmental protection bureaus and the central government. There have also been seven educational and promotional events on clean-ups at school sites and in communities, with a total of 1,220 participants. Frontline disease prevention staff learned about the ecology of disease-spreading mosquitoes, breeding ground clean-up and how to identify mosquito larvae and adults. Lecturers then took trainees to conduct outdoor breeding source inspections, taught about the different types of breeding grounds, and demonstrated various treatment methods. Finally, trainees were accompanied as they conducted activities with members of the public to raise awareness of disease control.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Management", "titlename": "Control of Dengue Fever Takes No Break at Schools and in Communities", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-7" }, { "no": "3785", "title": "Strengthening Industrial Waste Management", "preview": "waste\n1. Strengthening Industrial Waste Management\nFrom industrial waste reduction in its early days to the recent reduction at source, the direction of industrial waste management in Taiwan has gradually incorporated new concepts such as sustainable materials management and from-cradle-to-cradle. Through combining reuse and management of industrial wastes, the EPA will keep pushing for resource cycling and zero waste as Taiwan’s long-term goals.", "content": "1. Strengthening Industrial Waste Management\nFrom industrial waste reduction in its early days to the recent reduction at source, the direction of industrial waste management in Taiwan has gradually incorporated new concepts such as sustainable materials management and from-cradle-to-cradle. Through combining reuse and management of industrial wastes, the EPA will keep pushing for resource cycling and zero waste as Taiwan’s long-term goals.\n\n\nHow it began\n19741987\nWaste management in Taiwan started with the promulgation of the Waste Disposal Act () in 1974. When established in 1987, the EPA began to keep track of industrial waste production and set up a permit system concerning clearance and disposal organizations. As different industries were gradually placed under control, industrial waste treatment became a focal point for the EPA. \n \n\nBeginning in 1990, the core policy has been to cut industrial waste generation by pushing for clean production technology, specifying recycling and reuse guidelines, opening up diverse reuse channels, and improving proper treatment technology. In recent years, the approach has shifted to reduction at source. Concepts like SMM and C2C have been introduced into Taiwan one after another.\n\n\nStrengthening industrial waste management can be examined in two aspects: Strengthening management of the waste disposal system and tracking industrial waste flows.\n\n\nStrengthening management of the waste disposal system\n\n\n(1) Strengthening management of clearance and disposal organizations\n\nTo effectively manage the operation of clearance and disposal organizations, the EPA forms inspection plans every year for waste clearance and disposal equipment and organizations currently in operation. Regional competent authorities are also encouraged to conduct regular onsite inspection to properly ascertain actual practices and operations at disposal organizations. Inspection mainly focuses on online registration and operation documentation, storage methods and facilities, treatment and operation maintenance, clearance of waste generated after treatment, product flows, and so on. Moreover, the EPA continues to assist enterprises in their applications for setting up waste disposal organizations. From 2016 to 2018, a total of 23 enterprises obtained clearance and disposal permission to improve their own waste disposal channels.\n\nOn 22 December 2018, the EPA announced revisions of the Regulations Concerning Permissions for Citizens Waste Clearance and disposal to improve the management system for waste clearance and disposal. One of the revision details is that disposal organizations are mandated to present their own standards for taking in waste, conduct tests on waste and products, and keep records on business, management, and operations. The aim is to keep track of products reutilized from treated waste so that waste can be properly cleared and disposed of. Clearance and disposal prices are required to be disclosed to the public in order to establish a pricing and market mechanism for waste clearance and disposal. Meanwhile, the EPA is requiring clearance and disposal organizations to join relevant associations based on the Commercial Group Act to enhance coordination among associated enterprises and tighten links among competent authorities.\n\n (2) Management of industrial waste categorized as industrial-raw materials\nWaste paper and plastic have been announced as 70% of industrial feedstocks are imported due to inadequate natural resources domestically, suddenly stopping imports of industrial-raw materials would seriously impact industries that are unable to source needed materials in Taiwan. Therefore, the EPA has been focusing on management and planning to improve material quality, setting up importer data, and adding controls on registrations.\n\nOpinions have been collected from all stakeholders and sectors in order to understand concerns around the environmental impacts brought by imported industry-use materials. The EPA also considered the implications of Chinas no-waste policy, as part of its effort to tighten controls of imported materials and protect the recycling system in Taiwan as quickly as possible. \n\nOn 4 October 2018, the EPA announced the 13 Industrial Wastes Categorized As Industrial-raw Materials (). The content included adjusted criteria for the importation of waste plastic and waste paper, specified import limits, and relevant quality controls.\n\n\n(3) Enhancing at-source reduction of industrial waste and self-management\nSince 2018, civil society groups in Taiwan have been gradually and voluntarily promoting the Green Deal, based on referencing concepts of the Netherlands Green Deal. The Alliance of a Circular Economy of Marine Waste Plastic, the Green E-Resource Alliance, and the Alliance of Circular Resources for Taiwan’s Construction Industry have been set up. The purpose of these alliances target at the recycle and reuse of waste plastic, e-waste, wastes generated from construction and demolition, incinerator bottom ash, and slag. Various groups voluntarily promoted the signing of the Green Deal and now strive to create win-wins for the economy and environmental protection via cooperation with the public sector. The semiconductor industry has been assisted to recycle and reuse waste solutions and solvents, with work done at source management and sorting of solvents. Moreover, the industry has begun pushing for testing wastewater treatment plants located in industrial zones, and exploring the feasibility of using low-concentration waste isopropanol, which is only generated in the semiconductor industry, as a carbon source.\n\nRegarding collection, clearance, disposal, and reuse of agricultural waste, the EPA has planned to establish a recycling, treatment, and reuse mechanism for waste orchard branches and other residual materials from agricultural production. Pingtung County’s experiences in crushing, centralized storage and clearance and reuse of waste orchard branches, all commissioned, are greatly relied upon for reference. The practices have been promoted to municipalities, counties, cities, and townships that produce large amounts of waste orchard branches. The EPA also designated Pingtung County as a demonstration point and assisted the agricultural industry to voluntarily establish a circular system for recycling and reuse of residual materials. \n\nTracking the flow of industrial waste\nTo better track the flow of industrial waste, the EPA announced the revised Regulations Concerning Clearance and Transport Machinery Required to Be Equipped With Real-Time Tracking Systems () on 17 August 2018. The list of clearance and transport vehicles required to install a real-time tracking systems is now expanded to include those clear and transport wastes like sludge, construction waste, and waste plastic. In addition, the EPA further required all clearance and transport vehicles with operation permissions to be equipped with such a system. The measure is expected to put all machinery and vehicles under control in four stages from 2019 to 2022. Additionally, the EPA will utilize new technology by including collision sensors and signals for power failures in vehicles and machinery specifications to increase stability and accuracy of vehicle track signals.\n\nIn the future, the EPA will continue to improve management of industrial waste reuse as it gradually works toward reaching Taiwan’s goals of resources cycling and zero waste.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Strengthening Industrial Waste Management", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-7" }, { "no": "3784", "title": "Foundation Set for a Low-carbon Homeland, Communities Take Action", "preview": "Environmental Management\nFoundation Set for a Low-carbon Homeland, Communities Take Action \nTo raise awareness of climate change and improve our homeland’s environmental durability, the EPA began promoting the Low-carbon and Sustainable Homeland since 2009. As of this year, 3,887 neighborhoods are participating. Of these, 783 have actively implemented green energy, recycling, restoration of green environments, low-carbon lifestyles, green transportation and shipping, as well as sustainable business practices. Communities have used these six ways to take action against climate change and received either a bronze or silver certification from the EPA.", "content": "Foundation Set for a Low-carbon Homeland, Communities Take Action \nTo raise awareness of climate change and improve our homeland’s environmental durability, the EPA began promoting the Low-carbon and Sustainable Homeland since 2009. As of this year, 3,887 neighborhoods are participating. Of these, 783 have actively implemented green energy, recycling, restoration of green environments, low-carbon lifestyles, green transportation and shipping, as well as sustainable business practices. Communities have used these six ways to take action against climate change and received either a bronze or silver certification from the EPA. \n \nThe EPA noted that communities autonomously implement initiatives to respond to climate change and then apply for in the Low-carbon and Sustainable Homeland certification. Communities that have successfully executed 5-7 items of the initiative or made adjustments to their practices may receive a bronze certificate. Communities that have implemented 13 or more items from the initiative as well as showed excellent performance in four out of the six dimensions can qualify for the silver certificate. Since the formal start of the project in 2015, the number of communities applying for certification has steadily increased. In 2018, 15 silver and 95 bronze certificates have been awarded. \nLocal governments have also actively participated. In 2017, a number of places were awarded the silver certificate: Taipei, New Taipei, Taoyuan City, Tainan, Hsinchu County, Yilan County, and Chiayi City. Kaohsiung and Kinmen County were added to the list in 2018. Based on 2018’s numbers, 3,887 villages, 337 towns (town, cities, districts), and 22 municipalities or counties participated in the initiative. The participation rate is 50%, 92% and 100%, respectively. Forty-seven villages received silver certificates and 736 earned a bronze certificate. Ten urban areas received silver certificates, while 108 earned bronze. Among municipalities and counties, nine received silver certificates and 11 earned bronze. Among the 738 villages to earn a silver rank, 95% adopted measures to lower indoor temperatures (such as promoting green roofs, plant walls or hedges, and permeable pavement). According to the Bureau of Energy’s statistics, to lower the temperature of a room by one degree, an air conditioner uses 6% more electricity. However, when area temperature reduction measures are taken, indoor temperatures can be reduced by 3-5 degrees, simultaneously lowering electricity use by 10-25%. Thus, these measures not only reduce carbon emissions but also improve communities’ abilities to adjust to high temperatures. \nIn addition, 88% of villages adopted recycling measures and 83% made use of green energy. These communities have also been able to implement diverse initiatives to reduce carbon and implement adjustment measures based on their local conditions.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Management", "titlename": "Foundation Set for a Low-carbon Homeland, Communities Take Action", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-6" }, { "no": "3783", "title": "Announcing Results of Environmental Agents Inspections, “Agents” from Unlicensed Online Auctions Prohibited", "preview": "General Policy\nAnnouncing Results of Environmental Agents Inspections, “Agents” from Unlicensed Online Auctions Prohibited\nIn order to guarantee that consumers select legal, safe and effective environmental agents, the EPA drafts the Environmental Agents Assessment Plan (環境用藥查核計畫) each year. In 2018, the EPA investigated the ads, packaging and active ingredients of environmental agents: 40,166 were examined with an approval rate of 99%.", "content": "Announcing Results of Environmental Agents Inspections, “Agents” from Unlicensed Online Auctions Prohibited\nIn order to guarantee that consumers select legal, safe and effective environmental agents, the EPA drafts the Environmental Agents Assessment Plan (環境用藥查核計畫) each year. In 2018, the EPA investigated the ads, packaging and active ingredients of environmental agents: 40,166 were examined with an approval rate of 99%.\nThe results of this year’s investigations included 11,224 advertisements, with 139 online advertisements determined to be illegal. The fines for which totaled NT$4,070,000. Illegal advertisements were largely comprised of individuals on e-commerce sites advertising sales of mosquito repellant patches imported from Japan. For packaging, 28,719 cases were reviewed, with 283 failing inspection. One hundred and ninety-two sample tests were conducted on the active ingredients of environmental agents, with four cases failing inspection. The investigation determined that there were 31 cases involving the forging of permits for environmental agents. Eight of said cases were determined to have persistent organic pollutants (pesticides) that were included in the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants. Cases that did not pass inspection were given penalties and taken off shelves for a fixed time in accordance to the Environmental Agents Control Act. \nOnline shopping and auctions are convenient, and many people not only purchase but also sell goods (such as mosquito repellant patches and sprays) on e-commerce platforms. Nevertheless, the EPA reminds everyone that advertisements for environmental agents must first have proper permission before being published. Violators will be fined a minimum of NT$60,000 and maximum of NT$300,000. Regarding these advertisements, the EPA asks people to follow the “3 Don’ts”: Do not publish advertisements without proper permits. Do not buy without consideration. Consumers should not purchase products when the source of the environmental agent is unclear or the product lacks labelling stating approval from the EPA with a registration number for “environmental protection product,” “environmental protection import,” or “environmental protection mosquito repellant.” Finally, the EPA does not recommend products from online advertising that claim to have environmentally friendly environmental agents that kill insects or act as pest control. \nThe EPA created a query system for looking up permits for environmental agents and vector controls (https:\/\/mdc.epa.gov.tw\/PUblicInfo ). Users simply input the product’s name or permit number and can ascertain whether the product has been approved as well as find its source. Users can also find information about legal sellers for vector control products and environmental agents. People interested in learning more about safe environmental agents or seeing what environmental agent products do not comply with EPA guidelines can visit https:\/\/evsu.epa.gov.tw\/EVagents\/ EVSecruity\/Index.aspx.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Announcing Results of Environmental Agents Inspections, “Agents” from Unlicensed Online Auctions Prohibited", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-6" }, { "no": "3782", "title": "Soil and Groundwater Research and Technology Procurement Conference", "preview": "Soil & Groundwater\nSoil and Groundwater Research and Technology Procurement Conference \nOn 4 June, the EPA held the Cultivating Technologies for a New Era—Soil and Groundwater Research and Technology Procurement Conference 2019. The conference exhibited technology developments in the areas of soil and groundwater. It also facilitated dialogue and exchange between private industries, the government, and academia for the purpose of improving field applications for technology and accelerating efforts to remediate polluted soil and groundwater sites.", "content": "Soil and Groundwater Research and Technology Procurement Conference \nOn 4 June, the EPA held the Cultivating Technologies for a New Era—Soil and Groundwater Research and Technology Procurement Conference 2019. The conference exhibited technology developments in the areas of soil and groundwater. It also facilitated dialogue and exchange between private industries, the government, and academia for the purpose of improving field applications for technology and accelerating efforts to remediate polluted soil and groundwater sites.\nThe EPA stated that quickly recovering polluted sites has become its key mission. As such, optimizing and innovating the development of soil and groundwater technology is now one of its most critical tasks. The EPA annually budgets NT$30 million to encourage public and private universities in Taiwan to invest in research and development related to soil and groundwater. As of this year, there have been 129 international publications, 20 patents, and five technology transfers. The EPA has also successfully matched 43 pieces of technology to be applied at test sites. These developments have cultivated talented experts in soil and groundwater.\nThe EPA held this research and technology procurement conference to particularly focus on presenting technology developments and cross-field applications. As such, Taiwan’s experts and scholars in soil and groundwater were invited to share their research results and demonstrate the potential applications for certain technologies. In addition, the conference provided a channel for exchanging technology. The conference brought together industries applying local technology related to soil and groundwater to effectively improve Taiwan’s polluted sites. Participants could also take advantage of the conference to forge ties with industries, the government and academia, creating more market opportunities.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil & Groundwater", "titlename": "Soil and Groundwater Research and Technology Procurement Conference", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-6" }, { "no": "3781", "title": "Amendments to Classes of Air Pollution Control Zones Preannounced", "preview": "Air\nAmendments to Classes of Air Pollution Control Zones Preannounced \nAccording to the Air Pollution Control Act, air quality standards shall be reviewed at least once every four years. Since the EPA is revising the air quality standards, the classes of air pollution control zones for special municipalities, counties, and cities will also be reevaluated to make adjustment based on realistic needs.", "content": "Amendments to Classes of Air Pollution Control Zones Preannounced \nAccording to the Air Pollution Control Act, air quality standards shall be reviewed at least once every four years. Since the EPA is revising the air quality standards, the classes of air pollution control zones for special municipalities, counties, and cities will also be reevaluated to make adjustment based on realistic needs.\nThe Air Pollution Control Act divides the air quality control zones into the following three classes: \n1. Class 1 control zones refer to national parks and nature conservation areas as delineated by law. \n2. Class 2 control zones refer to areas whose air quality meets air quality standards, with the exception of Class 1. \n3. Class 3 control zones refer to areas whose air quality does not meet air quality standards, with the exception of Class 1. \nAfter reviewing the current classification of the control zones, changes have been made based on the draft amendments to the air quality standards as follows: Changhua County has been reclassified as Class 3 PM10 control zone from Class 2, Yilan and Hualien County as Class 2 PM2.5 control zones from Class 3, and Kaohsiung City and Pingtung County as Class 2 O3 control zones from Class 3. \nI n a c c o r d a n c e w i t h t h e n e w c o n t r o l z o n e classifications, Yilan, Hualien and Taitung counties are now considered Class 2 PM2.5 control zones while the rest of the cities\/counties remain as Class 3. Therefore, the EPA will continuously strengthen the reduction of PM2.5 and precursor emissions to achieve phased reduction goals. \nAffected by the amended air quality standards that will tighten the daily average PM10 limit value from 100 μg\/m3 to 50 μg\/m3, the following cities\/counties will still remain as Class 3 PM10 control zones: Changhua, Yunlin, Chiayi, Pingtung and Kinmen counties, and Chiayi, Tainan and Kaohsiung cities. In the future, the EPA will focus on the emission control of fugitive dust from paved roads and construction sites and open-air burning to better improve air quality and safeguard public health.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Amendments to Classes of Air Pollution Control Zones Preannounced", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-6" }, { "no": "3780", "title": "Amendments to Air Quality Standards Preannounced", "preview": "Air\nAmendments to Air Quality Standards Preannounced \nTo further improve the air quality in Taiwan, the EPA has revised the Air Quality Standards ( 空氣品質標準) according to the current air quality conditions and international trends. T h e d a i l y a v e r a g e P M 10 l i m i t v a l u e w i l l b e b r o u g h t d o w n f r o m 1 2 5 μ g \/ m 3 t o 1 0 0 μ g \/ m 3 .", "content": "Amendments to Air Quality Standards Preannounced \nTo further improve the air quality in Taiwan, the EPA has revised the Air Quality Standards ( 空氣品質標準) according to the current air quality conditions and international trends. T h e d a i l y a v e r a g e P M 10 l i m i t v a l u e w i l l b e b r o u g h t d o w n f r o m 1 2 5 μ g \/ m 3 t o 1 0 0 μ g \/ m 3 .\nIt has been five years since the air quality standards were last amended on 14 May 2012. In the last revisions, standards for both the annual and 24- hour PM2.5 concentrations were added. Hence, the determination methods for the compliance of the standards that apply to air quality control zones and total emission control zones were also revised in accordance with the changes. To gradually reduce smog and particulate matter pollution that have been raising public concerns, the EPA plans to tighten the air quality standards based on the WHO Air Quality Guidelines to serve as the basis of future reduction timetable and goals. The new standards will lower the daily average PM10 limit value from 125 μg\/m3 to 100 μg\/m3 and reduce the annual average limit from 65 μg\/m3 to 50 μg\/m3 . \nTo keep in line with international trends, the EPA will lower the maximum one-hour average SO2 concentration from 0.25 ppm to 0.075 ppm and also the maximum one-hour average NO2 concentration from 0.25 ppm to 0.1 ppm. Furthermore, the air quality standard for lead (Pb) will be set at 0.15 μg\/m3 as a rolling three-month average concentration. The new standard aligns with the current US air quality standard for lead, which is currently considered the strictest in the world. \nThe new revisions to the air quality standards were formulated after taking into account of the current progress on air quality improvement and international research and studies on public health. By evaluating the differences in air quality standards between Taiwan and other countries, the EPA has tightened the standards to strengthen the implementation of air pollution reduction policies.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Amendments to Air Quality Standards Preannounced", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-6" }, { "no": "3779", "title": "Online Uploading Required for Trial Operation Plans", "preview": "Air\nOnline Uploading Required for Trial Operation Plans \nAf t e r r e v i e w i n g t h e Regul a t ions on T r ial Operat ions and Assessments f o r Pub l ic and P r i v a t e Premises , t h e E P A a d d e d a n e w s t i p u l a t i o n r e q u i r i n g p u b l i c a n d p r i v a t e premises to upload their trial operation plans on a designated website for the general public.", "content": "Online Uploading Required for Trial Operation Plans \nAf t e r r e v i e w i n g t h e Regul a t ions on T r ial Operat ions and Assessments f o r Pub l ic and P r i v a t e Premises , t h e E P A a d d e d a n e w s t i p u l a t i o n r e q u i r i n g p u b l i c a n d p r i v a t e premises to upload their trial operation plans on a designated website for the general public.\nThe Air Pollution Control Act was amended on 1 August 2018 to include stipulations on the information transparency of trial operation plans. Therefore, the Regulations on Trial Operations and Assessments for Public and Private Premises will also be updated correspondingly to maintain regulation consistency. \nAccording to the current regulations, public and private premises are required to submit trial operation plans and other related documents before resuming the operation of pollution sources or business if it meets the following circumstances: \n1. The premise is ordered by the competent authority to suspend the operation of pollution source, suspend work or business pursuant. \n2. The premise is ordered to make improvements by the competent authority but voluntarily suspends work or business. \nAdditionally, to ensure that stationary pollution sources comply with the emission standards prior to the resumption of operation, the regulations also include clear stipulations on the assessment procedure and standards of trial operation plans. \nHowever, to respond to the current emission control status and management system, adjustments are to be made to the regulations. \nOther revisions to the regulations include: \n1. Public opinions shall be included for reference in the assessment process of trial operation plans. \n2. During the meeting for the assessment of trial operation plans, the minutes of the meeting shall be published on the designated website. \n3. In response to the changes in the Air Pollution Control Act, the regulations will be renamed as the Regulations on Trial Operations and Assessments for Public and Private Premises Prior to Operation Resumption.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Online Uploading Required for Trial Operation Plans", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-6" }, { "no": "3778", "title": "International Conference on a Sustainable Taiwan Held on World Environment Day", "preview": "Sustainable Development\nInternational Conference on a Sustainable Taiwan Held on World Environment Day \nTo demonstrate Taiwan’s determination to promote sustainable development, the National Council for Sustainable Development (NCSD) held the International Conference on a Sustainable Taiwan: Accelerating the Localization of UNSDGs on 5 June 2019. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) experts from the US, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Africa were invited to the conference to share SDG implementation experiences and future strategies with Taiwanese representatives across different sectors, including heads or deputy heads of county and city environmental bureaus.", "content": "International Conference on a Sustainable Taiwan Held on World Environment Day \nTo demonstrate Taiwan’s determination to promote sustainable development, the National Council for Sustainable Development (NCSD) held the International Conference on a Sustainable Taiwan: Accelerating the Localization of UNSDGs on 5 June 2019. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) experts from the US, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Africa were invited to the conference to share SDG implementation experiences and future strategies with Taiwanese representatives across different sectors, including heads or deputy heads of county and city environmental bureaus.\nIn the opening ceremony, students from Micang Elementary School, which has won the National Sustainable Development Award in the education c a t e g o r y t w i c e , s p o k e o n b e h a l f o f t h e n e w generation about their vision for the future. During the conference, three main topics on SDGs were discussed to exchange international implementation experiences and to integrate knowledge from central and local governments, businesses, academia, and the general public. As the secretariat of the NCSD, the EPA aims to form global partnerships through the conference and together they will embark on the journey of building a sustainable environment for future generations. \nThe other purpose of the conference was to announce t h e T a i w a n S u s t a i n a b l e D e v e l o p m e n t Go a l s formulated by the NCSD so that related ministries can carry out their implementation accordingly. In response to the UNSDGs launched in 2015, the Taiwan SDGs were devised based on the UNSDGs and Taiwan’s current circumstance and future goals in sustainable development. After spending two years working with different ministries and gathering opinions from the public and the Legislative Yuan, Taiwan has finally completed its SDGs. \nTo stimulate the promotion of SDGs and achieve sustainable development, several experts in the area of SDG promotion from the US, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Africa were invited to participate in the conference and share their implementation experiences. The EPA also invited heads and deputy heads of five city and four county environmental bureaus, businesses and schools that have won the National Sustainable Development Awards, and student representatives and youth activists advocating the SDGs.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Sustainable Development", "titlename": "International Conference on a Sustainable Taiwan Held on World Environment Day", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-6" }, { "no": "3777", "title": "Revisions to Enterprise Classification and Definition of the Water Pollution Control Act", "preview": "Water\nRevisions to Enterprise Classification and Definition of the Water Pollution Control Act \nTo meet management needs, the EPA announced revisions to the Enterprise Classification and Definition of the Water Pollution Control Act ( 水污染防治法事業分類及定義) on 1 M a y 2 0 1 9 . F i v e e n t e r p r i s e c a t e g o r i e s , i n c l u d i n g s e a w a t e r d e s a l i n a t i o n p l a n t s , h a v e been added for future control. The revisions for different categories will take effect on different dates.", "content": "Revisions to Enterprise Classification and Definition of the Water Pollution Control Act \nTo meet management needs, the EPA announced revisions to the Enterprise Classification and Definition of the Water Pollution Control Act ( 水污染防治法事業分類及定義) on 1 M a y 2 0 1 9 . F i v e e n t e r p r i s e c a t e g o r i e s , i n c l u d i n g s e a w a t e r d e s a l i n a t i o n p l a n t s , h a v e been added for future control. The revisions for different categories will take effect on different dates.\nThe EPA noted that so far 61 types of enterprises are under control under the current Water Pollution Control Act ( 水污染防治法) and that the revisions further intensify controls in response to practical management needs. The reasons for the revisions are as follows. \nS e a w a t e r d e s a l i n a t i o n p l a n t s a r e c u r r e n t l y controlled under the classification of waterworks. Moreover, application conditions are different due to characteristics of seawater treatment and emissions, so they should be individually controlled for water pollution. Recently, there have been water pollution incidents caused by enterprises of scales that were too small to be required for water pollution controls. Examples include untreated total phosphorous-containing wastewater being discharged into rivers and causing eutrophication in reservoirs. Pollutants in storage tanks were leaked and led to soil or groundwater pollution. However, the culprits could not be required to install pollution-controlling facilities and monitoring equipment based on the Water Pollution Control Act. Also, steam-producing enterprises that use wet oxidation to treat waste gases generated wastewater containing pollutants like dioxins, suspended solids (SSs), and organic matter. \nIn addition, for both livestock and copepod-farming enterprises’ agricultural waste reutilization trial projects approved by competent agricultural authorities, the control needs to be tightened as wastewater generated by farming activities contains high concentrations of organic matter that affect water body quality. \nThe revisions include the following main points: \n1. Newly adding “enterprises that collect livestock manure or liquor and fiber digestate treated with aerobatic fermentation for aquatic plant seeds and animal feeds like farming algae, and rotifer or other aquatic animals”: Control applies to enterprises in two conditions. Its size must exceed 0.25 hectares if it’s located inside a protective area for water quantity and quality in water origin and 0.5 hectares if outside of it. Control will take effect on 1 July 2019. The enterprises will be controlled with control items, standards, and limited for Enterprise 59, “animal husbandry and animal excreta or bioenergy treatment center (or biogas center)”. \n2. Newly adding Enterprise 61: “seawater desalination plants.” Enterprises that collect, desalinate seawater or semi-saltwater for water use. Twenty-one control items are specifically added. \n3. Newly adding Enterprise 62: “enterprises within total phosphorous reduction control zones of reservoirs”: Control targets, control standards, and limits are according to the reservoirs’ total phosphorous reduction control zones and control methods announced by the competent authorities in special municipalities, counties, and cities. \n4. Newly adding Enterprise 63: “steam suppliers.” Enterprises that install boilers and engage in steam production, delivery, and supply, and as a result generate wastewater. Control will be effective from 1 July 2019. Control standards and limits are additionally set for a total of 46 items, including dioxins, and will take effect from 1 July 2020. \n5. Newly adding “enterprises that install storage facilities within operating premises, store materials designated by the central competent authorities in Article 33 Paragraph 1 of the Water Pollution Control Act with storage capacity of 200 liters or more”: Control will take effect on 1 July 2020. \n6. For enterprises with incinerating facilities that set up wet or semi-dry washing equipment for their own air pollution control facilities, dioxins within the effluents should be listed for control whether or not the washing equipment generates wastewater. Moreover, regulations of total residual chlorine for effluents with high salinity (if using seawater as base) specify chlorine-formed oxidants as control items if an actual need for this is required. \nThe EPA emphasizes that it aims to encourage enterprises to properly operate wastewater treatment facilities and improve water body quality by putting under control enterprises that may pollute and also adding suitable control items and limits for effluents.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Revisions to Enterprise Classification and Definition of the Water Pollution Control Act", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-6" }, { "no": "3776", "title": "Sustainable Resource Utilization via Circular Economy", "preview": "waste\n\n Sustainable Resource Utilization via Circular Economy \nTa i w a n ’ s r e c y c l i n g g o a l h a s c h a n g e d f r o m t h e c o n v e n t i o n a l e n d - o f - p i p e t r e a t m e n t t o t h e c u r r e n t s o u r c e r e d u c t i o n , g r a d u a l l y h e a d i n g t o w a r d t h e g o a l o f z e r o w a s t e . Through the implementation of 2018-2020 Resource Recycling and Reuse Plans ( 資源回收再利用推動計畫), the EPA hopes to build a circular economy and achieve sustainability, i n c l u d i n g m a x i m i z i n g r e s o u r c e u t i l i z a t i o n a n d m i n i m i z i n g t h e i m p a c t s o n t h e e n v i r o n m e n t .", "content": "Sustainable Resource Utilization via Circular Economy \nTa i w a n ’ s r e c y c l i n g g o a l h a s c h a n g e d f r o m t h e c o n v e n t i o n a l e n d - o f - p i p e t r e a t m e n t t o t h e c u r r e n t s o u r c e r e d u c t i o n , g r a d u a l l y h e a d i n g t o w a r d t h e g o a l o f z e r o w a s t e . Through the implementation of 2018-2020 Resource Recycling and Reuse Plans ( 資源回收再利用推動計畫), the EPA hopes to build a circular economy and achieve sustainability, i n c l u d i n g m a x i m i z i n g r e s o u r c e u t i l i z a t i o n a n d m i n i m i z i n g t h e i m p a c t s o n t h e e n v i r o n m e n t .\n\n Launched in 1997, the EPA’s Four-in-one Resource Recycling Plan ( 資源回收四合一計畫) has combined four forces, including communities, recycling enterprises, local sanitation crews, and the Recycling Fund, with government authorities. It aims to e stablish recycling channels participated by all citizens and completely solve garbage treatment problems with a proper treatment rate of over 99%. \nHowever, rapid economic development and drastic increase of the types and quantity of industrial wastes has led to more complicated treatment methods and higher costs. The conventional end-of-pipe treatment can no longer meet modern needs. In order to achieve a circular economy of zero waste, the EPA is currently implementing the following measures: \nS t r e n g t h e n i n g i n d u s t r i a l w a s t e reutilization management \nThe EPA announced the Management Regulations for Reuse of Common Industrial Waste ( 共通性事業廢棄物再利用管理辦法) on 8 January 2018. Eight industrial wastes -- food waste, waste cooking oil, waste iron, waste paper, waste glass, waste plastic, waste single metal (copper, zinc, aluminum, and tin), and waste cement telecommunication lines -- are listed for control and management under the EPA. Subsequently, an announcement on 9 January 2018 mandated tracking of reused coal ash, waste casting sand, and electric arc furnace slag. Each competent authority should conduct environmental monitoring if their reuses are potentially affecting the environment. \nOn 27 November 2018, the amended Industries Required to Submit Online Reports of Waste Production, Storage, Clearance, Treatment, Reuse, Export, and Import ( 應以網路傳輸方式申報廢棄物之 產出、貯存、清除、處理、再利用、輸出及輸入情形之事業) and Industries Required to Submit Industrial Waste Clearance Plans ( 應檢具事業廢棄物清理計畫書之事業) were both announced. The revisions are specifically to include evaluation for industrial waste clearance plans for the purpose of reuse. \nResource Recycling and Reuse \n(1) Implementation of 2018-2020 Resource Recycling and Reuse Plan \nBesides incorporating the concept of circular economy, the Resource Recycling and Reuse Plan launched in 2018, promotes strategies based on life cycles of various materials. Under the strategies covering production, consumption, waste management, and reused material markets, the EPA has formulated cross-departmental action strategies, measures, and key performance indexes and determined that plastic, metals, construction waste, and food waste would be the first to implement upon. \nAs it carries out the Plan, the EPA hopes to build a circular economy and achieve sustainability, maximizing resource utilization and minimizing environmental impacts. Recycling and reuse of waste plastic and construction waste were the targets set in 2018, and members of the committee reviewed the results of the project in the Resource Recycling and Reuse Promotion Committee of EPA, and the project's accomplishments were reviewed by members of the Resource Recycling and Reuse Promotion Committee of the EPA. \n(2) “Cradle-to-cradle (C2C)” design concepts and circular economy evaluation \nencourage companies to prioritize product design from the beginning and enhance public awareness of C2C design concepts and understanding of circular economy, the EPA continued to invite corporations to participate in the C2C Platform in 2018. To date, the platform has 94 members. In 2018, nine meetings were organized with group discussions to increase exchanges among members and promote the platform. \nEvaluation for circular economy of waste resources had been conducted in 2018 on reuse institutes to further encourage and promote reuse. After the evaluation, nine of 74 enterprises that signed up were awarded with two stars, and 15 with one star. Enterprises with excellent performances are used as examples to encourage and guide each industry to commit to circular economy. Moreover, the EPA hopes that the evaluation will become an index on the promotion of circular economy by various industries. \n(3) Promoting recycling and treatment of waste solar panels \nI n r e s p o n s e t o f u t u r e t r e a t m e n t o f w a s t e photoelectricity modules, the EPA has planned out a semi-automatic recycling mechanism and mandated enterprises to fulfill their extended producer responsibilities (EPRs). A joint recycling, clearance, and treatment organization is to be established by enterprises. \nBefore the revisions, waste recycling, clearance, and treatment fees collected by the Bureau of Energy of the Ministry of Economic Affairs and fees specially applied by the EPA were used on recycling, clearance, and treatment of waste solar panels. After the revisions, the EPA has become in charge of collecting the relevant fees, which are managed under the Recycling Fund. \nStrengthening functions of Recycling Fund \n1. Perfecting management of recycling and treatment channels \nThe EPA has actively encouraged authorities in charge to conduct recycling plans, open up recycling channels, and increase recycling results. \n(1) Authorities in charge of recycling have been supplied with needed equipment and facilities. In 2019, it is expected to subsidize purchase of 11 loaders, construction of one and renovation of three recycling and storage sites, and replacement of 192 hybrid recycling vehicles. \n(2) The Neighborhood Recycling Station Plan ( 村里資源回收站計畫) prescribes the setting up of 1,400 stations in 2019. As many as 1,299 had been set up by February 2019 to strengthen the recycling system. (3) The Circular Economy and Recycling Force Plan ( 循環經濟資收大軍計畫) prescribes the hiring of 2,982 people every month in average in 2019 to help sort recycled wastes. The EPA will also try to prevent self-employed recyclers from being financially affected by price changes in the recycling market. \n(4) The Recycling Care Program ( 資收關懷計畫), newly launched i n 2 0 1 9 , f o c u s e s o n s e l f - employed recyclers that are also medium-low income households. F o r w a s t e s r e q u i r e d t o b e recycled, subsidies of NT$5\/kg or NT$20\/set (or unit) are provided. Among them, the subsidy for waste paper container will be raised from NT$5\/kg to NT$10\/kg beginning since 1 July 2019. \n(5) Annual performance evaluation is conducted on competent authorities, where exchanges on innovative recycling methods in different areas are also carried out to raise recycling efficiency. \nTo set up a comprehensive system of recycling and treatment channels, 614 recyclers and 92 treatment enterprises had obtained registration licenses as of the end of February. Among those, 226 recyclers and 75 treatment enterprises have been subsidized. The EPA has finished helping subsidize enterprises to set up closed-circuit television, measuring equipment and systems. The monitoring efficiency has also been raised through monitoring operations of both subsidized enterprises and inspecting and certifying organizations. Measuring and weighing data can now be uploaded to an online system without manually keying in the data, largely cutting down costs and raising efficiency. \nThe EPA has been publicly asking for innovative and research projects on recycling and treatment in order to encourage enterprises to develop recycling and treatment technology, attract talents, and create reuse channels. Fifteen applications were approved in 2018, and 17 in 2019. \n2. Monitoring responsible enterprises to practice recyclable waste management \nA total of 23,714 responsible enterprises (35,096 per company\/time) had been listed under control as of the end of May 2019 with 804,676 pieces of registered data of operation evaluated and put into the system. Responsible enterprises can pay fees in banks, post offices, and convenience stores. To provide a convenient way to pay the fee, they can set up a link on the reporting system via the e-bill website and pay directly online. \nDuring January and May 2019, an accounting firm was commissioned to audit 757 recycling and treatment enterprises that have larger amount of reported recycling, clearance, and treatment fees. The audited fees amounted to approximately NT$2.816 billion. The rate of enterprises accurately reporting fees is 99. 19%. \n3. Promoting recycling to increase effectiveness \nThere were 1.407 million metric tons of recyclable waste in 2018 and 119,000 metric tons in January 2019. The EPA actively helps Southeast Asian countries develop business opportunities for recycling industry-needed technology and equipment by assisting them with evaluations and skill-building projects and exchanging recycling and reuse technology. A toll-free phone number is in place to assist anyone in need. The resource recycling system had adopted its website with responsive website design (RWD) and issued e-newsletters to intensify online promotion with interactive videos, images, texts, and social networks. Until the end of May 2019, civil organizations had been sponsored to hold 52 recycling and treatment promotion activities, with a total of 82,110 participants. \nFuture prospect \nThe EPA believes the future policies of circular economy should aim for resource sustainability. With recycling, reuse, and innovation as the guidelines, the EPA has been adopting the idea of materials’ life cycles and circular utilization and gradually heading toward the final goal of zero-waste. In addition to the conventional 3Rs (reduce, recycle, and reuse), another 3Rs -- recovery of energy, land reclamation, and redesign -- have also been introduced to build a circular economy.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Sustainable Resource Utilization via Circular Economy", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-6" }, { "no": "3775", "title": "EPA Ocean Pollution Response Documentary Earns Distinction at Worldfest-Houston Film Festival", "preview": "Water\nEPA Ocean Pollution Response Documentary Earns Distinction at Worldfest-Houston Film Festival \nThe EPA’s documentary \"T.S. Taipei Grounding and Oil Spill 2016\" was entered into the 2019 (52nd) Worldfest-Houston Film Festival, and received distinction among the 4,500 entries from 74 countries. The short documentary earned the Special Jury Remi Award, the most distinguished award for its category.", "content": "EPA Ocean Pollution Response Documentary Earns Distinction at Worldfest-Houston Film Festival \nThe EPA’s documentary \"T.S. Taipei Grounding and Oil Spill 2016\" was entered into the 2019 (52nd) Worldfest-Houston Film Festival, and received distinction among the 4,500 entries from 74 countries. The short documentary earned the Special Jury Remi Award, the most distinguished award for its category. \nThe T.S. Taipei oil spill is the most severe ocean pollution incident Taiwan has experienced in recent years. On 10 March 2016, the cargo ship T.S. Taipei leaked oil from a fracture in its hull, while passing by Shimen in northern Taiwan. The oil spill resulted in the pollution of the shore and waters in the area. \nThe EPA, which initiated emergency response measures, and Geographic Information Technology Co. (GI-Tech), which participated in the entire process, compiled video footage and photos that captured the six-month period from the incident to the completion of the cleanup. From these materials, they produced the documentary \"T.S. Taipei Grounding and Oil Spill 2016\". The documentary is one of the world’s few films that captures the entire process around such an incident, from the spill to the ship’s removal and completion of the oil spill cleanup. The documentary serves as a reference for professional groups involved in emergency response and allows people to see the great efforts that must be taken to clean up ocean pollution. The film is a significant contribution to emergency response management all over the world. \nThe complete documentary i s a v a i l a b l e a t t h e we b p a g e : h t t p s : \/ \/ w w w. y o u t u b e . c o m \/ watch?v=gDNkhTdrWog&t=3s", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "EPA Ocean Pollution Response Documentary Earns Distinction at Worldfest-Houston Film Festival", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-5" }, { "no": "3774", "title": "Banning Personal Care Products Containing Synthetic Polymers", "preview": "Waste\nBanning Personal Care Products Containing Synthetic Polymers \nSince the Manufacturing, Import, and Sale Restrictions for Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Containing Microbeads ( 限制含塑膠微粒之化粧品與個人清潔用品製造、輸入及販賣) was announced on 3 August 2017, it has made a positive difference in reducing the use of microbead-containing products.", "content": "Banning Personal Care Products Containing Synthetic Polymers \nSince the Manufacturing, Import, and Sale Restrictions for Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Containing Microbeads ( 限制含塑膠微粒之化粧品與個人清潔用品製造、輸入及販賣) was announced on 3 August 2017, it has made a positive difference in reducing the use of microbead-containing products. \n \nHowever, after the ban of microbeads, some companies reformulated their products by using different artificial polymers, which remain insoluble in water. Therefore, to ensure products are eco-friendly, the EPA has made amendments to the restrictions by adopting some of Sweden’s rules governing microbeads in cosmetic products. The main points of the amendments are as follows: \n1. Synthetic polymers, such as solid synthetic wax, have been included in the category of microplastics. Also, the definition of naturally occurring polymers has been added. \n2. The manufacturing and import of personal care and cosmetic products containing synthetic polymers will be banned starting from 1 September 2019. The ban on the sale of products containing synthetic polymers will enter into force on 1 March 2020.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Banning Personal Care Products Containing Synthetic Polymers", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-5" }, { "no": "3773", "title": "Bring Your Own Cup While Enjoying a Plastic-free, Low-carbon Xiaoliuqiu", "preview": "Environmetal Sanitation\nBring Your Own Cup While Enjoying a Plastic-free, Low-carbon Xiaoliuqiu \nThe EPA and the Pingtung County Government held a press conference on “No Plastic, Reduce Carbon from Traveling” on 30 April at Xiaoliuqiu’s Baisha Elementary School. Visitors to Xiaoliuqiu are encouraged to be environmentally conscious during their travels by bringing their own cups and making use of the island’s drinking fountains. They can also choose eco-friendly accommodations. By doing so, visitors are not only participating in an environmentally friendly and sustainable form of tourism, they are also protecting the island’s ecosystem, helping to gradually turn Xiaoliuqiu into a plastic-free, low-carbon island.", "content": "Bring Your Own Cup While Enjoying a Plastic-free, Low-carbon Xiaoliuqiu \nThe EPA and the Pingtung County Government held a press conference on “No Plastic, Reduce Carbon from Traveling” on 30 April at Xiaoliuqiu’s Baisha Elementary School. Visitors to Xiaoliuqiu are encouraged to be environmentally conscious during their travels by bringing their own cups and making use of the island’s drinking fountains. They can also choose eco-friendly accommodations. By doing so, visitors are not only participating in an environmentally friendly and sustainable form of tourism, they are also protecting the island’s ecosystem, helping to gradually turn Xiaoliuqiu into a plastic-free, low-carbon island. \nEPA Minister Tzi-Chin Chang noted that Xiaoliuqiu’s beautiful environment has attracted around one million visitors over the last few years. The sharp increase in plastic waste seen on the island has had a significant negative impact on the island. In order to progressively reduce plastic waste, the EPA and the Pingtung County Government have worked in conjunction to promote a plan to create a plastic-free, low-carbon model island. They have already installed 10 drinking fountains in nine locations, including the tourist wharf, scenic areas, ferry waiting rooms, and security check areas. There is also now a map displaying locations for accessing drinking water. \nFrom now to the end of September 2019, people can use their smartphones to scan a QR code for a map of drinking fountain locations. By using on-site drinking fountains, users may receive 300 green points each time a machine is used, up to a maximum of 3,000 points. During this event, when an individual uploads a post that includes pictures of Xiaoliuqiu’s colorful drinking fountains, tags two friends and publicly shares their post, he or she may participate in a lucky draw. \nMinister Chang stated that within a half year of using drinking fountains, the result has been 30,000 fewer PET bottles (based on a single drink container being 600 ml). In addition, there was a total carbon reduction of 4,500 kg (taking every bottle as weighing 150 grams). \nFurthermore, upon launching the campaign to make Xiaoliuqiu plastic-free and low-carbon, the EPA has connected local vendors and people to help reduce single-use plastic drink containers by providing rental bottles (Liuqiu Shared Cup Campaign). There are 19 beverage stands on the island participating in the campaign, with each stand acting as a station to rent out and return cups.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmetal Sanitation", "titlename": "Bring Your Own Cup While Enjoying a Plastic-free, Low-carbon Xiaoliuqiu", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-5" }, { "no": "3772", "title": "2018-2019 Caring for the Environment Design Competition Winners Announced", "preview": "General Policy\n2018-2019 Caring for the Environment Design Competition Winners Announced\nEPA Minister Tzi-Chin Chang personally presented awards for the 2018-2019 Caring for the Environment Design Competition. Winners of the award not only won a prize of NT$100,000, the top three finalists received an additional subsidy to attend the award ceremony for the INDEX: Award 2019 held in Denmark, as well as an opportunity to visit the world-class design organization INDEX: Design to Improve Life. The top three finalists were Vita Beads, the Ecosystem’s Water Purifier (1st place); Presyringe Combined Safe Needle and Syringe (2nd place); and AH Lightweight Insulation Block (3rd place).", "content": "2018-2019 Caring for the Environment Design Competition Winners Announced\nEPA Minister Tzi-Chin Chang personally presented awards for the 2018-2019 Caring for the Environment Design Competition. Winners of the award not only won a prize of NT$100,000, the top three finalists received an additional subsidy to attend the award ceremony for the INDEX: Award 2019 held in Denmark, as well as an opportunity to visit the world-class design organization INDEX: Design to Improve Life. The top three finalists were Vita Beads, the Ecosystem’s Water Purifier (1st place); Presyringe Combined Safe Needle and Syringe (2nd place); and AH Lightweight Insulation Block (3rd place).\nThe EPA encourages everyone to recognize and put into practice the values of sustainable development and creative implementation. This year saw the third Caring for the Environment Design Competition. The awards ceremony was held on 17 April at Songshan Cultural and Creative Park in Taipei City. \nThe first place entry, Vita Beads, exhibited the above values by designing a water purification system that is simple and convenient to install and remove. The system takes in water pollutants and preserves good bacteria, thus purifying and maintaining a good ecosystem in the water. The EPA hopes these competitions will be a platform for people to demonstrate their creativity and design systems or products that are substantial contributions to humanity’s sustainable development, as well as a means of applying creativity to promote environmental education.\nA total of 806 products entered the 2018-2019 Caring for the Environment Design Competition. After three rounds of review and discussion, 20 entries qualified for the final competition. Among them, the top three winners were chosen with five additional designs selected for their excellence.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "2018-2019 Caring for the Environment Design Competition Winners Announced", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-5" }, { "no": "3771", "title": "New Option for Food Waste: From Table Scraps to Compost", "preview": "Inspection\nNew Option for Food Waste: From Table Scraps to Compost \nWhile using cooked food scraps as pig feed has been a common practice in Taiwan for years, the EPA is promoting a new way to recycle food waste – turning your leftovers into compost (black gold) at home.", "content": "New Option for Food Waste: From Table Scraps to Compost \nWhile using cooked food scraps as pig feed has been a common practice in Taiwan for years, the EPA is promoting a new way to recycle food waste – turning your leftovers into compost (black gold) at home. \n \nThe EPA has formulated short-, mid-, and long-term plans for food waste disposal and treatment. The short-term plan is to assist local governments in the installation of shredding, drying, and fast fermentation equipment, and to work with private composting plants to make different types of compost with processed food. As for the mid and long-term, the EPA plans to subsidize local governments for the establishment of bioenergy plants and regional composting sites, the cost of which totals more than NT$1 billion. \nIn recent years, environmental awareness and participation in environmental protection have risen in Taiwan. To reduce food waste, the EPA is encouraging at-home composting of food scraps using indoor composters. An indoor composter is a kitchen appliance that turns your food scraps into fertilizer in one day. Though it requires having to make financial sacrifices in the initial purchase and using electricity for running the appliance, owning an indoor composter increases household sanitation by eliminating the odor of food waste and provides free fertilizer for home gardens. \nThe EPA is also cooperating with supermarkets to provide contracted farmers with compost made from unsold fruit and vegetables. By doing this, the EPA is not only supporting sustainable development and circular agriculture, but also helping businesses in meeting corporate social responsibility. \nBecause the EPA has been employing stricter standards for pig farms using kitchen-scrap-based pigswill, the cost for food waste treatment has also been increasing. Therefore, the EPA aims to encourage more people, businesses and restaurants to help improve food waste problems in Taiwan.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Inspection", "titlename": "New Option for Food Waste: From Table Scraps to Compost", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-5" }, { "no": "3770", "title": "Everyone Joins Hands to Plant Trees for Dust-prevention and Greening", "preview": "Air\nEveryone Joins Hands to Plant Trees for Dust-prevention and Greening \nOn April 22– Earth Day – the EPA held a \"dust-prevention and greening\" tree planting event at the estuary of Zhuoshui River. EPA Minister Tzu-Chin Chang invited central government agencies, such as the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Water Resources Agency of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, and the Council of Agriculture of the Executive Yuan. Also, local units from the Yunlin County and Changhua County governments planted trees together with about 150 environmental volunteers, showing that the EPA attaches great importance to the prevention and control of dust in the seaports and is determined to ameliorate dust from the banks of Zhuoshui River.", "content": "Everyone Joins Hands to Plant Trees for Dust-prevention and Greening \nOn April 22– Earth Day – the EPA held a \"dust-prevention and greening\" tree planting event at the estuary of Zhuoshui River. EPA Minister Tzu-Chin Chang invited central government agencies, such as the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Water Resources Agency of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, and the Council of Agriculture of the Executive Yuan. Also, local units from the Yunlin County and Changhua County governments planted trees together with about 150 environmental volunteers, showing that the EPA attaches great importance to the prevention and control of dust in the seaports and is determined to ameliorate dust from the banks of Zhuoshui River. \n \nSince the first Earth Day event held in 1970, the UN has observed Earth Day on April 22 every year. Through the various themes of each year, the UN advocates various environmental protection strategies and raises people's awareness of environmental protection. The theme for 2019 was \"Protect Our Species\", to advocate for the importance of biodiversity. The EPA also hopes to call on everyone to protect the environment, arouse more people to be close to nature, and learn how to live in harmony with the creatures on earth. \nThe EPA pointed out that tree planting is a no-regret policy and has pursued it for more than 20 years, making it a routine priority. Furthermore, the EPA hopes that the concept of globalization, action and localization of environmental protection will be implemented through the actual actions of planting trees. \nGovernment representatives and citizens walked together to the estuary of Zhuoshui River for the event. Through this activity, they would know more about, pay more attention to the river, and cultivate a love for the community and the environment. The trees planted on this day will grow stronger and stronger year by year, and their roots will also grow deeper, to contribute to dust reduction and climate change mitigation.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Everyone Joins Hands to Plant Trees for Dust-prevention and Greening", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-5" }, { "no": "3769", "title": "New Subsidization Program Launched to Phase Out Two- Stroke Motorcycles", "preview": "Air\nNew Subsidization Program Launched to Phase Out Two- Stroke Motorcycles \nTo stimulate the phasing-out of two-stroke motorcycles and speed up mobile source emission reduction, the EPA has amended Articles 6 and 8 of the Regulations Concerning Subsidization for Phasing Out Two- Stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Electric Two-wheel Vehicles ( 淘汰二行程機車及新購電動二輪車補助辦法). The revised regulations revolve around the new incentive program, which aims to motivate motorcycle dealerships and repair shops to promote the scrappage scheme to their customers.", "content": "New Subsidization Program Launched to Phase Out Two- Stroke Motorcycles \nTo stimulate the phasing-out of two-stroke motorcycles and speed up mobile source emission reduction, the EPA has amended Articles 6 and 8 of the Regulations Concerning Subsidization for Phasing Out Two- Stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Electric Two-wheel Vehicles ( 淘汰二行程機車及新購電動二輪車補助辦法). The revised regulations revolve around the new incentive program, which aims to motivate motorcycle dealerships and repair shops to promote the scrappage scheme to their customers. \n \nThe Regulations Concerning Subsidization for Phasing Out Two-Stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Electric Two-wheel Vehicles were promulgated on 20 July 2015. Since then, the regulations have been revised three times, with last amendment on 28 December 2018. To help achieve the government’s goal of reducing mobile source pollution, the EPA is launching a new incentive program. The program aims to increase the public's willingness to get rid of their old two-stroke motorcycles by rewarding motorcycle dealerships and repair shops for promoting the motorcycle scrappage scheme during routine checks and maintenance. \nThe new incentive program applies to motorcycle dealerships and repair shops that assist customers in scrapping and recycling their two-stroke motorcycles which are professionally deemed unable to improve their emissions. The eligible businesses can apply for a cash reward of NT$500 per motorcycle from the competent authorities where the stores are registered. Through the new program, the EPA aims to increase the public's willingness to scrap old two-stroke motorcycles.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "New Subsidization Program Launched to Phase Out Two- Stroke Motorcycles", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-5" }, { "no": "3768", "title": "Regulations Governing Stationary Source Pollution- Monitoring Equipment Amended", "preview": "Air\nRegulations Governing Stationary Source Pollution- Monitoring Equipment Amended \nTo strengthen the management of the continuous emission monitoring system (CEMS) for public and private premises, the EPA announced amendments to the Management Regulations Governing Stationary Source Air Pollutant Continuous Automated Monitoring Facilities on 12 April 2019. The purpose of the amendments is to increase the quality and reliability of monitoring data and reinforce audit capability and efficiency. The amendments include added regulations on the storage and audit of data from the data acquisition handling system (DAHS), and an extended time for retention of monitoring data.", "content": "Regulations Governing Stationary Source Pollution- Monitoring Equipment Amended \nTo strengthen the management of the continuous emission monitoring system (CEMS) for public and private premises, the EPA announced amendments to the Management Regulations Governing Stationary Source Air Pollutant Continuous Automated Monitoring Facilities on 12 April 2019. The purpose of the amendments is to increase the quality and reliability of monitoring data and reinforce audit capability and efficiency. The amendments include added regulations on the storage and audit of data from the data acquisition handling system (DAHS), and an extended time for retention of monitoring data.\nThe main points of the amendments are as follows: \n1. Tracking records of signals from the DAHS and any related monitoring programs required to be archived shall be included in confirmation reports for audits conducted by competent environmental authorities. \n2. The retention time for documents from monitoring facilities has been extended to six years, including: routine calibration and testing records, maintenance and repair records, original monitoring data, recorded values, history of use and quality control records of calibration gases and equipment. \n3. The amendments have specified the submission time and required documents for reports regarding replacement, change of monitoring location or removal of monitoring facilities and Internet transmission facilities. Also, to improve emission control on public and private premises, any changes to their monitoring facilities and Internet transmission facilities are to be reported through the newly added procedures. \n4. Online transmission has been adopted for monitoring equipment installation and document reporting, with the official enforcement date to be announced in the future. \n5 . To improve the precision o f monitoring data, stipulations on test audit procedures and specifications for signal variations have been added for review purposes. \n6. Testing procedures and specifications for NO2\/NO converter efficiency were included to strengthen the quality of monitoring data for NOx emissions. Also, the EPA has formulated new specifications for relative accuracy test audits, relative accuracy audits, and cylinder gas audits for stationary sources with lower emissions. \n7. Transmission sampling lines are required to be equipped with heating elements. In addition, reinforced regulations have been made for the following procedures: zero and span drift checks, test audits, calibration gases and equipment. Revisions were also made to several calculation formulas, and proper time will be given to make adjustments. \n8. To strengthen the general management system for stationary sources of pollution and to ensure the implementation of emission monitoring and reporting, regulations on penalties and punishments have been adjusted. \nThe amendments listed above are only the first stage of the EPA’s plan and mainly focus on the content that is deemed important by different fields and is feasible for immediate implementation. The EPA has already started working on further revisions which include: raising the percentage of effective quarterly monitoring hours, increasing the data transmission frequency of monitoring data status codes and original data generated every minute, and altering data calculation principles and online transmission formats. However, the revisions above will require public and private premises to replace their monitoring and Internet transmission facilities. Therefore, all related systems and programs for the updated facilities will be in need of adjustment and review by local environmental protection bureaus.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Regulations Governing Stationary Source Pollution- Monitoring Equipment Amended", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-5" }, { "no": "3767", "title": "Revised Regulations Preannounced to Keep Up With Minamata Convention on Mercury Control", "preview": "Chemicals\nRevised Regulations Preannounced to Keep Up With Minamata Convention on Mercury Control \nIn response to the UN’s Minamata Convention on Mercury that regulates control of and phase-out timetables for mercury-containing products, the EPA preannounced revisions to the current regulations concerning mercury control. The revisions specify bans and limits on the use of mercury-containing products with the aim of strengthening mercury control in Taiwan.", "content": "Revised Regulations Preannounced to Keep Up With Minamata Convention on Mercury Control \nIn response to the UN’s Minamata Convention on Mercury that regulates control of and phase-out timetables for mercury-containing products, the EPA preannounced revisions to the current regulations concerning mercury control. The revisions specify bans and limits on the use of mercury-containing products with the aim of strengthening mercury control in Taiwan.\nThe EPA pointed out that it is difficult for the human body to eliminate mercury once it enters it via inhalation or ingestion. Mercury may cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and stomachaches. After long-term accumulation, there may be damage to the brain, nervous system, and vital organs such as the liver, kidneys, and lungs. Moreover, mercury is not prone to decompose and bioconcentrates, and as a result was announced as a Class 1 toxic chemical substance in 1991. To keep up with the UN’s Minamata Convention on Mercury, the revisions specify bans and limits on use of mercury-containing products to lower the public’s risk of exposure. \nThe EPA pointed out that the UN’s Minamata Convention on Mercury, after taking effect on 16 August 2017, regulates common mercury-containing products used in daily life. They include button cell batteries, switches, relays, lighting, fluorescent lights, cosmetics, agrochemical products, and non-electronic instruments such as barometers, hygrometers, manometers, thermometers, and sphygmomanometers. Manufacturing, import, and export bans will take effect in 2020. \nBesides these bans, the Convention sets exclusion provisions, such as when switches, relays, and non-electronic testing instruments do not have mercury-free substitutes and are used as calibrators or for reference standards. Certain mercury-containing products with limits set for mercury content are also exempt from the ban. The EPA put exemption clauses in the revisions based on the opinions of enterprises and prior examples in the Convention. \nRevisions in the pre-announcements are as follows: \n1. Since 1 January 2021, use of mercury will be banned from manufacturing of fluorescent lights in the following categories: \n(1) Under 30-watt common-use compact fluorescent lights, with mercury content of over five milligrams in a single bulb. \n(2) Less than 60-watt straight-tube common-use fluorescent lights (using three-band fluorescent powders), with mercury content of over five milligrams in a single tube. \n(3) Less than 40-watt straight-tube common-use fluorescent lights (using halo-phosphate fluorescent powders), with mercury content of over 10 milligrams in a single tube. \n(4) High-pressure common-use mercury-vapor lamps. \n(5) Cold cathode fluorescent lamps (CCFLs) and external arc fluorescent lights used in electronic monitoring that are less than 500 millimeters long, with mercury content of over 3.5 milligrams in a single tube. \n(6) CCFLs and external arc fluorescent lights used in electronic monitoring that are between 500 to 1,500 millimeters in length, with mercury content of over five milligrams in a single tube. \n(7) CCFLs and external arc fluorescent lights used in electronic monitoring that are over 1,500 millimeters long, with mercury content of over 13 milligrams in a single tube. \n2. Besides items in the announcements, use of mercury is banned in the following from 1 January 2021. \n(1) Manufacturing of batteries \n(2) Manufacturing of switches and relays \n(3) Manufacturing of the following non-electronic testing instruments: \nA. Barometers \nB. Hygrometers \nC. Manometers \nD. Sphygmomanometers \nE. Hydrometers", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Chemicals", "titlename": "Revised Regulations Preannounced to Keep Up With Minamata Convention on Mercury Control", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-5" }, { "no": "3766", "title": "Taiwan’s First Water Resource Recycling Center Launched", "preview": "Water\nTaiwan’s First Water Resource Recycling Center Launched \nOn 29 April, reporters visited Taiwan’s first water resource recycling center in Fongshan, Kaohsiung and learned about the importance of water recycling and reuti l i z a tion i n periods of water shortage. The center currently i s able to provide 25,000 metric tons of water every day and i s expected to expand capacity to 45,000 metric tons i n the future.", "content": "Taiwan’s First Water Resource Recycling Center Launched \nOn 29 April, reporters visited Taiwan’s first water resource recycling center in Fongshan, Kaohsiung and learned about the importance of water recycling and reuti l i z a tion i n periods of water shortage. The center currently i s able to provide 25,000 metric tons of water every day and i s expected to expand capacity to 45,000 metric tons i n the future. \nThe EPA mentioned that even after treating wastewater to reach the effluent standards allowed for discharge into rivers, the center does not discharge it into rivers. Instead, it further turns it into cleaner water via quick quartz sand filtration, ultrafiltration (UF), and reserve osmosis (RO), which are then provided to factories inside the industrial zones. After the piping was finished, the current daily 25,000 metric ton capacity is expected to increase up to 45,000 metric tons. Since the construction was completed in August 2018, there has been a total of 11.87 million metric tons of renewable water provided to China Steel Corporation and C.S. Aluminum Corporation for cooling uses. \nLower river levels during the dry season also worsen river pollution conditions. If wastewater is purified, recycled, and reused in the manufacturing processes, use of clean river water can be cut. The more clean water that stays in rivers, the more livelihoods rivers can support. \nTo encourage treatment and reuse of wastewater, in recent years the EPA also amended water pollution control measures and managing regulations for testing and reporting. Industrial wastewater or sewage is to be treated until it conforms to the standards allowed for reuse. In some cases, certain control regulations are relaxed, for example for uses of industrial wastewater or sewage recycled for production processes, tower rinsing or other pollution prevention equipment. Also included are uses to prevent reverse flows back into facilities used for wastewater or sewage treatment and pretreatment. \nWastewater treatment and reuse is one measure to alleviate future water shortages. For example, the water resource recycling center in Fongshan acts as a small reservoir in the city and provides a stable water supply for industries. It greatly reduces the dependence of businesses on rivers and reservoirs and in turn increases the base flow of rivers while improving water quality.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Taiwan’s First Water Resource Recycling Center Launched", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-5" }, { "no": "3765", "title": "Comprehensive Water Quality Improvement Measures", "preview": "Water\n Comprehensive Water Quality Improvement Measures \nThe EPA has been striving to promote water quality-improving measures, which fall under three aspects: revisions to water pollution prevention regulations and collections of control fees, improvement of water body quality, and reduction of livestock wastewater pollution. The River Pollution Index (RPI) has dropped from 3.9 in 2001 to 2.54 in 2018, indicating a gradual improvement of river water quality.", "content": "Comprehensive Water Quality Improvement Measures \nThe EPA has been striving to promote water quality-improving measures, which fall under three aspects: revisions to water pollution prevention regulations and collections of control fees, improvement of water body quality, and reduction of livestock wastewater pollution. The River Pollution Index (RPI) has dropped from 3.9 in 2001 to 2.54 in 2018, indicating a gradual improvement of river water quality.\n\n Revis ing wa t e r pol lut ion- r e lated regulations and collecting control fees \n1. Revising water pollution control regulations \nIn 2018, announcements were made on revisions of the Water Pollution Control Act ( 水污染防治法), the Water Pollution Control Act Enforcement Rules ( 水污染防治法施行細則), a n d the Water Pollution Control Measure Plan and Regulations to Manage Permit Application and Evaluation ( 水污染防治措施計畫及許可申請審查管理辦法). Revisions of the Water Pollution Prevention Permit Application Fee Standards ( 水污染防治各項許可申請收費標準), the Regulations to Establish a Water Pollution Control Fee Review Board ( 水污染防治費費率審議委員會設置辦法), and the Regulations Concerning Water Pollution Control Fee Collection ( 水污染防治費收費辦法) were also announced. The EPA later announced other amended relevant sub-laws and standards in 2019. \n2. Water pollution fee collection and utilization \nSince the collection of water pollution control fees on 1 May 2015, targets of the first phase were sewage of enterprises and industrial zones that exclude livestock industry. The second phase targeted livestock enterprises and took effect on 1 January 2017. The third phase began on 1 January 2019 and included sewage specifically from other designated zones or venues. The EPA carried out eight collection operation periods between 1 May 2015 and 26 March 2019, with collected fees totaling NT$1.18524 billion for various water pollution control measures. The EPA has been appropriated with 40% of the total fee, and the local governments 60%. \nImproving water body quality \nBased on analysis of the average annual RPI, the amount decreased from 3.9 in 2001 to 2.54 in 2018, showing an improving trend. However, average RPI in 14 monitoring stations still indicated severe pollution in 2018, meaning active improvement of water quality is still needed. \n1. Reducing household wastewater pollution \n(1) The EPA continues to coordinate with the Construction and Planning Agency (CPA), Ministry of the Interior (MOI) and other competent authorities. For rivers that are severely polluted with larger amounts of household wastewater pollution, public sewage system construction and households’ connection to public sewage will be pushed forward as priority operations. \n(2) For the watershed ranges of severely polluted rivers that have yet to connect to public sewage or have public sewage constructed, subsidies have been provided for projects like wastewater interception or onsite purification and treatment. As of the end of 2018, improvement projects had been completed at 116 sites with a total capacity of 880,000 metric tons of household wastewater intercepted and treated every day. The EPA aims to effectively reduce pollution loads caused by household wastewater within a short period. \n2. Reducing enterprise wastewater pollution \n(1) Local governments are urged to actively investigate and punish major violations such as rerouting discharge or unpermitted discharge based on the current Water Pollution Control Act. Illegal gains will be pursued as well in order to effectively deter enterprises from breaking laws or thinking they \ncould escape undetected. \n(2) Concerning irrigation ditches selected by the Council of Agriculture (COA) as with high pollution trends, total quantity control and reduction measures targeting heavy metals have continued to be implemented on enterprise wastewater in irrigation sources. As of the end of April 2019, a total of ten cooperation meetings across agricultural and conservation agencies had been convened to preserve water quality of irrigation sources. As for regions densely populated with enterprises or with major pollution hotspots, the joint force of the EPA’s Environmental Police Unit (EPU), the environmental police of the National Police Agency (NPA), and regional competent authorities, has increased efforts to stop environmental pollution. \n(3) To improve river quality and reach goals set for water body quality standards, the EPA placed all surface water bodies under priority remediation by selecting key monitoring stations and integrating central and regional resources. Water bodies are sorted based on levels of pollution and whether heavy metal standards are exceeded. Local governments are supervised and reviewed for formulating improvement measures and proposing practices and goals each year. In order to control pollution sources such as wastewater generated by households, enterprises, and livestock operations, measures and goals are formulated based on indicative pollution items from key monitoring stations. \n(4) The EPA continues to supervise and assist local governments in the implementation of total control or tightening of the Effluent Standards ( 放流水標準) to protect severely polluted rivers or water bodies in need of special protection. The following are the results: \nA. In 2018, the EPA announced that four total control zones were designated for water pollution control and the effluent standards were strengthened. By 2018, there were total control zones for water pollution control in six municipalities, counties, and cities, and seven regions. Tighter effluent standards were put in place in four municipalities, counties, and cities, and five regions. \ni. The Total Control Regulations for Wastewater Copper Discharge in Nankan Stream Watershed in Taoyuan City (control on copper) was announced on 5 January 2018. \nii. The Total Control Regulations for Wastewater Discharge in Fangli Stream Watershed in Miaoli County (control on six heavy metals: copper, zinc, nickel, total chromium, hexavalent chromium, and cadmium) was announced on 3 May 2018. \niii. The Total Control Regulations for Wastewater Discharge in Hsiangshan Irrigation Region in Hsinchu City (control on six heavy metals: copper, zinc, nickel, total chromium, hexavalent chromium, and cadmium) was announced on 9 August 2018. iv. The Total Control Regulations for Wastewater Discharge in Dongsi Second and Third Ditches and Babou Ditch in Changhwa County (control on six heavy metals: copper, zinc, nickel, total chromium, hexavalent chromium, and cadmium) was revised and announced on 24 September 2018. \nv. The Tightened Effluent Standards in Sanye Stream Watershed in Tainan City (control on copper) was announced on 30 August 2018. \nB . R i v e r w a t e r q u a l i t y h a s b e e n g r e a t l y improved with three major moves. First, in line with the Irri gati on-Use Water Protecti on Pl an ( 灌溉用水保護方案) formulated and implemented by the Council of Agriculture (COA), the EPA promoted the Total Control for Farmland Water Bodies in Need of Special Protection. As there are larger areas of farmlands with heavy metal pollution in Taoyuan City, Taichung City, and Changhwa County, they have been chosen as demonstration counties\/cities. Total control zones for heavy metal discharge in farmland water bodies in need of special protection are designated in the three municipalities\/counties, where total control of heavy metal discharge is implemented. Second, the EPA strengthened inspection of rerouting and illegal discharge, joining forces with prosecutors and police. Third, the COA, the Industrial Development Bureau (IDB) and the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), jointly promoted the Water Quality Protection Plan for Agricultural Irrigation, banning direct wastewater discharge into irrigation ditches and assisting enterprises in phased rerouting of wastewater channels. In 2018, the percentage of heavy metal readings in Hsinche Stream, Pushin Stream, Laujie Stream, and Nankan Stream meeting the irrigation water quality standards reached 99%. The percentage of satisfactory heavy metal readings in Janchuoyuan Ditch in Taichung City and Dongsi Second and Third Ditches in Changhwa County reached 100%. This shows total heavy metal control measures are extremely effective in improving the water quality of irrigation water sources. \n3. Cutting livestock wastewater pollution \n(1) By working with agricultural authorities and local governments, the EPA continues to promote reduction of livestock wastewater pollution. Liquor and fiber digestate made from livestock manure via anaerobic fermentation is used as farmland fertilizers. From 2016 to 29 April 2019, liquid and sludge digestate from 535 livestock farms were used to irrigate 1,541 hectares of farmland. Annual irrigation amounts have reached 1.83 million metric tons. Organic pollutants have been reduced by 10,874 metric tons per year, equivalent to the pollution reduced by 198 gravel oxidation treatment facilities with daily wastewater treatment capacity of 10,000 metric tons. The annual amount of nitrogen irrigated has reached 616 metric tons. \n(2) For regions heavy with livestock operations, local governments and livestock and energy enterprises are subsidized to set up treatment centers for centralized livestock manure reutilization. The centers collect livestock wastewater for anaerobic fermentation and reutilization of liquid and sludge digestate, greatly ameliorating pollution incidents in those regions. \n(3) For small animal farms (with 20 to 199 heads of livestock), enterprises are encouraged to submit wastewater management plans, set up complete wastewater treatment facilities, and carry out manure reutilization.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Comprehensive Water Quality Improvement Measures", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-5" }, { "no": "3764", "title": "Sustainable Future – Highlight on Environmental Education and\nChildren’s Health", "preview": "Environmental Education\nSustainable Future – Highlight on Environmental Education and\nChildren’s Health\nShortly before Children's Day, Mark Kasman, Director of the Office of International and Tribal Affairs (OITA),\nU.S. Environmental Protection Agency, made a visit to a Green Flag-awarded Eco-Campus school -\nChaocuo Waldorf Education Experimental Elementary School in Yunlin County. Together with teachers and\nrepresentatives of the community, thoughts were exchanged on the Eco-Campus approaches and its positive\nimpact on children's health and sustainable environment.", "content": "Sustainable Future – Highlight on Environmental Education and\nChildren’s Health\nShortly before Children's Day, Mark Kasman, Director of the Office of International and Tribal Affairs (OITA),\nU.S. Environmental Protection Agency, made a visit to a Green Flag-awarded Eco-Campus school -\nChaocuo Waldorf Education Experimental Elementary School in Yunlin County. Together with teachers and\nrepresentatives of the community, thoughts were exchanged on the Eco-Campus approaches and its positive\nimpact on children's health and sustainable environment.\nChaocuo Waldorf Education Experimental\nElementary School has close to two acres of school\ngrounds. Abundant space and agriculture fields\non campus provide students with the opportunity\nof learning in and from the environment. Wellraised\npoultry further provides high quality eggs\nthat are used in their mostly vegetarian school\nlunch. With a such healthy culinary culture, leading a healthy lifestyle and caring for the environment\nis emphasized in Chaocuo Elementary School.\nThis also shows in their curriculum, where the\nconcepts are infused and covers topics such as\ngreen buildings, ecological farming, ecology and\nbiodiversity, environmental aesthetics, waste\ncategorization and recycling, green energy, sports,\netc. The students bring these concepts home, and\nmight even further get the community involved.\nSuch aim and approaches align with the goals of the\nGlobal Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP)\nand are highly recommended for other schools to\nrefer to.\nThe GEEP and its umbrella program, the\nInternational Environmental Partnership (IEP),\nwere launched in 2014 under the cooperation of\nthe Taiwan Environmental Protection Administration\nand the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,\nwith the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs\nof Taiwan. The IEP aims to build partnerships on\nmutual environmental challenges, such as mercury\nmonitoring, air pollution, soil contamination, e-waste\nmanagement, climate change mitigation, and\nenvironmental education; while the GEEP, focusing\non education and information sharing to build\ncapacity on all levels, is a network with over 50\ncountries. Jane Nishida, Principle Deputy Assistant\nAdministrator of the U.S. EPA, once highlighted\nTaiwan's leadership in the field of environmental\neducation at the United Nations Environment\nAssembly meeting in Nairobi. The year 2019 marks\nthe 5th anniversary of the IEP and GEEP. This\npartnership continues to strengthen environmental\neducation in both Taiwan and the U.S. and advances\nthe field globally.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Sustainable Future – Highlight on Environmental Education and\nChildren’s Health", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-4" }, { "no": "3763", "title": "Environment Season Launched with Theme of “Protect Our\nSpecies—Sustainable Environment”", "preview": "General Policy\nEnvironment Season Launched with Theme of “Protect Our\nSpecies—Sustainable Environment”\nIn response to Earth Day, the EPA held a series of activities as part of the 2019 environment season\ncampaign with the theme of “Protect Our Species—Sustainable Environment” on 2 April. Departments\nwithin the EPA are cooperating to promote 16 eco-friendly activities during the environment season. The\npublic are invited to go outdoors and take part in these events. Through a variety of activities, individuals\nlearn more about protecting species which will allow people to better cherish and value Earth’s resources.", "content": "Environment Season Launched with Theme of “Protect Our\nSpecies—Sustainable Environment”\nIn response to Earth Day, the EPA held a series of activities as part of the 2019 environment season\ncampaign with the theme of “Protect Our Species—Sustainable Environment” on 2 April. Departments\nwithin the EPA are cooperating to promote 16 eco-friendly activities during the environment season. The\npublic are invited to go outdoors and take part in these events. Through a variety of activities, individuals\nlearn more about protecting species which will allow people to better cherish and value Earth’s resources.\nAfter the success of activities held on the very first\nEarth Day in 1970, the United Nations declared\n22 April as Earth Day and 5 June as World\nEnvironment Day. Each year a theme that promotes\nenvironmental protection strategies is identified\nto raise people’s awareness for environmental\nprotection. The theme for 2019 Earth Day is “Protect\nOur Species,” which emphasizes the importance of\nbiodiversity. The Taiwan EPA combined this theme\nwith images of endangered species in creating a\nlogo for the environment season. This was done\nin hopes of encouraging the public to protect the\nenvironment and have more people fall in love with\nnature as well as learn more about how to live in\nharmony with nature.\nEPA Minister Tzi-Chin Chang explained that this\nis the first time the EPA set the period from April\nto June as an environment season. It was done in\norder to connect Earth Day and World Environment\nDay, with the idea of a “festival or season” used to\nmaintain the public’s enthusiasm for protecting the\nenvironment. The EPA is promoting a wide range\nof activities during the season including photograph\nand short film submissions, green points for green\ncomputers that are 17.4 inches across diagonally.”\nThe adjustments made to electric products including\ncoolers, heaters, and electric fans as well as IT\nproducts such as tablet computers and personal\ncomputers were done in conjunction with current\npoints of view regarding the elimination of waste\nproducts. The EPA appeals to people to give e-waste\nto recycling trucks that are a part of cleaning crews\nor other recycling enterprises. This is done to\nencourage others to become part of the recycling\nsystem and facilitate resource recycling.\nconsumption, tours of environmental education\nvenues, exploring air quality, increased values\nfor recycling dry batteries, river and beach clean\nups, tree planting, and forums for environmental\nprotection. Individuals traveling during this period\ncan take photos with their smartphone camera to\nearn environmental green points, which provide\nprice value of environmental activities in everyday\nlives. For more information regarding the activities\nof 2019 environment season, please see the EPA\nwebsite (http:\/\/www.epa.gov.tw\/)\nIn recent years, the EPA has continually referenced\nnew trends and methods used internationally and\ndeveloped localized policies suitable for Taiwan.\nIn its revisions to the Air Pollution Control Act ( 空\n氣污染防制法), the EPA laid out a comprehensive\nplan to improve Taiwan’s air quality by implementing\nsource control and intermediate management of\npollution along with end-of-pipe treatment and\nresponse. The EPA also promoted the limitation of\nthe total heavy metal values found in irrigation water\nsources, allowing people in Taiwan to eat with peace\nof mind. At the same time, its water policy combined\nmeasures to block waste from entering bodies of ground water, both protecting and restoring a\nsuitable living environment for different species.\nMeasures were created to restrict companies across\n14 different categories from providing free plastic\nshopping bags. The EPA continues to follow up\nby listening to public opinion as it makes rolling\nadjustments to its administrative policies.\nThe activities held during the environment season\nnot only allow people to participate more but also\nallow Taiwan to be seen by the world. At the end of\nthe season, the ideas and results of these activities\nwill be compiled and recorded on the international\nEarth Day Network with the goal of having Taiwan\nhold “one million green activities.” This is done in\nresponse to a global mission and to keep in step\nwith international environmental protection initiatives,\nshowing that Taiwan will not miss out. (Information\non activities can be found at https:\/\/www. earthday.\norg.tw\/)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Environment Season Launched with Theme of “Protect Our\nSpecies—Sustainable Environment”", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-4" }, { "no": "3762", "title": "Scope of Recycling Electric and Information Technology Products\nAdjusted from 1 July", "preview": "Recycling\nScope of Recycling Electric and Information Technology Products\nAdjusted from 1 July\nIn order to enhance the recycling process for waste products, the EPA announced that beginning on 1 July\nthere will be adjustments to the scope of recycling for electric products (heaters, coolers, and electric fans)\nas well as information technology products (tablets and personal computers). These adjustments lay out the\nresponsibility manufacturers and importers have for the recycling, clearance, and disposal of these products.", "content": "Scope of Recycling Electric and Information Technology Products\nAdjusted from 1 July\nIn order to enhance the recycling process for waste products, the EPA announced that beginning on 1 July\nthere will be adjustments to the scope of recycling for electric products (heaters, coolers, and electric fans)\nas well as information technology products (tablets and personal computers). These adjustments lay out the\nresponsibility manufacturers and importers have for the recycling, clearance, and disposal of these products.\nNew electric and information products are constantly\nbeing released with perhaps some components\nor product standards remaining the same. This\ncreates issues wherein responsible enterprises must\nmake assessments as they begin developing and\nevaluate the ability to recycle these products. In\norder to solve questions regarding the determination\nof responsibility, the EPA announced revisions to\n3. According to Article 86 of the Act, illegal gains\nfrom violations of the Act shall be confiscated.\nArticle 86 also added rules regarding the calculation\nmethod and confiscation of illegal gains.\n4. To keep the regulations consistent with the Act,\npenalties will be issued based on each violation\ncommitted instead of violations on consecutive days.\nAlso, the cost of the fines will depend upon the cost\nof the last fine issued.\n5. I f the violations are considered severe\ncircumstances as stipulated in Article 96 of the Act,\nheavy penalties shall have to be imposed.\nowners will be able to choose from based on their\nown needs, residents can take part in improving\nmobile source air pollution without making financial\nsacrifices.\nScopes for the Articles and the Packaging and\nContainers Thereof and the Enterprises Responsible\nfor Recycling, Clearance and Disposal ( 物品或其包\n裝容器及其應負回收清除處理責任之業者範圍).\nThe revisions made to electric products included\ncoolers, heaters, and electric fans. There were\nalso revisions regarding IT products, specifically the definitions of tablets and personal computers.\n“Portable coolers and heaters” were added to the\nlist of cooling and heating products. Direct current\nelectric fans were also announced as being within\nthe scope of recyclable products. Products with\na maximum power consumption under 10 watts\nare to be exempted. The definition of portable\ncomputer was revised to “laptop computers and\ntablet computers with screen sizes up to 6.5 inches\nby 17.4 inches.” The definition for the list of personal\ncomputer items includes \"desktop computers,\nintegrated computers, Thin Clients, and All-in-One\nAfter the success of activities held on the very first\nEarth Day in 1970, the United Nations declared\n22 April as Earth Day and 5 June as World\nEnvironment Day. Each year a theme that promotes\nenvironmental protection strategies is identified\nto raise people’s awareness for environmental\nprotection. The theme for 2019 Earth Day is “Protect\nOur Species,” which emphasizes the importance of\nbiodiversity. The Taiwan EPA combined this theme\nwith images of endangered species in creating a\nlogo for the environment season. This was done\nin hopes of encouraging the public to protect the\nenvironment and have more people fall in love with\nnature as well as learn more about how to live in\nharmony with nature.\nEPA Minister Tzi-Chin Chang explained that this\nis the first time the EPA set the period from April\nto June as an environment season. It was done in\norder to connect Earth Day and World Environment\nDay, with the idea of a “festival or season” used to\nmaintain the public’s enthusiasm for protecting the\nenvironment. The EPA is promoting a wide range\nof activities during the season including photograph\nand short film submissions, green points for green\ncomputers that are 17.4 inches across diagonally.”\nThe adjustments made to electric products including\ncoolers, heaters, and electric fans as well as IT\nproducts such as tablet computers and personal\ncomputers were done in conjunction with current\npoints of view regarding the elimination of waste\nproducts. The EPA appeals to people to give e-waste\nto recycling trucks that are a part of cleaning crews\nor other recycling enterprises. This is done to\nencourage others to become part of the recycling\nsystem and facilitate resource recycling.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Scope of Recycling Electric and Information Technology Products\nAdjusted from 1 July", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-4" }, { "no": "3761", "title": "Maximum Fines for Public and Private Premises in Violations of\nAir Pollution Control Act Raised", "preview": "Air\nMaximum Fines for Public and Private Premises in Violations of\nAir Pollution Control Act Raised\nThe Fine Determination Criteria and Fine Rates for Public and Private Premises that Violate the Air\nPollution Control Act (hereinafter referred to as the Act) ( 公私場所違反空氣污染防制法應處罰鍰額度\n裁罰準則) were first promulgated on 27 December 2000 and has undergone three revisions ever since. To\nmaintain the consistency of the regulations of the Air Pollution Control Act that was amended on 1 August\n2018, the criteria were revised again to raise the maximum and minimum limits of the fines.", "content": "Maximum Fines for Public and Private Premises in Violations of\nAir Pollution Control Act Raised\nThe Fine Determination Criteria and Fine Rates for Public and Private Premises that Violate the Air\nPollution Control Act (hereinafter referred to as the Act) ( 公私場所違反空氣污染防制法應處罰鍰額度\n裁罰準則) were first promulgated on 27 December 2000 and has undergone three revisions ever since. To\nmaintain the consistency of the regulations of the Air Pollution Control Act that was amended on 1 August\n2018, the criteria were revised again to raise the maximum and minimum limits of the fines.\nThe main points of the draft amendments to the\ncriteria are as follows:\n1. In order to comply with the regulated subject of\nthis criteria, the title of the draft will be revised. In\naddition, the articles of the authorization shall be\namended in accordance with the amendments to\nthis Act.\n2. Analysis laboratories will no longer be subject\nto the criteria. After the amendments, the EPA’s\nEnvironmental Analysis Laboratory will be in charge\nof the supervision, management and punishment of\nall analysis laboratories.\nmanagement system in vehicles. Moreover, the EPA\nis assisting competent authorities to lower the sales\ntax on new cars.\nWith the different incentive programs that car\nNew electric and information products are constantly\nbeing released with perhaps some components\nor product standards remaining the same. This\ncreates issues wherein responsible enterprises must\nmake assessments as they begin developing and\nevaluate the ability to recycle these products. In\norder to solve questions regarding the determination\nof responsibility, the EPA announced revisions to\n3. According to Article 86 of the Act, illegal gains\nfrom violations of the Act shall be confiscated.\nArticle 86 also added rules regarding the calculation\nmethod and confiscation of illegal gains.\n4. To keep the regulations consistent with the Act,\npenalties will be issued based on each violation\ncommitted instead of violations on consecutive days.\nAlso, the cost of the fines will depend upon the cost\nof the last fine issued.\n5. I f the violations are considered severe\ncircumstances as stipulated in Article 96 of the Act,\nheavy penalties shall have to be imposed.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Maximum Fines for Public and Private Premises in Violations of\nAir Pollution Control Act Raised", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-4" }, { "no": "3760", "title": "Amendments to Regulations Governing Subsidies for Replacing\nOld Heavy Diesel Vehicles Preannounced", "preview": "Air\nAmendments to Regulations Governing Subsidies for Replacing\nOld Heavy Diesel Vehicles Preannounced\nThe EPA preannounced draft amendments to the Regulations Governing Subsidies for Scrapping Large\nOld Diesel Vehicles ( 淘汰老舊大型柴油車補助辦法) on 8 March 2019. The purpose of the amendments\nis to encourage the replacement of large old diesel vehicles and further improve air quality by offering\nfinancial incentives with the newly adjusted subsidy regulations.", "content": "Amendments to Regulations Governing Subsidies for Replacing\nOld Heavy Diesel Vehicles Preannounced\nThe EPA preannounced draft amendments to the Regulations Governing Subsidies for Scrapping Large\nOld Diesel Vehicles ( 淘汰老舊大型柴油車補助辦法) on 8 March 2019. The purpose of the amendments\nis to encourage the replacement of large old diesel vehicles and further improve air quality by offering\nfinancial incentives with the newly adjusted subsidy regulations.\nTo improve air pollution caused by PM2.5 emissions\nfrom mobile sources, the EPA announced the\noriginal Regulations Governing Subsidies for\nScrapping Large Old Diesel Vehicles on 16 August\n2017. The regulations were formulated to accelerate\nthe phasing-out of large diesel vehicles categorized\nin Phase 1 or 2 of the vehicle emission standards.\nIn combination with other supporting promotion\nprograms, the EPA has seen significant results in\nthe progress of the elimination of old diesel vehicles.\nBy the end of January 2019, local environmental\nprotection bureaus had received a total of 16,490\nsubsidy applications for car replacement.\nAfter repeatedly reviewing the implementation\nperformance of the regulations, the EPA amended\nthe regulations to better utilize the limited resources\non people with needs of replacing their vehicles.\nThe amendments include an adjustment in\neligibility for application and amount of the subsidy,\nwhich will subsidize the replacement of heavyduty\ndiesel vehicles classified in Phases 1 to 3.\nHowever, Phases 1 and 2 heavy-duty diesel trucks\nare required to report the scrappage to the Motor\nVehicles Office and discard their old vehicles\nthrough legal recyclers before the application.\nFurthermore, car owners of Phases 1 and 2 heavyduty\ndiesel trucks can only purchase new cars or\nused cars that are Phase 3 or higher to qualify\nfor the subsidy. The amendments also extended\nthe application deadline of the subsidy from\n2019 to 2022. In addition, to protect the rights of\nthe residents who have already scrapped their\nvehicles according to the former regulations, the\namendments will still allow subsidy applications\nusing the old regulations by 31 May 2019.\nIn addition to providing subsidies for car replacement,\nthe EPA also intends to launch a variety of incentive\nprograms to support the subsidy program. The\nincentive programs include: offering credit guarantees\nor low-interest loans for car purchases, subsidizing\nthe installment of pollution prevention equipment,\nand subsidizing the maintenance and repair of fuel management system in vehicles. Moreover, the EPA\nis assisting competent authorities to lower the sales\ntax on new cars.\nWith the different incentive programs that car\nNew electric and information products are constantly\nbeing released with perhaps some components\nor product standards remaining the same. This\ncreates issues wherein responsible enterprises must\nmake assessments as they begin developing and\nevaluate the ability to recycle these products. In\norder to solve questions regarding the determination\nof responsibility, the EPA announced revisions to\n3. According to Article 86 of the Act, illegal gains\nfrom violations of the Act shall be confiscated.\nArticle 86 also added rules regarding the calculation\nmethod and confiscation of illegal gains.\n4. To keep the regulations consistent with the Act,\npenalties will be issued based on each violation\ncommitted instead of violations on consecutive days.\nAlso, the cost of the fines will depend upon the cost\nof the last fine issued.\n5. I f the violations are considered severe\ncircumstances as stipulated in Article 96 of the Act,\nheavy penalties shall have to be imposed.\nowners will be able to choose from based on their\nown needs, residents can take part in improving\nmobile source air pollution without making financial\nsacrifices.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Amendments to Regulations Governing Subsidies for Replacing\nOld Heavy Diesel Vehicles Preannounced", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-4" }, { "no": "3759", "title": "Hazardous Air Pollutant Emissions Standards for Stationary\nSources Preannounced", "preview": "Air\nHazardous Air Pollutant Emissions Standards for Stationary\nSources Preannounced\nThe EPA preannounced the Hazardous Air Pollutant Emissions Standards for Stationary Sources (draft) ( 固\n定污染源有害空氣污染物排放標準) for the second time on 27 March 2019. The purpose of the emissions\nstandards is to strengthen the emission control of hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) and to safeguard public\nhealth.", "content": "Hazardous Air Pollutant Emissions Standards for Stationary\nSources Preannounced\nThe EPA preannounced the Hazardous Air Pollutant Emissions Standards for Stationary Sources (draft) ( 固\n定污染源有害空氣污染物排放標準) for the second time on 27 March 2019. The purpose of the emissions\nstandards is to strengthen the emission control of hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) and to safeguard public\nhealth.\nTo reinforce HAP emission control and to protect\npublic health from the adverse effects posed\nby HAP exposure, the EPA has formulated the\nHazardous Air Pollutant Emissions Standards\nfor Stationary Sources. The emissions standards\nmachines (ARMs) in Kaohsiung City, a cooperating\nmodel for smart unmanned recycling stations in\nHsinchu City, and glass container recycling bins\nfor construction sites in Hsinchu County. Prizedrawing\nevents were organized to sort and check\ngarbage in Taitung County, and Kinmen County\nset up an electric exchange program in village and\nneighborhood recycling stations, while responsible\nenterprises in Chiayi County registered the amount\nof reserve recycling. Regular clearances are\nscheduled in Hualien County for specific wastes,\nand recycling competitions have been held in Yilan\nCounty, targeting waste agrochemical containers.\nThere were also competitions in Keelung City for\nwere designed mainly based on the current HAP\nemissions inventories and screening data in Taiwan\nwith integration of some existing regulations in the\nAir Pollution Control Act. Additionally, the EPA also\ntook account of the Stationary Pollution Source\nAir Pollutant Emissions Standards regarding\nthe stipulation of exhaust pipes and peripheral\nboundaries.\nThe EPA aims to protect public health by reducing\nthe HAP concentrations in the environment through\nthe implementation of the emissions standards.\nTherefore, the standards have been devised in\nconsideration of potential health risks and the\ncapacity of control equipment and technology\navailable in Taiwan. Through the tightened control\npolicies and the new emissions standards, the EPA\nplans to reduce the harmful effects of HAPs on both\nthe environment and human health.\nThe emissions standards include the stipulations\nconcerning the exhaust pipes and peripheral\nboundaries of a total of 72 HAPs, which were\nformulated based on the current Stationary Pollution\nSource Air Pollutant Emissions Standards ( 固\n定污染源空氣污染物排放標準). In response to\nthe different testing methods and technologies\nthat each HAP calls for, the emissions standards\nwill be implemented in three stages. Among the\n72 regulated HAPs, the EPA has established\ntesting methods for 50 of them and their\nemissions standards will take effect on the date\nof promulgation. According to the schedule of the\nEPA’s Environmental Analysis Laboratory for the\ndevelopment of new testing methods, the second\nstage will apply to the next 13 HAPs and will take\neffect on 1 January 2021, while the remaining nine\nHAPs of the third stage will take effect on 1 January\n2023.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Hazardous Air Pollutant Emissions Standards for Stationary\nSources Preannounced", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-4" }, { "no": "3758", "title": "Thirty-six Recycling Institutes Awarded for Excellent Performance", "preview": "Recycling\nThirty-six Recycling Institutes Awarded for Excellent Performance\nOn 29 March 2019, the EPA held an annual ceremony in Kaohsiung to award national enforcement\nagencies with top recycling results. Minister Tzi-Chin Chang was on site to present awards and express\nacknowledgement and praises to the 13 county and city environmental bureaus and 23 town halls that\nreceived awards in the forms of trophies and cash rewards.", "content": "Thirty-six Recycling Institutes Awarded for Excellent Performance\nOn 29 March 2019, the EPA held an annual ceremony in Kaohsiung to award national enforcement\nagencies with top recycling results. Minister Tzi-Chin Chang was on site to present awards and express\nacknowledgement and praises to the 13 county and city environmental bureaus and 23 town halls that\nreceived awards in the forms of trophies and cash rewards.\nThe national recycling rate reached 53.28% in\n2018, more than the 52.51% in 2017. Besides\nlocal environmental agencies’ recycling duties and\ncreative ideas, citizens’ participation also contributed\nto the outstanding performance, even drawing global\nattention.\nThe environmental bureaus of Taipei City, Taoyuan\nCity, Kaohsiung City, both Hsinchu City and County,\nYilan County, Taitung County, and Kinmen County\nreceived the golden award. Those in Tainan City,\nKeelung City, Miaoli County, Chiayi County, and\nHualien County received the silver award. Sanitation\nteams of 23 town halls were also honored.\nAlso, many examples display county and city\ngovernments’ efforts and creativity to promote\nrecycling, like incorporating schools on electronic\nappliance recycling in Taipei City and assisting\nlocal stores in rural Tainan to trade merchandise\nwith wastes that cannot be easily disposed of. In\nTaoyuan City, recycling competitions were held\nin high schools or above. Various installations or\nestablishments have included automatic recycling\nmachines (ARMs) in Kaohsiung City, a cooperating\nmodel for smart unmanned recycling stations in\nHsinchu City, and glass container recycling bins\nfor construction sites in Hsinchu County. Prizedrawing\nevents were organized to sort and check\ngarbage in Taitung County, and Kinmen County\nset up an electric exchange program in village and\nneighborhood recycling stations, while responsible\nenterprises in Chiayi County registered the amount\nof reserve recycling. Regular clearances are\nscheduled in Hualien County for specific wastes,\nand recycling competitions have been held in Yilan\nCounty, targeting waste agrochemical containers.\nThere were also competitions in Keelung City for\nwere designed mainly based on the current HAP\nemissions inventories and screening data in Taiwan\nwith integration of some existing regulations in the\nAir Pollution Control Act. Additionally, the EPA also\ntook account of the Stationary Pollution Source\ndesigning recycling board games. In Miaoli County,\ndoctors of Chinese medicine would even promote\nlocal village and neighborhood recycling stations\nwhile on their rounds of visits to rural regions.\nThe EPA noted that the combined efforts of county\nand city environmental bureaus and town halls on\ngarbage reduction and recycling have led to the\nnational recycling rate of 53.28% in 2018, compared\nwith the 5.87% in 1998. In addition, the amount of\nannual recycled wastes increased from 550,000\nmetric tons in 1998 to 4.77 million metric tons in\n2018. This is no doubt an excellent achievement\naccomplished by everyone.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Thirty-six Recycling Institutes Awarded for Excellent Performance", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-4" }, { "no": "3757", "title": "Registration Regulations Revised to Strengthen Control of\nChemical Substance Source Information", "preview": "Chemicals\nRegistration Regulations Revised to Strengthen Control of\nChemical Substance Source Information\nThe EPA announced the revised Regulations of New and Existing Chemical Substances Registration ( 新化\n學物質及既有化學物質資料登錄辦法), mandating submitting information of 106 existing chemical substances\nwithin two to three years for standard registration. Registrars are required to annually submit information of\nchemical substances according to ranges differentiated by substance amount. In this way, the EPA expects\nto effectively keep track of substances that have wider domestic flows and higher risk potentials but less\nknown. The enhanced information control will also strengthen the foundation of interministerial controls on\nrisks of chemical substances.", "content": "Registration Regulations Revised to Strengthen Control of\nChemical Substance Source Information\nThe EPA announced the revised Regulations of New and Existing Chemical Substances Registration ( 新化\n學物質及既有化學物質資料登錄辦法), mandating submitting information of 106 existing chemical substances\nwithin two to three years for standard registration. Registrars are required to annually submit information of\nchemical substances according to ranges differentiated by substance amount. In this way, the EPA expects\nto effectively keep track of substances that have wider domestic flows and higher risk potentials but less\nknown. The enhanced information control will also strengthen the foundation of interministerial controls on\nrisks of chemical substances.\nFormulated to improve information needed\nfor various authorities to manage chemical\nsubstances, the Regulations took effect on 11\nDecember 2014. The EPA proceeded with the\nrevision by looking at previous implementation\nexperiences, opinions continuously collected from\nstakeholders, and changes in international chemical\nsubstance registration system. References have\nalso been taken from the authorities’ need for\ninterdepartmental controls on chemical substances\nas well as the Regulations on New Chemical\nSubstances Registration ( 新化學物質登記管理辦\n法), established by the Ministry of Labor (MOL). The\ngoal is to avoid repeated registration and information\ncollection.\nThe EPA said that it has combined the unit\nresponsible for chemical substance registration\nwith the MOL and even further incorporated the\ntwo authorities’ relevant regulations in the revision.\nFor risks and exposure assessment information,\nregistration is mandatory with annual manufacturing\nor importing amount of ten metric tons, originally\n1,000 metric tons before revision, to better collect\nsource information of chemical substances. The\nannual registration period was adjusted to the period\nfrom April to September, same time when the MOL\nconducts chemical product report management, in\norder to lighten enterprises’ burdens.\nTo simplify procedures and increase convenience, the revised regulations specify that, in the first\nphase, registration must be submitted within six\nmonths after the annual amount of existing chemical\nsubstances reaches 100 kilograms. New regulations\ninclude that existing chemical substances must\napply for information protection and that information\nprotection length increases up to five years for\nregistration of small amounts of polymer of low\nconcern (PLC). These changes were made to\nmeet enterprises’ practical needs. With Documents\nreplaced with codes in registration and an appeal\nmechanism newly added, enterprises no longer\nneed to reapply and keep documents and also have\ngained an access to administrative remedy.\nThe EPA emphasized that a grace period would be\nprovided regarding the abovementioned regulations\nabout standard registration for existing chemical\nsubstances and annual amount reports. Registrars\nwill have time to adapt before the promulgation on\n1 January 2020. Promotions and meetings will be\nheld after the announcement. Manufacturers and\nimporters are urged to proceed with registration\naccordingly and submit information based on the\nmanufactured or imported amount. It includes\ninformation regarding manufacturing, importing,\nphysical and chemical nature, toxicity, exposure, risk\nassessment of chemical substances, as well as that\nspecified as mandatory by the central competent\nauthority.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Chemicals", "titlename": "Registration Regulations Revised to Strengthen Control of\nChemical Substance Source Information", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-4" }, { "no": "3756", "title": "Three Toxic Chemicals Added to Align with the Stockholm Convention", "preview": "Chemicals\nThree Toxic Chemicals Added to Align with the Stockholm Convention\nIn response to the new items added to the Stockholm Convention, the EPA announced on 6 March 2019,\nshort-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) to be listed as Class 1 toxic chemical substances. The EPA also\nrelisted decabromobiphenyl ether from currently listed control chemical substances as a Class 1 and Class 2\ntoxic chemical substance. In addition, the EPA now bans all use of hexachloro-1,3-butadiene in order to keep\nup with the latest international control trends.", "content": "Three Toxic Chemicals Added to Align with the Stockholm Convention\nIn response to the new items added to the Stockholm Convention, the EPA announced on 6 March 2019,\nshort-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) to be listed as Class 1 toxic chemical substances. The EPA also\nrelisted decabromobiphenyl ether from currently listed control chemical substances as a Class 1 and Class 2\ntoxic chemical substance. In addition, the EPA now bans all use of hexachloro-1,3-butadiene in order to keep\nup with the latest international control trends.\nThe EPA explained that SCCPs, decabromobiphenyl\nether, and hexachloro-1,3-butadiene are three\npersistent organic pollutants (POPs). POPs are\nsubstances that are slow to decompose in nature\nor have a long metabolic half-life inside a living\norganism, therefore posing dangers to human health\nand the ecosystem. The three substances have\nbeen put on Annex A (elimination) of the Stockholm\nConvention. Through the Convention, the United\nNations (UN) requires signatory nations to ban the\nuse or restrict the production of POPs unless the\nsubstance obtains a registration from the UN to be\nused for special purposes.\nThe EPA stated that SCCPs are primarily used\nas an additive and a plasticizer to manufacture\nconveyor belts in the natural and synthetic rubber\nindustry. Decabromobiphenyl ether is widely used\nin brominated flame retardant to inhibit burning of\norganic compounds and often used to manufacture\nelectronics, clothes, and furniture in order to lower\nproducts’ flammability. Hexachloro-1, 3-butadiene is\ncommonly found in solvents used in making elastic\nobjects as well as heat-transferring liquids.\nThe EPA has already initiated an investigation into\nthe domestic industrial uses of the abovementioned\nsubstances. SCCPs are the byproducts of\nchlorinated paraffin manufacturing and are primarily\nused in research, experiments, and education.\nDecabromobiphenyl ether has already been\ngradually eliminated internationally. As such, Taiwan\nis also reducing the usage of this substance. The\ninvestigation into hexachloro-1,3-butadiene has\nfound it to have no other purposes beyond research,\nexperimentation and education. Given this, the\ntightened control on hexachloro-1,3-butadiene will\nonly have a marginal effect on Taiwan’s industries.\nThe EPA emphasized that, after the announcement,\nenterprises transporting, manufacturing, importing,\nselling, using, storing, or handling the three\nsubstances should apply for approval and operate\naccording to relevant regulations. The purpose is to\ntrack the flow of these chemical substances.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Chemicals", "titlename": "Three Toxic Chemicals Added to Align with the Stockholm Convention", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-4" }, { "no": "3755", "title": "Enhancing Environmental Monitoring Capacity", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring\nEnhancing Environmental Monitoring Capacity\nDetailed and correct environmental monitoring information is the key foundation of promotion of various\nenvironmental policies as well as the reference for strategy formulation. Enhancement of environmental\nmonitoring capacity, currently implemented by the EPA, is a major part of the policy, “Sustainable Earth.” The\nactual measures fall under three categories: promoting the Internet of Things (IoT) of environmental quality\nsensors, strengthening air and water body quality monitoring information service, and expanding open data\nservice for environmental information integration.", "content": "Enhancing Environmental Monitoring Capacity\nDetailed and correct environmental monitoring information is the key foundation of promotion of various\nenvironmental policies as well as the reference for strategy formulation. Enhancement of environmental\nmonitoring capacity, currently implemented by the EPA, is a major part of the policy, “Sustainable Earth.” The\nactual measures fall under three categories: promoting the Internet of Things (IoT) of environmental quality\nsensors, strengthening air and water body quality monitoring information service, and expanding open data\nservice for environmental information integration.\nPolicy of enhancement of environmental monitoring\ncapacity is detailed below.\n1. Promoting environmental quality sensing IoT\n(1) The EPA aims to, from 2017 to 2020, install\n10,200 air quality sensing spots and 1,000 water\nquality sensors, establish a platform and system for\nsensor testing certification, and integrate systems of\nmonitoring stations and sensing spots. Other tasks\ninclude setting up a smart environmental monitoring\ndata center and a common application service\nand integration platform, and enhance the smart\noperation system for new-generation environmental\nlaw enforcement. The EPA hopes to achieve\nenvironmental protection optimization via IoT.\nTo date, a total of 700 sensors have been installed\nfor the air quality IoT in Taichung City, Guanin\nIndustrial Area in Taoyuan City, Yingge District in\nNew Taipei City, Dalinpu community in Kaohsiung,\netc. In 2018, 13 city\/county environmental bureaus\nwere asked to cooperate with the EPA on sensor\ninstallation, and by the end of 2018, 2,600 sensors\nhad been installed. The EPA will also cooperate\nwith 15 city\/county environmental bureaus to install\nsensors in over 4,000 spots by the end of 2019.\nMoreover, the EPA has been planning and setting\nup a center for certifying and testing sensing\ndevices in the environmental IoT. The part for testing\nPM2.5 sensing had been finished in 2018. It was\nannounced on 10 April that the Industrial Technology\nResearch Institute (ITRI) is commissioned to\nconduct function testing and certification for air\nquality sensing device.\nIn March 2019, the EPA approved cooperation\nprojects from 2019 to 2020 to install 4,000 air\nsensors jointly with local governments. Yilan\nCounty, Keelung City, New Taipei City, Taoyuan City,\nHsinchu County, Miaoli County, Chunghwa County,\nYunlin County, Chiayi County and City, Tainan City,\nKaohsiung City, and Pingtung County have been\nasked to proceed with sensor installation according\nto set plans.\n(2) Establishing an environmental monitoring data\ncenter\nThe EPA has finished setting up the infrastructure for\nthe environmental monitoring data center. It included\nmanaging multiple types of sensing equipment,\nsupporting multiple communication protocols,\nand establishing program interface, all for future\napplication and development. Until now, data of the\nEPA’s 700 sensing devices has been collected, and\nthat of 77 monitoring stations (both national and\nregional) continues to be transferred. It is hoped\nthat all information will be integrated in the IoT\nplatform to enable each application system to, with\nsubscription, display data in real time and develop\ninnovative applications across different fields. The\nservice, “Smart Environmental Management: Smart\nLaw Enforcement Application via Environmental\nIoT”, was one of the EPA’s achievements in\ninnovative environmental IoT applications. It even\nreceived from the Commuter Association the 2018\nSmart City Innovative Application Award.\n2. Strengthening air and water body quality\nmonitoring information service\nThe EPA has been maintaining its 77 air quality\nmonitoring stations to ensure normal operations and\nconducting manual PM2.5 monitoring in 31 stations.\nMonitoring data has over 96% of availability rate\nafter going through quality control and is displayed\nonline in real time. Every day there are three\nforecasts of air quality index for the coming three\ndays, and a warning mechanism is in place from\nSeptember to May to remind the public to take\nprecaution against offshore pollutants (dust and\nsmog from China). On the other hand, national\nair quality monitoring resources, such as stack\nemissions of pollution sources as well as air quality\nmonitoring in industrial areas, are integrated to\ndisclose information for public supervision.\nWater quality monitoring for water bodies like\nrivers, seas, reservoirs, groundwater, beaches,\netc., continues in 2018. Some 90,000 pieces of\nregular monitoring information will be newly added\nto water quality monitoring network for public inquiry\nand also put on the EPA’s Open Data Platform\nand Environmental Info Push App for valueadded\napplications. For better information service\nconcerning water-related recreational activities,\nwater quality monitoring was conducted three\ntimes at eight beaches during August 2018, with\nnewsletters issued, so that the public can watch out\nfor safety and health.\n3 . E x panding open d a t a s e r v i c e f o r\nenvironmental information integration\n(1) Integrating environmental resource information\nThe EPA conducted the “Environmental Resource\nDatabase Integration Plan”, developing diverse\nservice by combining environmental information on\natmosphere, water, earth, forests, and ecosystems.\nThe Plan received the 2016 Cloud IoT Innovation\nAward, presented by Vice President Chen Chien-\nJen, for its excellent application in the government\ncategory. With joint efforts of both the central and\nregional governments, 2,184 pieces of information\nwere exchanged and shared across different fields\nthrough data exchange systems between 2014 and\nSeptember 2018. Air quality impacts were studied\nand analyzed by using both environmental resource\ninformation and that in other institutes, like traffic\ndata, to increase applications. Also, the EPA has\nexpanded common sensing information platforms\nby setting up the i-Environment website to provide\nintegrated micro-information on the environment\nand taking in civilian-monitored real-time microinformation\non air quality. These social media and\nplatforms established by civilian makers include\nthe multi-source Location Aware Sensing System\n(LASS), focusing on public welfare, as well as data\ncollected from air boxes and open databases in\nmunicipalities, counties and cities. The public can\nnow access local environmental information with\nease. Since July 2018, all information mentioned\nabove has been combined with the EPA’s air quality\nsensing data so that integrated environmental\ninformation can be provided.\n(2) Improving the Open Data platform for\nenvironmental information\nIn accordance with the Open Data policy, 1,313\ntypes of information had been disclosed by\nSeptember 2018, with more than 300,000 views,\ncitations, and downloads every day on average and\nover 52 cases of civilian applications. Moreover, the\nEPA expedites environmental information availability,\nimproves quality of open data, and puts cloud\napplication models of information service in practice.\nOn the other hand, the EPA strives to increase\npeople’s r i g h t s to access environmental\ninformation by improving information disclosure\nand transparency. In the Listed Pollution Source\nData Search System, information registered by\nlisted pollution sources and concerning penalties is\nupdated continuously. More than 280,000 pieces of\ninformation on 70,000 listed enterprises is already\ndisclosed for public inquiry, and violations were\nadded in February 2018, followed by emissions of\ntoxic and chemical substances. Implementation\nof the Open Data policy will continue with regular\nrolling reviews of the EPA’s disclosed information\nand categories.\n(3) Improving the Environmental Info Push App\nThe launch of the Environmental Info Push App\nis an example of open data application. Real-time\nmonitoring information, historic data, and forecasts\ncan be viewed on charts and images. The App also\noffers notifications on air quality and sends out\nwarnings. By September 2018, more than 430,000\npeople have downloaded it, with daily peak usage\nof 20,000 people as the highest record, millions of\nviews every month, and average rating of over four\nstars. It has become the necessary environmental\ninformation service in users’ daily lives.\nThe EPA kept optimizing its convenient mobile\nservice applications in 2017 and brought forth the\nEnvironmental Info Push 2.2, which was chosen as\none of 100 innovative products during the 2017 IT\nMonth. The 3.0 version launched in February 2018\nadded hourly forecasts on air quality index for the\ncoming 12 hours by establishing a forecast model\nwith artificial intelligence algorithms and including\nmeteorological data. This way, users can choose\nthe most suitable hours and modes of transportation\nwhen planning outdoor activities. As a result, the\nEPA was honored with the Golden Graph Award\nfrom Taiwan Geographic Information Society in the\ncategory of application system.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "Enhancing Environmental Monitoring Capacity", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-4" }, { "no": "3754", "title": "Visit Chem Life to Gain New Chemical Knowledge", "preview": "Chemicals\nVisit Chem Life to Gain New Chemical Knowledge \nDo the dry goods that you purchased during Lunar New Year contain suspect chemicals? What does one need to know about environmental agents for cleaning? What chemicals are part and parcel of people’s daily lives? The EPA recommends that people visit its Facebook f a n p a g e C h e m L i f e t o l e a r n n e w t h i n g s a b o u t t h e c h e m i c a l s p e o p l e e n c o u n t e r e v e r y d a y .", "content": "Visit Chem Life to Gain New Chemical Knowledge \nDo the dry goods that you purchased during Lunar New Year contain suspect chemicals? What does one need to know about environmental agents for cleaning? What chemicals are part and parcel of people’s daily lives? The EPA recommends that people visit its Facebook f a n p a g e C h e m L i f e t o l e a r n n e w t h i n g s a b o u t t h e c h e m i c a l s p e o p l e e n c o u n t e r e v e r y d a y .\n \nThe EPA says that Chem Life is a great resource for the public to understand more about chemical products that people encounter daily as well as their safe use. For example, many people eat red tortoise cake ( 紅龜粿) during Lunar New Year, but what food dyes are used to produce that color? What about residual bleach (sulfur dioxide) that remains in dehydrated vegetables? Is there any formaldehyde in new clothes or in decorations people buy around Lunar New Year? The answers to all of these questions and more can be found on Chem Life. \nChemicals are ever-present in people’s lives. They certainly make life more convenient yet at the same time can raise concerns about potential negative impacts on the environment and health. Chem Life helps to answer these questions with easy-to-understand bite-size articles, which together with pictures and videos help make life safer and healthier", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Chemicals", "titlename": "Visit Chem Life to Gain New Chemical Knowledge", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-3" }, { "no": "3753", "title": "Chemicals Source Control to Safeguard Food Safety", "preview": "Chemicals\nChemicals Source Control to Safeguard Food Safety\nSince the launch of the Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau (TCSB) of the EPA in the end of 2016, the EPA focused on gradually strengthening the management of chemicals which are harmful to human health and the environment. Operation, controls, and flow tracking on toxic chemicals, chemical raw materials, and food additives are also strengthened. The EPA inspected over 3,000 chemical raw material enterprises in both 2017 and 2018, and declared 27 chemicals, including Sudan Red, as toxic chemical substances that are illegal to be used in food. Moreover, the EPA will continue close collaborations on tightened chemical substance management with the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) to prevent non-food grade chemicals from entering the food product chain systematically to safeguard food safety and citizens’ health.", "content": "Chemicals Source Control to Safeguard Food Safety\nSince the launch of the Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau (TCSB) of the EPA in the end of 2016, the EPA focused on gradually strengthening the management of chemicals which are harmful to human health and the environment. Operation, controls, and flow tracking on toxic chemicals, chemical raw materials, and food additives are also strengthened. The EPA inspected over 3,000 chemical raw material enterprises in both 2017 and 2018, and declared 27 chemicals, including Sudan Red, as toxic chemical substances that are illegal to be used in food. Moreover, the EPA will continue close collaborations on tightened chemical substance management with the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) to prevent non-food grade chemicals from entering the food product chain systematically to safeguard food safety and citizens’ health.\n \nThe EPA has experienced several occasions on which toxic chemicals were found in food products in the past, such as the Rhodamine B found in glutinous rice calls, metanil yellow and dimethyl yellow in dried tofu, maleic anhydride in starch, Sudan Red G in salted duck yolks for mooncakes, etc. Therefore, to prevent toxic chemical substances from contaminating, the EPA has divided the control measures in two categories: policy making and source control. \nTo regulate by laws and control at source, the EPA banned the use of 13 harmful chemical substances (e.g., Rhodamine B) in food on 26 September 2017. Companies that use these 13 substances in their products are stipulated to submit their operation reports regularly, clearly label all containers\/packaging and handling premises, prepare material safety data sheets (MSDS), and obtain approval documents.\nMoreover, the EPA declared on 28 June 2018 another 14 chemicals, including Sudan Red, as toxic chemical substances that are illegal to be used in food.\nCompanies that manufacture products containing these 14 substances shall start reporting operations from 1 January 2019. Additionally, all containers\/ packaging and handling premises have to be labeled and material safety sheets completed by 1 July 2019. Companies must also acquire approval documents by 1 January 2020, which will be reviewed. To ensure the management and tracking of the chemical substances, approval documents are not to be used by other parties. \nTo enhance the source control, the EPA inspected over 3,000 chemical raw material enterprises in both 2017 and 2018. During the inspection visits, the EPA also informed the companies of the “four musts” of chemical substance management for food safety, which include: separate storage, clear labeling, usage notification, and flow tracking. The EPA will continue to investigate more companies in 2019. Also, the EPA has been working with health and agricultural agencies to conduct joint inspections around special holidays and did not find any banned toxic chemicals in food products in 2018. \nThe EPA stressed that food safety managment is a collaboration between and carried out by the central and regional governments. They are in charge of inspecting enterprises’ management of toxic chemicals, providing assistance on voluntary chemical management, food enterprise registration, random inspections for labels of food additive products, and food additive management. Besides re-inspections of chemical raw material suppliers in 2018, the 2018 Egg Farmers’ Chemical Substances Self-Management Improving Plan was also implemented. Instruction on four principles for farm chemical substance controls were given as well, namely: clarifying origins, applying chemicals correctly, using chemicals safely, and storage management. \nThe EPA emphasized its determination to continue close collaborations with MOHW on tightened chemical substance management. Operation, controls, and flow tracking of toxic chemicals, chemical raw materials, and food additives are also strengthened. If discovered, all illegal operations and additions will be punished in accordance with the Toxic and Concerned Chemical Substances Control Act ( 毒性及關注化學物質管理法) and the Act Governing Food Safety and Sanitation ( 食品安全衛生管理法).", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Chemicals", "titlename": "Chemicals Source Control to Safeguard Food Safety", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-3" }, { "no": "3752", "title": "Draft Revisions of the Toxic Chemical Substances Handling Reward Regulations Preannounced", "preview": "Chemicals\nDraft Revisions of the Toxic Chemical Substances Handling Reward Regulations Preannounced\nIn response to the revisions of the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act (毒性及關注化學物質管理法), the EPA has drafted a revision of the Toxic Chemical Substances Handling Reward Regulations (毒性化學物質運作獎勵辦法).", "content": "Draft Revisions of the Toxic Chemical Substances Handling Reward Regulations Preannounced\nIn response to the revisions of the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act (毒性及關注化學物質管理法), the EPA has drafted a revision of the Toxic Chemical Substances Handling Reward Regulations (毒性化學物質運作獎勵辦法).\n \nThe EPA stated that these revisions are in line with global trends related to sustainable chemistry. The revisions have expanded the qualifications for candidates and created a more comprehensive way of selecting candidates. Below are the key points of the revisions. \n1. Aligning with the modifications to the Act’s name and authorization, revisions have been made to both the Regulation’s title and content.\n2. In response to global trends in “sustainable chemistry,” the revisions reward domestic scholars who are involved in research and development and promote sustainable chemistry. Qualifications for candidates have been expanded.\n3. Qualifications for signing up to be a candidate are amended.\n4. Processing time for rewards and processes for selecting candidates are revised.\n5. Regulations regarding the selection committee have been amended.\n6. Revisions have been made concerning measures for rewards, with restrictions regarding second-time recipients added.\n7. Revisions are made concerning handling of violations.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Chemicals", "titlename": "Draft Revisions of the Toxic Chemical Substances Handling Reward Regulations Preannounced", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-3" }, { "no": "3751", "title": "Containment of African Swine Fever Takes No Holiday – Pig Farm Inspections During Lunar New Year", "preview": "Water\nContainment of African Swine Fever Takes No Holiday – Pig Farm Inspections During Lunar New Year \nAfrican swine fever prevention efforts continued through the holidays. The EPA made announcements during Lunar New Year to the 736 pig farms using kitchen-scrap-based pigswill that have passed inspection for reuse. Farmers were called upon to improve self-regulation and ensure that all pig feed made from kitchen waste is first heated to 90 degrees Celsius for at least one hour prior to use. Additionally, three inspection teams from the EPA collected samples of pigswill from 216 pig farms that have yet to pass the government’s inspection to reuse food scraps as feed. Subtracting farms where the owners were not present as well as those pig farms that have ceased operations, 174 remained for inspection. Of those, 34 were fined as per the Waste Disposal Act ( 廢棄物清理法).", "content": "Containment of African Swine Fever Takes No Holiday – Pig Farm Inspections During Lunar New Year \nAfrican swine fever prevention efforts continued through the holidays. The EPA made announcements during Lunar New Year to the 736 pig farms using kitchen-scrap-based pigswill that have passed inspection for reuse. Farmers were called upon to improve self-regulation and ensure that all pig feed made from kitchen waste is first heated to 90 degrees Celsius for at least one hour prior to use. Additionally, three inspection teams from the EPA collected samples of pigswill from 216 pig farms that have yet to pass the government’s inspection to reuse food scraps as feed. Subtracting farms where the owners were not present as well as those pig farms that have ceased operations, 174 remained for inspection. Of those, 34 were fined as per the Waste Disposal Act ( 廢棄物清理法).\nThe EPA indicated that among the 34 pig farms found to be operating illegally, the violations included issues such as “using kitchen-scrap pigswill without government permission for reuse,” “not following regulations for recording the sources and amount of kitchen scraps collected for pigswill,” and other similar violations. Subsequently, local environmental protection bureaus will process fines in accordance with the law. The EPA conducted inspections of pig farms that had 20 or more head of pigs and determined that 30 of the farms were not properly registered. The Council of Agriculture (COA) will handle these violations based on the Animal Husbandry Act ( 畜牧法) in order to create a complete system to prevent outbreaks. \nAfter Lunar New Year, epidemic prevention units from county and city governments, in conjunction with the agricultural and environmental protection units, continued to conduct joint investigations to further tighten and suppress illegal activity. Pig farms using kitchen scraps without a reuse permission will be guided by the COA to either switch to pig feed or cease pig farming by 31 Mar 2019. This is in addition to being reported to authorities. At the same time, the EPA will continue to tighten regulations on the 736 pig farms that have been approved to use kitchen scraps for pigswill. This is done to ensure that regulations are followed for properly heating the pigswill before dispensing it to pigs. \nThe EPA emphasized that it would continue to put full effort into preventing an outbreak of the African swine fever. Besides encouraging people to drain liquid out of kitchen scraps, sort properly and avoid wasting food, the EPA asks hog farms using kitchen-scrap-based pigswill to follow regulations by heating food to a high temperature before feeding it to their pigs.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Containment of African Swine Fever Takes No Holiday – Pig Farm Inspections During Lunar New Year", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-3" }, { "no": "3750", "title": "Implementation Results on Heavy Metal Control of Irrigation Water Sources", "preview": "Water\nImplementation Results on Heavy Metal Control of Irrigation Water Sources \nTo improve the quality of irrigation water sources, the EPA began assisting Taoyuan City, Changhua County and Taichung City in implementing total quantity effluent control for specific agricultural lands from 2015. By the end of 2018, a total of nine cities\/counties had completed the establishment of seven total quantity control zones and tightened the effluent standards in five of them. The control zones and standards mainly focus on heavy metals that have serious effects on human health.", "content": "Implementation Results on Heavy Metal Control of Irrigation Water Sources \nTo improve the quality of irrigation water sources, the EPA began assisting Taoyuan City, Changhua County and Taichung City in implementing total quantity effluent control for specific agricultural lands from 2015. By the end of 2018, a total of nine cities\/counties had completed the establishment of seven total quantity control zones and tightened the effluent standards in five of them. The control zones and standards mainly focus on heavy metals that have serious effects on human health.\nFood safety has been a major concern to the general public in Taiwan. Since farmlands lacked independent irrigation and drainage canals in the past, irrigation water sources were polluted by the excessive levels of heavy metals in wastewater discharged from nearby factories. Because of the heavy metals accumulated in the soil, some rice has been found to be contaminated by an excessive amount of heavy metals, such as cadmium and copper. Heavy metal pollution in farmlands has affected Taiwan’s agricultural and economic development and environmental resources, and posed serious threats to human health. \nThe Council o f A g r i c u l t u r e (COA) s t a r t e d implementing the Irrigation Water Quality Protection Plan on 31 October 2013, which restricts in stages different types of enterprises from discharging wastewater to irrigation systems. Meanwhile, the EPA commenced to formulate improvement measures for irrigation water quality, which mainly target contaminated rivers, drainage systems and irrigation canals. The measures aim to cut down pollution at its source and the key focus includes: assisting local governments in designating total quantity effluent control zones, tightening industrial effluent standards, and imposing heavier fines for violations of the Water Pollution Control Act. \nAfter establishing total quantity control zones, establishment of new enterprises that discharge heavy metals will be prohibited in areas that are classified as Category 1 Total Quantity Effluent Control Zone. For existing enterprises, discharge standards will become stricter. Furthermore, local environmental protection bureaus enhanced effluent inspections and sampling frequency by establishing more water quality monitoring stations. In addition, to reduce effluent discharge from existing enterprises and prevent future pollution, local environmental protection bureaus also supervised controlled enterprises to improve their wastewater treatment capacity and cut down wastewater effluent. Assistance was also provided for the changing of discharge canals and for relocation to industrial parks for integrated management. \nIn addition to appointing total quantity control zones and tightening effluent standards, the EPA also revised the Effluent Standards on 25 December 2017. The revisions tightened the maximum values of nine types of heavy metals (including copper and lead) in the effluent discharged by specific enterprises and sewage systems. Moreover, if enterprises commit serious violations or have been ordered to suspend operations, their discharge permits will be revoked and they will not be granted one in the next three years, which is in effect termination of their businesses. \nAfter total quantity effluent control zones were established in Taoyuan City, Changhua County and Taichung City in 2016, three of the control zones achieved a passing rate of 99% on the copper concentration in irrigation water in 2018. The results showed that irrigation water quality has improved significantly after the establishment of the control zones (passing rate of Shinjie River\/Puhsin River and Dongsi Second and Third Ditches in 2010 were 85% and 67%, respectively). \nTo further improve irrigation water quality, the EPA will continue implementing total quantity control and conduct rolling reviews on control measures and reduction progress. The EPA will also work with the COA, local environmental protection bureaus and the Department of Irrigation and Engineering to safeguard Taiwan’s farmlands and the safety of agricultural products.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Implementation Results on Heavy Metal Control of Irrigation Water Sources", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-3" }, { "no": "3749", "title": "Raising Public Awareness in Plastic Reduction", "preview": "", "content": "Raising Public Awareness in Plastic Reduction \nPlastic reduction was a highly discussed and focused environmental topic in 2018. Starting from January 2018, the EPA started banning seven more industries, e.g., beverage stores and bakeries, from providing their customers with free plastic bags. Furthermore, in June 2018, the EPA preannounced the policy that forbids four types of premises to offer single-use plastic straws for dine-in customers. The plastic reduction policies have gained so much popularity and support among the public that sales of ecofriendly products, such as reusable straws, beverage holders and portable tableware, have doubled compared to 2017.\nMarine plastic pollution has gained global attention in recent years. In an effort to tackle the crisis of ocean plastic, the EPA established the Marine Waste Management Platform with NGOs in 2017, and together they announced the Action Plan of Marine Debris Governance in Taiwan in February 2018. Based on past experiences of coastline cleanups, the EPA has found single-use plastics to be the most common waste collected at beaches. Therefore, to reduce plastic pollution at the source, the EPA has been gradually banning single-use plastics, such as disposable plastic beverage cups and straws. The EPA has also been promoting green alternatives, such as reusable shopping bags and portable tableware. Through these changes, the EPA aims to encourage manufacturers to produce environmentally friendly products and to assist the general public to reduce their plastic footprint in their daily lives. \nThe EPA has three tips for people to reduce plastic waste in their daily lives: \n1. Bring your own reusable products. Prepare your own tableware when you eat out is not only better for the environment but also more hygienic. Carry reusable fabric shopping bags as they are more durable and less likely to rip or break during use. \n2. Try to extend the life of your reusable products as much as possible. \n3. Think twice before using single-use plastic and try to find green alternatives or use biodegradable ones. \nIn addition to plastic bags and disposable tableware, packaging also plays a big part in plastic pollution. The EPA therefore recommends avoiding purchasing over-packaged products while gift shopping for Lunar New Year to help reduce waste at its source. The EPA also encourages the public to take part in waste reduction by separating waste by the material categories (recyclable resources, ordinary refuse, and food waste).", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Raising Public Awareness in Plastic Reduction", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-3" }, { "no": "3748", "title": "Draft Revisions of Two Bylaws of the Air Pollution Control Act Preannounced", "preview": "Air\nDraft Revisions of Two Bylaws of the Air Pollution Control Act Preannounced \nOn 18 February 2019, the EPA formulated and announced draft of the Stationary Sources Management Information Disclosure and Trade Secrets Review Regulations ( 固定污染源管理資訊公開及工商機密審查辦法) and draft revision of the Establishment and Management Regulations Concerning Dedicated Units or Personnel for Air Pollution Control ( 空氣污染防制專責單位或人員設置及管理辦法). It was based on the revision of Article 35 of the Air Pollution Control Act ( 空氣污染防制法), announced on 1 August 2018. The aim is to improve air quality and safeguard public health.", "content": "Draft Revisions of Two Bylaws of the Air Pollution Control Act Preannounced \nOn 18 February 2019, the EPA formulated and announced draft of the Stationary Sources Management Information Disclosure and Trade Secrets Review Regulations ( 固定污染源管理資訊公開及工商機密審查辦法) and draft revision of the Establishment and Management Regulations Concerning Dedicated Units or Personnel for Air Pollution Control ( 空氣污染防制專責單位或人員設置及管理辦法). It was based on the revision of Article 35 of the Air Pollution Control Act ( 空氣污染防制法), announced on 1 August 2018. The aim is to improve air quality and safeguard public health.\n \nThe EPA stated that certain information has to be disclosed on EPA-designated websites based on Articles 35 and 24 of the Air Pollution Control Act (the Act). Said information includes permits for establishing and operating stationary sources, fuel use permits, data that is to be registered according to the Act, data of designated personnel and environmental testing institutes, etc. Contents involving national defense or trade secrets are not to be disclosed. The measure hopes to achieve disclosure of stationary source control data, further public participation, form consensus on pollution control, and encourage public supervision. It enables public and private venues to follow relevant regulations to assume their obligations and corporate social responsibilities and fully practice what is legally required. \nThere are eight articles in the draft of the Stationary Sources Management Information Disclosure and Trade Secrets Review Regulations. The contents specify data to be disclosed, application procedure to keep trade secrets confidential, and review methods to achieve information disclosure and participation in public affairs while ensuring necessary confidentiality of trade secrets. \nThe draft revision of the Establishment and Management Regulations Concerning Dedicated Units or Personnel for Air Pollution Control mainly involves newly adding regulations concerning establishment of dedicated health risk evaluation personnel. Health risk prevention and management can be implemented with personnel in place, which in turn will improve air quality and safeguard citizens’ health. The EPA noted that EPA-designated public and private venues are required by existing regulations to set up dedicated units or personnel for air pollution control to ensure proper operations of air pollution control or monitoring equipment. During the process of amending the Act, new regulations were added, requiring air pollutant-emitting public and private venues, which have been called out by the EPA, to have dedicated personnel who evaluate and manage health risks concerning air pollution emission. The aim is to lower pollutants’ potential risks and harms to human health to further safeguard public health. \nThe EPA stated that, once a person has become qualified after training, he or she can concurrently hold a position as health risk evaluation personnel and as existing personnel managing air pollution or other types of pollution (water, waste, and toxic matters). The revision will not have severe impacts on enterprises.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Draft Revisions of Two Bylaws of the Air Pollution Control Act Preannounced", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-3" }, { "no": "3747", "title": "Assisting Local Authorities on Waste Oil Pollution in Tiezhen Mountain Mine in Miaoli", "preview": "Water\nAssisting Local Authorities on Waste Oil Pollution in Tiezhen Mountain Mine in Miaoli \nThe pollution incident that occurred in Tiezhen Mountain Mine in Tongxiao, Miaoli was due to leakage of wastewater, a byproduct from a CPC-owned natural gas production site. On 4 March 2019, the Miaoli Environmental Protection Bureau (EPB) conducted onsite investigation and order CPC to commence emergency response measures according to the relevant regulations. Besides draining wastewater and setting up oil fences, CPC also convened a meeting on that day and promised to implement emergency response measures to stop the pollution from spreading and also provide the locals with alternative water sources. The EPA sent staff to oversee the local EPB on its investigation for the pollution incident as well as instruct CPC to take up all the cleanup responsibilities.", "content": "Assisting Local Authorities on Waste Oil Pollution in Tiezhen Mountain Mine in Miaoli \nThe pollution incident that occurred in Tiezhen Mountain Mine in Tongxiao, Miaoli was due to leakage of wastewater, a byproduct from a CPC-owned natural gas production site. On 4 March 2019, the Miaoli Environmental Protection Bureau (EPB) conducted onsite investigation and order CPC to commence emergency response measures according to the relevant regulations. Besides draining wastewater and setting up oil fences, CPC also convened a meeting on that day and promised to implement emergency response measures to stop the pollution from spreading and also provide the locals with alternative water sources. The EPA sent staff to oversee the local EPB on its investigation for the pollution incident as well as instruct CPC to take up all the cleanup responsibilities.\nThe EPA noted that the incident in the CPC-owned Tiezhen Mountain Mine was due to wastewater, a by product from the natural gas production process, leaking out of rusted and cracked pipes. The leaked \nwastewater has a low content of light crude oil, which is more volatile. After onsite investigation, the Miaoli EPB first estimated that 5,000 liters of wastewater were leaked and concluded that there was no more leakage onsite. Other than draining the wastewater and setting up oil fences, CPC also built an overflow protection dike and continued draining inside the plant. It has been instructed to investigate the pollution scale in the aftermath. Moreover, the EPB set up a monitoring well on 6, 7 and 11 March to keep an eye on the pollution status. \nThe EPA emphasized that, if CPC is found to have not notified the authorities within three hours after the incident, CPC would be fined between NT$10,000 and NT$6 million based on Article 28 of the Water Pollution Control Act ( 水污染防制法). CPC is also required by Articles 7 and 15 to carry out emergency response measures and provide alternative water sources. If the incident led to soil and groundwater pollution, a fine with a maximum of NT$750,000 will be issued while the site will be designated as polluted for remediation. Moreover, the EPA urged factories still in operations to regularly check and maintain pipelines and equipment to prevent environmental pollution.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Assisting Local Authorities on Waste Oil Pollution in Tiezhen Mountain Mine in Miaoli", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-3" }, { "no": "3746", "title": "Promotion of Reutilization of Livestock Waste Sediment and Fluid", "preview": "Inspection\nPromotion of Reutilization of Livestock Waste Sediment and Fluid \nTo reach various livestock industry environmental goals, such as improving river quality, air quality, and circular economy objectives, the EPA has been actively promoting the use of sediment and fluid from livestock manure for farmland fertilization. Several annual goals have been achieved from 2016 to the end of 2018. They include permission obtained from 350 farms to use manure as fertilizer, with an annual amount of 1.5 million metric tons, and a 5% reutilization rate for livestock industry sediment and fluid.", "content": "Promotion of Reutilization of Livestock Waste Sediment and Fluid \nTo reach various livestock industry environmental goals, such as improving river quality, air quality, and circular economy objectives, the EPA has been actively promoting the use of sediment and fluid from livestock manure for farmland fertilization. Several annual goals have been achieved from 2016 to the end of 2018. They include permission obtained from 350 farms to use manure as fertilizer, with an annual amount of 1.5 million metric tons, and a 5% reutilization rate for livestock industry sediment and fluid.\n\n \nContaining a high level of organic matters, nitrogen, and phosphorus, livestock manure is well-suited as a fertilizer for crops. Sediment and fluid derived from anaerobic fermentation can be reutilized to fertilize farmland. Otherwise, manure discharged into rivers becomes misplaced resources. In 2015, the EPA began amending relevant regulations to formulate the legal base for the use of livestock waste sediment and fluid as farmland fertilizer. \nEvaluation and revisions on a rolling basis to set up reutilization treatment goals \n1. Post-revision planning and implementation \nFor relevant regulations, the EPA revised the Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations ( 水污染防治措施及檢測申報管理辦法) on 24 November 2015. Ten articles were added specifically as the legal base for use of livestock waste sediment and fluid for farmland fertilization. Other amendments announced on 28 October 2016 include broadening the substances eligible for reutilization, simplifying processes by cutting test items from 19 down to 11, and making revisions to allow more flexibility of management. Meanwhile, evaluations were carried out consistently on a rolling basis. \nA target has been set for the ratio of livestock industry wastewater treated for reutilization, in order to expedite implementation as well as expand the promotion of livestock manure reutilization. On 27 December 2017, the EPA announced the amended Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations. At least 10% of the livestock industry’s total wastewater is to be treated for reutilization. This entails reusing livestock waste sediment and fluid as farmland fertilizer, based on the Regulations Governing the Use of Recycled Agricultural Wastes ( 農業事業廢棄物再?用管?辦法). It also allows use for crop irrigation when livestock waste sediment and fluid meet the Effluent Standards ( 放?水標準). For existing pig farms with 2,000 pigs or more, the ratio of wastewater treatment is to be 5% within five years and 10% within 10 years. For farms with 20 to 2,000 pigs, the ratio is to be 5% within 8 years and 10% in 12 years. \nLivestock waste sediment and fluid reutilization goals attained \nThe EPA has been actively promoting the use of livestock waste sediment and fluid for farmland fertilization. From 2016 to 31 December 2018, permission has been obtained from a total of 490 livestock farms to use livestock waste sediment and fluid as farmland fertilizer. A total of 1.61 million tons of fertilizer was applied, for a reutilization ratio of 5.58%. These results have surpassed the yearly goals set for 2018, which were to obtain permission from 350 livestock farms, apply 1.5 million metric tons of fertilizer, and reach 5% reutilization. \nBesides the use of livestock waste sediment and fluid as farmland fertilizer, livestock manure reutilization efforts also resulted in waste reuse in 74 agricultural enterprise cases, while there were 49 cases of \nsediment and fluid compliant with the Effluent Standards used for crop irrigation. Combining the three reutilization methods above, 613 farms adopted manure reutilization practices, 1,933 hectares of farmland had reutilized resources applied on them, and 338 tons of treated wastewater were used for irrigation. Meanwhile, 20,803 metric tons of organic pollutants were reduced for the year, equivalent to the amount of pollution processed by 380 gravel contact oxidation treatment plants with a daily capacity of 10,000 tons, whose total construction costs would be approximately NT$38 billion. The livestock waste sediment and fluid used as fertilizers contained 632 metric tons of nitrogen, equivalent to 97,437 bags of Taifer’s #5 Organic Compound Fertilizer. \nThrough manure reutilization, the livestock industry can save NT$150 million in utility costs for aeration treatment for phase three wastewater treatment and NT$18.95 million in water pollution prevention costs. Farmers can save NT$28.62 million in fertilizer costs. Additionally, rivers get cleaned up and odors are reduced. Stakeholders, participants, and the environment all benefit. \nPromotion conducted via demonstrations in five townships in 2019 \nTo promote reutilization of livestock manure, the EPA began a new project in 2018, choosing Wanluan in Pingtung and Mailiao in Yunlin--both with a high concentration of livestock industry, as demonstration townships. As many as 86 visits were paid to local livestock enterprises, production and marketing cooperatives, or relevant institutes, and eight discussions were held with local key figures. Via the above, the EPA has highlighted this matter to enterprisers and asked that they comply with the policy in order to increase the reutilization ratio in the demonstration townships. \nBy the end of December 2018, the EPA had assisted 11 farms in Wanluan in reutilization for farmland fertilization or applying to use effluent in plant irrigation, aside from the existing nine farms granting permissions in reutilization for farmland fertilization or plant irrigation with effluent. In Mailiao, 10 farms have newly become eligible for reutilization, accumulating to 12 eligible farms in total. With these initial results, the EPA will expand the demonstration scale by increasing up to five townships, hoping to further raise the awareness of resource reutilization. and irrigation vehicles and farmland s t o r a g e t a n k s f o r more f l e x i b l e irrigation \nSmall-scale farms lack wastewater treatment technology and manpower. In light of that, the EPA has been subsidizing local governments to set up reutilization facilities to treat the manure in these farms, as well as assist large farms to help smaller ones or centralize manure treatment. So far local governments have carried out six projects with subsidies, collecting and transporting manure of 45,232 animals from 21 farms with 75% reutilization rate. Implementation reached 40% in Hualien County and Taoyuan City and 20% for the two projects in Pingtung County. And Yunlin County is in the process of contract signing for its two projects. \nTo help establish irrigation systems that have more flexible operation, the EPA has subsidized local governments to purchase manure-collecting and transporting vehicles, irrigation vehicles or machinery, and farmland storage tanks. Until now Kaohsiung City, Taichung City, Yunlin County, Pingtung County, and Hualien County have been approved for subsidies, able to purchase 23 vehicles for collecting and transporting manure and irrigation as well as 67 farmland storage tanks. \nMoreover, an online platform was enhanced in 2018 to meet the needs of farms and ranches by providing local governments’ current status on promoting reutilization in 2018. Both ranchers and farmers can also enter the online platform to register their own data on sediment and fluid production and farmland irrigation, enabling local governments to help coordinate and match potential suppliers and those in need of irrigation (http:\/\/epafarm.dsmynas.net\/farm\/ index.php). \nContinual supply of future incentives, subsidies and services \nIn the future, the EPA will continue its efforts in encouraging more livestock enterprises to participate in manure reutilization with more incentives, subsidies, and services. They include assisting local governments or commissioning pig farmers’ associations to hold seminars and visiting tours. Farmers will be assisted to test contents in sediment and fluid as well as soil and groundwater quality, and match farmlands potentially in need of irrigations, and apply for reutilization projects. Subsidies will be provided to large farms to help smaller ones, for centralized collecting and treatment, and for purchase of collecting and transporting vehicles, irrigating vehicles or machinery, and farmland storage tanks. Existing measures like demonstration townships will also continue to be carried out. \nFor any questions concerning projects of sediment and fluid reutilization, enterprises are welcomed to inquire local environmental protection bureaus or go to the EPA’s Water Quality Protection Webpage (https:\/\/water.epa.gov.tw\/Page1_3.aspx).", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Inspection", "titlename": "Promotion of Reutilization of Livestock Waste Sediment and Fluid", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-3" }, { "no": "3745", "title": "EPA-Prosecutor Office-Police Joint Investigation Results in Seizure of Hidden Urban Waste", "preview": "Inspection\nEPA-Prosecutor Office-Police Joint Investigation Results in Seizure of Hidden Urban Waste", "content": "EPA-Prosecutor Office-Police Joint Investigation Results in Seizure of Hidden Urban Waste\nAfter a three-month period of monitoring and gathering\nevidence, the EPA in conjunction with the Shihlin District\nProsecutor Office, the Seventh Special Police Corps,\nand the Taipei City Environmental Protection Bureau,\nlegally seized the property of Hong X Mixed Construction\nResource Classification and Disposal Site. The enterprise,under the disguise of a legal site, illegally stored a large\nvolume of construction waste near an incinerator in the\nBeitou area. The suspect is alleged to have violated\nArticle 46 of the Waste Disposal Act ( 廢棄物清理法) and\nwill be prosecuted by the Shihlin Prosecutor Office.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Inspection", "titlename": "EPA-Prosecutor Office-Police Joint Investigation Results in Seizure of Hidden Urban Waste", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-2" }, { "no": "3744", "title": "Regulations for Establishment and Supervision of Environmental Protection Foundations Announced", "preview": "General policy\nRegulations for Establishment and Supervision of Environmental Protection Foundations Announced", "content": "Regulations for Establishment and Supervision of Environmental Protection Foundations Announced\n\nBased on the Foundations Act ( 財團法人法) that went into effect on 1 February 2019, the EPA progressively completed formulation of further bylaws relevant to such organizations. Among these is the Regulations for Establishment and Supervision of Environmental Protection Foundations ( 環境保護財團法人設立許可及監督辦法) that was announced on 25 January 2019 to allow for the regulation of foundations. The Regulations \nallow foundations and individuals covered by them to gain a full understanding of and abide by the standards and processes for establishing a foundation. The key points of the Regulations are as follows: \n1. The basis of the stipulations are derived from the Foundations Act. \n2. The definition of environmental foundations and the amount of assets when applying to establish one. \n3. Regulations for foundations’ investments and limitations on providing grants. \n4. Regulations on processes for internal controls and audit systems for foundations that fit certain qualifications. \n5. Electronic filing and processing. \n6. Selection of board directors and the calculation of ratios for foundations receiving funding from public juristic persons.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General policy", "titlename": "Regulations for Establishment and Supervision of Environmental Protection Foundations Announced", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-2" }, { "no": "3743", "title": "Regulations Governing Incentives for Energy Efficiency Compliance Standards Amended", "preview": "Climate Change\nRegulations Governing Incentives for Energy Efficiency Compliance Standards Amended \nThe EPA announced amendments to some articles of the Regulations Governing Incentives for Energy Efficiency Compliance Standards ( 溫室氣體排放源符合效能標準獎勵辦法) on 11 January 2019. The amendments include: revising the conditions in which incentive applications become ineligible, removing the 12-month period requirement, and adding the deadline of incentive applications for the reduction measures implemented before the Greenhouse Gas Emission Performance Standards take effect.", "content": "Regulations Governing Incentives for Energy Efficiency Compliance Standards Amended \nThe EPA announced amendments to some articles of the Regulations Governing Incentives for Energy Efficiency Compliance Standards ( 溫室氣體排放源符合效能標準獎勵辦法) on 11 January 2019. The amendments include: revising the conditions in which incentive applications become ineligible, removing the 12-month period requirement, and adding the deadline of incentive applications for the reduction measures implemented before the Greenhouse Gas Emission Performance Standards take effect.\nThe amendments mainly focus on GHG mitigation measures that comply with energy efficiency standards and have been implemented after 2015. After the mitigation is verified, enterprises may apply for emission allowances from the central competent authority. To encourage enterprises to step up carbon reduction before the implementation of cap control, the EPA promulgated the regulations on 15 March 2017. In response to the formulation of the Greenhouse Gas Emission Performance Standards ( 溫室氣體排放源效能標準), the calculation method for incentives has been changed and is now based on the total emission for an enterprise. Therefore, enterprises that fail to perform GHG reduction measures due to permanent or temporary close-down and suspension are disqualified from incentive applications. In consideration of the timeliness of reduction measures, the EPA has removed the requirement that only applications with at least 12 months of mitigation time would be accepted. Furthermore, the amendments stipulate that incentive applications for reduction measures performed before implementation of the Greenhouse Gas Emission Performance Standards are to be submitted by the end of October 2019. With the amendments, the EPA aims to improve execution of the GHG reduction policies and to prevent false issuance of incentives.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Regulations Governing Incentives for Energy Efficiency Compliance Standards Amended", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-2" }, { "no": "3742", "title": "Draft of Revisions to Air Pollution Control Act Enforcement Rules Preannounced", "preview": "Air\nDraft of Revisions to Air Pollution Control Act Enforcement Rules Preannounced \nThe EPA drafted revisions to the Air Pollution Control Act Enforcement Rules (空氣污染防制法施行細則) (hereinafter referred to as Enforcement Rules) on 31 January 2019, with amendments made to the Air Pollution Control Act (空氣污染防制法) on 1 August 2018. Revisions to the Enforcement Rules provide further explanations and assist competent authorities in promoting and implementing these regulations.", "content": "Draft of Revisions to Air Pollution Control Act Enforcement Rules Preannounced \nThe EPA drafted revisions to the Air Pollution Control Act Enforcement Rules (空氣污染防制法施行細則) (hereinafter referred to as Enforcement Rules) on 31 January 2019, with amendments made to the Air Pollution Control Act (空氣污染防制法) on 1 August 2018. Revisions to the Enforcement Rules provide further explanations and assist competent authorities in promoting and implementing these regulations.\nAny violation found in the inspection and testing process will be fined and punished under the law. \nAmendments to the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act (毒性化學物質管理法) were passed by the Legislative Yuan on 21 December 2018 and were renamed to the Toxic and Concerned Chemical Substances Control Act (毒性及關注化學物質管理法) by the president on 16 January 2019. The Toxic and Concerned Chemical Substances Control Act added new regulations on concerned chemical substances and expand the list of controlled substances to gradually strengthen the management of chemicals that are harmful to human health and the environment. \nAir\nDraft of Revisions to Air Pollution Control Act Enforcement Rules Preannounced \nThe EPA drafted revisions to the Air Pollution Control Act Enforcement Rules (空氣污染防制法施行細則) (hereinafter referred to as Enforcement Rules) on 31 January 2019, with amendments made to the Air Pollution Control Act (空氣污染防制法) on 1 August 2018. Revisions to the Enforcement Rules provide further explanations and assist competent authorities in promoting and implementing these regulations. \nWhen drafting revisions to the Enforcement Rules, the EPA referred to past legal interpretations, judicial interpretations, precedents set by relevant appeals, and practical experience gained through enforcing these regulations. The main points of the revisions are as follows:\n1. Added new aspects that are to be regulated based on additions to the Air Pollution Control Act, which include air pollution control plans set forth by the central competent authority. \n2. Added content stipulated by the central competent authority in Article 7 of the Act, which adjusted clauses for air pollution control and total quantity control plans.\n3. In light of the various characteristics of industrial 11 \nparks and with consideration to the different periods and zones in which the industrial zones were developed, definitions were added for industrial areas as well as methods for measuring the space of special industrial areas. \n4. Added categories for harmful air pollutant emission standards in Article 20 Item 2 of the Enforcement Rules by the addition, found in Article 53, of air pollutants emitted from stationary pollution sources in public and private venues. Enterprises exceeding the harmful air pollutant emission standards set forth by Article 20 Item 2 will face criminal charges as opposed to the administrative penalties and controls of the current standards. \n5. Added determining methods in the regulations in Article 32 regarding spontaneous combustion due to improper management. \n6. Added regulations regarding the portion of fines transmitted into a fund and provided additional explanations on the rates for violation fines transmitted in reference to the current Water Pollution Control Act Enforcement Rules ( 水污染防制法施行細則).", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Draft of Revisions to Air Pollution Control Act Enforcement Rules Preannounced", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-2" }, { "no": "3741", "title": "Government Agencies Join Forces to Safeguard Food Safety", "preview": "Chemicals\n\nGovernment Agencies Join Forces to Safeguard Food Safety \nTo ensure food safety during the Lunar New Year holiday, the EPA joined forces with the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) and the Council of Agriculture (COA) to monitor food safety. The EPA also reminds the public to only purchase domestic agricultural and fishery products that have clear origin labels and official certifications.", "content": "Government Agencies Join Forces to Safeguard Food Safety \nTo ensure food safety during the Lunar New Year holiday, the EPA joined forces with the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) and the Council of Agriculture (COA) to monitor food safety. The EPA also reminds the public to only purchase domestic agricultural and fishery products that have clear origin labels and official certifications. \n\nFood safety has always been a key focus of government policies. The EPA has therefore been working with different ministries to promote the “Five Rings of Food Safety” Policy. The five rings include: strengthening food source control, reestablishing a production-management food tracing system, increasing inspection capabilities, imposing harsher penalties, and encouraging public oversight. Through inter-ministerial cooperation, the five-ring policy is executed based on the responsibilities of each department. The EPA’s responsibility is to carry out at-source safety control to prevent chemicals that pose potential health risks from contaminating the food supply chain. The MOHW will enhance the sampling and inspection of agricultural products before they arrive at markets, and the COA will be in charge of food inspection in markets. \nThe EPA has experienced several occasions where toxic chemicals were found in food products in the past, such as the Rhodamine B found in glutinous rice, calls, metanil yellow and dimethyl yellow in dried tofu, maleic anhydride in starch and Sudan Red G in salted duck yolks for mooncakes. Therefore, to prevent toxic chemical substance contamination, the EPA has divided the control measures into two categories: policy making and source control. \nTo support the five ring policy, the EPA banned the use of 13 harmful chemical substances (e.g., Rhodamine B) in food on 26 September 2017. Companies that use these 13 substances in their products are stipulated to submit their operation reports regularly, clearly label all containers\/packaging and handling premises, prepare material safety data sheets (MSDS), and obtain approval documents. Moreover, the EPA declared on 28 June 2018 another 14 chemicals, including Sudan Red, as toxic chemical substances that are illegal to use in food. \nCompanies that manufacture products containing these 14 substances shall start reporting operations from 1 January 2019. Additionally, all containers\/ packaging and handling premises have to be labeled and material safety sheets completed by 1 July 2019. Companies must also acquire approval documents by 1 January 2020, which will be reviewed by Lunar New Year. To ensure the management and tracking of the chemical substances, approval documents are not to be used by other parties. The EPA has completed reviewing the operation reports and assisted enterprises to meet the requirements by Lunar New Year. \nThe EPA inspected over 3,000 chemical raw material enterprises in both 2017 and 2018. During the inspection visits, the EPA also informed the companies of the “four musts” of chemical substance management for food safety, which include: separate storage, clear labeling, usage notification, and flow tracking. The EPA will continue to investigate more companies in 2019. Also, the EPA has been working with health and agricultural agencies to conduct joint inspections around special holidays and did not find any banned toxic chemicals in food products in 2018. \nTo ensure food safety, the MOHW conducted extensive food samplings and inspections in supermarkets to get ready for Lunar New Year, which resulted in a 98% pass rate. The inspections targeted food manufacturers, sellers and restaurant operators, and encompassed a wide range of safety factors, including: operation registration, hygiene conditions, product labeling, and random testing for illegal food colorings. The COA concentrated in monitoring drug residues in seafood and inspecting meat quality, as meat and poultry are common dishes on Lunar New Year tables. The COA will also continue to promote the tracking system for agricultural products. Any violation found in the inspection and testing process will be fined and punished under the law. \nAmendments to the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act (毒性化學物質管理法) were passed by the Legislative Yuan on 21 December 2018 and were renamed to the Toxic and Concerned Chemical Substances Control Act (毒性及關注化學物質管理法) by the president on 16 January 2019. The Toxic and Concerned Chemical Substances Control Act added new regulations on concerned chemical substances and expand the list of controlled substances to gradually strengthen the management of chemicals that are harmful to human health and the environment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Chemicals", "titlename": "Government Agencies Join Forces to Safeguard Food Safety", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-2" }, { "no": "3740", "title": "Air Pollutant Emission Standards for Manufacturing Vinyl Chloride and Polyvinyl Chloride Announced", "preview": "Air\nAir Pollutant Emission Standards for Manufacturing Vinyl Chloride and Polyvinyl Chloride Announced \nTo reinforce control of the manufacturing processes of vinyl chloride and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and to reduce vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) emissions, the EPA promulgated the Air Pollutant Emission Standards for Manufacturing Vinyl Chloride and Polyvinyl Chloride on 22 January 2019.", "content": "Air Pollutant Emission Standards for Manufacturing Vinyl Chloride and Polyvinyl Chloride Announced \nTo reinforce control of the manufacturing processes of vinyl chloride and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and to reduce vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) emissions, the EPA promulgated the Air Pollutant Emission Standards for Manufacturing Vinyl Chloride and Polyvinyl Chloride on 22 January 2019. \n \nVCM is a hazardous air pollutant (HAP) known to be a human carcinogen. To lessen the negative impacts on the environment and human health caused by exposure to this gaseous substance, the EPA is tightening the emission standards for VCM produced by the petrochemical industry. \nForming comprehensive control regula?tions for better air quality \nThe existing Volatile Organic Compound Air Pollution Controls and Emission Standards regulates major emission sources such as exhaust gas combustion towers, storage facilities and equipment components. The volatile organic compound (VOC) emission standards have led to significant VOC reduction outcomes; hence, the EPA is now further advancing controls on HAPs emitted by the petrochemical industry by applying stricter VCM emission control standards. \nAchieving emission reductions with the best available control technology \nAfter taking international regulations and control implementation experiences into account, the EPA also re-evaluated its existing air-pollutant emission control policies before formulating the new standards. Based on assessments of potential health risks and the capacity of control equipment and technology in Taiwan, the Air Pollutant Emission Standards for Manufacturing Vinyl Chloride and Polyvinyl Chloride were designed to strengthen the control of the manufacturing, storage, and transport of vinyl chloride and PVC. By tightening the control standards, the EPA aims to reduce the adverse effects caused by HAP emissions (e.g., VCM and dichloroethane) discharged from factory exhaust pipes or escaped from facilities. \nStrengthening industrial participation \nThe main focus of the new standards includes: \n．Limiting vinyl chloride emissions from exhaust pipes to no higher than 10 ppm．The screening value of VOC emissions from each individual equipment component shall not exceed 1,000 ppm. To prevent leakage and enhance source control, facilities are also required to install leak prevention components. \n．Leak control connectors are to be installed to all loading and unloading lines and kept closed when not in use to prevent leakage during the loading and unloading operation process. \n．Storage vehicles are required to maintain all components and loading and unloading lines sealed, in which condition the VOC concentration does not exceed 1,000 ppm. \n．The VOC emission concentration is not to exceed 500 ppm during the operation of a polymerization reaction to avoid excessive pollutant emissions. \n．VCM manufacturers with fixed-roof tanks for dichloroethane storage are to be equipped with pressure\/vacuum vents that are connected to pollution control systems with an emission reduction rate of 95% or higher. \n．Multiple wastewater control measures for VCM and PVC plants have been added to the emission standards. To prevent pollution caused by VCM emissions from process and fugitive sources, PVC plants are requested to treat their wastewater until its content of VCM concentration is below 0.1 mg\/L, before recycling and reuse.8 \n \nThe implementation timeline for the standards will provide sufficient time for adjustments. Except for certain improvement works that are granted an extra one to three years for completion, the rest of the regulations will take immediate effect as of the date of promulgation.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Air Pollutant Emission Standards for Manufacturing Vinyl Chloride and Polyvinyl Chloride Announced", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-2" }, { "no": "3739", "title": "Second Preannouncement of Revisions to the Effluent Standards Strengthens Controls on Dioxin Emissions", "preview": "Water\nSecond Preannouncement of Revisions to the Effluent Standards Strengthens Controls on Dioxin Emissions \nT he EPA preannounced revisions to the Effluent Standards ( 放流水標準) Article 2 and Article 2.1 for the second time on 4 January 2019. In order to strengthen controls on dioxin emissions, the EPA made revisions to the required conditions for enterprises with incinerating facilities, in addition to the revised content in the first preannouncement.", "content": "Second Preannouncement of Revisions to the Effluent Standards Strengthens Controls on Dioxin Emissions \nT he EPA preannounced revisions to the Effluent Standards ( 放流水標準) Article 2 and Article 2.1 for the second time on 4 January 2019. In order to strengthen controls on dioxin emissions, the EPA made revisions to the required conditions for enterprises with incinerating facilities, in addition to the revised content in the first preannouncement. \nEnterprises using incinerators and those that reduce air pollution through wet or semi-dry scrubbing systems, regardless of whether scrubbing produces wastewater, still risk producing effluent water containing dioxins. As such, the EPA revised the applicable conditions for the Effluent Standards, thus emphasizing the necessity for controlling dioxin emissions found in effluent water. \nwater applicable to enterprises at risk of polluting. The EPA appeals to enterprises to ensure their compliance with the laws and regulations. Violators in major incidents of waterbody and soil pollution will be punished based on the Water Pollution Control Act ( 水污染防治法), which will deter others from testing the law.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Second Preannouncement of Revisions to the Effluent Standards Strengthens Controls on Dioxin Emissions", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-2" }, { "no": "3738", "title": "Penalties Intensified for Water Pollution Control Act Violations", "preview": "Water\nPenalties Intensified for Water Pollution Control Act Violations \nOn 16 January 2019, the EPA announced revisions to the Regulations of Penalties and Amount of Fines for Violations of the Water Pollution Control Act ( 違反水污染防治法罰鍰額度裁罰準則). The revisions deal with determination methods for penalty points, taking into account the number of Water Pollution Control Act regulations an action violates, as well as clarifying severe forms of violations, violation scales and effects, acts of illegal dilution, and penalty intensification and reduction.", "content": "Penalties Intensified for Water Pollution Control Act Violations \nOn 16 January 2019, the EPA announced revisions to the Regulations of Penalties and Amount of Fines for Violations of the Water Pollution Control Act ( 違反水污染防治法罰鍰額度裁罰準則). The revisions deal with determination methods for penalty points, taking into account the number of Water Pollution Control Act regulations an action violates, as well as clarifying severe forms of violations, violation scales and effects, acts of illegal dilution, and penalty intensification and reduction. \nThe EPA noted that the revisions and reevaluations were done in response to the 13 June 2018 revision of the Water Pollution Control Act The goal was to remove competent authorities’ doubts when they determine violations and issue penalties based on the Act, and also to align with major bylaw amendments of recent years. \nAmendments specify provisions of violations and the points of evaluation. Moreover, there have been many incidents of fuels leaked into water bodies, yet the scales of these incidents were not clearly determined, leading to severe violations that received light penalties. Currently fines are too light for severe violations committed by public sewage system operators and there are also targets not covered by the Water Pollution Control Act. Illegal activities are difficult to deter, so there was a need to strengthen and add provisions on violations and calculating basis. The revisions for penalizing principles were an opportunity for reevaluation to strengthen execution powers and harshly punish violations of the Act to safeguard the quality of rivers of surface water bodies. \nMajor focuses of the revisions are as follows: \n1. Severe violations under the Water Pollution Control Act are clearly specified and are punishable by the heaviest fines according to the regulations.6 \n \n2. Provisions of violations and evaluation points have been added and revised in response to the amendments of the Water Pollution Control Act and relevant bylaws. \n3. Article 28 Paragraph 1 of the Water Pollution Control Act is revised. Scales of violations are to be determined in the same way to determine violations involving leaked fuels, wastewater, raw ingredients, chemical agents, or other pollutants. \n4. Revisions are made regarding scales of construction sites as well as to provisions and evaluation points for not complying with regulations concerning wastewater runoff controls. \n5. Revisions are made regarding collection targets for water pollution control fees for enterprises and sewage systems, as well as determination of accumulated days of overdue fees. Also, determination of fines for household water pollution prevention fees have been deleted. \n6. Amendments were made to the determination of accumulated days for those who are obligated to declare but fail to do so, as well as for those who have received notification of deadlines to make declarations but fail to do so on time. \n7. Revisions were made to the penalty units for public sewage systems and enterprises not under the control of the Water Pollution Control Act.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Penalties Intensified for Water Pollution Control Act Violations", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-2" }, { "no": "3737", "title": "Central and Local Governments Settle on Short-, Mid-, and Long-Term Food Waste Plans Against Swine Flu", "preview": "Waste\nCentral and Local Governments Settle on Short-, Mid-, and Long-Term Food Waste Plans Against Swine Flu \nIn an attempt to prevent the spread of African swine flu, the EPA invited regional environmental bureaus to convene a meeting on 15 January 2019. The attendees examined food waste production amounts and management methods, and then formulated short-, mid-, and long-term plans for food waste disposal and treatment.", "content": "Central and Local Governments Settle on Short-, Mid-, and Long-Term Food Waste Plans Against Swine Flu \nIn an attempt to prevent the spread of African swine flu, the EPA invited regional environmental bureaus to convene a meeting on 15 January 2019. The attendees examined food waste production amounts and management methods, and then formulated short-, mid-, and long-term plans for food waste disposal and treatment. \n \nRegional environmental bureaus that participated in the meeting came from New Taipei City, Taoyuan City, Taichung City, Tainan City, Kaohsiung City, Yilan County, Hsinchu County, Miaoli County, Changhua County, Pingtung County, and Hsinchu City. The EPA stated that the bureaus will submit to the Council of Agriculture (COA) formal documents to ask for extensions for pig farms within their jurisdictions that have not yet been inspected to receive permission to use their high-temperature steam cookers to process food waste. During this period, county and city environmental bureaus are required by the EPA to make sure that enterprises already able to steam cook food waste reapply for qualification. Regional environmental units will also intensify inspections by working with agricultural and administrative departments, which will assist pig farms without steam cooking facilities to use animal feed instead.\nThe EPA has set up plans to enhance short-, mid-, and long-term capacity to process food waste. In the short term, regional governments are to be subsidized to install emergency processing facilities, such as shredding, drying, and pulping equipment and fast fermentation treatment modules, the cost of which is NT$450 million. County and city governments are urged to submit applications for purchasing equipment. \nMid-term goals include strengthening processing capacity of public regional composting plants, assisting public sewage treatment plants to dispose food waste through anaerobic digestion, and assisting large civil enterprises to set up fast fermentation equipment themselves. \nThe long-term plan for food waste will focus on bioenergy. Taichung City completed the first phase of disposal facility construction in October 2018 (with \na daily capacity of 80 metric tons), and construction of another one in Taoyuan City is expected to be complete by July 2021. Disposal facilities in Tainan City, Yilan County, Taipei City, and Kaohsiung City are currently underway, and when completed are expected to treat 800 metric tons of household food waste every day. \nLastly, the EPA emphasized that the fight against swine flu will need all citizens and government agencies to contribute together and thus requested cooperation from regional environmental protection units. \n(1) If pig farms in respective jurisdictions switch from food waste to animal feeds, producing counties or cities should be informed to respond early and track flows of food waste. \n(2) Regional governments are asked to work with private composting plants. \n(3) Food waste sources with production capacity of over a ton should be assisted to set up their own treatment equipment themselves. \n(4) As Chinese New Year drew near, regional governments were to put more effort on promoting to the public ideas of cherishing food, shaking off excess water from food waste, and making holiday meal plans that responsibly managed excess food. \n(5) Those that plan to send their own food waste to incinerators for disposal will receive subsidies for forklifts needed for operations. \n(6) Each county and city is to immediately propose subsidies needed to purchase drying and shredding facilities and high-effective composting modules in the short term. For the mid- and long-term, county and city governments will help enable anaerobic digestion equipment in public sewage treatment plants to dispose of and treat food waste, as well as subsidize establishment of regional composting sites and bioenergy plants.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Central and Local Governments Settle on Short-, Mid-, and Long-Term Food Waste Plans Against Swine Flu", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-2" }, { "no": "3736", "title": "Air Pollution Control Act Revised for Source to End-of- Pipe Controls", "preview": "Air\nAir Pollution Control Act Revised for Source to End-of- Pipe Controls \nRevisions of the Air Pollution Control Act ( 空氣污染管制法) include five points to implement “Clean Air” policies. In the future, 120 bylaws will be revised or added for thorough control under environmental protection and sustainable development principles. These bylaws cover planning of air quality improvement, as well as control, treatment, and response from end-of-pipe pollution emitters. With public health in mind, the EPA works to promulgate various measures to establish a prevention and warning mechanism.", "content": "Air Pollution Control Act Revised for Source to End-of- Pipe Controls \nRevisions of the Air Pollution Control Act ( 空氣污染管制法) include five points to implement “Clean Air” policies. In the future, 120 bylaws will be revised or added for thorough control under environmental protection and sustainable development principles. These bylaws cover planning of air quality improvement, as well as control, treatment, and response from end-of-pipe pollution emitters. With public health in mind, the EPA works to promulgate various measures to establish a prevention and warning mechanism. \n“Clean Air” is a major environmental policy objective. Revisions of the Air Pollution Control Act were passed in the Legislative Yuan after three readings on 25 June 2018, announced for implementation by President Tsai Ing-wen on 1 August, and took effect on 3 August 2018. Five major points include additions and amendments of the good neighbor clause, the factory source control mechanism, mobile pollution control measures, harsher penalties, and importantly, pursuit of illegal gains and addition of the whistleblower clause. The revisions aim to strengthen planning for air quality improvement, pollution source control and middle management, and end-of-pipe treatment and response. \nTotal Makeover as New Stage in Air Pollution Controls Begins\n 1. Post-revision planning and implementation \n(1) 118 bylaws will be amended or added after a preliminary inventory. As it takes time to formulate bylaws based on legal procedures, implementation principles have been set first as the legal bases for various operations during the transitional period. \n(2) A mechanism is set up to evaluate air quality standards every four years. Air quality standards are the first target in each evaluation which act as the goals of the central government’s control projects and regional governments’ control plans. For stationary pollution sources, planning is to take place for the second phase of the Kaohsiung-Pingtung Area Air Pollutant Total Quantity Control (TQC) Plan ( 高屏地區空氣污染總量管制計畫). Addition and revisions of regulations relating to harmful pollutants, the food and beverage industry, boiler standards, and continuous automated monitoring will take priority. \n(3) The EPA is going to intensify promotion of controls on mobile pollution sources and enhance economic incentives in order to encourage replacement of old cars and other pollution amelioration measures. After the revisions, control measures for diesel vehicles will help lower pollution emissions as the primary goal. Vehicles can be used normally as long as they comply with emission standards. Assistance will be given to reduce pollution produced by large diesel vehicles, and various subsidy measures are currently under evaluation. Moreover, more diverse improvement projects will be implemented to adjust pollution emission systems, install pollution prevention equipment, provide subsidies for vehicle purchases, and give credit guarantees or low-interest loans. \n2. Current status of promotion of the Air Pollution Control Action Plan \nPassed by the Executive Yuan on 21 December 2017, the A i r Pollution Control Action Plan ( 空氣污染防制行動方案) details specific control and prevention measures for every air pollution source. It covers air pollution reduction for state-run and large-scale enterprises, boiler controls, controls of oily smokes produced by the food and beverage industry, amelioration of problems caused by burning of joss paper, controls on airborne dust from construction and dumping sites, and reuse and treatment of \nagricultural straws and orchard branches. Other areas include controls on airborne dust from riverbanks, subsidization for replacing large diesel vehicles of phase 1 to 3, improvement of two-stroke motorcycles, promotion of electric produce shipping vehicles, port transportation controls, new traffic control measures, transport vehicle electrification, subsidization or promotion for installation of air-purifying walls, and so on. \nThe EPA has set various indicative policy goals, such as cutting in half days in 2019 on which air quality readings reach red alert levels (unhealthy for all groups) and by 2030, total electrification of newly purchased vehicles for government use and buses for public transportation. They also include total sales bans on petrol-powered motorcycles by 2035 and petrol-power vehicles by 2040. Via the aforementioned control and prevention measures, it is expected that, by the end of 2019, the annual average PM2.5 concentration will be reduced from 22μg\/m3 (in 2015) to 18μg\/m3, and the yearly number of red alert days reported by air quality monitoring stations from 997 station\/days (in 2015) to 499 station-days. \nIn 2018, the average PM2.5 concentration in Taiwan was 17.5μg\/m3, lower than the 18.34μg\/m3 in 2017, the 20.0μg\/m3 in 2016, and the 22.0μg\/m3 in 2015. Also, as of 2018, there had been 310 station-days of air quality red alerts, also lower than the 483 stations-days in 2017 and the 874 station-days in 2016. \nResults of the overall Air Pollution Control Action Plan as of the end of January 2019 include assisting 834 industrial boilers (531 currently under improvement with subsidies and improvement completed for 303), and assisting 653 commercial boilers (292 currently under improvement with subsidies and 361 suspended for operation or demolished). Also, 6,365 food and beverage enterprises were installed with oily smoke filtration equipment, 30,302 tons of joss paper burning was controlled, and 240,983 kilometers of riverways were cleaned up after the flooding period to control dust. Moreover, 21,758 diesel vehicles of Phases 1 and 2 were phased out, and 1,062 diesel vehicles of Phase 3 as well as 723,070 two-stroke motorcycles underwent pollution control. The EPA will keep implementing the plan with regional environmental bureaus in order to improve air quality in autumn and winter.\n \n1. The EPA will continue to analyze air quality, update the air pollutant emission inventory, develop model simulation tools, analyze pollution sources and causes, and enhance planning of air quality management strategies. \n2. Total quantity control of air pollutants will continue, as well as management of targeted stationary sources, with emission standards evaluated and tightened to ensure proper implementation of various measures. \n3. The boiler improvement strategy will continue, including establishing a promotion platform, organizing seminars, providing boiler subsidies, removing obstacles for phase-out, and speeding up phase-out of high-polluting boilers. \n4. The EPA’s 2019 goals for improving large diesel vehicles under Phases 1 to 3 are to phase out 6,000 vehicles and lower the pollution of 7,000 vehicles, and improve pollution of or phase out one million two-stroke motorcycles. Other measures to cut down emissions of mobile pollution sources include designating air quality maintenance zones that prohibit or limit entrance of high-polluting vehicles, as well as promoting low-polluting transit systems and clean fuels. \n5. Controls for airborne dust from riverbanks will be properly carried out. The EPA aims to reduce 1,110 metric tons of total suspended particulate (TSP) and 320 metric tons of particulate matter. Ten acres of exposed surfaces will be turned into green land, which is expected to absorb a total of 75 metric tons of sulfur dioxide and 3.8 metric tons of nitrogen dioxide and also reduce five metric tons of particulate matter.\n \n2019 goals \n1. The EPA will continue to analyze air quality, update the air pollutant emission inventory, develop model simulation tools, analyze pollution sources and causes, and enhance planning of air quality management strategies. \n2. Total quantity control of air pollutants will continue, as well as management of targeted stationary sources, with emission standards evaluated and tightened to ensure proper implementation of various measures. \n3. The boiler improvement strategy will continue, including establishing a promotion platform, organizing seminars, providing boiler subsidies, removing obstacles for phase-out, and speeding up phase-out of high-polluting boilers. \n4. The EPA’s 2019 goals for improving large diesel vehicles under Phases 1 to 3 are to phase out 6,000 vehicles and lower the pollution of 7,000 vehicles, and improve pollution of or phase out one million two-stroke motorcycles. Other measures to cut down emissions of mobile pollution sources include designating air quality maintenance zones that prohibit or limit entrance of high-polluting vehicles, as well as promoting low-polluting transit systems and clean fuels. \n5. Controls for airborne dust from riverbanks will be properly carried out. The EPA aims to reduce 1,110 metric tons of total suspended particulate (TSP) and 320 metric tons of particulate matter. Ten acres of exposed surfaces will be turned into green land, which is expected to absorb a total of 75 metric tons of sulfur dioxide and 3.8 metric tons of nitrogen dioxide and also reduce five metric tons of particulate matter.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Air Pollution Control Act Revised for Source to End-of- Pipe Controls", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-2" }, { "no": "3735", "title": "EPA and MOTC Jointly Announce Revised Toxic Chemical Substances Transportation Management Regulations", "preview": "Chemicals\nEPA and MOTC Jointly Announce Revised Toxic Chemical Substances Transportation Management Regulations \nOn 18 December 2018, the EPA and the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) announced revisions to the Toxic Chemical Substances Transportation and Management Regulations ( 毒性化學物質運送管理辦法). To improve the management and transportation of toxic chemical substances, the EPA simplified the registration form and increased the responsibility of shipping enterprises to prevent and respond to disas?ters.", "content": "EPA and MOTC Jointly Announce Revised Toxic Chemical Substances Transportation Management Regulations \nOn 18 December 2018, the EPA and the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) announced revisions to the Toxic Chemical Substances Transportation and Management Regulations ( 毒性化學物質運送管理辦法). To improve the management and transportation of toxic chemical substances, the EPA simplified the registration form and increased the responsibility of shipping enterprises to prevent and respond to disas?ters.\nThe regulations first took effect on 8 February 1991. The latest revisions put shipments of small amounts of Classes 1 to 3 toxic chemical substances under control and make provisions for a simpler transportation registration form which also requires a safety information form and installment of software on mobile devices. The previously required six-copy shipment receipt has been modified to a single-copy form, and regulations have also been added clearly stipulating that shipping enterprises must abide by traffic safety rules regarding container installation and shipment. To strengthen the risk management involved with such shipments, the revisions also tightened standards for real-time tracking systems required to be installed in vehicles transporting toxic chemical substances. The tracking systems are to include a barcode for scanning records and information regarding the start and end points of a shipment, emergency alert functions (e.g. an SOS button and inclinometer), and 4G or higher communication service.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Chemicals", "titlename": "EPA and MOTC Jointly Announce Revised Toxic Chemical Substances Transportation Management Regulations", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-1" }, { "no": "3734", "title": "Results from Assessment of Recycling and Circular Economy Announced", "preview": "Waste\nResults from Assessment of Recycling and Circular Economy Announced \nDuring 2018, the EPA conducted its first “Recycling and Circular Economy Assessment”, which concluded with an end-of-year presentation and award ceremony on 26 December 2018. In order to encourage enterprises to actively promote a circular economy, the EPA has been facilitating related inter-industry observations and growth.", "content": "Results from Assessment of Recycling and Circular Economy Announced \nDuring 2018, the EPA conducted its first “Recycling and Circular Economy Assessment”, which concluded with an end-of-year presentation and award ceremony on 26 December 2018. In order to encourage enterprises to actively promote a circular economy, the EPA has been facilitating related inter-industry observations and growth. \nThe assessment carried out this year aimed to encourage enterprises to adopt systematic designs for creating output values reflecting a circular economy, through improving energy efficiency and better collection, reuse and recycling of resources, waste products, and wastewater generated in production processes. The key target for the 2018 evaluation was reuse organizations. The assessment comprised three categories, namely “core indicators”, “industry-specific indicators” and “advanced indicators”. After a preliminary review, a document review, and onsite inspections, nine enterprises were awarded an excellent rank of two stars. Fifteen other enterprises achieved a one-star rank.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Results from Assessment of Recycling and Circular Economy Announced", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-1" }, { "no": "3733", "title": "USEPA Representatives Attend 2018 Eco-Campus Award Ceremony", "preview": "Environmental Education\nUSEPA Representatives Attend 2018 Eco-Campus Award Ceremony \nThe US-Taiwan Eco-Campus Partnership Program 2018 Award Ceremony was held on 11 Decem?ber at Wufeng Elementary School in Wufeng District, Taichung. In attendance were guests from the USEPA, along with representatives from eco-campuses and the environmental protection bureaus from counties around Taiwan. Schools were awarded certifications during the ceremony, including green flags for seven schools, silver medals for 26, and bronze medals for 53. The number of schools awarded a green flag at a single ceremony was the highest in the history of the program in Taiwan.", "content": "USEPA Representatives Attend 2018 Eco-Campus Award Ceremony \nThe US-Taiwan Eco-Campus Partnership Program 2018 Award Ceremony was held on 11 Decem?ber at Wufeng Elementary School in Wufeng District, Taichung. In attendance were guests from the USEPA, along with representatives from eco-campuses and the environmental protection bureaus from counties around Taiwan. Schools were awarded certifications during the ceremony, including green flags for seven schools, silver medals for 26, and bronze medals for 53. The number of schools awarded a green flag at a single ceremony was the highest in the history of the program in Taiwan. \nSchools created booths and displayed posters showing the results of t h e i r respective environmental projects. During the afternoon program, school representatives shared their thoughts and experiences of promoting environmentalism with one another. This year marked a new high for Taiwan with seven schools receiving a green flag award. Among the schools that received certificates, New Taipei City’s Jian-An Elementary School and Tainan City’s Hushan Experimental Elementary School received certifications again, marking their continued successes. Among the schools that received the green flag were Wanli Elementary School, Taoyuan City’s Da-An Elementary School, Dashan Elementary School in Miaoli County, and Huashan Junior High School and Jiu-Guan Elementary School in Changhua County. Taiwan has had a total of nine schools that received a green flag certification so far. \nThis year’s event recognized schools and planned for inter-school promotion of environmental education and exchanges among eco-campuses. The award ceremony particularly invited eco-campuses in central Taiwan to set up exhibition booths to share their processes of promoting an eco-campus. During the program, specific implementation challenges for eco-campuses at different schools were also on display. This event not only facilitated inter-school dialogue but also displayed the wide variety of eco-campuses, along with evolving environmental issues and learning methods. The event was led by an eco-team made up of teachers and students from Taichung’s Wufeng Elementary School, who excitedly led a tour of the school, including gardens, butterfly trails, an eco-pool full of surprises and the first inclusive playground. Green flag schools and silver medal schools shared their experiences in the presentations that followed.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "USEPA Representatives Attend 2018 Eco-Campus Award Ceremony", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-1" }, { "no": "3732", "title": "Stricter Controls for Groundwater Injection List 61 Harmful Substances as Undetectable", "preview": "Water\nStricter Controls for Groundwater Injection List 61 Harmful Substances as Undetectable \nOn 22 December 2018, the EPA announced revisions to the Water Quality Standards for Ground?water Body Injection and Types and Limits of Harmful Substances ( 注入地下水體水質標準及有害健康物質之種類、限值), which was renamed to the Types and Limits of Harmful Substances Prohib?ited from Being Injected into Groundwater ( 禁止注入地下水體之有害健康物質種類、限值). The revi?sions made were largely in response to the Water Pollution Control Act’s ( 水污染防治法) full ban on wastewater (sludge) being injected into groundwater. Furthermore, the EPA announced 61 harm?ful substances to be restricted because they are “undetectable” through environmental assessments.", "content": "Stricter Controls for Groundwater Injection List 61 Harmful Substances as Undetectable \nOn 22 December 2018, the EPA announced revisions to the Water Quality Standards for Ground?water Body Injection and Types and Limits of Harmful Substances ( 注入地下水體水質標準及有害健康物質之種類、限值), which was renamed to the Types and Limits of Harmful Substances Prohib?ited from Being Injected into Groundwater ( 禁止注入地下水體之有害健康物質種類、限值). The revi?sions made were largely in response to the Water Pollution Control Act’s ( 水污染防治法) full ban on wastewater (sludge) being injected into groundwater. Furthermore, the EPA announced 61 harm?ful substances to be restricted because they are “undetectable” through environmental assessments. \n \nThe EPA noted that amendments to water pollution regulations placed prohibitions on any wastewater from being discharged into groundwater, and deleting the regulations that wastewater is permitted being discharged into groundwater according to environmental risk assessment results regulated standards. These changes are done through revisions to the Water Pollution Control Act that fully prohibit the injection of wastewater (sludge) into groundwater. Article 36 Paragraph 2 has been added to increase the severity of punishments for enterprises that inject wastewater containing harmful substances into groundwater. Subsequently, the types of harmful substances and their respective limitations for groundwater injection were also changed to conform with the amendments. \nThe amendments primarily focus on types and limits of harmful substances injected into groundwater as listed in the table of announced Item 1 as well as Item 2. A total of 61 harmful substances cannot be detected. \nThe EPA emphasized that the Water Pollution Control Act already prohibits wastewater (sludge) from being injected into groundwater, for which Article 32 Paragraph 1 stipulates that violators will be fined between NT$60,000- NT$6,000,000 . As for those who inject harmful substances into groundwater, Article 36 Paragraph 2 states that they can be penalized with one to seven years of imprisonment, detention and\/or a fine between NT$200,000 and NT$20 million.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Stricter Controls for Groundwater Injection List 61 Harmful Substances as Undetectable", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-1" }, { "no": "3731", "title": "Regulations Regarding Collection of Water Pollution Control Fees from Households Amended", "preview": "Water\nRegulations Regarding Collection of Water Pollution Control Fees from Households Amended \nAmendments to the Regulations Governing the Collection of Water Pollution Control Fees from Enter?prises and Sewage Systems ( 事業及污水下水道系統水污染防治費收費辦法) took effect on 1 January 2019. The amendments mainly focus on the elimination of all regulations related to the collection of water pollution control fees from households, in order to differentiate the law from self-governance regulations.", "content": "Regulations Regarding Collection of Water Pollution Control Fees from Households Amended \nAmendments to the Regulations Governing the Collection of Water Pollution Control Fees from Enter?prises and Sewage Systems ( 事業及污水下水道系統水污染防治費收費辦法) took effect on 1 January 2019. The amendments mainly focus on the elimination of all regulations related to the collection of water pollution control fees from households, in order to differentiate the law from self-governance regulations. \nAmendments to the Water Pollution Control Act were announced on 13 June 2018, which include: revising the list of fee collection targets; and authorizing local governments to collect control fees from households and to formulate localized regulations. In response to the revisions to the Water Pollution Control Act, the Regulations Governing the Collection of Water Pollution Control Fees from Enterprises and Sewage System Operators were also amended to adjust the list of targeted entities for the third stage of fee collection. The amendments also stipulate the start date for the collection of water pollution control fees from other targeted regions and entities, and add conditions in which fee collection may be waived and subsequently on how wastewater volumes are calculated in such situations. \nTo clarify the calculation of water pollution control fees, the EPA has updated the calculation methods and f e e r a t e s which v a r y based on pollutant types and discharge weight. \nThe control fees will now be calculated based on the formulas stipulated in Article 5, and collected based on the percentages and stages listed below: \n1. 2015: only 50% of the calculated amount will be collected. \n2. 2016: only 60% of the calculated amount will be collected. \n3. 2017: only 70% of the calculated amount will be collected. \n4. 2018: only 80% of the calculated amount will be collected. \n5. 2019: only 90% of the calculated amount will be collected.\n6. Starting from 2020: the full amount will be collected. \nCollection of control fees from other targeted regions and entities has been included in the regulations and has been in force since 1 January 2019.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Regulations Regarding Collection of Water Pollution Control Fees from Households Amended", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-1" }, { "no": "3730", "title": "Air Quality Red Alert Days Halved Ahead of Schedule", "preview": "Air\nAir Quality Red Alert Days Halved Ahead of Schedule \nWith the joint effort between central and local governments, air quality in Taiwan improved signifi?cantly in 2018. Statistics show a 35.8% decrease in red alert days from 2015 to 2018, meaning that the EPA has accomplished its phased target of halving the number of red alerts ahead of schedule.", "content": "Air Quality Red Alert Days Halved Ahead of Schedule \nWith the joint effort between central and local governments, air quality in Taiwan improved signifi?cantly in 2018. Statistics show a 35.8% decrease in red alert days from 2015 to 2018, meaning that the EPA has accomplished its phased target of halving the number of red alerts ahead of schedule. \n \nAccording to the air quality monitoring results of 2018 based on the Air Quality Index (AQI), the number of red alerts set off over the years has gradually fallen from 997 in 2015, 898 in 2016, 483 in 2017 and 310 in 2018. Compared to red alerts in 2015 and 2017, the numbers have decreased by 68.8% and 35.8%, respectively. \nThe EPA points out that the cities\/counties with the best reductions of red alerts are Taichung City, Nantou County, Kinmen County, Pingtung County and Yunlin County, with reduction rates ranging from 49% to 75%. Additionally, a total of 23 monitoring stations across Taiwan issued red alerts on 3 March 2018 because of poor diffusion of air pollutants due to the wind direction combined with fireworks launched on Lantern Festival. Taipei City and New Taipei City alone registered 12 red alert readings on that day. \nMonitoring data also shows that air quality is often affected by wind factors, such as diminished wind speed for a long period and weakened wind strength. For instance, multiple occurrences of changes in wind direction severely worsened the air pollution in 2018 due to air pollutants that can be carried along air currents from other cities, especially when the wind starts blowing in an easterly direction. The EPA states that Taiwan’s air quality usually worsens during fall and winter months because of prevailing weather conditions. Therefore, to prevent further air quality deterioration, both central and local governments are required to participate in and take contingency measures based on the Regulations Governing Emergency Measures to Prevent Severely Deteriorated Air Quality ( 空氣品質嚴重惡化緊急防制辦法). When an air pollution episode is predicted, depending on the pollution level, an alert must be released and preventive actions are to be implemented, such as cutting down pollutant emissions from factories, upwind sources and local power plants. If air quality continues to degrade, different levels of emergency response and safety measures are required to be carried out depending on the pollution concentration levels. As the pollution concentrations worsen, the extent of controlled targets and measures also widen, to include both public and private premises. \nAs for long-term air quality control, the EPA will continue implementing the Executive Yuan’s Air Pollution Control Action Plan and other relevant measures.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Air Quality Red Alert Days Halved Ahead of Schedule", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-1" }, { "no": "3729", "title": "Amendments to Automobile Gasoline and Diesel Composition Standards Preannounced", "preview": "Air\nAmendments to Automobile Gasoline and Diesel Composition Standards Preannounced \nTo implement environmental protection policies on mobile source pollution control and to pro?tect public health, on 6 December 2018 the EPA amended the Standards for the Composi?tions of Automobile Gasoline and Diesel Fuels ( 車用汽柴油成分管制標準). The amendments were formulated in reference to the control standards for petroleum-based fuels used by other Asian and European countries and the US, and will tighten controls over the composition of fuels.", "content": "Amendments to Automobile Gasoline and Diesel Composition Standards Preannounced \nTo implement environmental protection policies on mobile source pollution control and to pro?tect public health, on 6 December 2018 the EPA amended the Standards for the Composi?tions of Automobile Gasoline and Diesel Fuels ( 車用汽柴油成分管制標準). The amendments were formulated in reference to the control standards for petroleum-based fuels used by other Asian and European countries and the US, and will tighten controls over the composition of fuels. \nBurning gasoline and diesel fuels emits nitrogen oxides (NOX), sulfur oxides (SOX), hydrocarbons (HC) and other various toxic substances that can lead to environmental effects such as unpleasant odors, acid rain and smog. Many countries around the world are thus gradually adjusting their environmental laws towards stricter controls on mobile sources of pollution and fuel compositions. To keep in line with international standards and contribute to air quality improvement, Taiwan is also making several revisions to the nation’s current control standards. Most equipment used for construction and agricultural purposes in Taiwan that runs on gasoline and diesel fuels already falls under the jurisdiction of the current standards and there is no need for revisions. However, the EPA is now including motor boats and aircraft as control targets under the Standards so as to further reduce air pollution and its impacts on human health. \nThe main focus of the amendments include: renaming the original regulation to Standards for Fuel Compositions of Mobile Sources; adjusting the maximum benzene content in gasoline to 0.8% and the maximum polycyc l i c aromati c hydrocarbons (PAH) content in diesel fuels to 8%; and, limiting the maximum sulfur content in marine fuels to 0.5% and in aviation fuels to 0.2%. \nThe Standards for Fuel Compositions of Mobile Sources took effect on 1 January 2019. Hence, the EPA recommends e a r ly adaptat i ons t o be made in response to the amendments.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Amendments to Automobile Gasoline and Diesel Composition Standards Preannounced", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-1" }, { "no": "3728", "title": "Carbon Offset Regulations Amended to Encourage Medium and Small-Sized Businesses to Cut Emissions", "preview": "Climate Change\nCarbon Offset Regulations Amended to Encourage Medium and Small-Sized Businesses to Cut Emissions \nOn 27 December 2018, the EPA announced the revised Greenhouse Gas Offset Program Manage?ment Regulations ( 溫室氣體抵換專案管理辦法) (the Offset Regulations in brief). A category has been added for micro-scale businesses. Procedures have been simplified so that applicants can sub?mit applications by merely documenting their own carbon reductions even though they are not le?gally required. The goal is to encourage participation of small emission sources such as medium and small-scale businesses, as well as to encourage transportation, residential and commercial sec?tors, in order to stimulate the development of reduction technology for all types of emission sources.", "content": "Carbon Offset Regulations Amended to Encourage Medium and Small-Sized Businesses to Cut Emissions \nOn 27 December 2018, the EPA announced the revised Greenhouse Gas Offset Program Manage?ment Regulations ( 溫室氣體抵換專案管理辦法) (the Offset Regulations in brief). A category has been added for micro-scale businesses. Procedures have been simplified so that applicants can sub?mit applications by merely documenting their own carbon reductions even though they are not le?gally required. The goal is to encourage participation of small emission sources such as medium and small-scale businesses, as well as to encourage transportation, residential and commercial sec?tors, in order to stimulate the development of reduction technology for all types of emission sources. \nFocuses of revisions of the Offset Regulations include: \n1. With reference to international calculation methods for cap controls, circumstances not qualified for offset projects have been added in Article 4 in order to avoid duplication of other existing greenhouse gas reduction mechanisms. \n2. Based on actual operations, requirements for applying to open holding accounts and required documents have been added in Article 5 for those promising to reduce emissions based on relevant laws. \n3. For offset projects that qualify under micro-scale businesses – those with less than 5,000 kilowatts of renewable energy capacity, less than 20 million kWh\/year of energy conservation, or less than 20,000 metric tons of CO2e of annual greenhouse gas reduction. The additive analysis of these above-mentioned projects can only include the additive nature of the regulation. It has been added in Article 7. \n4. For those purchasing renewable energy-generating facilities that qualify for the renewable electricity wholesale purchase rate, it has been specified in Article 9 that applicants should submit documents proving no duplicate calculations of participating offset projects. \n5. In Article 10, a sunset clause has been added for the government-assisted offset projects before the Offset Regulations were implemented. As for those registering offset projects, limits for the inclusion periods are newly specified for emission sources under the cap-and-trade scheme. \n6. Validation and verification for program-type offset projects should be carried out by different verification agencies. For sub-projects that have registered as part of the program-type offset projects, limits for the inclusion periods are newly specified for emission sources under the cap-and-trade scheme.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Carbon Offset Regulations Amended to Encourage Medium and Small-Sized Businesses to Cut Emissions", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-1" }, { "no": "3727", "title": "“Combatting Climate Change, Taiwan Can Help” in COP24", "preview": "Climate Change\n“Combatting Climate Change, Taiwan Can Help” in COP24\nOn 15 December the two-week-long 24th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Conven?tion on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP24) concluded in Katowice, Poland. After many lengthy negotiations, over 18,000 attendees agreed upon a rulebook to implement the Paris Agreement. The Executive Yuan’s del?egation, led by then Acting EPA Minister Tsai Hung-Teh, held 38 bilateral meetings with diplomatic allies and nations friendly to Taiwan, in addition to sharing experiences on carbon reduction. This demonstrated Taiwan’s determination to combat climate change alongside the international community.", "content": "“Combatting Climate Change, Taiwan Can Help” in COP24\nOn 15 December the two-week-long 24th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Conven?tion on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP24) concluded in Katowice, Poland. After many lengthy negotiations, over 18,000 attendees agreed upon a rulebook to implement the Paris Agreement. The Executive Yuan’s del?egation, led by then Acting EPA Minister Tsai Hung-Teh, held 38 bilateral meetings with diplomatic allies and nations friendly to Taiwan, in addition to sharing experiences on carbon reduction. This demonstrated Taiwan’s determination to combat climate change alongside the international community. \nWith the efforts of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and Ambassador Wen-Bin Shih of the Taipei Representative Office in Poland, Taiwan’s delegation conducted 38 bilateral meetings with representatives of nations with diplomatic ties and nations friendly to Taiwan. Besides attending 20 of these meetings himself, Acting Minister Tsai had broad and in-depth conversations with the prime minister of Tuvalu, as well as environmental officials, legislators and UN ambassadors of numerous countries. \nMoreover, many of Taiwan’s legislators went to Poland for other diplomatic activities. Acting Minister Tsai conducted exclusive interviews with multiple international media outlets, including the Polish Press Agency, Suddeutsche Zeitung, the Economic Times (India), the Voice of Warsaw, and the Solomon Star. He elaborated on Taiwan’s carbon reduction work in the transition toward a low-carbon economy as well as Taiwan’s resolve to contribute to the fight against climate change. Taiwan is also willing to share its experiences concerning global environmental issues. \nDuring the convention, Taiwan gave special thanks to nine diplomatic allies--Eswatini, Haiti, Honduras, Kiribati, Nauru, Nicaragua, Paraguay, the Solomon Islands and Tuvalu--for speaking up for Taiwan in meetings of senior officials at COP24. Also, 15 countries with diplomatic ties with Taiwan wrote to the chairman of COP24 and the executive secretary of the UNFCCC to advocate that Taiwan should have concrete participation and not be excluded from UNFCCC events and conventions. In addition, MOFA purchased large advertisements saying “Combatting climate change, Taiwan can help,” on local trams going around the city of Katowice. Working with the Voice of Warsaw, the MOFA presented a special feature and produced a short film, “A Promise to the Land,” which documented a micro solar grid project of the International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF) in rural Myanmar. \nThere were diverse voices from different corners of Taiwan inside the venue as well, expressing opinions on the forms of venue stands and in small speeches. They included the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI), the Taiwan Research Institute (TRI), the Taiwan Institute for Sustainable Energy (TAISE), the Environmental Quality Protection Foundation (EQPF), the Foundation of Taiwan Industry Service (FTIS), the Taiwan Carbon Capture Storage and Utilization Association (TCCSUA), Mom Loves Taiwan, the Taiwan Youth Climate Coalition (TWYCC), Delta Foundation, and the Taiwan Association of Sustainable Ecological Engineering Development (ASEED). Representatives from Taipei and Tainan also joined up with the above to answer the call of the UNFCCC, bringing the private and civil society sectors together with the central and regional governments in the effort against climate change.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "“Combatting Climate Change, Taiwan Can Help” in COP24", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-1" }, { "no": "3726", "title": "Amendments Announced by President Tsai for the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act with Seven Focuses", "preview": "toxic substances management\n Amendments Announced by President Tsai for the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act with Seven Focuses \nThe revisions of the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act ( 毒性化學物質管理法) was brought up as a response to the government’s five food source safeguard control strategies and chemical substances safety policy. After the revisions passed the third reading in the Legislative Yuan, the Act has been renamed “the Toxic and Concerned Chemical Substances Control Act ( 毒性及關注化學物質管理法)” and adopted after President Tsai Ing-wen’s announcement on 16 January 2019. It will start a significant new era in chemical substance controls in Taiwan.", "content": "Amendments Announced by President Tsai for the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act with Seven Focuses \nThe revisions of the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act ( 毒性化學物質管理法) was brought up as a response to the government’s five food source safeguard control strategies and chemical substances safety policy. After the revisions passed the third reading in the Legislative Yuan, the Act has been renamed “the Toxic and Concerned Chemical Substances Control Act ( 毒性及關注化學物質管理法)” and adopted after President Tsai Ing-wen’s announcement on 16 January 2019. It will start a significant new era in chemical substance controls in Taiwan. \nInclusion of food safety to address major public concerns \nThe EPA stated that, since its promulgation, the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act has been through six amendments. The latest amendment in 2013 added a chemical substance registration system, which gradually improved the relevant chemical substance control regulations in Taiwan. However, problems with food safety and source control of chemical substances surfaced, and incidents involving toxic chemicals occurred in recent years. In response to public concern, the EPA began reviewing and revising the Act. \nThe EPA explained that the revisions took references from the concept of the UN’s Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM). Any management loopholes have been closed by coordinating obligations and regulations of each of the responsible competent authorities. The seven highlights include adding “concerned chemical substances”; adding a separate chapter devoted to “accident prevention and emergency response”; holding the “National Chemical Substances Control Meeting”; setting up specific funds; shortening the time required for enterprises to notify authorities of accidents; banning online purchase of toxic and concerned chemical substances listed for control; and adding clauses regarding whistleblowers and pursuit of illegal gains. Expansion of controlled substances, strengthening of accident management, improvement of coordinating mechanisms, long-term financial considerations, and other issues of public concern have all been thoroughly improved upon. The details are as follows: \nAdding “concerned chemical substances” with more thorough evaluations and controls \n1. “Concerned chemical substances” added: Chemical substances, besides toxic chemicals, are evaluated to see if they should be listed for further controls, as part of an effort to expand the scope of chemical substance source controls. Based on their different characteristics, chemical substances are also placed under tiered management, such as labeling for the basic category, as well as mandatory application for approvals from competent authorities and mandatory registration of records of use. Concerning accident response, enterprises are required to submit risk prevention and response plans, have response equipment ready, and are also obligated to notify authorities and act in response when accidents occur. \n2. A separate chapter devoted to “accident prevention and emergency response” has been added: During the revision review, legislators specifically paid attention to accident prevention and emergency response. Therefore, a separate chapter was added to require enterprises to submit their risk prevention and response plans to regional governments for reference. These plans are to be put online for public inquiry. A certification system was put in place for professional responder training and responding units, which focuses on prevention and preparation during normal days and providing onsite disaster relief at times of accidents to prevent harm to people and the environment. 2 \nholding the “National Chemical Substances Control Meeting”; setting up specific funds; shortening the time required for enterprises to notify authorities of accidents; banning online purchase of toxic and concerned chemical substances listed for control; and adding clauses regarding whistleblowers and pursuit of illegal gains. Expansion of controlled substances, strengthening of accident management, improvement of coordinating mechanisms, long-term financial considerations, and other issues of public concern have all been thoroughly improved upon. The details are as follows: \nAdding “concerned chemical substances” with more thorough evaluations and controls \n1. “Concerned chemical substances” added: Chemical substances, besides toxic chemicals, are evaluated to see if they should be listed for further controls, as part of an effort to expand the scope of chemical substance source controls. Based on their different characteristics, chemical substances are also placed under tiered management, such as labeling for the basic category, as well as mandatory application for approvals from competent authorities and mandatory registration of records of use. Concerning accident response, enterprises are required to submit risk prevention and response plans, have response equipment ready, and are also obligated to notify authorities and act in response when accidents occur. \n2. A separate chapter devoted to “accident prevention and emergency response” has been added: During the revision review, legislators specifically paid attention to accident prevention and emergency response. Therefore, a separate chapter was added to require enterprises to submit their risk prevention and response plans to regional governments for reference. These plans are to be put online for public inquiry. A certification system was put in place for professional responder training and responding units, which focuses on prevention and preparation during normal days and providing onsite disaster relief at times of accidents to prevent harm to people and the environment. \n3. Organizing the “National Chemical Substances Control Meeting”: Since responsibilities for chemical substances control in Taiwan are distributed among different ministries, the EPA has worked to expand source management while coordinating with all relevant ministries. Aligning with the newly added meeting system, the premier is to convene meetings to conduct interdepartmental coordination for risk assessment and control measures for chemical substances so as to produce better results. \nSetting up funds to collect “chemical substances operation fees” from enterprises \n4. Setting up funds: The EPA is to collect operation fees from those handling toxic and concerned chemical substances and use the fees to set up the toxic substance and chemical substance funds. The EPA specified that the establishment of the funds helps with source management of chemical substances and helps enterprises cut the costs of accident response. \n5. Shortening the time required for enterprises to give notice of occurrence of accidents: The accident notification time required for enterprises is shortened from one hour to 30 minutes. Circumstances requiring notification have also been adjusted, since in the past enterprises were only required to provide notification after pollution caused by an accident had been confirmed to affect the environment outside a factory. Now, notification is mandatory if pollutants are likely to affect the environment outside a factory, which largely increases the responsibility of enterprises as well as the response time for regional governments to act. Moreover, regarding stipulations on informing firefighting units about the layouts of factory equipment, the EPA elevated these regulations from the level of enforcement rules to that of enabling statute. \n6. Banning online sales of toxic and concerned chemical substances listed for control: Sales and transfers of toxic and concerned chemical substances that are listed for control are forbidden if conducted by mail order, online purchase, or in any forms where those involved in the transaction cannot be identified. The EPA noted that there are existing penalties and regulations for sellers and buyers violating the ban, but the revisions specifically target online platforms. If not exercising due care and hence referring both sellers and buyers without permits to conduct sales, operators of said platforms will be fined between NT$60,000 and NT$300,000, with every lapse subject to separate penalties. \n7. Adding clauses concerning pursuit of illegal gains and whistleblowers: Those violating regulations under the Act will be pursued to return illegal gains on top of the original fines. Also, the EPA set a system for reporting rewards and to encourage whistleblowers to report violations. Moreover, factories are to disclose data such as permits and registrations for public supervision. \nOutlook \nThe EPA emphasized that the revisions include setting up funds to expand chemical substances control, helping enterprises lower operational risks, and ensuring environmental safety and sustainability. As for collecting chemical substances operation fees from enterprises, those characterized as potentially involving “high risks, large affected areas, and consistently in large quantity” will be the first group subject to fee collection. The EPA will formulate additional relevant laws in the future, and, before fee collection officially begins, there will be consistent and open communications with the public at each stage. \nThe EPA stated that it will start formulating or reviewing and amending more than 30 relevant laws. With implementation of the Act and further relevant laws, it aims to achieve the vision of effective chemical substances control and establishment of a healthy and sustainable environment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "toxic substances management", "titlename": "Amendments Announced by President Tsai for the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act with Seven Focuses", "position": "print\/V22\/V22-1" }, { "no": "3725", "title": "Greenpoint Program Partnering with Restaurants to Encourage Better Appreciation of Food", "preview": "Ecolabeling\nGreenpoint Program Partnering with Restaurants to Encourage Better Appreciation of Food", "content": "Greenpoint Program Partnering with Restaurants to Encourage Better Appreciation of Food\nThe EPA continues to participate in World Food Day with its promotion of the Cherish Food 100% program. From 1 July to 31 December 2018, 21 restaurants recognized by the Taipei City and New Taipei City governments will be included in the Greenpoint service. The city governments will also promote a Greenpoint Food Map to inform the approximate 200,000 Greenpoint users, and even more people, of opportunities to use Greenpoints to get good deals at restaurants that cherish food.\nGreenpoint restaurants that cherish their food not only provide food but also promote the ideals of appreciating food. These restaurants teach people how to better use and enjoy their food by reducing the distances that food must travel, avoiding over-processing, and preserving the nutritional content of food. For the first wave of this program, Greenpoint users will receive discounts and other benefits when dining at sponsored restaurants. In addition to earning 300 to 500 points at sponsored restaurants, participants will receive 500 points upon going to three or more such restaurants. Participants can enter to win cash prizes by checking in on Facebook. More information about this program can be found at: http:\/\/www.greenpoint.org.tw\/.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Ecolabeling", "titlename": "Greenpoint Program Partnering with Restaurants to Encourage Better Appreciation of Food", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-8" }, { "no": "3724", "title": "Recycling and Clearance Fee for PVC Containers to be Quintupled", "preview": "Waste\nRecycling and Clearance Fee for PVC Containers to be Quintupled \nRecycling and clearance fees for polyvinyl chloride (PVC) containers will be increased by a factor of 4.7 on 1 July, 2019, in an effort to reduce the environmental impact of such containers. The current fee of NT$18.5\/kg will be raised to NT$87\/kg, providing an economic incentive for enterprises to reduce their usage of PVC containers and switch to materials that are more present fewer problems for recycling process. .", "content": "ue. Many waste disposal facilities are unwilling to process PVC containers.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Recycling and Clearance Fee for PVC Containers to be Quintupled", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-8" }, { "no": "3723", "title": "Draft of Regulations for Determination of Fines for Violations of the Waste Disposal Act Preannounced", "preview": "Waste\nDraft of Regulations for Determination of Fines for Violations of the Waste Disposal Act Preannounced\nAmendments were announced on 18 January 2017 regarding Article 63-1, Paragraph 1 of the Waste Disposal Act (). Fines for violating the Waste Disposal Act will be based on the level of pollution, pollutant characteristics and the amount of damage. The EPA supports the relevant authorities in determining fines by setting fine criteria and providing a clear basis for their calculation. Thus with the authority granted to it in the Waste Disposal Act, the EPA has drafted the Regulations for Determination of Fines for Violations of the Waste Disposal Act.", "content": "Draft of Regulations for Determination of Fines for Violations of the Waste Disposal Act Preannounced\nAmendments were announced on 18 January 2017 regarding Article 63-1, Paragraph 1 of the Waste Disposal Act (). Fines for violating the Waste Disposal Act will be based on the level of pollution, pollutant characteristics and the amount of damage. The EPA supports the relevant authorities in determining fines by setting fine criteria and providing a clear basis for their calculation. Thus with the authority granted to it in the Waste Disposal Act, the EPA has drafted the Regulations for Determination of Fines for Violations of the Waste Disposal Act.\nThe EPA noted that there will be different amounts for fines set forth by the law. Determination of fines will be based upon the severity of pollution, its characteristics and the hazards posed by the violation. Repeat violators who have accumulated multiple fines, along with severe violators, are to be fined at the legally allowed maximum amount. Offenders who make financial gains exceeding the maximum fine will be given additional penalties by competent authorities.\nRegulations for fine determination allow for appropriate fines to be given, thus avoiding previous situations in which an authority would simply fine a violator at the minimum rate required by the law. The updated fine determination takes into account the level of pollution, the type of pollution and the hazards caused by violators not abiding by the Waste Disposal Act. These regulations accomplish the goal of levying fines on severe violators and deterring others who might consider violating the Waste Disposal Act.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Draft of Regulations for Determination of Fines for Violations of the Waste Disposal Act Preannounced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-8" }, { "no": "3722", "title": "Incinerators Turning Waste into Energy Exceed Expectations", "preview": "Environmental Inspection\n9. Incinerators Turning Waste into Energy Exceed Expectations\nThe 2017 incineration plant evaluation results are in. The EPA held an award ceremony on 3 August 2018 with Minister Ying-Yuan Lee presenting the awards. Two incineration plants received the Excellence Award: the Miaoli County Plant and the Lucao Plant located in Chiayi County. In 2017, the 24 incineration plants operating nationwide properly treated 6,267,000 metric tons of trash and produced 3.188 billion kWh of electricity. The incineration plants also performed well in their efforts to prevent air pollution.", "content": "Incinerators Turning Waste into Energy Exceed Expectations\nThe 2017 incineration plant evaluation results are in. The EPA held an award ceremony on 3 August 2018 with Minister Ying-Yuan Lee presenting the awards. Two incineration plants received the Excellence Award: the Miaoli County Plant and the Lucao Plant located in Chiayi County. In 2017, the 24 incineration plants operating nationwide properly treated 6,267,000 metric tons of trash and produced 3.188 billion kWh of electricity. The incineration plants also performed well in their efforts to prevent air pollution.\nIn addition to the Excellence Award given to the two aforementioned incineration plants, the Outstanding Award was given to eight incineration plants located in: Keelung City; Bali in New Taipei City; Yongkang in Tainan City; Letzer in Yilan County; Houli and Wuri in Taichung City; Taoyuan City; and Mucha in Taipei City. Five incineration plants were conferred the Special Award for their achievements in 2017. Recipients included plants in Chiayi City, Beitou in Taipei City, Hsinchu City, Southern District and Renwu in Kaohsiung City. \nAll of the 24 operational incineration plants nationwide have made considerable efforts to properly dispose of 6.267 million metric tons of household trash and industrial waste. Incineration plants generated 3.188 billion kWh, of which 2.496 billion kWh were sold (roughly enough electricity to supply 700,000 households with electricity for one year). The plants generated NT$4.33 billion in revenue. Electricity generated from incinerating one metric ton of garbage and the electricity sold produced new record highs, at 509 kWh and 398 kWh on average, respectively.\nEfforts to prevent air pollution were also successful in 2017, with the average emissions of nitrogen oxide down to 85.3 ppm (limit value is 180 ppm) and hydrogen chloride reduced to 12.8 ppm (limit value is 40 ppm).\nThe EPA noted that the Executive Yuan has approved central and local governments to invest NT$15.342 billion to upgrade old incineration plants and diversify waste disposal methods. Priority has been given to building waste disposal facilities in counties and cities that do not have their own incineration plants, so as to reduce their reliance on other municipalities for waste disposal.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Inspection", "titlename": "Incinerators Turning Waste into Energy Exceed Expectations", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-8" }, { "no": "3721", "title": "Taiwan and U.S. Work Hand in Hand to Promote Environmental Education", "preview": "Environmental Education\n8. Taiwan and U.S. Work Hand in Hand to Promote Environmental Education\nA member of the EPAs Department of Comprehensive Planning, Hsiu-Hui Wen, spoke at the opening ceremony for the 2018 Taiwan-US Eco-Campus Partnership Teachers Professional Development Workshop, which was postponed to 13 July due to a typhoon. Environment Science, Technology, and Health Officer of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), Anna Wang, was invited to speak at the workshop along with senior regional education manager of the National Wildlife Federation (NWF), Kim Martinez. The US-Taiwan Eco-Campus Partnership Program began in 2014 and has since had 360 schools join the program, of which 203 have been certified.", "content": "Taiwan and U.S. Work Hand in Hand to Promote Environmental Education\nA member of the EPAs Department of Comprehensive Planning, Hsiu-Hui Wen, spoke at the opening ceremony for the 2018 Taiwan-US Eco-Campus Partnership Teachers Professional Development Workshop, which was postponed to 13 July due to a typhoon. Environment Science, Technology, and Health Officer of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), Anna Wang, was invited to speak at the workshop along with senior regional education manager of the National Wildlife Federation (NWF), Kim Martinez. The US-Taiwan Eco-Campus Partnership Program began in 2014 and has since had 360 schools join the program, of which 203 have been certified. \nThis year’s workshop was held at Nanmen Junior High School located in Taipei City. Kim Martinez was invited to speak about her experiences cultivating students’ leadership abilities and shared practical cases with attendees. In order to establish an Eco-Campus, Ms. Martinez showed teachers how to motivate students to care more about environmental issues through practical techniques and study methods. \nIn 2018, Taiwan formally added forestry and protection for water bodies as two new aspects of environmental education, which had already been added to the US Eco-Campus curriculum. A lecturer from the Taiwan Association for Marine Environment Education, Sheng-Chi Lin, and former Director-General of the Taiwan Forestry Research Institute of the Council of Agriculture, Hen-Biau King, spoke on these topics, providing attendees with relevant information and educational resources. They encouraged and taught attendees how to add these new environmental topics to their Eco-Campus curriculums. Attendees included representatives from Taiwan’s Eco-Campuses, EPA staff and interested teachers from elementary, junior high, and senior high schools. There were around 60 attendees for this year’s workshop. \n\nIt has been five years since the Taiwan EPA and the USEPA announced the creation of the US-Taiwan Eco-Campus Partnership Program. As of this year, there 130 schools have been certified as a Bronze Eco-Campus, 70 schools certified as a Silver Eco-Campus, and three have earned the Green Flag.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Taiwan and U.S. Work Hand in Hand to Promote Environmental Education", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-8" }, { "no": "3720", "title": "Taichung City Installs Air Quality Monitoring Sensors to Reinforce Smart Inspections and Prevent Illegal Activities", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring\nTaichung City Installs Air Quality Monitoring Sensors to Reinforce Smart Inspections and Prevent Illegal Activities \nTaichung City has been chosen to be a demonstration city for the new air quality monitoring system. The EPA has thus installed 500 air quality monitoring sensors in Taichung City to collect PM2.5 real-time data. The latest amendments to the Air Pollution Control Act included tightening criminal and administrative penalties and enforcing confiscation of illegal gains. The EPA also encourages the public to participate in air quality improvement by going on the I-Environment website where air quality data is updated every three minutes.", "content": "Taichung City Installs Air Quality Monitoring Sensors to Reinforce Smart Inspections and Prevent Illegal Activities \nTaichung City has been chosen to be a demonstration city for the new air quality monitoring system. The EPA has thus installed 500 air quality monitoring sensors in Taichung City to collect PM2.5 real-time data. The latest amendments to the Air Pollution Control Act included tightening criminal and administrative penalties and enforcing confiscation of illegal gains. The EPA also encourages the public to participate in air quality improvement by going on the I-Environment website where air quality data is updated every three minutes. \nThe EPA is establishing an Air Quality Internet of Things (IoT) by installing air quality monitoring sensors throughout the whole country. Through the integration of sensing technologies, communications technologies, and data science, the EPA plans to build a comprehensive IoT system to support the implementation of environmental smart inspection. The EPA is starting by setting monitoring sensors in four types of locations in Taichung City: industrial parks, residential areas, public transportation, and special locations. To date the EPA has set up sensor spots in 10 different industrial parks and their surrounding areas in Taichung, which include districts, such as Houli District. The Taichung City Environmental Protection Bureau has not only been analyzing the sensing data to select pollution hotspots, but has also detected illegal open-air burning and excess emissions with the help of warnings given through the IoT system. Those responsible for these illegal activities have been found and charged with violating the Air Pollution Control Act.\nThe EPA has uncovered five violations of the Air Pollution Control Act around the Port of Taichung by comparing sensor data from factories on the control list with background data from potential pollution hotspots. The EPA’s control work for stationary pollution sources focus on the implementation of the following regulations: air pollutant emission standards, management of prohibited substances, pollutant inspections, permits for installation and operation, establishment of dedicated air pollution control units or personnel positions, and collection of pollution control fees. The EPA has also revised the Air Pollution Control Act to strengthen the control of stationary pollution sources and increase the penalties.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "Taichung City Installs Air Quality Monitoring Sensors to Reinforce Smart Inspections and Prevent Illegal Activities", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-8" }, { "no": "3719", "title": "EPA Assists Penghu County to Contain Pollution from Oil Leak", "preview": "Soil and groundwater\n5. EPA Assists Penghu County to Contain Pollution from Oil Leak\nOn 17 July 2018, a leakage of unleaded 95 octane gasoline from an oil tank belonging to CPC Corporation Taiwan occurred in Huxi Township, Penghu County. Because of the soil and groundwater pollution potentially caused by the leak, the EPA has been assisting the local Environmental Protection Bureau with emergency response measures and ongoing investigation in accordance with the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act. CPC will be responsible for all future remediation based on the investigation results.", "content": "EPA Assists Penghu County to Contain Pollution from Oil Leak\nOn 17 July 2018, a leakage of unleaded 95 octane gasoline from an oil tank belonging to CPC Corporation Taiwan occurred in Huxi Township, Penghu County. Because of the soil and groundwater pollution potentially caused by the leak, the EPA has been assisting the local Environmental Protection Bureau with emergency response measures and ongoing investigation in accordance with the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act. CPC will be responsible for all future remediation based on the investigation results. \nEmergency measures were taken on 17 July to contain the leak. The EPA also helped the Environmental Protection Bureau of Penghu County with on-site investigation and sampling. If it is found that the potential to harm human health, agricultural and fish production or drinking water sources has occurred, CPC will be obligated to take necessary remediation measures. Moreover, if pollutant concentrations exceed soil or groundwater pollution control standards, the sites will be announced as pollution sites and CPC will be penalized pursuant to regulations. \n\nPenalties will be issued to CPC based on the Water Pollution Control Act or the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act, depending on the pollution confirmed to have affected surface water bodies, soil or groundwater. In addition, by not reporting to the local authority within three hours of the leakage incident, CPC violated Article 28 Paragraph 1 of the Water Pollution Control Act. Thus, the company is now subject to additional fines ranging from NT$10,000 to NT$6,000,000 as per Article 51 Paragraph 2 of the Act.\n\nThe Environmental Protection Bureau of Penghu County previously conducted underwater sampling in two wells at CPCs oil depot on 10 July, and ongoing investigation results will be revealed in August.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil and groundwater", "titlename": "EPA Assists Penghu County to Contain Pollution from Oil Leak", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-8" }, { "no": "3718", "title": "Revisions to Air Pollution Control Fee Rates for Stationary Sources Announced", "preview": "Air\nRevisions to Air Pollution Control Fee Rates for Stationary Sources Announced\nTo strengthen the control of air pollutants emitted by public and private premises, amendments to the Stationary Pollution Source Air Pollution Control Fee Rates () were announced on 29 June 2018. Except for the stationary sources produced during construction work, the fee rate covers air pollutants such as particulate pollutants, lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic, hexavalent chromium, and dioxin.", "content": "Revisions to Air Pollution Control Fee Rates for Stationary Sources Announced\nTo strengthen the control of air pollutants emitted by public and private premises, amendments to the Stationary Pollution Source Air Pollution Control Fee Rates () were announced on 29 June 2018. Except for the stationary sources produced during construction work, the fee rate covers air pollutants such as particulate pollutants, lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic, hexavalent chromium, and dioxin.\nTo provide a clear reference for the calculation of air pollutant emissions, the EPA also formulated the Regulations Governing Emission Factors, Control Efficiency, and Other Quantitative Calculations for Air Pollution Control Fees for Stationary Sources in Public and Private Premises. The regulations will take effect on 1 July 2018 and were devised by referencing domestic and international emission factors, control measures and current implementation status. \nTo encourage public and private enterprises to implement control measures for air pollutant reduction, the EPA has started collecting air pollution control fees for nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. The collection targets public and private enterprises whose seasonal NOx emissions exceed 24 metric tons and are produced from the use of natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas. \nThe EPA reminds public and private premises that the above mentioned regulations will apply to the third quarterly fee collection (for emissions produced from July to September) coming up in October 2018.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Revisions to Air Pollution Control Fee Rates for Stationary Sources Announced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-8" }, { "no": "3717", "title": "Subsidies for Replacing Phase One and Two Heavy-Duty Diesel Vehicles", "preview": "Air \nSubsidies for Replacing Phase One and Two Heavy-Duty Diesel Vehicles\nTo lighten the burden of replacing heavy-polluting old diesel trucks that weigh over 3.5 tons and are categorized in Phase 1 or 2 of the vehicle emission standards (manufactured before 30 June 1999), the EPA has formulated the Incentive Program Regarding Loans to Replace Old Heavy-Duty Diesel Vehicles. According to the incentive program, the government will provide credit guarantees for up to 90 percent of the loans with lower interest rates (3-5%) for new truck purchases. Furthermore, the government will also subsidize one percent of the loan interest for the purchase. The EPAs goal with the incentive program is to eliminate out-of-date diesel vehicles and reduce air pollution.", "content": "Subsidies for Replacing Phase One and Two Heavy-Duty Diesel Vehicles\nTo lighten the burden of replacing heavy-polluting old diesel trucks that weigh over 3.5 tons and are categorized in Phase 1 or 2 of the vehicle emission standards (manufactured before 30 June 1999), the EPA has formulated the Incentive Program Regarding Loans to Replace Old Heavy-Duty Diesel Vehicles. According to the incentive program, the government will provide credit guarantees for up to 90 percent of the loans with lower interest rates (3-5%) for new truck purchases. Furthermore, the government will also subsidize one percent of the loan interest for the purchase. The EPAs goal with the incentive program is to eliminate out-of-date diesel vehicles and reduce air pollution. \n\nOn 25 June 2018, the Legislative Yuan passed the amendments to the Air Pollution Control Act on the third reading. In accordance with the amendments, the EPA is to tighten the emission standards for the vehicles currently in use based on the needs of air quality improvement. However, before the official regulations are fully developed and put into effect, the EPA has been implementing incentives in advance, including the Regulations Governing Subsidies for Scrapping Large Old Diesel Vehicles promulgated on 16 August 2017. The aforementioned regulations provide a subsidy of NT$50,000 to NT$400,000 (based on vehicle weight) for each old diesel vehicle weighing more than 3.5 tons and classified in Phase 1 or 2, which works out to an average of NT$20,000 for each vehicle.\n\nAccording to the Regulations Governing Subsidies for Particulate Filter Installation on Heavy-Duty Diesel Vehicles announced on 8 August 2017, any heavy-duty diesel vehicle that is classified in phase three of the emission standards (manufactured on or before 30 September 2006) is offered a subsidy of NT$70,000 to NT$150,000, depending on the efficiency of the filters. The Ministry of Finance is also assisting the EPA to implement this policy by providing a commodity tax refund of NT$50,000 to owners of old Phase 1 and 2 diesel trucks that weigh more than 3.5 tons when they purchase a newer replacement. \n\nThe above mentioned regulations have expedited the replacement of 13,000 Phase 1 and 2 diesel vehicles exceeding 3.5 tons in weight. Moreover, to provide diesel truck owners with more options, certified filters are being constantly selected after evaluation of their efficiency and safety. \n\nThere remains in use 79,000 heavy-duty diesel vehicles in Phase 1 and 2. In addition to the above mentioned regulations, the Incentive Program Regarding Loans to Replace Old Heavy-Duty Diesel Vehicles has also been completed. For this incentive program, the EPA is working with the Small and Medium Enterprise Credit Guarantee Fund to provide credit guarantees for up to 90 percent of the loans for new truck purchases. Furthermore, the government will also subsidize up to one percent of the loan interest for the purchase which will gradually fall to 0.55 percent by 2022.\n\nThe incentive program will take effect on 1 September 2018 and is estimated to cost a total of NT$3.444 billion for subsidizing the loan interest from 2018 to 2027, or approximately NT$30,000 to NT$50,000 for each vehicle. \nIf combined with the subsidies for the elimination of the Phase 1 and 2 diesel trucks and for the filter installation of Phase 3 diesel trucks, at least NT$17 billion will be spent on addressing air pollution from heavy-duty vehicles. To reduce the air pollutants produced by Phase 1 and 2 diesel vehicles, the EPA aims to remove from the roads all such vehicles by 2022, which could potentially lead to reducing roughly 4,000 tons of PM2.5 emissions annually. The EPA urges the owners to replace their old diesel vehicle before the implementation of the incentive program for extra subsidies.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Subsidies for Replacing Phase One and Two Heavy-Duty Diesel Vehicles", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-8" }, { "no": "3716", "title": "President Announces Amended Air Pollution Control Act", "preview": "Air\nPresident Announces Amended Air Pollution Control Act\nOn 25 June 2018, after three readings the Legislative Yuan passed the amendment of the Air Pollution Control Act (). It took effect on 3 August after President Tsai Ing-Wen announced its promulgation on 1 August, as a new weapon in Taiwans fight against air pollution. Air quality is hoped to improve after its implementation.", "content": "President Announces Amended Air Pollution Control Act\nOn 25 June 2018, after three readings the Legislative Yuan passed the amendment of the Air Pollution Control Act (). It took effect on 3 August after President Tsai Ing-Wen announced its promulgation on 1 August, as a new weapon in Taiwans fight against air pollution. Air quality is hoped to improve after its implementation. \n\nThe EPA pointed out the amendments five focuses, which are\n Addition of the good neighbor provision (regional competent authorities collaborate with neighboring county\/city governments to map out air pollution control plans in accordance with the control plan set by the central authority)\n Addition of a double-control mechanism covering pollution sources at factories and ends-of-pipes (emission standards are to include hazardous air pollutants, and assessments need to be conducted for health risks; factory-use fuels and components of chemical products containing volatile organic compounds should also be within limits)\n More mobile source control measures (regional competent authorities are authorized to designate air quality protection zones; emission standards for vehicles over ten years old are tightened for better controls on highly-polluting vehicles; control targets are widened with construction equipment newly added)\n Heavier penalties and lower minimum fine limits (penalties for death caused by pollution have the maximum of a life sentence, with upper limits of criminal fines and administrative fines raised to NT$30 million and NT$20 million respectively; minimum fines are lowered for motorcycles and vehicles failing regular inspections, as well as for open-air burning)\n Recovery of illegal gains and the whistleblower clause are added while rewards are offered for reporting unlawful activities to encourage reporting of violations. Factories are required to disclose information on pollution emissions for public oversight.\nThe revision has comprehensively strengthened the Act, from capacities for management and prevention of pollution at source (air quality improvement planning and at-source controls), to end-of-pipe treatment, to emergency response.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "President Announces Amended Air Pollution Control Act", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-8" }, { "no": "3715", "title": "USEPA Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator Jane Nishida Visits Taiwan", "preview": "International Cooperation\nUSEPA Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator Jane Nishida Visits Taiwan\nOn 12 July, the USEPA Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator, Jane Nishida, visited Taiwan and met with EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee to promote the Taiwan-US joint International Environmental Partnership (IEP) program. In the second half of 2018, Taiwan and the US will jointly organize events such as the 7th Annual Asia Pacific Mercury Monitoring Training Workshop, the Global Circular Economy Symposium, the International E-Waste Management Network (IEMN) Meeting, and the Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP).", "content": "USEPA Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator Jane Nishida Visits Taiwan\nOn 12 July, the USEPA Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator, Jane Nishida, visited Taiwan and met with EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee to promote the Taiwan-US joint International Environmental Partnership (IEP) program. In the second half of 2018, Taiwan and the US will jointly organize events such as the 7th Annual Asia Pacific Mercury Monitoring Training Workshop, the Global Circular Economy Symposium, the International E-Waste Management Network (IEMN) Meeting, and the Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP).\nThe Agreement between the American Institute in Taiwan and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States for Technical Cooperation in the Field of Environmental Protection was signed by the EPA and USEPA in 1993. Under its framework, both parties would sign implementation plans every two to three years, which has resulted in 12 plans up to this year. This joint cooperation model between the two countries has successfully led to introduction of advanced pollution control technology and environmental management experiences from the US. It has been of tremendous benefit in developing Taiwans policies and capacities for environmental protection and management as well as the adoption of environmental quality improvement technology.\n\nRegarding the challenges of trans-boundary pollution, Taiwan and the US jointly launched the International Environmental Partnership (IEP) in 2014, aiming to tackle environmental issues requiring cooperation. This shared platform combines experts, scholars, and students from both sides in the hope of creating a healthy and clean environment. To date, about 80 events have been organized with 40 countries participating.\n\nIn 2018 the IEP organized several events in May and June. They included the Air Quality Control Strategy Exchange Symposium and preparation meetings for upcoming events such as the GEEP Consultant Group Meeting and the Asia-Pacific Environmental Education Preparation Meeting, the 8th IEMN, and the 7th Annual Asia Pacific Mercury Monitoring Training Workshop.\n\nFor the second half of 2018, events planned to be held under IEP include the 7th Asia Pacific Mercury Monitoring Training Workshop, the IEMN, and the GEEP.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "International Cooperation", "titlename": "USEPA Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator Jane Nishida Visits Taiwan", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-8" }, { "no": "3714", "title": "Diversified Waste Treatment Policies", "preview": "waste\nDiversified Waste Treatment Policies \nThere have been a total of 24 incinerators built in Taiwan. The first one was built in 1984, and 19 of them have been in operation for at least 15 years. In order to raise the efficiency of old incinerators and waste treatment, the EPA launched the Diversified Waste Treatment Plan () in 2017. It includes measures for integrating new technology in incinerators and extending their services, setting up three bioenergy plants fueled by kitchen waste, and promoting reuse of bottom ash from incinerators. It is hoped these steps will increase daily waste treatment capacity, lower carbon emissions, and help build a circular economy.", "content": "Diversified Waste Treatment Policies \nThere have been a total of 24 incinerators built in Taiwan. The first one was built in 1984, and 19 of them have been in operation for at least 15 years. In order to raise the efficiency of old incinerators and waste treatment, the EPA launched the Diversified Waste Treatment Plan () in 2017. It includes measures for integrating new technology in incinerators and extending their services, setting up three bioenergy plants fueled by kitchen waste, and promoting reuse of bottom ash from incinerators. It is hoped these steps will increase daily waste treatment capacity, lower carbon emissions, and help build a circular economy. \n\nDiversified garbage disposal to raise effectiveness of treatment\nFor general garbage disposal in Taiwan, nearly 60% is recycled while 40% goes for incineration. Challenges include declining efficiency of incinerators as they approach the end of their service lives, offshore island garbage disposal s and adequate diversified disposal channels for kitchen waste. In an attempt to improve the efficiency of old incinerators and to diversify treatment options, on 22 June 2017 the Executive Yuan approved, the Diversified Waste Treatment Plan () proposed by the EPA. It is to be implemented over six years with a budget of NT$15.342 billion from the central and regional governments.\n\nThe Plan has six focuses: upgrades of incinerator equipment; promotion of regional cooperation; offshore garbage disposal; improving the effectiveness of environmental protection installations; supervision of garbage clearance; and circular economy policies. Introduction of new garbage disposal technology and incinerator upgrades and improvements\n\nSignificant results since 2017 are as follows:\n\n1. Assessment and planning for incinerator upgrades and construction\nDuring the first half of 2018, the EPA invited regional bureaus, operators, and supervising units to attend meetings to promote overall equipment upgrades for incinerators and go over application procedures for future upgrades and needed construction. So far assessment and planning budgets have been approved for nine incinerator upgrades. \nPlans for transporting waste from three offshore island counties were approved as well. The EPA also helped counties without incinerators to set up their own diversified disposal facilities.\n\n2. Promotion of regional waste reutilization facilities\n(1) A NT$1.8-billion project is in place to establish, from 2017 to 2022, at least three bioenergy plants using kitchen waste, which is expected to raise kitchen waste disposal capacity to 180,000 tons\/year and reduce carbon emissions by 17,400 tons\/year. The project is already in motion with six regional governments, including Taipei City. In addition, construction of Waipu Green Energy Eco Park in Taichung City started on 24 October 2017, with a trial run set for September 2018.\n\n (2) The Environmental Protection Facility Efficiency Improvement objectives of the Plan aim at lightening incinerator loads by utilizing wastes as resources and for energy through measures such as kitchen waste dehydration in pre- and mid-treatment. The EPA approved the establishment of pre-treatment facilities for dehydrating and breaking down kitchen waste, located in Tainan City, Yunlin County, and Yilan County in 2017, and in Kaohsiung City in 2018. This year a high-performance compost treatment facility was also approved to be set up in Lienchiang County. Through these measures, the EPA hopes to increase efficiency of kitchen waste recycling and reuse, and effectively solve garbage disposal problems. In addition, they should lead to positive carbon reduction outcomes, and keep Taiwan up with international trends.\n\n3. Bottom ash disposal and reuse\nRegarding bottom ash disposal and reuse, the EPA completed trials for the reutilization of granular material used in maintenance and construction of road pavement in logistics and storage zones. The Information Management Center for Reutilization of Granular Incinerator Materials has been established to ensure thorough source-to-end controls. Each government department is also asked to start using or to increase the usage of granular incinerator materials in infrastructure projects in order to expand channels for the reutilization of waste products and promote resource recycling and reuse.\n\n4. Promoting reutilization of livestock waste as farmland fertilizer\nCurrently 211 farms have been approved to send livestock waste for anaerobic fermentation before it is used on farmland as fertilizers. This reduces organic pollution by 5,574 metric tons\/year, and. NT$10.1 billion is also saved as this is equivalent to building 101 gravel contact oxidation treatment facilities. A total of 921,000 metric tons of fertilizers are used per year on 819.7 hectares of farmland, including 287 metric tons of nitrogen. Together farmers reduce costs on chemical fertilizers of up to NT$13.92 million. To link reutilized products with farmers’ needs, the EPA has held meetings and set up an online platform that can match over 50,000 tons of fertilizers with 468 hectares of usable farmland.\n\nFuture outlook\nContinuing to carry out the Diversified Waste Treatment Plan, the EPA estimates that after all incinerators are overhauled, the combined increase in treatment capacity will be equivalent to an incinerator able to treat 900 metric tons\/day of waste. The following works will also be continually promoted:\n Counties without incinerators will be assisted first to set up diversified local self-operating waste disposal facilities.\n New technology and treatment facilities are encouraged through economic incentives to raise treatment efficiency.\n Industries and new technology are combined to promote industry upgrades and open overseas markets.\n Regions are assisted to set up treatment facilities that utilize kitchen waste for bioenergy in order to improve kitchen waste disposal, open up channels and markets for reutilized products, and promote circular economy policies.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Diversified Waste Treatment Policies", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-8" }, { "no": "3713", "title": "Sudan Red and 15 Chemicals Declared As Toxic", "preview": "Chemicals\nSudan Red and 15 Chemicals Declared As Toxic\nOn 28 June 2018, the EPA declared 16 chemicals as toxic chemicals. They include 14 dyes that may be illegally added into animal feeds or food like Sudan Red and two persistent organic pollutants that cannot be easily broken down, lauric acid and perfluorooctanoic acid.", "content": "Sudan Red and 15 Chemicals Declared As Toxic\nOn 28 June 2018, the EPA declared 16 chemicals as toxic chemicals. They include 14 dyes that may be illegally added into animal feeds or food like Sudan Red and two persistent organic pollutants that cannot be easily broken down, lauric acid and perfluorooctanoic acid.\n\nThe EPA stated that these 14 materials, including Sudan Red, are chemical dyes. Some enterprises put them into food or feeds illegally to save costs or make products more appealing, resulting in human health risks. For example, Sudan Red is applied in coloring of furniture paint, shoe oil, floor wax, car wax, and fat for industrial use as it does not fade easily despite its high cost. In 2017, it was found in duck eggs sold on markets during government-initiated inspections.\n\nThe EPA pointed out that these 14 substances with risks to food safety are announced as toxic chemicals after careful evaluation of the first announcement of 13 substances as toxic chemicals in 2017. It aims to track its use and flow via cross-departmental collaboration and the announced control mechanism for approval, registration, and labelling. Investigations will be carried out to track sources and ascertain whether additives are sold to food-producing enterprises once they are found in food products. Sanitary agencies will also be notified to impose penalties based on the Toxic Chemical Substance Control Act.\n\nThe announcement also placed two persistent organic pollutants, lauric acid and perfluorooctanoic acid, on the control list. The EPA mentioned that lauric acid is mainly used in treating textile and leather preservation and has been listed for future elimination by the Stockholm Convention. Despite ongoing debate on whether to ban it or limit its production, perfluorooctanoic acid is declared as a Class 4 toxic chemical substance to be aligned with the latest international trend. Future control will be tightened depending on the Convention’s evaluation result.\n\nThe EPA reminded that production, import, sales, use, and storage of these 16 substances all need to obtain approval in advance and also file regular reports. All enterprises are to complete various requirements before deadlines, including regular reporting by 1 January 2019, labeling by 1 July 2019, and obtaining approval documents by 1 January 2020. Production, import, and sales without following the above regulations will lead to fines ranging from NT$60,000 to NT$5,000,000.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Chemicals", "titlename": "Sudan Red and 15 Chemicals Declared As Toxic", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-7" }, { "no": "3712", "title": "EPA and MOHW Jointly Inspect Chemical Raw Material Industry", "preview": "Chemicals\nEPA and MOHW Jointly Inspect Chemical Raw Material Industry\nThe EPA, assigned by the Office of Food Safety (OFS), the Executive Yuan, launched with the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) the 2018 Joint Action Plan for Inspecting Chemical Raw Material Enterprises That Also Sell Food Additives. Control measures that increase environmental and sanitary inspections will be used to prevent non-food grade chemicals from entering the food production chain systematically to ensure food safety and citizens’ health.", "content": "EPA and MOHW Jointly Inspect Chemical Raw Material Industry\nThe EPA, assigned by the Office of Food Safety (OFS), the Executive Yuan, launched with the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) the 2018 Joint Action Plan for Inspecting Chemical Raw Material Enterprises That Also Sell Food Additives. Control measures that increase environmental and sanitary inspections will be used to prevent non-food grade chemicals from entering the food production chain systematically to ensure food safety and citizens’ health.\n\nThe EPA stated that the OFS maps out main inspections every year to prevent future food safety incidents. This year the OFS specifically required the EPA to collaborate with the MOHW to conduct joint inspections on chemical raw material enterprises that also sell food additives. A total of 268 enterprises were picked out for inspections. With inspections and assistance, it is hoped to increase voluntary management efficiency to prevent abuse and misuse of non-food grade chemicals to safeguard citizens’ health.\n\nThe EPA pointed out that cross-departmental inspection has been carried out on 57 chemicals with risks on food safety since February 2017. All chemical raw material enterprises were first targeted for inspections and promotion of four major managements to increase risk awareness. A total of 3,117 enterprises were visited in 2017, and 901 inspections had been carried out by the end of June 2018. Many enterprises were discovered to still have room for improvement on management. Many of them, who also sell food grade additives, considered that their products were for industrial use and thus did not register and report data on MOHW’s Food and Drug Enterprise Registration Platform. It is against the principle of the Act Governing Food Safety and Sanitation, which focuses on tracking the food flow. Also, these enterprises may cause food safety risks like chemical raw material misuse or abuse downstream due to poor management from lack of competent authorities’ supervisions, assistance, and information.\n\nThe EPA stressed that the Plan is a collaboration between and carried out by the central and regional governments. They are respectively in charge of inspecting enterprises’ management of toxic chemicals, providing assistance on voluntary chemical management, food enterprise registration, random inspections for labels of food additive products, and food additive management. Environmental agencies will put all of its inspection forces on 13 toxic chemicals with risks on food safety announced on 25 September 2017. Enterprises should follow all regulations and fulfill all requirements before the deadlines. Failing to do so will result in fines from NT$60,000 to NT$500,000 according to the Toxic Chemical Substance Control Act.\n\nBoth the EPA and MOHW emphasized their determination to continue close collaborations on tightened chemical substance management. Operation, controls, and flow tracking on toxic chemicals, chemical raw materials, and food additives are also strengthened. If discovered, all illegal operations and additions will be punished in accordance with the Toxic Chemical Substance Control Act and the Act Governing Food Safety and Sanitation.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Chemicals", "titlename": "EPA and MOHW Jointly Inspect Chemical Raw Material Industry", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-7" }, { "no": "3711", "title": "Revisions to the Water Pollution Control Act Announced", "preview": "Water Revisions to the Water Pollution Control Act Announced\nArticles were added to the Water Pollution Control Act to refine the management of water quality. These revisions were done under the President’s order on 13 June, 2018. The purposes of the revisions were to “adjust the targets for collecting water pollution control fees,” “improve regulations against and fines for wastewater or sludge entering groundwater bodies,” as well as “adding a basis for punishing deteriorating water quality within a certain period.”", "content": "Revisions to the Water Pollution Control Act Announced\nArticles were added to the Water Pollution Control Act to refine the management of water quality. These revisions were done under the President’s order on 13 June, 2018. The purposes of the revisions were to “adjust the targets for collecting water pollution control fees,” “improve regulations against and fines for wastewater or sludge entering groundwater bodies,” as well as “adding a basis for punishing deteriorating water quality within a certain period.”\n\nThe EPA noted that fees for water pollution control are set forth on the principle that polluters should pay in hopes of using the system to reduce the amount of pollutant discharge. The average household, when compared to an enterprise, is largely unable to install the proper equipment to improve the discharge of wastewater. Therefore, collecting a fee from this sort of unit will have limited results in terms of restricting the discharge of pollution.\n\nFully improving wastewater discharge from households requires the installation of thorough sewage systems. However, a public sewage system is a public construction service that the government provides. To collect water pollution fees from households is clearly unfair. Government policy should focus on encouraging local governments to proactively construct sewage systems, as the construction of sewers is the responsibility of local governments. Local governments should also increase the number of households that can connect to the system and collect usage fees.\n\nBased on the above-mentioned considerations, the EPA made revisions to regulations for water pollution fees found in Articles 11 and 44 of the Water Pollution Control Act. The key points of the revisions are as follows:\n\n1. The targets for collecting household water pollution fees have been revised to be households that have not complied and connected to the sewer system within the usage areas of sewage systems as announced in the Sewerage Act (下水道法). Public and community-use sewage systems are excluded. \n\n2. In accordance with the Sewerage Act and the Local Government Act (地方制度法), the construction and management of sewage systems as well as the collection of fees are the responsibility of local governments. There are significant differences between sewage systems constructed in different counties or cities. Local governments are authorized to collect household water pollution fees and impose penalties in order to have fee collection based on local conditions and carried out with the usage fees for the area’s sewage system. In addition, the revisions adjust the rate of water pollution fees for households to be equal with the fees for sewage system usage. This change can lower the costs of tax collections, raise administrative efficacy and reduce frustrations from incorrect calculations for fees.\n\n3. The entire collected household water pollution fees go to local governments. The fees are to be used for sewage system construction and improving household wastewater. \n\nGroundwater is an important water resource, and in some regions it is used for fisheries and agriculture or serves as a source for drinking water. In order to prevent wastewater and sewage from entering groundwater bodies and affecting water sources, the EPA removed regulations tied to applying for permits to inject wastewater into groundwater. The highest fine for illegally injecting wastewater into groundwater bodies is NT$6 million. Regulations were added regarding punishments for wastewater or sewage containing substances harmful to human health being injected to groundwater bodies. The offender will be subject to one year to seven years imprisonment and detention and\/or a fine of NT$200,000 to NT$20 million.\n\nBesides these revisions, in terms of practical management of wastewater, the EPA added a basis for punishments tied to the limited period for improving water deterioration. When an enterprise discharges wastewater and sewage with emission concentration or the hydrogen ion concentration index exceeding those of the original discharged being punished, it will be fined for each excess. This will prevent enterprises from not improving or controlling the pollution during the improvement period.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Revisions to the Water Pollution Control Act Announced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-7" }, { "no": "3710", "title": "Revisions to the Types, Scope, and Scale of Enterprises for Review of Water Pollution Control Measure Plans Announced", "preview": "Water\n7. Revisions to the Types, Scope, and Scale of Enterprises for Review of Water Pollution Control Measure Plans Announced\n\nThe EPA announced revisions to the Types, Scope, and Scale of Enterprises, Scope, and Scale for Review of Water Pollution Control Measures on 21 June 2018. This revision was done to match the Water Pollution Control Measure Plans. The EPA revised the differences between three grades of applicants for approval into specific, general, and simple. Enterprises within the final category are exempt from a review of water pollution control measures. The volume threshold for general targets of regulation was adjusted. In addition, serious offenders and high risk polluters were added as a target for review of water pollution control measure plans in order to implement appropriate regulations.", "content": "Revisions to the Types, Scope, and Scale of Enterprises for Review of Water Pollution Control Measure Plans Announced\n\nThe EPA announced revisions to the Types, Scope, and Scale of Enterprises, Scope, and Scale for Review of Water Pollution Control Measures on 21 June 2018. This revision was done to match the Water Pollution Control Measure Plans. The EPA revised the differences between three grades of applicants for approval into specific, general, and simple. Enterprises within the final category are exempt from a review of water pollution control measures. The volume threshold for general targets of regulation was adjusted. In addition, serious offenders and high risk polluters were added as a target for review of water pollution control measure plans in order to implement appropriate regulations.\n\nAccording to Article 13 of the Water Pollution Control Act, enterprises prior to establishment or modification must submit plans and related documents for water pollution prevention. These documents are to be submitted to the competent authorities for a municipality, county or city, or agency commissioned by the central competent authority for review and approval. The above-mentioned types, scopes, and scale are designated by the EPA in consultation with the industry competent authorities.\nThe types, scope, and scale of industries that should be reviewed was first announced by the EPA on 29 June 1999 and has since undergone five amendments. As the Water Pollution Control Measure Plans are part of each enterprise’s design, enterprises must obtain a permit upon being approved to complete construction. The second stage of review creates a burden for small, law-abiding enterprises. Such a review also wastes administrative resources. Thus, there is a necessity to simplify the review process for enterprises of a smaller scale and focus resources on medium-to-large scale enterprises and serious offenders.\n\nRevisions thus were made in correspondence with the Water Pollution Control Measure Plans. The categories of enterprises were revised to feature three groups for the approval process and regulation: specific, general, and simple. The simple category is to be exempt from review. The volume threshold for general targets of regulation was adjusted. In addition, serious offenders and high risk polluters were added as a target for review of water pollution control measure plans. Upon implementing these revisions, the targets for reviewing water pollution control plans are as follows:\n\n1. The Water Pollution Act, Article 14-1, Paragraph 1: The EPA designates the enterprises which must disclose the pollutants in discharged wastewater along with the concentration and quantity.\n2. General targets are defined as having plans or actually producing wastewater, sewage or sludge of 100m3 per day (metric tons\/day). Or they produce raw sewage (sludge) containing materials specified in Article 3, Table 2 of the Regulations Governing Establishment and Management for Responsible Wastewater Treatment Units and Personnel, which exceed the effluent standards. It also includes serious offenders with a shutdown due to layoffs, serious violations or false reporting.\n3. Enterprises that produce wastewater, leak wastewater, or fail to add cooling water to wastewater, and channel it into underground water systems designated for industrial areas.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Revisions to the Types, Scope, and Scale of Enterprises for Review of Water Pollution Control Measure Plans Announced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-7" }, { "no": "3709", "title": "19 Coastal Cities\/Counties Go Plastic-Free for World Oceans Day", "preview": "Water\n19 Coastal Cities\/Counties Go Plastic-Free for World Oceans Day\nIn response to the U.N.’s World Oceans Day on 8 June, the EPA brought together over 8,000 people from 19 coastal cities and counties across the nation on 9 June. As part of that effort, the EPA called on 376 divers and an environmental fleet consisting of 281 ships to work together in order to collect trash from the ocean, whether on the ocean floor or floating on the surface. In total, the teams collected 16.24 metric tons of garbage from the ocean that day. To show the EPA’s commitment to having a plastic-free ocean, results from the clean-up effort were regularly updated and compiled on the “Plastic Free Ocean” Facebook page.", "content": "19 Coastal Cities\/Counties Go Plastic-Free for World Oceans Day\nIn response to the U.N.’s World Oceans Day on 8 June, the EPA brought together over 8,000 people from 19 coastal cities and counties across the nation on 9 June. As part of that effort, the EPA called on 376 divers and an environmental fleet consisting of 281 ships to work together in order to collect trash from the ocean, whether on the ocean floor or floating on the surface. In total, the teams collected 16.24 metric tons of garbage from the ocean that day. To show the EPA’s commitment to having a plastic-free ocean, results from the clean-up effort were regularly updated and compiled on the “Plastic Free Ocean” Facebook page.\n\nThe main locale for this year’s World Oceans Day was Suogang Fishing Harbor, located in Penghu County. The event was inaugurated by EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee; Hsiang-Wen Huang, the Director of the Ocean Conservation Administration, Ocean Affairs Council; Zi-Chang Liao, Chief Secretary of the Fisheries Agency (FA), Council of Agriculture; Yao Yang, legislative representative for Penghu County; Kuang-Fu Chen, Magistrate of Penghu County; and Shuang-Quan Chen, Deputy Speaker for Penghu County Council.\n\nEPA Minister Lee gave a speech, stressing that the issue of plastic waste in the ocean has already attracted considerable attention globally. Taiwan’s focus on creating a clear timetable for reducing single-use plastic products has gained international affirmation. For example with plastic straws, the EPA published a draft regulation online that would restrict government departments, public\/private schools, department stores and shopping centers from using single-use plastic straws for individuals drinking at those locations. Through multiple strategies like regular communication and promoting waste prevention, the seas around Taiwan will have less plastic waste and become even more beautiful.\n\nThe EPA noted that this year coincides with the twentieth anniversary of the establishment of The Most Beautiful Bays in the World. This year’s congress will be held in Penghu in September, and provide the county with the opportunity to welcome visitors from around the world. As part of providing a warm welcome for this congress, the FA provided NT$19 million to Penghu County government in order to clean up fishing nets from the ocean floor. The EPA also provided over NT$32 million earmarked for cleaning up garbage from the ocean floor and over NT$66 million from the Offshore Island Development Fund, totaling NT$110 million for the removal of fishing nets and garbage from the ocean. Around one metric ton of fishing nets was removed from Suogang Fishing Harbor on World Oceans Day alone. In the future, the EPA hopes that, with continued cooperation, the issue of fishing nets and floating garbage in Penghu County will be solved.\n\nOther than the event being undertaken by divers and boat teams to clean the ocean floor, there was also a display of artwork made from trash collected in the ocean. The event did not provide any single-use utensils. Instead, organizers provided utensils for rent and had stalls selling unpackaged goods in order to encourage people to get involved in a lifestyle that relies less on single-use plastic items, thus reducing the amount of plastic waste that ends up in the ocean.\n\nThe EPA called together 19 coastal counties and cities to organize a series of activities for World Ocean Day. It hopes to steadily reach the goal of a plastic-free ocean by cleaning up plastic waste hotspots in the ocean, promoting the reduction of single-use plastic products, inter-departmental cooperation, subsidies from diverse sources, and encouraging people to participate in various activities.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "19 Coastal Cities\/Counties Go Plastic-Free for World Oceans Day", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-7" }, { "no": "3708", "title": "Amendments to Permit Management Regulations for Public and Private Waste Clearance and Disposal Preannounced", "preview": "Waste\nAmendments to Permit Management Regulations for Public and Private Waste Clearance and Disposal Preannounced\nAmendments to the Permit Management Regulations for Public and Private Waste Clearance and Disposal (hereinafter referred to as the Regulations) were preannounced to improve the management of clearance and disposal organizations and to ensure proper waste treatment. Through the revisions, the EPA also aims to carry out the tracking of the products made from recycled materials and to implement the transparency of waste clearance fees.", "content": "Amendments to Permit Management Regulations for Public and Private Waste Clearance and Disposal Preannounced\nAmendments to the Permit Management Regulations for Public and Private Waste Clearance and Disposal (hereinafter referred to as the Regulations) were preannounced to improve the management of clearance and disposal organizations and to ensure proper waste treatment. Through the revisions, the EPA also aims to carry out the tracking of the products made from recycled materials and to implement the transparency of waste clearance fees.\n\nTo promote resource recycling and reuse, waste is allowed to be made into products as long as the disposal organization obtains a waste disposal permit with the standards, usage, and flow of the recycled product labelled on it. Therefore, to reduce the concern of reusing waste and to ensure recycled products are manufactured properly, the EPA has reinforced the regulations on the reporting of flow records of recycled products through these amendments.\n\nTo prevent negative competition in the charge of the service between disposal\/clearance organizations, an addendum was also made to the Regulations that stipulates disposal\/clearance organizations shall publish information on the fees for their service and other related details for the commissioning parties’ convenience.\n\nThe Regulations have been amended three times since first promulgated in 2001. To strengthen the management of recycled products put out by disposal organizations and to stabilize the market prices of waste disposal service, the EPA has amended the Regulations to better adapt to the current society. The main points of the amendments are as follows:\n\n1) Application for the establishment approval documents for disposal organizations shall now also submit the following documents: cost analysis for the establishment and the operation plan. The requirements for installing surveillance system have also been revised.\n\n2) Regulations on the monitoring records of the derivative wastes produced by disposing hazardous industrial waste have been added. \nThose applying for the issuance or extension of a disposal permit shall now also submit a quality management plan for both the waste accepted and produced and an operation management plan. \n\n3) The validity period for the first permit has been updated and the timing to apply and review the permit extension has been revised. According to the amendments, the expiration date of the permit will still take effect even if the issuing authority has not made a decision by then. Those applying for an extension should conduct operational tests on the waste disposal equipment.\n\n4) Those applying for an extension of clearance or disposal permits shall submit the proof of being a local union member.\n\n5) Disposal organizations shall preserve and report their operating records based on their quality management plan for both the waste accepted and produced and their operation management plan. The disposal organizations shall also provide surveillance video for the inspections by the competent authority or enforcement authority.\n\n6) Clearance\/disposal organizations shall publish information on the fees of their service and shall not charge more than the published fees. \n\n7) An addition to the required measures to be taken when the disposal organizations that are approved to operate produce recycled goods.\n\n8) If the permit of a clearance\/disposal organization is canceled or revoked, the organization may not use the same\/similar organization name or use the same VAT number to apply for the permit again within the next five year.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Amendments to Permit Management Regulations for Public and Private Waste Clearance and Disposal Preannounced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-7" }, { "no": "3707", "title": "New Regulations on Industrial Waste Disposal Plan Promulgated", "preview": "Waste\nNew Regulations on Industrial Waste Disposal Plan Promulgated \n\nTo strengthen the management of industrial waste, the Regulations Governing the Review of Industrial Waste Clearance and Disposal Plans took effect on 1 July 2018. In the meantime, to better organize and simplify the policies, the Regulations Governing Industrial Waste Clearance and Disposal Plans, Plan Formats and Items to be Stated have been abolished.", "content": "New Regulations on Industrial Waste Disposal Plan Promulgated \n\nTo strengthen the management of industrial waste, the Regulations Governing the Review of Industrial Waste Clearance and Disposal Plans took effect on 1 July 2018. In the meantime, to better organize and simplify the policies, the Regulations Governing Industrial Waste Clearance and Disposal Plans, Plan Formats and Items to be Stated have been abolished.\n\nThe industrial waste clearance and disposal plan is considered an important management tool for the government since it includes detailed operation information of a business, the amount of waste generated, and how the waste will be disposed of. However, the relative regulations on the disposal plan were all separated in different policies which caused ambiguity in the legislation hierarchy. Therefore, the EPA formulated the Regulations Governing the Review of Industrial Waste Clearance and Disposal Plans in accordance with the Waste Disposal Act, and annulled the Regulations Governing Industrial Waste Clearance and Disposal Plans, Plan Formats and Items to be Stated. By reorganizing and clarifying the related regulations on the disposal plan, the EPA aims to maintain consistency of the review process and reinforce the management of industrial waste. \n\nNow that the regulations are more organized and easier to understand, the EPA expects that future disposal, clearance, or reuse of waste will be done legally in accordance with the approved disposal plan.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "New Regulations on Industrial Waste Disposal Plan Promulgated", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-7" }, { "no": "3706", "title": "Taiwan and the EU Share Successful Experiences of Circular Economy on 30th Anniversary of Partnership", "preview": "Recycling\nTaiwan and the EU Share Successful Experiences of Circular Economy on 30th Anniversary of Partnership\nTo mark the 30th anniversary of the Taiwan-EU Annual Consultations, he EPA and the EU jointly held their first circular economy international conference on 4 June as a part of the activities during the European Innovation Week. Both government officials and experts from various countries (including the EU, Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Taiwan) were invited. During the conference, they discussed various innovative methods and their successful experiences on topics such as plastic management, waste electrical and electronic equipment, and construction and demolition waste (C&D Waste) management.", "content": "Taiwan and the EU Share Successful Experiences of Circular Economy on 30th Anniversary of Partnership\nTo mark the 30th anniversary of the Taiwan-EU Annual Consultations, he EPA and the EU jointly held their first circular economy international conference on 4 June as a part of the activities during the European Innovation Week. Both government officials and experts from various countries (including the EU, Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Taiwan) were invited. During the conference, they discussed various innovative methods and their successful experiences on topics such as plastic management, waste electrical and electronic equipment, and construction and demolition waste (C&D Waste) management.\n\nThe 2018 EU-Taiwan Circular Economy International Conference lasted for 3 day, including a seminar on 4 June, a cluster matchmaking event on 5 June, and finally a site tour to circular economy facilities and enterprises in Tainan on the last day. \n\nIn addition to inviting outstanding local and foreign speakers to give speeches on circular economy in the conference, a trade show was also held outside of the conference venue. Participating companies included Da Fon Environmental Technology, Solar Applied Materials Technology, Far Eastern New Century (FENC), IKEA, RUENTEX, and UWin Nanotech. \n\nDuring the trade show, the participating companies presented a vast array of applications of circular economy, showcasing Taiwan’s efforts and achievements in promoting circular economy. For example, IKEA put out a variety of products using local brown sugar; Far Eastern New Century collaborated with a sporting goods company to make World Cup jerseys and sneakers out of ocean waste; Da Fon Environmental Technology created products with recycled plastics; and RUENTEX manufactured heat insulation renders. To further demonstrate Taiwan’s accomplishment in promoting circular economy, the souvenirs for the conference guests were made from recycled tin. The EPA was inspired by Japan’s cellphone recycling project to make medals for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, and the recycled tin was provided by Rui Da Hung Technology Materials.\n\nOn 6 June, a delegation of officials and industry experts led by DG GROW Deputy Director-General Antti Peltom?ki joined with EPA Deputy Minister Tzi-Chin Chang at the cluster seminar on circular economy partakers. The seminar also gathered businesses in Tainan working in the field of circular economy to establish mutual understanding of the industry clusters in both Taiwan and Europe and to create more opportunities for future business cooperation.\n\nAfter the seminar, the group went to Chengxi Refuse Incineration Plant where they were greeted by Chien-San Lin, Director of Environmental Protection Bureau of Tainan City Government, who explained to them that it is the EPA’s goal to turn this incineration plant into a circular economy park. Lin also gave a detailed presentation on the generation of solar power and biomass in the plant and the reuse process of bottom ash. The site tour fully demonstrated Tainan City’s achievement in circular economy, energy creation, and environmental protection. The other highlight of the day was a visit to Solar Applied Materials Technology (SAMT), a world-leading precious metal and rare metal recycling company. In SAMT, the European delegation was introduced to a special and environmentally friendly technology to extract precious metals. \n\nThe EPA pointed out that some companies have already put joint effort in promoting environmental sustainability by voluntarily forming Sea Waste Plastics Circular Economy Alliance (SWPCEA), Green Electronics Resources Alliance (GERA), and Taiwan Construction Resource Circulation Alliance (TCRCS) that focus on waste plastic, waste electrical and electronic equipment materials, and C&D Waste, respectively. The EPA believes that collaborating with these three alliances will be a key step toward realizing a circular economy in Taiwan. Through this international conference, both the public and private sectors showed their determination in expanding cooperative exchanges with other nations and creating a new era of a circular economy.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Taiwan and the EU Share Successful Experiences of Circular Economy on 30th Anniversary of Partnership", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-7" }, { "no": "3705", "title": "A New Milestone: Passage of Air Pollution Control Act Amendments", "preview": "Air\nA New Milestone: Passage of Air Pollution Control Act Amendments\n\nThe highly focused amendments to the Air Pollution Control Act (空氣污染防制法) were passed in the Legislative Yuan after three readings on June 25. Revisions included a good neighbor clause, a factory source control mechanism, mobile pollution source control measures, stricter penalties, as well as recovering illegal gains and a new clause for whistleblowers. The amendment will first be sent to the President for official promulgation before implementation, setting a new milestone for air pollution control in Taiwan.", "content": "A New Milestone: Passage of Air Pollution Control Act Amendments\n\nThe highly focused amendments to the Air Pollution Control Act (空氣污染防制法) were passed in the Legislative Yuan after three readings on June 25. Revisions included a good neighbor clause, a factory source control mechanism, mobile pollution source control measures, stricter penalties, as well as recovering illegal gains and a new clause for whistleblowers. The amendment will first be sent to the President for official promulgation before implementation, setting a new milestone for air pollution control in Taiwan.\n\nThe EPA pointed out that the revision focuses on the addition of a good neighbor clause, a factory source control mechanism, and mobile pollution source control measures, stricter penalties, and recovering illegal gains and a new whistleblower clause. It provides thorough reinforcement from planning of air quality improvement, source- and midway-control for pollution, to end-of-pipe treatment and responses.\n\nThe new neighbor clause: Based on the EPA-formulated Air Pollution Control Plan, local environmental bureaus are to coordinate with governments in neighboring counties and cities and set up control plans in order to solve the hazards suffered by people in downwind areas; And factories have to formulate emergency response plans in advance in time for disasters like fire to prevent deterioration of air quality and residents’ health.\n\nThe mechanism for controlling both factory source and end-of-pipe pollution: Competent authorities need to include harmful air pollutants and evaluate health risks when formulating emission standards; Ingredients of factory-used fuels and products, including volatile organic chemicals, must comply with regulatory limits; Large-scale factories have to adopt the best pollution control technology; Violators will be fined based on number of violations instead of number of days of violation.\n\nThe good community clause: Local environmental bureaus are authorized to set up air pollution maintenance zones and limit or ban highly-polluting vehicles from entering or using them; Controls for mobile sources other than vehicles, such as construction instruments, are expanded; the EPA is able to tighten emission standards for vehicles that have come out of the factory for more than ten years; And the harshest penalty is cancellation of driver’s license for car and motorcycle owners who fail to have their vehicles’ emissions inspected.\n\nHarsher penalties to deter violations: Penalties are largely tightened to deter violations. Violators that cause death with pollution can receive a life sentence in the harshest instance. Fines can be up to NT$30,000,000 for violating criminal acts and NT$20,000,000 for violating executive regulations. Lower limit of fines is proportionately lowered for violations such as failing to undergo regular inspections. On the other hand, fines for legal persons\/entities and natural persons increased ten folds.\n\nClauses for recovering illegal gains and whistleblowers: Those who violate the Act and profit from such actions will be imposed with fines as well as have their illegal gains returned; A mechanism for whistleblowers and rewards has been set up to encourage reporting of illegal activities; And factories are required to disclose information on pollution emission for public scrutiny.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "A New Milestone: Passage of Air Pollution Control Act Amendments", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-7" }, { "no": "3704", "title": "EPA and NAO Jointly Promote Sustainable Development Goals", "preview": "Sustainable Development\n1. EPA and NAO Jointly Promote Sustainable Development Goals\nOn 5 June 2018, the EPA and National Audit Office (NAO) together held the Symposium on Sustainable Development and Audit, with Minister Ying-Yuan Lee and Auditor General Ching-Long Lin delivering welcome speeches at the opening ceremony. Invited speakers included the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development, Office of the Auditor General of Canada, Ms. Julie Gelfand, and the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Canada Audit and Accountability Foundation, Mr. John Reed. Besides Legislator Chiu-Chin Tien, Legislator Man-Li Chen, Control Yuan Member Yung-Ching Jao, nearly 400 participants from industries, governments, academia, and research units attended the event.", "content": "EPA and NAO Jointly Promote Sustainable Development Goals\nOn 5 June 2018, the EPA and National Audit Office (NAO) together held the Symposium on Sustainable Development and Audit, with Minister Ying-Yuan Lee and Auditor General Ching-Long Lin delivering welcome speeches at the opening ceremony. Invited speakers included the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development, Office of the Auditor General of Canada, Ms. Julie Gelfand, and the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Canada Audit and Accountability Foundation, Mr. John Reed. Besides Legislator Chiu-Chin Tien, Legislator Man-Li Chen, Control Yuan Member Yung-Ching Jao, nearly 400 participants from industries, governments, academia, and research units attended the event.\n\nTaiwan proposed its first VNR in UN in response to SDGs\n\nThe symposium focused on government agencies’ implementation of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as well as auditing department’s role and contributions in monitoring agencies’ work progress. All attendees participated with great enthusiasm. The event was opened with welcomes from Auditor General Ching-Long Lin and EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee, who also talked about Taiwan’s Voluntary National Review (VNR) presented in 2017 in his speech, “Joining the World: Taiwan’s Implementation of UNSDGs”\n\nIn his speech, Minister Lee first thanked the NAO for organizing the symposium as it took place on June 5, the World Environment Day, making the event even more meaningful. Through the presentations of different speakers, attendees could understand the effects of government budgets and expenses and whether the resources were used on the most necessary places. Exchanges and discussions in the symposium also allow people to examine Taiwan’s achievements in sustainable development.\n\nMinister Lee pointed out that the 2018 World Happiness Report, recently released by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), ranked Finland as the happiest country in the world. Taiwan’s ranking rose from 33rd to 26th as the happiest in East Asia. Taiwan performed well in key evaluation variables like gross domestic product (GDP), unemployment rate, social support, freedom to make life choices, generosity, and corruption perception, showing Taiwanese ranked high in happiness index in Asia.\n\nIt was a remarkable moment when Minister Lee presented Taiwan’s first VNR in the UbN in September 2017. The report was a response to the 17 sustainable index of UN Commission of Sustainable Development (UNCSD). Currently, Taiwan is faced with challenges like dense population in limited living space, increasing environmental loads, low economic growth, as well as not being a UN member. But pollution sees no borders, and Taiwan will keep answering UN’s call to improve with the same standard, pursuing sustainable development for the whole earth.\n\nThe symposium’s first session focused on “Taiwan SDGs.” The Executive Director of the EPA’s Office of Sustainable Development Dr. Hui-Chen Chien talked about the process of setting Taiwan’s SDGs. National Council for Sustainable Development member Angela Chang then gave a talk titled “Taiwan SDGs: Facing Challenges for a Sustainable 2030” and conducted discussions. It was followed by Mr. Reed and Ms. Gelfand’s respective talks, “Leading Practices in Auditing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals” and “United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and Audit in Canada.” Both emphasized the importance of the whole of government and policy coherence in dealing with SDGs.\n\nFinally, Deputy Auditor-General Li-Jen Wang and NAO staff elaborated on the actual practices and audits in a presentation titled “Audit on National Sustainable Development.” Deputy Wang emphasized that NAO should set up long-term strategies to conduct audits on the progress of the government’s SDGs, including issues such as gender equality. Also, participants have to understand the government’s “starting and end points” and “new tracks” to compare Taiwan’s SDGs with UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development as well as assess Taiwan’s future.\n\nExecutive, legislative, and private sectors jointly promote sustainability\n\nAfter a day of heated exchanges, attendees all agreed that sustainable development should be the focus of future policies. Taiwan should first take references of UNSDGs’ frameworks and follow their principles. Local sustainability indicators that are suitable for the current situation should be discussed and set up by taking Taiwan’s status, environment, and citizens’ needs into consideration in order to achieve actual sustainability.\n\nThe legislative branch, government agencies, and private sector are the three main and essential forces for sustainable development. As a result, connection and communication between them are of great importance for setting up SDGs. And the auditing agency can help with monitoring in order to encourage all participating parties to fully meet the international community’s expectations for SDGs and audit tasks.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Sustainable Development", "titlename": "EPA and NAO Jointly Promote Sustainable Development Goals", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-7" }, { "no": "3703", "title": "Amendments to PVC Container Recycling Fee Rate Preannounced", "preview": "Resource recycling\nAmendments to PVC Container Recycling Fee Rate Preannounced \nThe EPA plans to adjust the recycling fee rate for the collection and disposal of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) containers in order to reduce their impact on the environment. The EPA will use economic incentives to encourage enterprises to reduce their use of PVC containers and find replacement materials that are more beneficial for the resource cycle.", "content": "Amendments to PVC Container Recycling Fee Rate Preannounced \nThe EPA plans to adjust the recycling fee rate for the collection and disposal of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) containers in order to reduce their impact on the environment. The EPA will use economic incentives to encourage enterprises to reduce their use of PVC containers and find replacement materials that are more beneficial for the resource cycle.\n\nThe EPA noted that Taiwan primarily utilizes incineration for trash disposal. PVC produces dioxins when incinerated because of the chloride it contains. The use of PVC containers in Taiwan has steadily decreased over the recent years. In 2017, PVC containers made up 0.29% of plastic containers used, and constituted 0.47% of the total plastic containers recycled. To reduce the burden of PVC on the environment and on recycling and disposal systems, the EPA has adjusted the recycling and disposal fee rates for PVC containers from NT$18.5 per kilogram to NT$87 per kilogram to encourage businesses to choose alternative materials. New rates are expected to take effect on 1 July 2019.\n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(5)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Resource recycling", "titlename": "Amendments to PVC Container Recycling Fee Rate Preannounced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-6" }, { "no": "3702", "title": "Amendments Preannounced to Require Installation of Real-time Tracking Systems in All Waste Clearance Vehicles", "preview": "Solid waste\nAmendments Preannounced to Require Installation of Real-time Tracking Systems in All Waste Clearance Vehicles \nThe EPA preannounced amendments to the Regulations for Waste Clearance Vehicles Equipped with Real-time Tracking Systems. Thirty waste items, including sludge and plastic materials, will be among those added for further management. The EPA plans to reach its goal of installing real-time tracking systems for all clearance vehicles by 2022 in hopes of ending illegal dumping.", "content": "Amendments Preannounced to Require Installation of Real-time Tracking Systems in All Waste Clearance Vehicles \nThe EPA preannounced amendments to the Regulations for Waste Clearance Vehicles Equipped with Real-time Tracking Systems. Thirty waste items, including sludge and plastic materials, will be among those added for further management. The EPA plans to reach its goal of installing real-time tracking systems for all clearance vehicles by 2022 in hopes of ending illegal dumping.\n\nPresently, there are around 9,000 vehicles that have been equipped with real-time tracking systems. However, it is not uncommon for enterprises to find legal means of concealing their illegal disposal. Such companies will change their disposal vehicles to ones without a tracking system, or remove the power source for the systems, or even mask the vehicle signals while transporting waste. \n\nAs such, the EPA has made amendments that require tracking systems to be installed on clearance vehicles that ship thirty easily-dumped waste items, including sludge, construction materials, and plastic waste. The EPA will take further steps to mandate that all clearance vehicles approved for operating shall install real-time tracking systems. There will be a four-stage process for implementing the regulations from 2019 to 2022. In addition, the EPA will utilize new technology for vehicles’ crash sensors and power disruption signals in order to increase the stability and the accuracy of the tracker.\n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(5)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Solid waste", "titlename": "Amendments Preannounced to Require Installation of Real-time Tracking Systems in All Waste Clearance Vehicles", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-6" }, { "no": "3701", "title": "Over 26,000 People Join Beach Cleanups to Celebrate Earth Day", "preview": "Env. Sanitation\nOver 26,000 People Join Beach Cleanups to Celebrate Earth Day \nEnterprises, civic groups, and government offices participated in beach cleanups starting in March in the lead up to Earth Day on April 22. There was a total of 51 beach cleanups carried out by 26,402 people volunteering their time and energy nationwide.", "content": "Over 26,000 People Join Beach Cleanups to Celebrate Earth Day \nEnterprises, civic groups, and government offices participated in beach cleanups starting in March in the lead up to Earth Day on April 22. There was a total of 51 beach cleanups carried out by 26,402 people volunteering their time and energy nationwide.\n\nAccording to the EPA’s statistics, enterprises, civic groups, and government offices across Taiwan carried out 51 beach cleanups and removed 97 metric tons of trash this spring. EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee led the “2018 Taoyuan City Spring Beach Cleanup” at Chuwei Fish Harbor. He sought to raise awareness about ocean pollution caused by plastic products. Minister Lee hopes both local governments and residents will strive to generate less garbage and properly sort recyclables in order to promote better resource cycling and avoid unnecessary waste. Taiwan can be even more prosperous, with a clean environment serving as a true mark of a prosperous society.\n\nContinuing the cleanup event started in Taoyuan City’s Chuwei Fish Harbor, EPA staff formed a team and joined the environmental organization, Rethink, in New Taipei City to clean the beach of Sanzhi. The beach cleanups this year were primarily led by enterprises and civic organizations as well as river patrols. This activity has become a trend in Taiwan with several organizations leading cleanup activities. The EPA appealed to different enterprises and civic groups to join the EPA’s coastal cleanup and adoption program. Related information about beach cleanups nationwide can be accessed on the “We Love Taiwan Coastal Clean-up” webpage at https:\/\/goo.gl\/cep7sh.\n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(5)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Env. Sanitation", "titlename": "Over 26,000 People Join Beach Cleanups to Celebrate Earth Day", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-6" }, { "no": "3700", "title": "Taiwan’s Marine Pollution Prevention and Control", "preview": "Water\nTaiwan’s Marine Pollution Prevention and Control \nAs an island located among major shipping lanes in the western Pacific, marine pollution prevention is of particular significance to Taiwan. The EPA utilizes the latest technology to monitor and respond to marine pollution in times of emergency to protect ocean water quality. Ocean waste management is becoming increasingly important as the overall environment deteriorates, thus the central and local governments along with grassroot organizations are joining together to clean up waste, aiming to jointly work towards a plastic-free marine environment and preserve the marine ecosystem.", "content": "Taiwan’s Marine Pollution Prevention and Control \nAs an island located among major shipping lanes in the western Pacific, marine pollution prevention is of particular significance to Taiwan. The EPA utilizes the latest technology to monitor and respond to marine pollution in times of emergency to protect ocean water quality. Ocean waste management is becoming increasingly important as the overall environment deteriorates, thus the central and local governments along with grassroot organizations are joining together to clean up waste, aiming to jointly work towards a plastic-free marine environment and preserve the marine ecosystem.\n\nAnalysis from the International Maritime Organization (IMO) shows that 44% of marine pollution comes from the land, 33% from atmospheric transmission, 12% from vessels, 10% from ocean dumping, and 1% from ocean construction. The EPA has been conducting marine pollution prevention and control by planning, guiding, supervising, and implementing various strategies and measures. Furthermore, the Marine Pollution Control Act was formulated based on the international Convention on the Law of the Sea, and announced on 1 November 2000. The Act was then revised on 4 June 2014. The authorities responsible for its implementation are the EPA in the central government and city\/county\/municipal governments at local levels. The Coast Guard is in charge of cracking down on illegal activities, collecting relevant evidence, and referring the violations. \n\nMarine pollution control via monitoring and law enforcement\nThe EPA strives to increase the effectiveness of emergency response measures against major oil pollution incidents in marine environments. Based on the Major Marine Pollution Incident Emergency Response Plan approved by the Executive Yuan, responses fall into three main categories, as follows:\n\nA. Scientifically monitoring marine pollution \nTo protect the marine environment, the EPA has been promoting pollution controls as well as strengthening the legal framework. Various technologies are skillfully used to effectively monitor all types of pollution sources to help reduce pollution at its sources and to inspect for illegal activities. These technologies include remote satellite sensing, unmanned aerial systems (UAS), oil spill detecting radar monitoring vehicles, and oil and chemical pollution dispersion simulation models.\n\nB. Response to marine pollution incidents\nThe EPA regularly enhances its response capacities to oil pollution incidents by better utilizing technology, integrating resources via information systems, and advising local governments on being better equipped and prepared. Once a pollution incident occurs, the EPA supervises and coordinates responsible central and local authorities under the Major Marine Pollution Incident Emergency Response Plan. This ensures that response measures are thoroughly carried out at all levels and emergencies are properly handled.\n\nThe characteristics and quantities of the oil need to be taken into account during oil spill incidents in the ocean. Spill locations, the surrounding marine environment, and oceanic and meteorological conditions must be considered to evaluate the scales of potentially impacted areas and further determine how the marine environment and ecosystem may be affected. \n\nC. Marine waste cleanup and plastic-free ocean campaign\nMarine waste mostly comes from solid garbage disposed on land and coastal areas, and greatly impact the seabed ecosystem. Thus, the EPA formulated the Floating Trash Disposal Program to implement at-source controls of marine waste and to organize beach and ocean cleanups.\n\nThe research conducted by the Society of Wilderness on the components of ocean waste in 2015 showed that plastic waste comprises 90% of it. To reduce plastic waste in the oceans, in 2016 the EPA tightened relevant policies by limiting and reducing the use of plastics at their sources. On 13 February 2018, the Action Plan of Marine Debris Governance in Taiwan was announced by the EPA, accompanied by representatives from NGOs concerned about marine environmental preservation, the National Museum of Marine Science & Technology, and others from academia. The details include a total ban by 2030 on single-use plastics such as shopping bags, utensils, beverage containers, and straws. The Action Program is also working on banning plastic straws starting in 2019, to make Taiwan the first country to limit the use of plastic straws.\n\nCentral and local governments mobilized to clean up oceans\nCleanups of garbage on the ocean bottom are carried out by divers, while waste on beaches is regularly cleaned up by local governments under the EPA’s supervision. In 2016, Taitung County, Kinmen County, Pingtung County, and Lienchiang County received subsidies to conduct marine waste cleanup projects. This resulted in more than 400 metric tons of garbage from the ocean bottom and beaches being collected, including 480 metric tons of recyclable materials. In addition, 25 sessions on marine environmental education were held. The EPA hopes that with the combined efforts and resources of governments and the public, the marine environment and resources will be better protected.\n\nThe EPA continued to subsidize local governments to carry out marine waste cleanup projects in 2017. Nineteen coastal counties and cities were mobilized to organize a nationwide event on World Oceans Day on 8 June, which included waste cleanups and marine environmental education. An environmental fleet has been assembled as well. To deal with random dumping, vessels such as fishing boats, yachts, whale-watching boats, ferries, as well as the public, fishermen, and boat owners are encouraged to bring back and properly dispose of waste produced during sightseeing, leisure, and fishing activities.\n\nAs part of improving coastal and marine environments of offshore islands, the EPA also provides subsidies for relevant projects to Kinmen and Lienchiang Counties, as floating waste originating from China affects these islands. The subsidies assist them to better carry out coastal environment maintenance, floating and bottom trash cleanups, waste transfers and recycling. \n\nFuture plans\nTaiwan is located in the midst of many international shipping lanes, with thousands of containers and vessels sailing through its waters every day. In response to this, the EPA will keep on strengthening marine pollution control measures and monitoring the marine environment according to the Marine Pollution Control Act. While monitoring pollution sources with the latest technology, the EPA will also actively promote the pollution emergency response mechanism and increase the effectiveness of control measures. Other efforts will include continuous marine waste cleanups and at-source waste reduction to protect the marine environment.\n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(5)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Taiwan’s Marine Pollution Prevention and Control", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-6" }, { "no": "3699", "title": "Incentives Provided for Reporting Illegal Open-air Burning", "preview": "Air Quality\nIncentives Provided for Reporting Illegal Open-air Burning \nTo improve air quality, the EPA encourages the public to pay attention to their surroundings and take note of any illegal open-air burning. The EPA is now implementing the Incentives for Reporting Illegal Open-Air Burning Pilot Plan to promote public participation in air quality protection efforts. Until the end of June 2018, a reward of up to NT$300 will be given to each report of illegal open burning.", "content": "Incentives Provided for Reporting Illegal Open-air Burning \nTo improve air quality, the EPA encourages the public to pay attention to their surroundings and take note of any illegal open-air burning. The EPA is now implementing the Incentives for Reporting Illegal Open-Air Burning Pilot Plan to promote public participation in air quality protection efforts. Until the end of June 2018, a reward of up to NT$300 will be given to each report of illegal open burning.\n\nOpen-air burning is a common contributor of local air pollution, and can cause more fires depending on atmospheric dispersion conditions. Additionally, smoke from burning can reduce visibility and pose danger to traffic safety and public health. Research shows that byproducts of open burning (e.g. fine particulate matters, heavy metals, and dioxins) can cause allergic reactions such as irritation of the eye and respiratory system. According to the information released on the Taiwan Emission Data System (TEDS), open burning produced 3,451 metric tons of PM2.5 annually, constituting about 4% of the total air pollutant emissions. Statistics also show that there were about 25,000 cases of open-air burning in 2016 and 2017. It is obvious to see that open burning can have significant effects on air quality and the quality of life. \n\nTo prevent open-air burning, the EPA collaborated with the Central Weather Bureau to strengthen environmental monitoring by employing advanced satellite remote sensing technology. By enhancing Taiwan’s real-time monitoring technology through the application of satellite remote sensing, the EPA was able detect the location of heat sources, which helped increase the efficiency of pollution investigation and law enforcement. However, satellite sensors are easily hindered by clouds and have a margin of error of one kilometer. Hence, by combining with civilian reporting, the EPA will be able to expand its monitoring range with fewer time and space restrictions. \n\nIn light of the above mentioned circumstances, the EPA is implementing the Incentives for Reporting Illegal Open-Air Burning Pilot Plan. The EPA encourages the general public to report any illegal open burning of straw, tree branches, or trash to local environmental protection agencies along with specific evidence that is clear and easily identifiable. EPA personnel can also investigate the sites of burning in person if deemed necessary. Each report will be rewarded with NT$100, and an extra NT$200 will be given if the violation is verified after investigation. \n\nThis pilot plan will last until the end of June 2018. Violations can be reported by using the EPA’s app or calling 0800-066-666.\n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(5)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air Quality", "titlename": "Incentives Provided for Reporting Illegal Open-air Burning", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-6" }, { "no": "3698", "title": "2018 Green Vehicles Announced", "preview": "Air Quality\n2018 Green Vehicles Announced\nVehicle exhaust accounts for approximately one-third of PM2.5 emissions in Taiwan. There are about 13 million scooters and 7.8 million cars in Taiwan. Among them, 800,000 vehicles run on diesel fuel. To reduce transportation emissions, the EPA will continue to promote the production of environmentally friendly vehicles and aim for the electrification of all cars and scooters. To serve as a purchasing guide for green vehicles, the EPA announced vehicle evaluation results for 2018.", "content": "2018 Green Vehicles Announced\nVehicle exhaust accounts for approximately one-third of PM2.5 emissions in Taiwan. There are about 13 million scooters and 7.8 million cars in Taiwan. Among them, 800,000 vehicles run on diesel fuel. To reduce transportation emissions, the EPA will continue to promote the production of environmentally friendly vehicles and aim for the electrification of all cars and scooters. To serve as a purchasing guide for green vehicles, the EPA announced vehicle evaluation results for 2018.\n\nThe environmentally friendly vehicle models of 2018 were selected from a total of 248 conventional gasoline cars, 26 hybrid cars, and 97 conventional motorcycles. The selected green vehicles include two conventional gasoline cars (Honda CITY 1.5 V 1497c.c. CVT 4D and Honda FIT 1.5 S 1497c.c. CVT 5D), eight hybrid cars (e.g., TOYOTA PRIUS PHV 1798c.c. CVT 5D HYBRID), and 13 scooters (e.g., Kymco MANY 110 SE22BK 111.7c.c. CVT). Complete information on the selected vehicles is posted on the website of the Green Vehicle Guide (https:\/\/greencar.epa.gov.tw\/). The EPA encourages the public to use the website before making purchases and contribute to air quality improvement by selecting a vehicle that is less polluting, noise-free and energy-efficient. \n\nThe green vehicle selection of 2018 was conducted by assessing and ranking the performance of all the cars\/scooters sold in 2017 with a chart comprising three environmental indicators: air pollution emissions, noise, and fuel consumption. To be selected, a model must reach a score of 6 in each domain, with a total score no less than 21.\n\nAmong the 1,324,463 new vehicles (936,500 motorcycles and 387,963 cars) sold in 2017, 333,126 of them (320,925 motorcycles and 12,201 cars) were green vehicles and accounted for a quarter of the total sales. In other words, for every four new cars\/scooters sold in Taiwan last year, one was environmentally friendly. Since the Green Vehicle Guide website was established in 2014, sales for green vehicles had risen from 21% to 25% in 2017. The increase in sales throughout the years shows that people in Taiwan are becoming more aware of the importance of green vehicles. \n\nAs environmental awareness rises, most car manufactures endeavor to design their cars to be as environmentally friendly as possible, in coordination with environmental policies. The green car selection of the year includes hybrid cars with engine capacity of either 1,600 c.c. or 2,400 c.c., and also conventional gasoline cars with an engine capacity of 1,500 c.c. The result of the selection indicates that hybrids tend to be more energy-efficient compared to gasoline cars. Furthermore, the result also shows that gasoline cars that have an engine capacity of 1,500 c.c. are relatively more eco-friendly than those with other engine sizes. As for conventional motorcycles, different vehicles with engine capacity ranging from 100 c.c. to 250 c.c. were selected, which demonstrate the fact that even heavy bikes can reach the standards of green vehicles.The EPA urges everyone to take advantage of the Green Vehicle Guide website (https:\/\/greencar.epa.gov.tw\/webpage\/carsearch.aspx), in order to make informed and environmentally-friendly purchases. Another alternative the EPA suggested to help with air quality protection is to take public transportation.\n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(5)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air Quality", "titlename": "2018 Green Vehicles Announced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-6" }, { "no": "3697", "title": "Subsidies for Phasing Out Two-Stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Electric Bicycles Revised", "preview": "Air Quality\nSubsidies for Phasing Out Two-Stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Electric Bicycles Revised\nThe EPA has been encouraging the public to phase out two-stroke motorcycles and purchase new electric ones. Regulations concerning subsidization were amended to address the problems reflected by the public during the implementation period. The revised Regulations Concerning Subsidization for Phasing out Two-Stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Electric Two-wheel Vehicles were announced. In addition, no subsidies will be provided after 2020.", "content": "Subsidies for Phasing Out Two-Stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Electric Bicycles Revised\nThe EPA has been encouraging the public to phase out two-stroke motorcycles and purchase new electric ones. Regulations concerning subsidization were amended to address the problems reflected by the public during the implementation period. The revised Regulations Concerning Subsidization for Phasing out Two-Stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Electric Two-wheel Vehicles were announced. In addition, no subsidies will be provided after 2020. \n\nThe EPA pointed out that two-stroke motorcycle engines are designed such that an oil-lubricant mixture enters and burns in engine cylinders during intake and exhaust of air. Visibly polluting blue\/gray smoke is easily produced from incomplete combustion. A two-stroke motorcycle emits 17 to 18 times more hydrocarbons (HCs) and twice the carbon monoxide (CO) than those emitted by a four-stroke motorcycle. Emission standards for new vehicles have become stricter since 2004 to encourage manufacturers to cease production of two-stroke motorcycles. For in-use vehicles, since 2008 subsidies have been offered to encourage phase-outs. However, data showed that there were roughly 1.03 million two-stroke motorcycles nationwide as of the end of March 2018. These vehicles present a big challenge for air pollution control and hence the dire need of taking them off the roads as soon as possible.\n\nThe EPA discovered that during the implementation of subsidies for phase-outs, people tended to discard their two-stroke motorcycles with recyclers at the end of the year. This made it difficult for recyclers to coordinate and recycle all vehicles before the year end. After review, the regulations were revised so that the year applicants would be subsidized would be based on the date of discarding. Also, the original regulation demanding vehicle inspection records for the subsidy application has been removed, because owners are less willing to get rid of old two-stroke motorcycles due to a lack of records of regular inspections.\n\nThe EPA stated that the amount for subsidies for the phase-out of two-stroke motorcycles and purchase of new electric bicycles will decrease year after year. For 2018, NT$1,000 is provided for phase-outs only, NT$4,000 to 6,000 for both phase-out and purchase (depending on the model of the new vehicles), and NT$1,500 to 3,500 (depending on the vehicle models) for purchase only. Local governments will offer extra subsidies as well. The subsidies will be applicable until 2020.\n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(5)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air Quality", "titlename": "Subsidies for Phasing Out Two-Stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Electric Bicycles Revised", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-6" }, { "no": "3696", "title": "Phasing out Old Vehicles with Subsidies and Tighter Controls", "preview": "Air Quality\nPhasing out Old Vehicles with Subsidies and Tighter Controls\nThe draft of the amendments to the Air Pollution Control Act is currently under review in the Legislative Yuan. The amendments will tighten emission standards for vehicles that have been manufactured over ten years ago and designate air quality control zones that forbid or limit specified vehicles from entering. It is hoped the phase-out of highly polluting old vehicles will be expedited through subsidies and tightened controls. The ultimate goal is to eliminate all two-stroke motorcycles and heavy-duty diesel vehicles targeted in the first and second phases of the vehicle emission standards.", "content": "Phasing out Old Vehicles with Subsidies and Tighter Controls\nThe draft of the amendments to the Air Pollution Control Act is currently under review in the Legislative Yuan. The amendments will tighten emission standards for vehicles that have been manufactured over ten years ago and designate air quality control zones that forbid or limit specified vehicles from entering. It is hoped the phase-out of highly polluting old vehicles will be expedited through subsidies and tightened controls. The ultimate goal is to eliminate all two-stroke motorcycles and heavy-duty diesel vehicles targeted in the first and second phases of the vehicle emission standards.\n\nThe EPA stated that according to statistics, mobile pollution sources account for 30~37% of Taiwan’s PM2.5 emissions. Among that, 2~2.6% of emissions come from two-stroke motorcycles, and 11.2~16.8% from heavy-duty diesel trucks, showing the need to speed up the phase-out of said vehicles. Starting in 2008, the EPA has been offering subsidies for phasing out two-stroke motorcycles. From 2010, the EPA has further subsidized the purchase of electric motorcycles. In addition, the governments of Taipei City, Taoyuan City, Taichung City, Kaohsiung City, Yilan County and Nantou County provide additional subsidies of NT$4000-30,000 to mid- and low-income households to replace two-stroke motorcycles with new electric ones.\n\nIn addition, since August 2017 the EPA has offered subsidies for phasing out heavy-duty diesel trucks subject to the first and second phase vehicle emission standards. Data shows that the phase-out of more than 1.32 million two-stroke motorcycles and more than 6,000 of the said diesel trucks has been subsidized as of the end of March 2018. A goal has been set to phase out all the two-stroke motorcycles and heavy-duty diesel trucks targeted by the phase 1 and 2 vehicle emission standards by the end of 2019.\n\nBesides the subsidies above, the Legislative Yuan has passed the preliminary review of the draft amendments to the Air Pollution Control Act formulated by the EPA. Article 36 in the revision authorizes the EPA to tighten the original emission standards for motor vehicles that have been manufactured over ten years ago. Article 40 mandates that competent authorities at all levels may designate air pollution control zones for mobile source pollution control according to local air quality and pollution characteristics.\n\nOnce the amendments are approved, the EPA estimates that they will affect 98,000 gasoline vehicles manufactured before 1991, as well as 530,000 diesel vehicles and more than 7 million motorcycles regulated by the phase 1-4 vehicle emission standards. Taking two-stroke motorcycles for instance, stricter emission standards for vehicles manufactured more than ten years ago would lead to an increase of failed tests for CO emissions, rising from 14% to 45%, and an increase of failed tests for hydrocarbon emissions from 6.5% to 9.5%. Other than replacing two-stroke motorcycles faster, vehicle owners will also consequently be encouraged to properly maintain their vehicles in order to comply with the new standards. A two-year grace period will be in place before the new standards take effect. \n\nThe EPA pointed out that although competent authorities at all levels are authorized to designate air quality zones to limit or ban the entrance of certain vehicles, the zone area and the targeted vehicles must be deemed necessary. The control zones will not cover the entire country, and a grace period of three to six months will be given to help the public adjust. Only vehicle models meeting the criteria would be allowed to enter once air quality zones are set.\n\nAlthough the subsidy provides an incentive for phasing out old vehicles, it is not mandatory. The EPA is considering amending related regulations to put old, highly polluting vehicles under control in order to hasten the phase-out of such vehicles. Owners are encouraged to get rid of their old vehicles soon, so as to not only be eligible to apply for a subsidy, but also to avoid the trouble of violating future emission standards and being limited from driving in certain areas.\n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(5)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air Quality", "titlename": "Phasing out Old Vehicles with Subsidies and Tighter Controls", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-6" }, { "no": "3695", "title": "Subsidies for Switching to Cleaner-Fuel Boilers Expanded", "preview": "Air Quality\nSubsidies for Switching to Cleaner-Fuel Boilers Expanded \nOn 4 May 2018, the EPA announced the amendments to the Regulations Governing Subsidies for Modification or Replacement of Boilers. The purpose of the amendments is to accelerate the process of switching boiler fuels to cleaner alternatives and to reduce air pollutant emissions produced. The major points of the amendments are to expand the subsidized targets and to extend the application period to 30 June 2019.", "content": "Subsidies for Switching to Cleaner-Fuel Boilers Expanded \nOn 4 May 2018, the EPA announced the amendments to the Regulations Governing Subsidies for Modification or Replacement of Boilers. The purpose of the amendments is to accelerate the process of switching boiler fuels to cleaner alternatives and to reduce air pollutant emissions produced. The major points of the amendments are to expand the subsidized targets and to extend the application period to 30 June 2019.\n\nStarting on 15 April 2017, the EPA began providing hotels; medical and health care institutions, social welfare organizations and schools with subsidies to modify or replace their oil-fired boilers with heating equipment that uses low-emission gases, solar energy or electricity.\n\nThe EPA decided to amend the regulations to further expand the enterprises eligible for the subsidy. The amendments stipulate that any private or public premises that have modified or replaced their boilers after 15 April 2017, and are now using or in the process of establishing heating equipment powered by low-emission gases, solar energy or electricity, qualify for the subsidy. A subsidy can be provided for each boiler, up to a maximum of NT$500,000. However, the regulations do not apply to the following: factories governed by the Factory Management Act, electricity enterprises governed by the Electricity Act, and state-owned enterprises governed by the Administrative Law of State-Owned Enterprises. To provide sufficient time for the conversion, the application period for the subsidy is extended to 30 June 2019. \n\nThe EPA also points out that the draft of the Boiler Air Pollutant Emission Standards was preannounced on 30 January 2018, and is now undergoing the legislative procedures of discussions and public hearings. It is targeted that all boilers – regardless of fuel types or operation scale – shall meet the emission standards by 1 July 2020. Through administrative control and economic incentives, the EPA aims to diminish boiler air pollutant emissions and their impacts on air quality, as well as the number of air pollution red alert days. \n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(5)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air Quality", "titlename": "Subsidies for Switching to Cleaner-Fuel Boilers Expanded", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-6" }, { "no": "3694", "title": "Scope of Environmental Impact Assessments and Standards for Determining Specific Assessment Items Amended", "preview": "Env. Impact Assessment\nScope of Environmental Impact Assessments and Standards for Determining Specific Assessment Items Amended\nThe EPA announced the amendments to the Standards for Determining Specific Items and Scope of Environmental Impact Assessments for Development Activities on 11 April 2018. The amendments include expanding the categories of development activities that require an EIA, tightening EIA scales for some development activities, reducing the scope of EIAs for some development activities, and adding some exemptions. For example, an EIA is now required for constructing buildings taller than 120 meters, while renewable power generation facilities with a capacity under 2,000 kW are not required to undergo an EIA.", "content": "Scope of Environmental Impact Assessments and Standards for Determining Specific Assessment Items Amended\nThe EPA announced the amendments to the Standards for Determining Specific Items and Scope of Environmental Impact Assessments for Development Activities on 11 April 2018. The amendments include expanding the categories of development activities that require an EIA, tightening EIA scales for some development activities, reducing the scope of EIAs for some development activities, and adding some exemptions. For example, an EIA is now required for constructing buildings taller than 120 meters, while renewable power generation facilities with a capacity under 2,000 kW are not required to undergo an EIA. \n\nThere have been many concerns expressed by a wide range of organizations regarding the revisions to these standards. In response, the EPA preannounced the revisions on 27 April 2017 and held 10 public hearings over a period of two months. Adjustments were made to the draft based on concerns and questions raised by participants. The EPA preannounced revisions for a second time on 26 January 2018 to further refine the revisions. A public hearing was held on 12 February to collect more opinions. After careful consideration more revisions were announced. The key points of the revisions are as follows:\n\n1. Sensitive environments previously referred to as “designated land approved for re-zoning for agricultural use” has been revised to “designated areas for agricultural use”. The area for farmlands has been increased to 100,000 hectares.\n\n2. The extension limits for applying mining rights of mining lands were approved. Development activities located in sensitive environments or beyond a certain scope must undergo an EIA. Standards were added regarding enterprises that have mining rights which have yet to expire (within a period of ten years) and already undergone an EIA. The enterprises may apply for an extension and are therefore exempt from undergoing a second EIA. Standards for determining the need for an EIA were tightened with regards to mine prospecting, mining, and dirt removal.\n\n3. Buildings over 120 meters are required to undergo an EIA.\n\n4. It is added that an enterprise reusing facilities that were already approved by a competent authority for reuse, and that will not expand development to additional land, is exempt from an EIA.\n\n5. Renewable power generation facilities under 2,000 kW in capacity are exempt from an EIA. The standards for thermal energy generators have been revised. Thermal energy units with a capacity of 10,000 kW or more will be required to undergo an EIA. The need for an EIA for generators that draw hot spring water, which is returned to underground water sources, will be based on standards for thermal energy generation, rather than the amount of hot spring water used. For hydropower, installations that make use of existing ditches, irrigation or other waterworks and have a capacity that is below 20,000 kW are exempt from undergoing an EIA. \n\n6. Regulations have been added requiring an EIA for the development of natural gas storage tanks.\n\n7. Regulations for conducting an EIA for factories that have been re-purposed for non-industrial development are deleted. \n\n8. Camping areas on sloped lands that are applying to develop or expand development on one hectare or more must undergo an EIA.\n\n9. Development activities taking place near important wetlands, that have been permitted by competent authorities as complying with their conservation plans for important wetlands, will be exempt from undergoing an EIA. \n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(5)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Env. Impact Assessment", "titlename": "Scope of Environmental Impact Assessments and Standards for Determining Specific Assessment Items Amended", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-6" }, { "no": "3693", "title": "Amendments to PVC Container Recycling Fee Rate Preannounced", "preview": "Resource recycling\nAmendments to PVC Container Recycling Fee Rate Preannounced \nThe EPA plans to adjust the recycling fee rate for the collection and disposal of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) containers in order to reduce their impact on the environment. The EPA will use economic incentives to encourage enterprises to reduce their use of PVC containers and find replacement materials that are more beneficial for the resource cycle.", "content": "Amendments to PVC Container Recycling Fee Rate Preannounced \nThe EPA plans to adjust the recycling fee rate for the collection and disposal of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) containers in order to reduce their impact on the environment. The EPA will use economic incentives to encourage enterprises to reduce their use of PVC containers and find replacement materials that are more beneficial for the resource cycle.\n\nThe EPA noted that Taiwan primarily utilizes incineration for trash disposal. PVC produces dioxins when incinerated because of the chloride it contains. The use of PVC containers in Taiwan has steadily decreased over the recent years. In 2017, PVC containers made up 0.29% of plastic containers used, and constituted 0.47% of the total plastic containers recycled. To reduce the burden of PVC on the environment and on recycling and disposal systems, the EPA has adjusted the recycling and disposal fee rates for PVC containers from NT$18.5 per kilogram to NT$87 per kilogram to encourage businesses to choose alternative materials. New rates are expected to take effect on 1 July 2019.\n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(5)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Resource recycling", "titlename": "Amendments to PVC Container Recycling Fee Rate Preannounced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-5" }, { "no": "3692", "title": "Amendments Preannounced to Require Installation of Real-time Tracking Systems in All Waste Clearance Vehicles", "preview": "Solid waste\nAmendments Preannounced to Require Installation of Real-time Tracking Systems in All Waste Clearance Vehicles \nThe EPA preannounced amendments to the Regulations for Waste Clearance Vehicles Equipped with Real-time Tracking Systems. Thirty waste items, including sludge and plastic materials, will be among those added for further management. The EPA plans to reach its goal of installing real-time tracking systems for all clearance vehicles by 2022 in hopes of ending illegal dumping.", "content": "Amendments Preannounced to Require Installation of Real-time Tracking Systems in All Waste Clearance Vehicles \nThe EPA preannounced amendments to the Regulations for Waste Clearance Vehicles Equipped with Real-time Tracking Systems. Thirty waste items, including sludge and plastic materials, will be among those added for further management. The EPA plans to reach its goal of installing real-time tracking systems for all clearance vehicles by 2022 in hopes of ending illegal dumping.\n\nPresently, there are around 9,000 vehicles that have been equipped with real-time tracking systems. However, it is not uncommon for enterprises to find legal means of concealing their illegal disposal. Such companies will change their disposal vehicles to ones without a tracking system, or remove the power source for the systems, or even mask the vehicle signals while transporting waste. \n\nAs such, the EPA has made amendments that require tracking systems to be installed on clearance vehicles that ship thirty easily-dumped waste items, including sludge, construction materials, and plastic waste. The EPA will take further steps to mandate that all clearance vehicles approved for operating shall install real-time tracking systems. There will be a four-stage process for implementing the regulations from 2019 to 2022. In addition, the EPA will utilize new technology for vehicles’ crash sensors and power disruption signals in order to increase the stability and the accuracy of the tracker.\n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(5)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Solid waste", "titlename": "Amendments Preannounced to Require Installation of Real-time Tracking Systems in All Waste Clearance Vehicles", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-5" }, { "no": "3691", "title": "Over 26,000 People Join Beach Cleanups to Celebrate Earth Day", "preview": "Env. Sanitation\nOver 26,000 People Join Beach Cleanups to Celebrate Earth Day \nEnterprises, civic groups, and government offices participated in beach cleanups starting in March in the lead up to Earth Day on April 22. There was a total of 51 beach cleanups carried out by 26,402 people volunteering their time and energy nationwide.", "content": "Over 26,000 People Join Beach Cleanups to Celebrate Earth Day", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Env. Sanitation", "titlename": "Over 26,000 People Join Beach Cleanups to Celebrate Earth Day", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-5" }, { "no": "3690", "title": "Taiwan’s Marine Pollution Prevention and Control", "preview": "Water\nTaiwan’s Marine Pollution Prevention and Control \nAs an island located among major shipping lanes in the western Pacific, marine pollution prevention is of particular significance to Taiwan. The EPA utilizes the latest technology to monitor and respond to marine pollution in times of emergency to protect ocean water quality. Ocean waste management is becoming increasingly important as the overall environment deteriorates, thus the central and local governments along with grassroot organizations are joining together to clean up waste, aiming to jointly work towards a plastic-free marine environment and preserve the marine ecosystem.\nTaiwan’s Marine Pollution Prevention and Control \nAs an island located among major shipping lanes in the western Pacific, marine pollution prevention is of particular significance to Taiwan. The EPA utilizes the latest technology to monitor and respond to marine pollution in times of emergency to protect ocean water quality. Ocean waste management is becoming increasingly important as the overall environment deteriorates, thus the central and local governments along with grassroot organizations are joining together to clean up waste, aiming to jointly work towards a plastic-free marine environment and preserve the marine ecosystem.\n\nAnalysis from the International Maritime Organization (IMO) shows that 44% of marine pollution comes from the land, 33% from atmospheric transmission, 12% from vessels, 10% from ocean dumping, and 1% from ocean construction. The EPA has been conducting marine pollution prevention and control by planning, guiding, supervising, and implementing various strategies and measures. Furthermore, the Marine Pollution Control Act was formulated based on the international Convention on the Law of the Sea, and announced on 1 November 2000. The Act was then revised on 4 June 2014. The authorities responsible for its implementation are the EPA in the central government and city\/county\/municipal governments at local levels. The Coast Guard is in charge of cracking down on illegal activities, collecting relevant evidence, and referring the violations. \n\nMarine pollution control via monitoring and law enforcement\nThe EPA strives to increase the effectiveness of emergency response measures against major oil pollution incidents in marine environments. Based on the Major Marine Pollution Incident Emergency Response Plan approved by the Executive Yuan, responses fall into three main categories, as follows:\n\nA. Scientifically monitoring marine pollution \nTo protect the marine environment, the EPA has been promoting pollution controls as well as strengthening the legal framework. Various technologies are skillfully used to effectively monitor all types of pollution sources to help reduce pollution at its sources and to inspect for illegal activities. These technologies include remote satellite sensing, unmanned aerial systems (UAS), oil spill detecting radar monitoring vehicles, and oil and chemical pollution dispersion simulation models.\n\nB. Response to marine pollution incidents\nThe EPA regularly enhances its response capacities to oil pollution incidents by better utilizing technology, integrating resources via information systems, and advising local governments on being better equipped and prepared. Once a pollution incident occurs, the EPA supervises and coordinates responsible central and local authorities under the Major Marine Pollution Incident Emergency Response Plan. This ensures that response measures are thoroughly carried out at all levels and emergencies are properly handled.\n\nThe characteristics and quantities of the oil need to be taken into account during oil spill incidents in the ocean. Spill locations, the surrounding marine environment, and oceanic and meteorological conditions must be considered to evaluate the scales of potentially impacted areas and further determine how the marine environment and ecosystem may be affected. \n\nC. Marine waste cleanup and plastic-free ocean campaign\nMarine waste mostly comes from solid garbage disposed on land and coastal areas, and greatly impact the seabed ecosystem. Thus, the EPA formulated the Floating Trash Disposal Program to implement at-source controls of marine waste and to organize beach and ocean cleanups.\n\nThe research conducted by the Society of Wilderness on the components of ocean waste in 2015 showed that plastic waste comprises 90% of it. To reduce plastic waste in the oceans, in 2016 the EPA tightened relevant policies by limiting and reducing the use of plastics at their sources. On 13 February 2018, the Action Plan of Marine Debris Governance in Taiwan was announced by the EPA, accompanied by representatives from NGOs concerned about marine environmental preservation, the National Museum of Marine Science & Technology, and others from academia. The details include a total ban by 2030 on single-use plastics such as shopping bags, utensils, beverage containers, and straws. The Action Program is also working on banning plastic straws starting in 2019, to make Taiwan the first country to limit the use of plastic straws.\n\nCentral and local governments mobilized to clean up oceans\nCleanups of garbage on the ocean bottom are carried out by divers, while waste on beaches is regularly cleaned up by local governments under the EPA’s supervision. In 2016, Taitung County, Kinmen County, Pingtung County, and Lienchiang County received subsidies to conduct marine waste cleanup projects. This resulted in more than 400 metric tons of garbage from the ocean bottom and beaches being collected, including 480 metric tons of recyclable materials. In addition, 25 sessions on marine environmental education were held. The EPA hopes that with the combined efforts and resources of governments and the public, the marine environment and resources will be better protected.\n\nThe EPA continued to subsidize local governments to carry out marine waste cleanup projects in 2017. Nineteen coastal counties and cities were mobilized to organize a nationwide event on World Oceans Day on 8 June, which included waste cleanups and marine environmental education. An environmental fleet has been assembled as well. To deal with random dumping, vessels such as fishing boats, yachts, whale-watching boats, ferries, as well as the public, fishermen, and boat owners are encouraged to bring back and properly dispose of waste produced during sightseeing, leisure, and fishing activities.\n\nAs part of improving coastal and marine environments of offshore islands, the EPA also provides subsidies for relevant projects to Kinmen and Lienchiang Counties, as floating waste originating from China affects these islands. The subsidies assist them to better carry out coastal environment maintenance, floating and bottom trash cleanups, waste transfers and recycling. \n\nFuture plans\nTaiwan is located in the midst of many international shipping lanes, with thousands of containers and vessels sailing through its waters every day. In response to this, the EPA will keep on strengthening marine pollution control measures and monitoring the marine environment according to the Marine Pollution Control Act. While monitoring pollution sources with the latest technology, the EPA will also actively promote the pollution emergency response mechanism and increase the effectiveness of control measures. Other efforts will include continuous marine waste cleanups and at-source waste reduction to protect the marine environment.\n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(5)", "content": "Taiwan’s Marine Pollution Prevention and Control \nAs an island located among major shipping lanes in the western Pacific, marine pollution prevention is of particular significance to Taiwan. The EPA utilizes the latest technology to monitor and respond to marine pollution in times of emergency to protect ocean water quality. Ocean waste management is becoming increasingly important as the overall environment deteriorates, thus the central and local governments along with grassroot organizations are joining together to clean up waste, aiming to jointly work towards a plastic-free marine environment and preserve the marine ecosystem.\n\nAnalysis from the International Maritime Organization (IMO) shows that 44% of marine pollution comes from the land, 33% from atmospheric transmission, 12% from vessels, 10% from ocean dumping, and 1% from ocean construction. The EPA has been conducting marine pollution prevention and control by planning, guiding, supervising, and implementing various strategies and measures. Furthermore, the Marine Pollution Control Act was formulated based on the international Convention on the Law of the Sea, and announced on 1 November 2000. The Act was then revised on 4 June 2014. The authorities responsible for its implementation are the EPA in the central government and city\/county\/municipal governments at local levels. The Coast Guard is in charge of cracking down on illegal activities, collecting relevant evidence, and referring the violations. \n\nMarine pollution control via monitoring and law enforcement\nThe EPA strives to increase the effectiveness of emergency response measures against major oil pollution incidents in marine environments. Based on the Major Marine Pollution Incident Emergency Response Plan approved by the Executive Yuan, responses fall into three main categories, as follows:\n\nA. Scientifically monitoring marine pollution \nTo protect the marine environment, the EPA has been promoting pollution controls as well as strengthening the legal framework. Various technologies are skillfully used to effectively monitor all types of pollution sources to help reduce pollution at its sources and to inspect for illegal activities. These technologies include remote satellite sensing, unmanned aerial systems (UAS), oil spill detecting radar monitoring vehicles, and oil and chemical pollution dispersion simulation models.\n\nB. Response to marine pollution incidents\nThe EPA regularly enhances its response capacities to oil pollution incidents by better utilizing technology, integrating resources via information systems, and advising local governments on being better equipped and prepared. Once a pollution incident occurs, the EPA supervises and coordinates responsible central and local authorities under the Major Marine Pollution Incident Emergency Response Plan. This ensures that response measures are thoroughly carried out at all levels and emergencies are properly handled.\n\nThe characteristics and quantities of the oil need to be taken into account during oil spill incidents in the ocean. Spill locations, the surrounding marine environment, and oceanic and meteorological conditions must be considered to evaluate the scales of potentially impacted areas and further determine how the marine environment and ecosystem may be affected. \n\nC. Marine waste cleanup and plastic-free ocean campaign\nMarine waste mostly comes from solid garbage disposed on land and coastal areas, and greatly impact the seabed ecosystem. Thus, the EPA formulated the Floating Trash Disposal Program to implement at-source controls of marine waste and to organize beach and ocean cleanups.\n\nThe research conducted by the Society of Wilderness on the components of ocean waste in 2015 showed that plastic waste comprises 90% of it. To reduce plastic waste in the oceans, in 2016 the EPA tightened relevant policies by limiting and reducing the use of plastics at their sources. On 13 February 2018, the Action Plan of Marine Debris Governance in Taiwan was announced by the EPA, accompanied by representatives from NGOs concerned about marine environmental preservation, the National Museum of Marine Science & Technology, and others from academia. The details include a total ban by 2030 on single-use plastics such as shopping bags, utensils, beverage containers, and straws. The Action Program is also working on banning plastic straws starting in 2019, to make Taiwan the first country to limit the use of plastic straws.\n\nCentral and local governments mobilized to clean up oceans\nCleanups of garbage on the ocean bottom are carried out by divers, while waste on beaches is regularly cleaned up by local governments under the EPA’s supervision. In 2016, Taitung County, Kinmen County, Pingtung County, and Lienchiang County received subsidies to conduct marine waste cleanup projects. This resulted in more than 400 metric tons of garbage from the ocean bottom and beaches being collected, including 480 metric tons of recyclable materials. In addition, 25 sessions on marine environmental education were held. The EPA hopes that with the combined efforts and resources of governments and the public, the marine environment and resources will be better protected.\n\nThe EPA continued to subsidize local governments to carry out marine waste cleanup projects in 2017. Nineteen coastal counties and cities were mobilized to organize a nationwide event on World Oceans Day on 8 June, which included waste cleanups and marine environmental education. An environmental fleet has been assembled as well. To deal with random dumping, vessels such as fishing boats, yachts, whale-watching boats, ferries, as well as the public, fishermen, and boat owners are encouraged to bring back and properly dispose of waste produced during sightseeing, leisure, and fishing activities.\n\nAs part of improving coastal and marine environments of offshore islands, the EPA also provides subsidies for relevant projects to Kinmen and Lienchiang Counties, as floating waste originating from China affects these islands. The subsidies assist them to better carry out coastal environment maintenance, floating and bottom trash cleanups, waste transfers and recycling. \n\nFuture plans\nTaiwan is located in the midst of many international shipping lanes, with thousands of containers and vessels sailing through its waters every day. In response to this, the EPA will keep on strengthening marine pollution control measures and monitoring the marine environment according to the Marine Pollution Control Act. While monitoring pollution sources with the latest technology, the EPA will also actively promote the pollution emergency response mechanism and increase the effectiveness of control measures. Other efforts will include continuous marine waste cleanups and at-source waste reduction to protect the marine environment.\n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(5)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Taiwan’s Marine Pollution Prevention and Control", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-5" }, { "no": "3689", "title": "Incentives Provided for Reporting Illegal Open-air Burning", "preview": "Air Quality\nIncentives Provided for Reporting Illegal Open-air Burning \nTo improve air quality, the EPA encourages the public to pay attention to their surroundings and take note of any illegal open-air burning. The EPA is now implementing the Incentives for Reporting Illegal Open-Air Burning Pilot Plan to promote public participation in air quality protection efforts. Until the end of June 2018, a reward of up to NT$300 will be given to each report of illegal open burning.", "content": "Incentives Provided for Reporting Illegal Open-air Burning \nTo improve air quality, the EPA encourages the public to pay attention to their surroundings and take note of any illegal open-air burning. The EPA is now implementing the Incentives for Reporting Illegal Open-Air Burning Pilot Plan to promote public participation in air quality protection efforts. Until the end of June 2018, a reward of up to NT$300 will be given to each report of illegal open burning.\n\nOpen-air burning is a common contributor of local air pollution, and can cause more fires depending on atmospheric dispersion conditions. Additionally, smoke from burning can reduce visibility and pose danger to traffic safety and public health. Research shows that byproducts of open burning (e.g. fine particulate matters, heavy metals, and dioxins) can cause allergic reactions such as irritation of the eye and respiratory system. According to the information released on the Taiwan Emission Data System (TEDS), open burning produced 3,451 metric tons of PM2.5 annually, constituting about 4% of the total air pollutant emissions. Statistics also show that there were about 25,000 cases of open-air burning in 2016 and 2017. It is obvious to see that open burning can have significant effects on air quality and the quality of life. \n\nTo prevent open-air burning, the EPA collaborated with the Central Weather Bureau to strengthen environmental monitoring by employing advanced satellite remote sensing technology. By enhancing Taiwan’s real-time monitoring technology through the application of satellite remote sensing, the EPA was able detect the location of heat sources, which helped increase the efficiency of pollution investigation and law enforcement. However, satellite sensors are easily hindered by clouds and have a margin of error of one kilometer. Hence, by combining with civilian reporting, the EPA will be able to expand its monitoring range with fewer time and space restrictions. \n\nIn light of the above mentioned circumstances, the EPA is implementing the Incentives for Reporting Illegal Open-Air Burning Pilot Plan. The EPA encourages the general public to report any illegal open burning of straw, tree branches, or trash to local environmental protection agencies along with specific evidence that is clear and easily identifiable. EPA personnel can also investigate the sites of burning in person if deemed necessary. Each report will be rewarded with NT$100, and an extra NT$200 will be given if the violation is verified after investigation. \n\nThis pilot plan will last until the end of June 2018. Violations can be reported by using the EPA’s app or calling 0800-066-666.\n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(5)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air Quality", "titlename": "Incentives Provided for Reporting Illegal Open-air Burning", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-5" }, { "no": "3688", "title": "2018 Green Vehicles Announced", "preview": "Air Quality\n2018 Green Vehicles Announced\nVehicle exhaust accounts for approximately one-third of PM2.5 emissions in Taiwan. There are about 13 million scooters and 7.8 million cars in Taiwan. Among them, 800,000 vehicles run on diesel fuel. To reduce transportation emissions, the EPA will continue to promote the production of environmentally friendly vehicles and aim for the electrification of all cars and scooters. To serve as a purchasing guide for green vehicles, the EPA announced vehicle evaluation results for 2018.", "content": "2018 Green Vehicles Announced\nVehicle exhaust accounts for approximately one-third of PM2.5 emissions in Taiwan. There are about 13 million scooters and 7.8 million cars in Taiwan. Among them, 800,000 vehicles run on diesel fuel. To reduce transportation emissions, the EPA will continue to promote the production of environmentally friendly vehicles and aim for the electrification of all cars and scooters. To serve as a purchasing guide for green vehicles, the EPA announced vehicle evaluation results for 2018.\n\nThe environmentally friendly vehicle models of 2018 were selected from a total of 248 conventional gasoline cars, 26 hybrid cars, and 97 conventional motorcycles. The selected green vehicles include two conventional gasoline cars (Honda CITY 1.5 V 1497c.c. CVT 4D and Honda FIT 1.5 S 1497c.c. CVT 5D), eight hybrid cars (e.g., TOYOTA PRIUS PHV 1798c.c. CVT 5D HYBRID), and 13 scooters (e.g., Kymco MANY 110 SE22BK 111.7c.c. CVT). Complete information on the selected vehicles is posted on the website of the Green Vehicle Guide (https:\/\/greencar.epa.gov.tw\/). The EPA encourages the public to use the website before making purchases and contribute to air quality improvement by selecting a vehicle that is less polluting, noise-free and energy-efficient. \n\nThe green vehicle selection of 2018 was conducted by assessing and ranking the performance of all the cars\/scooters sold in 2017 with a chart comprising three environmental indicators: air pollution emissions, noise, and fuel consumption. To be selected, a model must reach a score of 6 in each domain, with a total score no less than 21.\n\nAmong the 1,324,463 new vehicles (936,500 motorcycles and 387,963 cars) sold in 2017, 333,126 of them (320,925 motorcycles and 12,201 cars) were green vehicles and accounted for a quarter of the total sales. In other words, for every four new cars\/scooters sold in Taiwan last year, one was environmentally friendly. Since the Green Vehicle Guide website was established in 2014, sales for green vehicles had risen from 21% to 25% in 2017. The increase in sales throughout the years shows that people in Taiwan are becoming more aware of the importance of green vehicles. \n\nAs environmental awareness rises, most car manufactures endeavor to design their cars to be as environmentally friendly as possible, in coordination with environmental policies. The green car selection of the year includes hybrid cars with engine capacity of either 1,600 c.c. or 2,400 c.c., and also conventional gasoline cars with an engine capacity of 1,500 c.c. The result of the selection indicates that hybrids tend to be more energy-efficient compared to gasoline cars. Furthermore, the result also shows that gasoline cars that have an engine capacity of 1,500 c.c. are relatively more eco-friendly than those with other engine sizes. As for conventional motorcycles, different vehicles with engine capacity ranging from 100 c.c. to 250 c.c. were selected, which demonstrate the fact that even heavy bikes can reach the standards of green vehicles.The EPA urges everyone to take advantage of the Green Vehicle Guide website (https:\/\/greencar.epa.gov.tw\/webpage\/carsearch.aspx), in order to make informed and environmentally-friendly purchases. Another alternative the EPA suggested to help with air quality protection is to take public transportation.\n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(5)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air Quality", "titlename": "2018 Green Vehicles Announced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-5" }, { "no": "3687", "title": "Subsidies for Phasing Out Two-Stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Electric Bicycles Revised", "preview": "Air Quality\nSubsidies for Phasing Out Two-Stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Electric Bicycles Revised\nThe EPA has been encouraging the public to phase out two-stroke motorcycles and purchase new electric ones. Regulations concerning subsidization were amended to address the problems reflected by the public during the implementation period. The revised Regulations Concerning Subsidization for Phasing out Two-Stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Electric Two-wheel Vehicles were announced. In addition, no subsidies will be provided after 2020.", "content": "Subsidies for Phasing Out Two-Stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Electric Bicycles Revised\nThe EPA has been encouraging the public to phase out two-stroke motorcycles and purchase new electric ones. Regulations concerning subsidization were amended to address the problems reflected by the public during the implementation period. The revised Regulations Concerning Subsidization for Phasing out Two-Stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Electric Two-wheel Vehicles were announced. In addition, no subsidies will be provided after 2020. \n\nThe EPA pointed out that two-stroke motorcycle engines are designed such that an oil-lubricant mixture enters and burns in engine cylinders during intake and exhaust of air. Visibly polluting blue\/gray smoke is easily produced from incomplete combustion. A two-stroke motorcycle emits 17 to 18 times more hydrocarbons (HCs) and twice the carbon monoxide (CO) than those emitted by a four-stroke motorcycle. Emission standards for new vehicles have become stricter since 2004 to encourage manufacturers to cease production of two-stroke motorcycles. For in-use vehicles, since 2008 subsidies have been offered to encourage phase-outs. However, data showed that there were roughly 1.03 million two-stroke motorcycles nationwide as of the end of March 2018. These vehicles present a big challenge for air pollution control and hence the dire need of taking them off the roads as soon as possible.\n\nThe EPA discovered that during the implementation of subsidies for phase-outs, people tended to discard their two-stroke motorcycles with recyclers at the end of the year. This made it difficult for recyclers to coordinate and recycle all vehicles before the year end. After review, the regulations were revised so that the year applicants would be subsidized would be based on the date of discarding. Also, the original regulation demanding vehicle inspection records for the subsidy application has been removed, because owners are less willing to get rid of old two-stroke motorcycles due to a lack of records of regular inspections.\n\nThe EPA stated that the amount for subsidies for the phase-out of two-stroke motorcycles and purchase of new electric bicycles will decrease year after year. For 2018, NT$1,000 is provided for phase-outs only, NT$4,000 to 6,000 for both phase-out and purchase (depending on the model of the new vehicles), and NT$1,500 to 3,500 (depending on the vehicle models) for purchase only. Local governments will offer extra subsidies as well. The subsidies will be applicable until 2020.\n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(5)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air Quality", "titlename": "Subsidies for Phasing Out Two-Stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Electric Bicycles Revised", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-5" }, { "no": "3686", "title": "Phasing out Old Vehicles with Subsidies and Tighter Controls", "preview": "Air Quality\nPhasing out Old Vehicles with Subsidies and Tighter Controls\nThe draft of the amendments to the Air Pollution Control Act is currently under review in the Legislative Yuan. The amendments will tighten emission standards for vehicles that have been manufactured over ten years ago and designate air quality control zones that forbid or limit specified vehicles from entering. It is hoped the phase-out of highly polluting old vehicles will be expedited through subsidies and tightened controls. The ultimate goal is to eliminate all two-stroke motorcycles and heavy-duty diesel vehicles targeted in the first and second phases of the vehicle emission standards.", "content": "Phasing out Old Vehicles with Subsidies and Tighter Controls\nThe draft of the amendments to the Air Pollution Control Act is currently under review in the Legislative Yuan. The amendments will tighten emission standards for vehicles that have been manufactured over ten years ago and designate air quality control zones that forbid or limit specified vehicles from entering. It is hoped the phase-out of highly polluting old vehicles will be expedited through subsidies and tightened controls. The ultimate goal is to eliminate all two-stroke motorcycles and heavy-duty diesel vehicles targeted in the first and second phases of the vehicle emission standards.\n\nThe EPA stated that according to statistics, mobile pollution sources account for 30~37% of Taiwan’s PM2.5 emissions. Among that, 2~2.6% of emissions come from two-stroke motorcycles, and 11.2~16.8% from heavy-duty diesel trucks, showing the need to speed up the phase-out of said vehicles. Starting in 2008, the EPA has been offering subsidies for phasing out two-stroke motorcycles. From 2010, the EPA has further subsidized the purchase of electric motorcycles. In addition, the governments of Taipei City, Taoyuan City, Taichung City, Kaohsiung City, Yilan County and Nantou County provide additional subsidies of NT$4000-30,000 to mid- and low-income households to replace two-stroke motorcycles with new electric ones.\n\nIn addition, since August 2017 the EPA has offered subsidies for phasing out heavy-duty diesel trucks subject to the first and second phase vehicle emission standards. Data shows that the phase-out of more than 1.32 million two-stroke motorcycles and more than 6,000 of the said diesel trucks has been subsidized as of the end of March 2018. A goal has been set to phase out all the two-stroke motorcycles and heavy-duty diesel trucks targeted by the phase 1 and 2 vehicle emission standards by the end of 2019.\n\nBesides the subsidies above, the Legislative Yuan has passed the preliminary review of the draft amendments to the Air Pollution Control Act formulated by the EPA. Article 36 in the revision authorizes the EPA to tighten the original emission standards for motor vehicles that have been manufactured over ten years ago. Article 40 mandates that competent authorities at all levels may designate air pollution control zones for mobile source pollution control according to local air quality and pollution characteristics.\n\nOnce the amendments are approved, the EPA estimates that they will affect 98,000 gasoline vehicles manufactured before 1991, as well as 530,000 diesel vehicles and more than 7 million motorcycles regulated by the phase 1-4 vehicle emission standards. Taking two-stroke motorcycles for instance, stricter emission standards for vehicles manufactured more than ten years ago would lead to an increase of failed tests for CO emissions, rising from 14% to 45%, and an increase of failed tests for hydrocarbon emissions from 6.5% to 9.5%. Other than replacing two-stroke motorcycles faster, vehicle owners will also consequently be encouraged to properly maintain their vehicles in order to comply with the new standards. A two-year grace period will be in place before the new standards take effect. \n\nThe EPA pointed out that although competent authorities at all levels are authorized to designate air quality zones to limit or ban the entrance of certain vehicles, the zone area and the targeted vehicles must be deemed necessary. The control zones will not cover the entire country, and a grace period of three to six months will be given to help the public adjust. Only vehicle models meeting the criteria would be allowed to enter once air quality zones are set.\n\nAlthough the subsidy provides an incentive for phasing out old vehicles, it is not mandatory. The EPA is considering amending related regulations to put old, highly polluting vehicles under control in order to hasten the phase-out of such vehicles. Owners are encouraged to get rid of their old vehicles soon, so as to not only be eligible to apply for a subsidy, but also to avoid the trouble of violating future emission standards and being limited from driving in certain areas.\n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(5)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air Quality", "titlename": "Phasing out Old Vehicles with Subsidies and Tighter Controls", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-5" }, { "no": "3685", "title": "Subsidies for Switching to Cleaner-Fuel Boilers Expanded", "preview": "", "content": "Subsidies for Switching to Cleaner-Fuel Boilers Expanded \nOn 4 May 2018, the EPA announced the amendments to the Regulations Governing Subsidies for Modification or Replacement of Boilers. The purpose of the amendments is to accelerate the process of switching boiler fuels to cleaner alternatives and to reduce air pollutant emissions produced. The major points of the amendments are to expand the subsidized targets and to extend the application period to 30 June 2019.\n\nStarting on 15 April 2017, the EPA began providing hotels; medical and health care institutions, social welfare organizations and schools with subsidies to modify or replace their oil-fired boilers with heating equipment that uses low-emission gases, solar energy or electricity.\n\nThe EPA decided to amend the regulations to further expand the enterprises eligible for the subsidy. The amendments stipulate that any private or public premises that have modified or replaced their boilers after 15 April 2017, and are now using or in the process of establishing heating equipment powered by low-emission gases, solar energy or electricity, qualify for the subsidy. A subsidy can be provided for each boiler, up to a maximum of NT$500,000. However, the regulations do not apply to the following: factories governed by the Factory Management Act, electricity enterprises governed by the Electricity Act, and state-owned enterprises governed by the Administrative Law of State-Owned Enterprises. To provide sufficient time for the conversion, the application period for the subsidy is extended to 30 June 2019. \n\nThe EPA also points out that the draft of the Boiler Air Pollutant Emission Standards was preannounced on 30 January 2018, and is now undergoing the legislative procedures of discussions and public hearings. It is targeted that all boilers – regardless of fuel types or operation scale – shall meet the emission standards by 1 July 2020. Through administrative control and economic incentives, the EPA aims to diminish boiler air pollutant emissions and their impacts on air quality, as well as the number of air pollution red alert days. \n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(5)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air Quality", "titlename": "Subsidies for Switching to Cleaner-Fuel Boilers Expanded", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-5" }, { "no": "3684", "title": "Scope of Environmental Impact Assessments and Standards for Determining Specific Assessment Items Amended", "preview": "Env. Impact Assessment\nScope of Environmental Impact Assessments and Standards for Determining Specific Assessment Items Amended\nThe EPA announced the amendments to the Standards for Determining Specific Items and Scope of Environmental Impact Assessments for Development Activities on 11 April 2018. The amendments include expanding the categories of development activities that require an EIA, tightening EIA scales for some development activities, reducing the scope of EIAs for some development activities, and adding some exemptions. For example, an EIA is now required for constructing buildings taller than 120 meters, while renewable power generation facilities with a capacity under 2,000 kW are not required to undergo an EIA.", "content": "Scope of Environmental Impact Assessments and Standards for Determining Specific Assessment Items Amended\nThe EPA announced the amendments to the Standards for Determining Specific Items and Scope of Environmental Impact Assessments for Development Activities on 11 April 2018. The amendments include expanding the categories of development activities that require an EIA, tightening EIA scales for some development activities, reducing the scope of EIAs for some development activities, and adding some exemptions. For example, an EIA is now required for constructing buildings taller than 120 meters, while renewable power generation facilities with a capacity under 2,000 kW are not required to undergo an EIA. \n\nThere have been many concerns expressed by a wide range of organizations regarding the revisions to these standards. In response, the EPA preannounced the revisions on 27 April 2017 and held 10 public hearings over a period of two months. Adjustments were made to the draft based on concerns and questions raised by participants. The EPA preannounced revisions for a second time on 26 January 2018 to further refine the revisions. A public hearing was held on 12 February to collect more opinions. After careful consideration more revisions were announced. The key points of the revisions are as follows:\n\n1. Sensitive environments previously referred to as “designated land approved for re-zoning for agricultural use” has been revised to “designated areas for agricultural use”. The area for farmlands has been increased to 100,000 hectares.\n\n2. The extension limits for applying mining rights of mining lands were approved. Development activities located in sensitive environments or beyond a certain scope must undergo an EIA. Standards were added regarding enterprises that have mining rights which have yet to expire (within a period of ten years) and already undergone an EIA. The enterprises may apply for an extension and are therefore exempt from undergoing a second EIA. Standards for determining the need for an EIA were tightened with regards to mine prospecting, mining, and dirt removal.\n\n3. Buildings over 120 meters are required to undergo an EIA.\n\n4. It is added that an enterprise reusing facilities that were already approved by a competent authority for reuse, and that will not expand development to additional land, is exempt from an EIA.\n\n5. Renewable power generation facilities under 2,000 kW in capacity are exempt from an EIA. The standards for thermal energy generators have been revised. Thermal energy units with a capacity of 10,000 kW or more will be required to undergo an EIA. The need for an EIA for generators that draw hot spring water, which is returned to underground water sources, will be based on standards for thermal energy generation, rather than the amount of hot spring water used. For hydropower, installations that make use of existing ditches, irrigation or other waterworks and have a capacity that is below 20,000 kW are exempt from undergoing an EIA. \n\n6. Regulations have been added requiring an EIA for the development of natural gas storage tanks.\n\n7. Regulations for conducting an EIA for factories that have been re-purposed for non-industrial development are deleted. \n\n8. Camping areas on sloped lands that are applying to develop or expand development on one hectare or more must undergo an EIA.\n\n9. Development activities taking place near important wetlands, that have been permitted by competent authorities as complying with their conservation plans for important wetlands, will be exempt from undergoing an EIA. \n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(5)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Env. Impact Assessment", "titlename": "Scope of Environmental Impact Assessments and Standards for Determining Specific Assessment Items Amended", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-5" }, { "no": "3683", "title": "Amendments to Working Standards for Environmental Agent Permit Application and Issuance Announced", "preview": "chemical\nAmendments to Working Standards for Environmental Agent Permit Application and Issuance Announced\nThe EPA announced the amendments to the Working Standards for Environmental Agent Permit Application and Issuance (環境用藥許可證申請核發作業準則). The revisions focus on practical management, particularly in terms of the review process (application, review, issuance, exemption, rejection). The amendments adjust the legal structure and order of the articles. Furthermore, the standards will include provisions for the extension of the expiration dates for products with environmental agents as well as chemical repellants for human use (e.g. mosquito repellent).", "content": "Amendments to Working Standards for Environmental Agent Permit Application and Issuance Announced\nThe EPA announced the amendments to the Working Standards for Environmental Agent Permit Application and Issuance (環境用藥許可證申請核發作業準則). The revisions focus on practical management, particularly in terms of the review process (application, review, issuance, exemption, rejection). The amendments adjust the legal structure and order of the articles. Furthermore, the standards will include provisions for the extension of the expiration dates for products with environmental agents as well as chemical repellants for human use (e.g. mosquito repellent). \n\nThe guidelines were revised to include chemical repellants for human use. Natural products that act as repellants or attractants for insects or rodents which are not lethal to insects will be exempt from the need for a permit, after applicants have provided relevant documents and data to the EPA for approval. Furthermore, considering that most active ingredients found in environmental agents are high in concentration and stability, and their use is limited to the production of environmental agents, the expiration period for such products has been revised to five years.\n\nThe main points for the amendments are as follows:\n1. The deadline for providing additional documents for applications has been extended to 90 days.\n2. Sodium chlorite, the active ingredient for fungicides, at a concentration of lower than 6%, as well as its precursors, will be exempt from needing a permit.\n3. Permit expiration date, application deadline for extensions, and conditions for approval or rejection are revised.\n4. Procedures for extending or modifying permit applications and the review process are added.\n5. Definitions are given for the testing organizations that can conduct tests on the physical and chemical properties, ingredients and efficacy of environmental agents.\n6. Items for toxicity tests that must be conducted in order to apply for permits for repellants for human use are added.\n7. The expiration period of precursor products in environmental agents is revised to five years.\n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(4)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "chemical", "titlename": "Amendments to Working Standards for Environmental Agent Permit Application and Issuance Announced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-4" }, { "no": "3682", "title": "First Training Facility for Toxic Chemical Substance Shipping and Dispatch Breaks Ground", "preview": "Chemical\nFirst Training Facility for Toxic Chemical Substance Shipping and Dispatch Breaks Ground\nA ground breaking ceremony was held on 20 March 2018 for the Southern Training Facility for the Shipment of Toxic Chemical Substances and Material Dispatch Center. EPA Deputy Minister Tzi-Chin Chang and the president of National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Mr. Ching-Yu Yang, were the hosts for the ceremony. Upon completion, this will be Taiwan’s first training facility for hazardous chemical incidents. The facility will provide training for toxic disasters and improve the ability of response teams to handle such disasters, as well as shorten the time for preparing equipment and responding to incidents.", "content": "First Training Facility for Toxic Chemical Substance Shipping and Dispatch Breaks Ground\nA ground breaking ceremony was held on 20 March 2018 for the Southern Training Facility for the Shipment of Toxic Chemical Substances and Material Dispatch Center. EPA Deputy Minister Tzi-Chin Chang and the president of National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Mr. Ching-Yu Yang, were the hosts for the ceremony. Upon completion, this will be Taiwan’s first training facility for hazardous chemical incidents. The facility will provide training for toxic disasters and improve the ability of response teams to handle such disasters, as well as shorten the time for preparing equipment and responding to incidents.\n\nThe Southern Training Facility for the Shipment of Toxic Chemical Substances and Laboratory will be located on the campus of National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology. The facility will consist of two six-story buildings connected by a bridge. The total floor space for the buildings is approximately 5,000 square meters with an outside area of approximately 2,000 square meters. The space will include training rooms for personal safety equipment, detection equipment, laboratory incident response, decontamination and repairing leaky equipment. In addition, there will be a semi-outdoor training area and material storage. The chemical substances used to simulate various incidents are not actual toxic chemical substances and are not hazardous. The project is expected to be finished by 2019.\n\nOnce finished, the Southern Training Facility will be available for personnel handling toxic chemical substances, shipping companies, disposal personnel involved in shipping substances, port service personnel, joint defense organizations, personnel involved in factory operations and shipment, laboratory maintenance personnel and other disaster relief personnel, both domestic and international. It is estimated that the facility can train around 2,000 people annually, improving safety for both transporting toxic chemical substances and disaster response.\n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(4)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "chemical", "titlename": "First Training Facility for Toxic Chemical Substance Shipping and Dispatch Breaks Ground", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-4" }, { "no": "3681", "title": "Amendments to Working Standards for Environmental Agent Permit Application and Issuance Announced", "preview": "Env. Sanitation\nAmendments to Working Standards for Environmental Agent Permit Application and Issuance Announced\nThe EPA announced the amendments to the Working Standards for Environmental Agent Permit Application and Issuance. The revisions focus on practical management, particularly in terms of the review process (application, review, issuance, exemption, rejection). The amendments adjust the legal structure and order of the articles. Furthermore, the standards will include provisions for the extension of the expiration dates for products with environmental agents as well as chemical repellants for human use (e.g. mosquito repellent).", "content": "Amendments to Working Standards for Environmental Agent Permit Application and Issuance Announced\nThe EPA announced the amendments to the Working Standards for Environmental Agent Permit Application and Issuance. The revisions focus on practical management, particularly in terms of the review process (application, review, issuance, exemption, rejection). The amendments adjust the legal structure and order of the articles. Furthermore, the standards will include provisions for the extension of the expiration dates for products with environmental agents as well as chemical repellants for human use (e.g. mosquito repellent). \nThe guidelines were revised to include chemical repellants for human use. Natural products that act as repellants or attractants for insects or rodents which are not lethal to insects will be exempt from the need for a permit, after applicants have provided relevant documents and data to the EPA for approval. Furthermore, considering that most active ingredients found in environmental agents are high in concentration and stability, and their use is limited to the production of environmental agents, the expiration period for such products has been revised to five years.\n\nThe main points for the amendments are as follows:\n1. The deadline for providing additional documents for applications has been extended to 90 days.\n2. Sodium chlorite, the active ingredient for fungicides, at a concentration of lower than 6%, as well as its precursors, will be exempt from needing a permit.\n3. Permit expiration date, application deadline for extensions, and conditions for approval or rejection are revised.\n4. Procedures for extending or modifying permit applications and the review process are added.\n5. Definitions are given for the testing organizations that can conduct tests on the physical and chemical properties, ingredients and efficacy of environmental agents.\n6. Items for toxicity tests that must be conducted in order to apply for permits for repellants for human use are added.\n7. The expiration period of precursor products in environmental agents is revised to five years.\n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(4)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Env. Sanitation", "titlename": "Amendments to Working Standards for Environmental Agent Permit Application and Issuance Announced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-4" }, { "no": "3680", "title": "Central and Local Governments Jointly Build Educational Park to Purify Nankan River", "preview": "Water\nCentral and Local Governments Jointly Build Educational Park to Purify Nankan River\nOn 26 March, the EPA and Taoyuan City jointly held the opening ceremony for the Chaoyang Water Educational Park, which is designed to improve water quality and strengthen environmental education. In addition, with the combined use of the Taoyuan BOT sewerage system, sewage intercepting pipes and sub-sewers connected to households, the EPA expects to make significant improvements to the water quality from both the Dongmen River and the Nankan River.", "content": "Central and Local Governments Jointly Build Educational Park to Purify Nankan River\nOn 26 March, the EPA and Taoyuan City jointly held the opening ceremony for the Chaoyang Water Educational Park, which is designed to improve water quality and strengthen environmental education. In addition, with the combined use of the Taoyuan BOT sewerage system, sewage intercepting pipes and sub-sewers connected to households, the EPA expects to make significant improvements to the water quality from both the Dongmen River and the Nankan River. \n\nThe EPA has listed the Lao-Jie River and Nankan River in Taoyuan as key rivers for water remediation. Including the Dahan River, downstream of which is a freshwater souce, the EPA has subsidized more than NT$700 million for water remediation of these 3 rivers over the past 5 years. Moreover, the EPA has also subsidized the Chaoyang Water Educational Park NT$64,460,000 to further improve the water quality of the Nankan River. The Chaoyang Water Educational Park not only serves as a new city attraction but also maximizes the efficiency of water purification in the meantime.\n\nThe Chaoyang Water Educational Park is equipped with a gravel contact oxidation treatment system and an underground trail designed for observing and learning about the treatment system. The system treats household wastewater diverted from the Dongmen River, which is an upstream branch of the Nankan River, to an on-site water treatment facility located by the riverside in Chaoyang Forest Park. It began construction in December 2016 and is now complete and capable of the purification of 10,000 tons of household wastewater per day. The gravel contact oxidation method that the treatment facility employs is a natural self-purification process through the biofilms in the water and has a pollutant removal rate of at least 70%. After being processed, the purified water will be sent to the rivers, ponds, and fountains in the educational park. \n\nIn the future, Taoyuan City will also use the Taoyuan BOT sewerage system to intercept 34,000 tons of household wastewater daily going to wastewater treatment plants. With the completion of sub-sewer connections to households and construction subsidized by the EPA, the EPA expects to make significant improvements to the water quality of the Nankan River. \n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(4)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Central and Local Governments Jointly Build Educational Park to Purify Nankan River", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-4" }, { "no": "3679", "title": "IoT Smart Enforcement Application Wins 2018 Smart City Innovative Application Award", "preview": "Env. Monitoring\nIoT Smart Enforcement Application Wins 2018 Smart City Innovative Application Award \nThe 2018 Smart City Summit & Expo began on 27 March. The EPA received the Innovative Application Award presented by President Tsai Ing-wen for its “Smart Environmental Management: Environmental Internet of Things Smart Enforcement Application.” The EPA presented the environmental IoT’s deployment and applications at the Nangang Exhibition Center.", "content": "IoT Smart Enforcement Application Wins 2018 Smart City Innovative Application Award \nThe 2018 Smart City Summit & Expo began on 27 March. The EPA received the Innovative Application Award presented by President Tsai Ing-wen for its “Smart Environmental Management: Environmental Internet of Things Smart Enforcement Application.” The EPA presented the environmental IoT’s deployment and applications at the Nangang Exhibition Center.\n\nWith the development of information and communication networks and microsensor technology over recent years, the EPA is now able to use the newest IoT technology for its plan to connect Taiwan’s air quality sensors and microsensor systems. This project answers President Tsai Ing-wen’s call to create an Asian Silicon Valley, allowing Taiwan to become an IoT research and development center and test area. As such, the EPA created an environmental quality sensing IoT.\n\nThe EPA received the award for its integrated technology, “Smart Environmental Management: Environmental IoT Smart Enforcement Application”. There were several factors that contributed to this project’s success. The EPA integrated air quality sensing equipment at industrial developments, overcame energy issues for field deployment and set up a system for screening and reviewing aggregated data. The environmental IoT features innovative analysis and visualization applications. Kwanyin Industrial Park in Taoyuan, Yingge and Dalinpu served as trial areas for the early stages of the project. During the implementation process, each sensor node was closely connected. For example, sensors in the grid were designed to monitor PM2.5 in addition to volatile organic compounds (VOCs), temperature and humidity in order to improve big data analysis. The monitoring of the sensor network is done on a minute-by-minute basis and at the street level, allowing the system to create a visualization of changes in pollutant density over time. Monitoring sensors for wind speed, wind direction, pollution hotspots and potential emission areas are included for analyzing spatial and time characteristics. The conclusions can be used for inspection and dispatch operations. \n\nThe EPA’s display at the Nangang Exhibition Center included a demonstration of air quality microsensors and the environmental IoT digital data platform with its capabilities. There was also a display for AI learning and smart inspection applications. The EPA also used augmented reality (AR) to allow visitors to learn more about the distribution of potential air pollution hotspots.\n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(4)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Env. Monitoring", "titlename": "IoT Smart Enforcement Application Wins 2018 Smart City Innovative Application Award", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-4" }, { "no": "3678", "title": "Taiwan and Germany Work Together on Regional Atmospheric Pollutant Tracking", "preview": "Env. Monitoring\nTaiwan and Germany Work Together on Regional Atmospheric Pollutant Tracking \nTo better understand the potential impacts of air pollution from China on air quality over Taiwan, in 2018 the EPA will be working with Germany and the Academia Sinica to conduct regional atmospheric monitoring experiments. The experiments will be performed in central Taiwan using aircraft to track pollution plumes and to examine how the pollutants emitted by the Taichung Power Plant affect air quality in downwind areas. Through this cooperation, the EPA will be able to improve its capability of tracking and analyzing air pollution sources and gain knowledge about air pollution movements downwind.", "content": "Taiwan and Germany Work Together on Regional Atmospheric Pollutant Tracking \nTo better understand the potential impacts of air pollution from China on air quality over Taiwan, in 2018 the EPA will be working with Germany and the Academia Sinica to conduct regional atmospheric monitoring experiments. The experiments will be performed in central Taiwan using aircraft to track pollution plumes and to examine how the pollutants emitted by the Taichung Power Plant affect air quality in downwind areas. Through this cooperation, the EPA will be able to improve its capability of tracking and analyzing air pollution sources and gain knowledge about air pollution movements downwind.\n\nIn collaboration with the Academia Sinica and a research team from the University of Bremen (UB) in Germany, the EPA will be monitoring air pollution in Taiwan and East Asia using research aircraft provided by the German Aerospace Centre (Deutsches Zentrum f?r Luft- und Raumfahrt; DLR), as part of the research project known as Effect of Megacities on the transport and transformation of pollutants on the Regional and Global scales (EMeRGe). \nThe effects of megacities on both regional air quality and climate change is considered a major topic in today’s atmospheric research. Hence, the UB organized EMeRGe, a research project on atmospheric physics and chemistry being executed with great precision. The aim is to investigate the transport and transformation of air pollutants from megacities and their impacts on atmospheric composition and air quality. \n\nTaking this opportunity to collect and analyze scientific data, the EPA plans to set up a tracking system for plumes in central Taiwan to further explore the causes of air pollution. The EPA will also use ground-based tracers and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with sampling equipment for this project. \n\nAccording to the plan, the Taichung Power Plant, Mailiao Power Plant, and Taichung City Downtown will be releasing 3 types of perfluorinated compound (PFC) tracers. Fixed-wing UAVs carrying PFC sampling equipment will cruise between Taichung and Nantou at an altitude of either 300 or 500 meters to take samples. In downwind areas, a total of 12 UAVs will be taking samples simultaneously in Taichung and Nantou from various altitudes: 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 meters.\n\nPM2.5 is currently the most highly discussed air pollutant in Taiwan for many reasons: its diverse sources, its complex chemical composition, and its transport that involves complicated physical and chemical reactions. Although experts and scholars in the field have spent years researching PM2.5, many questions still exist. Tracking the plumes of polluted air is fundamental to clarifying the sources of the pollution. By releasing tracers in the environment, the air quality impacts of pollutant emissions from specific sources can be better understood. The EPA plans to acquire plume tracking ability through this cooperation with the German research team, to give it another tool to diagnose air pollution sources and evaluate air quality.\n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(4)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Env. Monitoring", "titlename": "Taiwan and Germany Work Together on Regional Atmospheric Pollutant Tracking", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-4" }, { "no": "3677", "title": "Capacity Building for Environmental Monitoring", "preview": "Env. Monitoring\nCapacity Building for Environmental Monitoring \nTaiwan’s environmental monitoring operations began with air quality monitoring and later extended to frequent sampling and monitoring of water quality of rivers, reservoirs, marine areas and groundwater. The aim of monitoring is to provide the public the most precise and detailed data on environmental quality. By combining various environmental databases with geographic information systems (GIS) to support environmental policy, the EPA will keep integrating each administrative system and pushing for computerization of government operations. In this way, information technology is utilized as well as possible to assist in policy implementation.", "content": "Capacity Building for Environmental Monitoring \nTaiwan’s environmental monitoring operations began with air quality monitoring and later extended to frequent sampling and monitoring of water quality of rivers, reservoirs, marine areas and groundwater. The aim of monitoring is to provide the public the most precise and detailed data on environmental quality. By combining various environmental databases with geographic information systems (GIS) to support environmental policy, the EPA will keep integrating each administrative system and pushing for computerization of government operations. In this way, information technology is utilized as well as possible to assist in policy implementation.\n\nAir quality monitoring and forecasting to provide transparent and real-time information\nThe purpose of environmental quality monitoring is to help the public understand the quality of surrounding environments. Air quality monitoring stations in Taiwan form a network that keeps watch of air quality in different places and announces forecasts. To provide more detailed information, since 1998 forecasts have included UV readings to help notify the public of times to take appropriate precautions.\n\nTo date, the EPA has established a total of 77 air quality monitoring stations. Results from these are available on the EPA website in forms of real-time air quality information as well as complete monitoring data throughout the years. Types of monitoring stations are listed as follows:\n1. General air quality monitoring stations: 60 sites \nThese are set in densely populated areas, areas that may be subject to high pollution, or areas that reflect the air quality distribution of a larger region. These stations provide data on the air quality of people’s living environments. For instance, data from stations in county\/city districts indicate concentrations of various representative pollutants to which the local population is exposed. \n\n2. Industrial air quality monitoring stations: Five sites in Toufen, Xianxi, Mailiao, Taixi, and Cianzhen. \nThese are set in windy areas downwind from industrial parks to help better understand the impacts of industrial pollutants. Locations are densely populated and encounter potentially high concentrations of pollutants. Stations are located in immediately adjacent downwind areas if the apparent pollution sources are at a lower height, and several kilometers downwind if the emission sources are high smokestacks.\n\n3. Traffic air quality monitoring stations: Six sites in Fongshan, Sanchong, Zhongli, Yonghe, Fuxing, and Datong\nEstablished in areas of heavy traffic to measure the air quality to which pedestrians are exposed. Monitoring data is used to evaluate effectiveness of controls on vehicle emissions, as well as vehicle pollutants to which pedestrians are exposed.\n\n4. National park air quality monitoring stations: Two sites in Hengchun and Yangming\nSet at appropriate sites in national parks to help understand current air quality conditions and predict future trends within the protected zones. Locations are away from major roads, parking lots, or other disruptions caused by pollution such as sources of burning.\n\n5. Background air quality monitoring stations: Five sites in Wanli, Guanyin, Sanyi, Qiaotou, and Fugueijiao. (Wanli and Sanyi serve simultaneously as general stations) \nSet in areas where there is relatively little pollution, or in windy upwind areas in total quality control zones. These monitor the amount of pollutants brought by prevailing winds. They are located away from the impacts of pollution sources, to measure general air quality conditions and determine whether there are transboundary pollutants from outside Taiwan.\n\n6. Special monitoring stations\nOther special monitoring stations include:\n● Mobile monitoring stations: six monitoring vehicles\n● Photochemical monitoring stations: nine sites\n● Research stations: Lulin Background Monitoring Station in Yushan National Park\nAuxiliary weather facilities include:\n● Light Detection and Ranging (Lidar): One in National Central University in Zhongli, Taoyuan\n\nIn 2017, the EPA finished integrating information and services of 211 monitoring stations in total, including 316 sets of automated smokestack exhaust monitoring data collected from 107 factories. The purpose is to keep large smokestack emissions under close watch and build a complete emission database in order to effectively monitor total emissions and ensure air quality.\n\nWater monitoring results as significant references for prevention strategies\nBesides monitoring air quality, which has the most immediate public impact, the EPA also conducts regular sampling and monitoring of water quality in rivers, reservoirs, groundwater, seas and so on. It aims to understand current water pollution conditions and their year to year changes, data which serves as references for water pollution prevention strategies. Monitoring results are published in annual reports for public evaluation as well as used in regular analysis of water quality trends for public inquiry.\n\nMonitoring results help government agencies that make decisions and the general public to understand current water quality conditions and trends. They also help with the detection, prediction, and response to problems that occur suddenly, as well as the mapping out of long-term pollution prevention strategies. Based on the open data principle, all water monitoring data is published on the EPA’s Environmental Water Quality Information website (http:\/\/wq.epa.gov.tw\/) for public inquiry and downloading.\nImprovement of environmental monitoring capacity\nThe EPA’s current efforts to enhance its environmental monitoring capacity include:\n1. Promoting the Environmental Quality Sensing Internet of Things (IoT)\nA. Development and establishment of the comprehensive Environmental Quality Sensing IoT\nIn the four-year period 2017-2020, the EPA will improve air quality monitoring sensors, develop water quality monitoring sensors, establish a sensor testing and certification platform and system, and expand sensor spots for air quality and farmland pollution. Other operations include integrating systems of monitoring stations and sensor spots, as well as constructing a smart environmental monitoring data center and a universal application service and integration platform. It is expected to reach the following goals:\n(1) Increase data precision for environmental controls and provide correct information to meet local needs.\n(2) Provide more detailed forecasts down to town and district levels, so that pollution and weather conditions can be precisely predicted in order to carry out emergency emission reductions.\n(3) Improve pollution controls to enhance enforcement of regulations and maintain a better environment using IoT technology to trace times and sources of pollution hotspots.\nSince the project began in 2017, the main focus has been establishing infrastructure and operation systems, first setting 500 air quality sensing spots in the central region. Other work involved development of various technology, operation testing, and data analysis.\n\nB. Tightening air quality monitoring\nThe EPA keeps 77 air quality monitoring stations nationwide running smoothly and conducts manual monitoring of PM2.5 at 31 stations. With usability higher than 96% after quality assurance and control (QA\/QC), monitoring data is available online in real time, and AQI and PM2.5 values for the next three days are forecast three times daily. An early alarm mechanism is in place to remind people to take precautions against transboundary pollutants (usually sand storms and smog from China). Furthermore, national air quality monitoring resources are integrated to account for air quality in industrial zones and smokestack emissions as pollution sources, in order to achieve better data disclosure and wider public supervision. \nThe EPA also has also implemented a demonstration plan on the smart urban and rural sensor IoT, using IoT technology and developing air quality microsensors, while conducting small-scale monitoring for specific pollution sources. Citizens are actively participating in monitoring to reduce occurrences of pollution and to safeguard public health.\n\n2. Promoting environmental data integration\n(1) Integrating environmental resources and data\nIn its Environmental Cloud plan, the EPA has combined environmental data for atmosphere, water, earth, forests, and ecosystems and developed a diverse information service. Through the data exchange system, over 1,933 databases from central and regional authorities were integrated and shared between 2013 and December 2016. \nThe EPA has also expanded the capacity of its shared sensor data platform to provide better integrated environmental information. Real-time information from micro-scaled air quality monitoring projects conducted by citizens is included, such as social platforms established by non-governmental organizations. Examples of technology used include the Location Aware Sensing System (LASS), consisting of open-source, not-for-profit environmental sensors, as well as open data platforms such as AirBox used in some counties\/cities. All greatly assist the public to obtain the most local environmental data.\n(2) Enhancing open data platforms\nIn compliance with the government’s Open Data policy, a total of 980 databases have been opened, reaching the goal of p 960 databases in 2016. Availability of environmental data is enhanced with over 1.8 million references and downloads as well as value-adding uses by over 600,000 users. Items available in open databases have increased nearly fourfold since the platform established in 2013 in order to build an information service cloud.\n(3) Improving the Environmental Message App\nThe launch of the Environmental Message service is a model demonstration of the application of open data. People can check real-time monitoring information, historic data and forecasts via control boards and images. The app also sends out warnings and notifications on air quality and other information. More than 260,000 people downloaded the app in 2017, with up to 20,000 users during daily peak hours and over a million views per month. It has become an indispensable environmental information service in the daily lives of users.\n\nFor its plan in 2018, the EPA will strive toward the following directions:\n(1) Continuing to implement the New Generation Environmental Quality Monitoring and Testing Development Plan\n(2) Continuing to establish the foundation of the Environmental Quality Sensing IoT\n(3) Expanding the environmental resource and information service platform to enhance service efficiency and application values\n(4) Providing comprehensive information services\n(5) Strengthening data evaluation and project management in the Environmental Sensing Data Center and integrating nationwide air quality data\n\nAll latest environmental monitoring data and results are provided by the EPA via channels such as the internet and mass media in real time. Future efforts will focus on continuing to integrate environmental databases with environmental geographic information system (GIS) and offering support to policy-making processes. Operations will also include integrating various administrative systems, promoting online government operations, utilizing information technology, and assisting innovative services and implementation of environmental policies.\n\nExcerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 21(4)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Env. Monitoring", "titlename": "Capacity Building for Environmental Monitoring", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-4" }, { "no": "3676", "title": "Revisions to Kaohsiung-Pingtung Air Quality Total Quantity Control Plan Preannounced", "preview": "Air Quality\nRevisions to Kaohsiung-Pingtung Air Quality Total Quantity Control Plan Preannounced\nTo keep improving air quality in Taiwan’s southernmost region, opinions were collected from different sectors during the implementation period of the Kaohsiung-Pingtung Area Air Quality Total Quantity Control (TQC) Plans for consideration by the EPA. The EPA is also evaluating and revising the Regulations Approving Existing Stationary Pollution Source Pollutant Emission Amountsand the Regulations for Existing Pollution Source Air Pollutant Reduction Credit Approving, Retaining, and Trading. Amendments will take effect on 1 July to reduce air pollutant emissions from private and public premises.", "content": "Revisions to Kaohsiung-Pingtung Air Quality Total Quantity Control Plan Preannounced\nTo keep improving air quality in Taiwan’s southernmost region, opinions were collected from different sectors during the implementation period of the Kaohsiung-Pingtung Area Air Quality Total Quantity Control (TQC) Plans for consideration by the EPA. The EPA is also evaluating and revising the Regulations Approving Existing Stationary Pollution Source Pollutant Emission Amountsand the Regulations for Existing Pollution Source Air Pollutant Reduction Credit Approving, Retaining, and Trading. Amendments will take effect on 1 July to reduce air pollutant emissions from private and public premises.\n\nSince the formulation of the Kaohsiung-Pingtung Area Air TQC Plans on 30 June 2015, the EPA has expected that existing stationary sources of pollution in this region would cut down pollutant emissions accordingly. By the end of the first phase, it is estimated that the goal of a 5% reduction of pollutant emissions can be reached. However, the Plan has also faced doubts from some that the reduction goals set would not generate meaningful results, as the approved pollution emissions for existing sources are too high.\n\nThe EPA announced that the revised TQC Plan will be launched on 1 July 2018. The stationary sources among 607 private and public premises under control in the first phase will be required to comply with the baselines with renewed approved emissions and designated practical reduction goals and procedures. The baselines are set based on the best available control technology (BACT). Compared with the actual emissions in 2016, actual emissions of each air pollutant under control are expected to further be reduced by 9~21%, creating immediate effects in reducing emissions from private and public premises. Basic structures and regulations, such as procedures for approving emissions within the TQC areas and operation processes for approving, retaining, and trading reduction credits, have also been revised and clarified.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air Quality", "titlename": "Revisions to Kaohsiung-Pingtung Air Quality Total Quantity Control Plan Preannounced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-4" }, { "no": "3675", "title": "Shenao Power Plant Expansion Project Approved by Environmental Impact Assessment Review", "preview": "Env. Impact Assessment\nShenao Power Plant Expansion Project Approved by Environmental Impact Assessment Review\nOn 14 March 2018, a review meeting was held on the Shenao Power Plant Expansion Project, during which the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Committee approved the analysis report on the environmental differences between pre- and post-expansion of the Shenao Power Plant. Subsequently, the EPA asked the Ministry of Economic Affairs to publicly explain that it is an EPA goal to increase the proportion of renewable energy to 20% of total energy production by 2025, with natural gas providing 50% and coal 30%. The EPA also stresses that the approval of the expansion project was a comprehensive decision made in consideration of energy production goals and is necessary for development.", "content": "Shenao Power Plant Expansion Project Approved by Environmental Impact Assessment Review\nOn 14 March 2018, a review meeting was held on the Shenao Power Plant Expansion Project, during which the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Committee approved the analysis report on the environmental differences between pre- and post-expansion of the Shenao Power Plant. Subsequently, the EPA asked the Ministry of Economic Affairs to publicly explain that it is an EPA goal to increase the proportion of renewable energy to 20% of total energy production by 2025, with natural gas providing 50% and coal 30%. The EPA also stresses that the approval of the expansion project was a comprehensive decision made in consideration of energy production goals and is necessary for development.\n\nDuring the EIA committee meeting held to review the first analysis report on the environmental differences between the pre- and post-expansion of the Shenao Power Plant, the project was passed in an anonymous vote. Eight votes were in favor of “Amended and approved” and eight votes were in favor of “Re-evaluation of the EIA”. The Chairman’s final adjudication decided that it would be “Amended and approved”.\n\nArticle 16 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act stipulates that if the content of an EIA approved development project is to be modified, the modification will be reviewed again in accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment Enforcement Rules. Based on the extent of the modification, the revised development project will be reviewed using different methods, which include: applying for reviews with the local environmental protection bureau, submitting a comparison chart of the original and revised content, submitting an analysis report on the differences between the environmental impacts, and re-conducting environmental impact assessment for the modified content.\n\nThe Shenao Power Plant Expansion Project is an example of a modified development project that was originally reviewed and passed in 2006. After the expansion project was modified, both the development scale and overall pollutant emissions have decreased and environmental protection efficiency has significantly increased. Furthermore, the altered content does not involve the protected areas and vegetated buffer strips in the original project, so the surrounding areas will not be affected. Hence, the modifications will be superior for environmental protection compared to the original version.\n\nThe current rules regarding the analysis and strategy evaluation report on the differences between the pre- and post-development activity environments do not provide the authority to revoke the original EIA results. Consequently, old development projects that have passed the EIA previously but would no longer be qualified under current regulations are still immune from being revoked or reviewed again for an up-to-date judgment. To solve this problem, the EPA has preannounced the draft of amendments to the Environmental Impact Assessment Act on 20 September 2017. According to the drafted amendments, a new stipulation has been added to Articles 24 and 30 so that the competent authority will be required to modify or revoke the original EIA result when deemed necessary. In addition, the EPA also revised Article 31 of the Act to stipulate that the EIA result will become invalid if the development activity has not commenced within the specified time after receiving approval.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Env. Impact Assessment", "titlename": "Shenao Power Plant Expansion Project Approved by Environmental Impact Assessment Review", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-4" }, { "no": "3649", "title": "Taiwan and Korea Hold Soil and Groundwater\nRemediation Forum", "preview": "International Cooperation\nTaiwan and Korea Hold Soil and Groundwater\nRemediation Forum\nDelegations from Taiwan and South Korea met on 12 December 2017 to begin a three-day forum on soil and groundwater remediation technology and management, as part of the bilateral cooperation between the two countries on this issue. Korea sent 13 delegates led by Yong-Kyu Park, Director General of the Water Supply and Sewerage Policy Office of the Ministry of Environment (MOE). The EPA’s delegation was also composed of 13 experts, academics and members from the Taiwan Soil and Groundwater Environmental Protection Association, and was led by Dr. Weber Chen, Director of the Soil and Groundwater Remediation Fund Management Board (SGRFMB).", "content": "Taiwan and Korea Hold Soil and Groundwater\nRemediation Forum\nDelegations from Taiwan and South Korea met on 12 December 2017 to begin a three-day forum on soil and groundwater remediation technology and management, as part of the bilateral cooperation between the two countries on this issue. Korea sent 13 delegates led by Yong-Kyu Park, Director General of the Water Supply and Sewerage Policy Office of the Ministry of Environment (MOE). The EPA’s delegation was also composed of 13 experts, academics and members from the Taiwan Soil and Groundwater Environmental Protection Association, and was led by Dr. Weber Chen, Director of the Soil and Groundwater Remediation Fund Management Board (SGRFMB).\nIn 2012, Taiwan and Korea signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Soil and Groundwater Remediation, and a four-year extension was signed in Seoul, Korea in 2016.According to the memorandum, conferences will be held in Taiwan and Korea on a rotating basis. Korea sent a delegation consisting of representatives of governmental agencies, the Korea Society of Soil and Groundwater Environment (KOSSGE) and the Korea Environment Industry & Technology Institute (KEITI) to attend the conference in Taiwan in\nDecember 2017.\nIn recent years, both Taiwan and Korea have gained a better understanding of soil and groundwater remediation and management. Progress was madein areas such as oil leakage prevention at gas stations and groundwater quality monitoring. The2017 conference further extended to topics such as off-site soil remediation and groundwater quality control.\nOn 12 December, a steering committee meeting was\nheld to discuss issues such as the achievements of industrial and academic exchanges and research, and the following year’s discussion topics. Time was also spent to confirm information exchanged, which included the Korean government’s research budget for management of soil and groundwater, related industries, and operations abroad. Taiwan shared information on policy development for related industries and on the current status of contamination sites under management. A forum was held after the steering committee meeting, in which scholars and experts from both countries were invited to share views on new soil and groundwater inspection technologies, land revitalization development, as well as methods and cases of farmland inspection and remediation.\nThe EPA has actively participated in remediation related international cooperation and exchanges since it established the Working Group on Remediation of Soil and Groundwater Pollution of Asian and Pacific Region (ReSAG) in 2010. Through such international cooperation, the EPA hopes to advance local and regional remediation capabilities.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "International Cooperation", "titlename": "Taiwan and Korea Hold Soil and Groundwater\nRemediation Forum", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-1" }, { "no": "3641", "title": "Plastic-Free Ocean Promoted in Response to\nInternational Trend", "preview": "waste\nPlastic-Free Ocean Promoted in Response to\nInternational Trend\nStarting 1 January 2018, the EPA implemented two measures in response to rising global attention on plastic waste in oceans. One measure broadens restrictions on the use of plastic shopping bags to seven additional industries, while the other is a ban on the manufacture and import of six categories of products containing plastic microbeads. With these new measures, the EPA hopes to guide enterprises to provide environmentally friendly products and encourage the public to reduce the use of plastic in their daily lives, in order to help attain a plastic-free ocean, while protecting the marine environment and the life within it.", "content": "Plastic-Free Ocean Promoted in Response to\nInternational Trend\nStarting 1 January 2018, the EPA implemented two measures in response to rising global attention on plastic waste in oceans. One measure broadens restrictions on the use of plastic shopping bags to seven additional industries, while the other is a ban on the manufacture and import of six categories of products containing plastic microbeads. With these new measures, the EPA hopes to guide enterprises to provide environmentally friendly products and encourage the public to reduce the use of plastic in their daily lives, in order to help attain a plastic-free ocean, while protecting the marine environment and the life within it.\nAccording to United Nations statistics, roughly eight million metric tons of plastic waste enter the world’s oceans every year. The UN estimates that, by weight, there will be as much plastic in the ocean as there is fish by 2025, which will ultimately impact food supplies and human diets. Lowering and limiting plastic use is hence necessary. To raise public awareness, the EPA brought in Hsin-Yao Huang, the 2017 Golden Horse Award winner for best new director, to shoot a short film on lowering plastic use.\nThe EPA calls on the public to support the policy of at-source reduction of plastic bags. Stores and shops can refrain from offering plastic bags, and consumers can carry out daily practices such as bringing their own shopping bags and reusing plastic bags. The EPA hopes that all residents will contribute to environmental protection by limiting the use of single-use plastic bags.\n\nExpanding the targets and scope of plastic bag restrictions\nIn 2002, the EPA kicked off the first stage of the plastic restriction policy by limiting the use of plastic shopping bags and single-use plastic utensils. On 1 July 2006, cafeterias in government facilities and schools became the first targets to stop providing single-use utensils. Next, in March 2007, the Restrictions on the Use of Plastic Trays and Packing Boxes was announced to limit plastic trays and packing boxes for eggs, fresh produce, bread and pastries.\nMinister Ying-Yuan Lee pointed out that, despite the public’s support of the plastic ban policy, plastic bag usage still needs to be reduced at source in a pain-free process. Thus, in order to encourage consumers to bring their own shopping bags, reuse plastic bags and reduce the use of single-use plastic shopping bags, in August 2017 the EPA announced the revised Targets, Implementation and Effective Date of Restricting the Use of Plastic Shopping Bags, which added seven more categories of targets. The restriction on use of plastic bags now covers 14 categories. Previously, only seven categories were subject to these restrictions, namely, government facilities, private schools, department stores\/ shopping malls, wholesale stores, supermarkets, chain convenience stores, and fast food chains. The new policy adds another seven categories: pharmacies\/drugstores; medical equipment stores; retailers of household appliances and photographic, electronic, and communication equipment; bookstores and stationery stores; laundries; beverage shops; and bakeries.\nThe new categories add 80,000 businesses to the previous 20,000 already subject to the controls. With a total of 100,000 businesses now subject to the restrictions, it is expected that 1.5 billion fewer plastic bags will be used every year. The EPA explained that, in consideration of food sanitation and safety, free plastic bags are allowed for packing bread or fresh produce. If the food itself is already packaged, additional plastic bags shall not be provided free of charge.\n\nBan on manufacture, import, and sales of cosmetics and personal care products containing plastic microbeads \nIn response to international concerns over ocean waste, the EPA aims to assist Taiwan’s personal care product industry to switch to environmentally friendly ingredients, and to import products free of microbeads. As a result, the Ban on Manufacturing, Import, and Sale of Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Containing Microbeads was announced in August 2017. Six categories of products, namely, microbead-containing shampoo, facial cleansers and makeup removers, shower gels, soaps, body scrubs, and toothpastes, are banned from being manufactured or imported as of 1 January 2018. Sales of such products will be banned as of 1 July 2018. The ban applies to products containing microbeads smaller than 5 mm in diameter.\n\nSailing Toward a Plastic-Free Ocean\nAt the 2017 Environmental Protection Technology Exhibition, the EPA showcased its accomplishments on land-originated waste reduction as well as clean-ups of beach and ocean floor garbage. However, ocean wastes can reach all corners of the big blue, and it is difficult to trace their sources. With limited resources and manpower for marine environment protection, it is imperative to integrate resources from different fields and form a feasible plan to tackle marine waste. In July 2017, the EPA announced its initiative to establish the Marine Waste Management Platform along with eight civic environmental organizations. On this platform, all sectors can exchange ideas and opinions on marine waste, including land-originated, beach, ocean floor, and floating garbage, to jointly work toward the goal of plastic-free oceans.\n\nFuture outlook\nEnvironmental damage caused by plastic waste can severely devastate marine ecosystems and threaten the survival of marine life, thus restricting use of plastics is a major global environmental issue. Plastics also pose a danger to human health if not properly disposed of. Other than expanding the plastic ban that has been running for 15 years, the EPA has prioritized “plastic-free oceans” as a major focus and will further push this policy with greater energy. Minister Lee called on the public to cooperate with the new policy and fully support it to quickly speed up its implementation, which will result in a reduction of plastic use, and ultimately a plastic-free environment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Plastic-Free Ocean Promoted in Response to\nInternational Trend", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-1" }, { "no": "3613", "title": "EPA Minister Lee Visits US to Release Taiwan Report on\nUN Sustainable Development Goals and Meet USEPA\nAdministrator Pruitt", "preview": "International Cooperation\nEPA Minister Lee Visits US to Release Taiwan Report on\nUN Sustainable Development Goals and Meet USEPA\nAdministrator Pruitt\nOn 15 September 2017 in New York City, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee gave a speech and released Taiwan’s first Voluntary National Review: Implementation of UN Sustainable Development Goals\n(VNR) at “A Sustainable Planet for All: Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals” conference.\nIn his speech, Minister Lee outlined Taiwan’s SDG implementation mechanisms, achievement highlights,\nand efforts in assisting other nations in implementing the UN SDGs. Minister Lee also visited Washington,\nDC and had a meeting with President Hilda Cathy Heine of the Marshall Islands to exchange thoughts on\nbilateral and multilateral environmental cooperation. Minister Lee also met with USEPA Administrator Scott\nPruitt to exchange ideas on the International Environmental Partnership, energy saving, and nuclear waste.\nThe two EPA heads agreed to work together on the common goal of sustainable development. In addition,\nMinister Lee visited the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a think tank, and delivered\na speech on Taiwan’s leading environmental efforts and achievements. Minister Lee’s speeches and the\nrelease of the Taiwan’s VNR received wide coverage from around 20 international and local media outlets.", "content": "EPA Minister Lee Visits US to Release Taiwan Report on\nUN Sustainable Development Goals and Meet USEPA\nAdministrator Pruitt\nOn 15 September 2017 in New York City, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee gave a speech and released Taiwan’s first Voluntary National Review: Implementation of UN Sustainable Development Goals\n(VNR) at “A Sustainable Planet for All: Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals” conference.\nIn his speech, Minister Lee outlined Taiwan’s SDG implementation mechanisms, achievement highlights,\nand efforts in assisting other nations in implementing the UN SDGs. Minister Lee also visited Washington,\nDC and had a meeting with President Hilda Cathy Heine of the Marshall Islands to exchange thoughts on\nbilateral and multilateral environmental cooperation. Minister Lee also met with USEPA Administrator Scott\nPruitt to exchange ideas on the International Environmental Partnership, energy saving, and nuclear waste.\nThe two EPA heads agreed to work together on the common goal of sustainable development. In addition,\nMinister Lee visited the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a think tank, and delivered\na speech on Taiwan’s leading environmental efforts and achievements. Minister Lee’s speeches and the\nrelease of the Taiwan’s VNR received wide coverage from around 20 international and local media outlets.\n\nRelease of Taiwan’s first VNR on implementing UN SDGs\nOn 15 September, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee delivered a speech at “A Sustainable Earth for All Humanity: Sustainable Development Agenda” conference in New York City. The event was jointly held by the Sabin Center for Climate Change Law of Columbia University, the Global Island Partnership, and the Academic Council on the United Nations System (ACUNS), and was hosted by the director of Sabin Center, Professor Michael B. Gerrard. During his speech, Minister Lee released Taiwan’s first Voluntary National Review: Im-plementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. He described the background, implementation mechanisms, achievement highlights, as well as the efforts in assisting other nations in implementing the UN SDGs. In his opening remarks, Enele Sosene Sopoaga, Prime Minister of Tuvalu, conveyed his gratitude for Taiwan’s assistance in helping small island nations in climate change adaptation and sustainable develop-ment. In addition, four experts were invited to the panel discussions, including the Solomon Islands’ Perma-nent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Robert Sisilo, Vice President Langston James Goree VI of the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD), Ms. Angela Chang, member of Taiwan’s National Council for Sustainable Development, and Professor Hsiao-Kan Ma of National Taiwan University. The con-ference had more than 150 participants from around the world in attendance. \nThis was the first time Taiwan presented its VNR on the UN SDGs. Minister Lee pointed out that, compared to the US and advanced European countries, Taiwan has performed fairly well. In areas such as health care, education, and women’s participation in politics, Taiwan did even better. In the future, the Taiwan govern-ment will review its progress on the UN SDGs on a regular basis as references for policymaking and imple-mentation. Taiwan will also continue to share its experiences with the international community in order to work together with other nations in pursuing sustainable development for all humankind.\nIn his speech, Minister Lee also gave several examples of Taiwan’s accomplishments. He mentioned that starting 1 January 2018, Taiwan will ban the manufacturing and importing of microbead-containing cosmetics and expand the restrictions on providing free plastic bags. Such moves drew immense interest and praise from members of the international community. Notable contributions of Taiwan’s private sector to sustainable development were highlighted as well, such as an entrepreneur from Taiwan introducing Taiwan’s recycling scheme to Romania by establishing the largest polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle recycling system in the country. Other examples brought up by Minister Lee included the younger generation in Taiwan joining forces with youngsters from other nations to turn waste into valuable resources.\nOn climate change, Minister Lee quoted President Tsai Ing-Wen’s words from her 2016 inauguration speech, and stressed that Taiwan will shoulder its share of responsibility as a member of the global village. Currently, the government has set mid- and long-term carbon reduction targets and will soon formulate short-term tar-gets to reduce carbon emissions.\nAfter his speech, one of the participants asked how the UN can become aware of Taiwan’s prominent SDGs accomplishments. Minister Lee replied that Taiwan’s 23 million citizens sincerely hope that the international community can get to know Taiwan’s efforts and Taiwan will continuously take actions to strive toward sus-tainable development.\nMeeting President Heine of the Marshall Islands\nMinister Lee later visited Washington, D.C. On 16 September he had a meeting with President Hilda Cathy Heine of the Marshall Islands, accompanied by Taiwan’s Representative to the US, Ambassador Stanley Kao. Minister Lee and President Heine had an extensive discussion on climate change and environmental cooperation. \nMeeting USEPA Administrator Scott Pruitt\nOn 20 September, Minister Lee was accompanied by Deputy Representative to the US, James Lee, in a meeting with USEPA Administrator Scott Pruitt in his office. Having long looked forward to this meeting, Administrator Pruitt graciously acknowledged the achievements of the Taiwan-US environmental partnership and ensured that the USEPA will keep supporting the collaboration with the Taiwan EPA. The two EPA heads also discussed the future of the International Environmental Partnership, which was co-launched and promoted by the Taiwan and US EPAs in 2014, as well as issues on energy saving and nuclear waste. They agreed that the two EPAs would continue to work together on the common goal of sustainable development.\nVisit and speech at CSIS\nAnother event during Minister Lee’s trip was visiting the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a think tank based in Washington, DC, and delivering a keynote speech titled “Taiwan’s Environmental Leadership” on 18 September. Minister Lee spoke about Taiwan’s environmental measures for waste treat-ment, air quality, marine environmental protection, and renewable energy. Through waste reduction, reuse, recycling and redesign, the EPA also expects to reach the goal of a circular economy, which President Tsai presented in her inaugural speech. Minister Lee also described global cooperation projects, such as the In-ternational Environmental Partnership (IEP) jointly launched with the USEPA, and the 7-Southeast Asian Studies (7-SEAS) programs conducted with US NASA. To conclude, Minister Lee showcased the contribu-tions from Taiwan’s private sector to global sustainable development. A panel discussion was held after Minister Lee’s speech, and Assistant Administrator Jane Nishida of the USEPA and Senior Vice President Michael Jonathan Green of CSIS were part of the panel.\nA video of Minister Lee’s speech at CSIS is available online. (https:\/\/www.csis.org\/events\/taiwans-environmental-leadership). Below are links to news coverage on Minister Lee’s visit to the US by World Trib-une and the International Institute for Sustainable Development (http:\/\/www.worldtribune.com\/economic-powerhouse-taiwan-has-made-going-green-a-national-priority\/ and http:\/\/sdg.iisd.org\/news\/taiwan-launches-first-vnr).", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "International Cooperation", "titlename": "EPA Minister Lee Visits US to Release Taiwan Report on\nUN Sustainable Development Goals and Meet USEPA\nAdministrator Pruitt", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-10" }, { "no": "2899", "title": "Application for the \"Energy Saving and Carbon Reduction Label\" Ends in July", "preview": "carbon reduction\n\nApplication for the \"Energy Saving and Carbon Reduction Label\" Ends in July\n\nThe EPA is always looking for new ways to encourage enterprises citizen groups, and local communities to save energy and reduce carbon emissions. From now to 13 July 2012, the EPA will hold the Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Action Label event. Parties interested in participating in the event can go to the EPA's Ecolife Cooler Web site (http:\/\/ecolife.epa.gov.tw\/cooler) to register. Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Action Label events have been held since 2009, and to date 137 enterprises, citizen groups and local communities have been awarded the action label certification, generating much attention and feedback from the public and social enterprises. Enterprises, communities and businesses interested in obtaining the \"Energy Saving and Carbon Reduction Label” can go to the EPA's Ecolife Cooler Web site (http:\/\/ecolife.epa.gov.tw\/cooler) in the Energy Saving and Carbon Reduction section to find information on the dates and places of meetings that are held to explain registration and selection procedures, and evaluation criteria.", "content": "carbon reduction\n\nApplication for the \"Energy Saving and Carbon Reduction Label\" Ends in July\n\nThe EPA is always looking for new ways to encourage enterprises citizen groups, and local communities to save energy and reduce carbon emissions. From now to 13 July 2012, the EPA will hold the Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Action Label event. Parties interested in participating in the event can go to the EPA's Ecolife Cooler Web site (http:\/\/ecolife.epa.gov.tw\/cooler) to register. Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Action Label events have been held since 2009, and to date 137 enterprises, citizen groups and local communities have been awarded the action label certification, generating much attention and feedback from the public and social enterprises. Enterprises, communities and businesses interested in obtaining the \"Energy Saving and Carbon Reduction Label” can go to the EPA's Ecolife Cooler Web site (http:\/\/ecolife.epa.gov.tw\/cooler) in the Energy Saving and Carbon Reduction section to find information on the dates and places of meetings that are held to explain registration and selection procedures, and evaluation criteria.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "carbon reduction", "titlename": "Application for the \"Energy Saving and Carbon Reduction Label\" Ends in July", "position": "print\/V15\/V15-06" }, { "no": "2872", "title": "Reporting Deadline for Recyclers of \"Four Large Appliances\" Extended with Warning System Added", "preview": "recycling\n\nReporting Deadline for Recyclers of \"Four Large Appliances\" Extended with Warning System Added \n\nIn 2011 in order to strengthen controls over recycling of the \"four large appliances,\" an online system for reporting waste appliances was implemented. As of 1 April 2012, the EPA has removed the obligation of vendors to report, and now only recyclers and disposal operators are obliged to file a report for each large appliance that they receive. The reporting deadline is also extended and a new warning system is applied to violators before fines are levied.\n\nFrom 1 July 2011, the EPA began requiring vendors, recyclers, and refuse disposal operators who recycle the \"four large appliances\" (TVs, washing machines, refrigerators, and air conditioners) to submit online reports detailing the quantity, condition, and onward receiving enterprise of the units they receive. This is to ensure that these appliances are disposed of through legally-sanctioned channels and are not dissembled in a way that could pollute the environment. \n\nIn order to facilitate the tracking of waste large appliances, and make it easier for the public to recycle their unwanted appliances, the EPA has annulled the vendors' obligation to report, as of 1 April 2012. Only recyclers and disposal operators are now obliged to file a report for each large appliance they receive.\n\nTo provide recyclers and disposal operators with adequate time to adjust to the new regime, the EPA has amended Article 17 of the Management Regulations Governing Responsible Enterprises for Regulated Recyclable Waste, extending the time frame for online reporting from five to seven working days. The environmental protection agencies will also make an effort to educate operators who violate the regulations by first sending them a written warning. Operators who violate the same regulation five times within three months, or receive a written warning and still fail to submit a complete report, will be fined NT$60,000~300,000. \n\nThe revisions to the Management Regulations Governing Responsible Enterprises for Regulated Recyclable Waste have been published on the EPA's Web site (http:\/\/w3.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx).", "content": "recycling\n\nReporting Deadline for Recyclers of \"Four Large Appliances\" Extended with Warning System Added \n\nIn 2011 in order to strengthen controls over recycling of the \"four large appliances,\" an online system for reporting waste appliances was implemented. As of 1 April 2012, the EPA has removed the obligation of vendors to report, and now only recyclers and disposal operators are obliged to file a report for each large appliance that they receive. The reporting deadline is also extended and a new warning system is applied to violators before fines are levied.\n\nFrom 1 July 2011, the EPA began requiring vendors, recyclers, and refuse disposal operators who recycle the \"four large appliances\" (TVs, washing machines, refrigerators, and air conditioners) to submit online reports detailing the quantity, condition, and onward receiving enterprise of the units they receive. This is to ensure that these appliances are disposed of through legally-sanctioned channels and are not dissembled in a way that could pollute the environment. \n\nIn order to facilitate the tracking of waste large appliances, and make it easier for the public to recycle their unwanted appliances, the EPA has annulled the vendors' obligation to report, as of 1 April 2012. Only recyclers and disposal operators are now obliged to file a report for each large appliance they receive.\n\nTo provide recyclers and disposal operators with adequate time to adjust to the new regime, the EPA has amended Article 17 of the Management Regulations Governing Responsible Enterprises for Regulated Recyclable Waste, extending the time frame for online reporting from five to seven working days. The environmental protection agencies will also make an effort to educate operators who violate the regulations by first sending them a written warning. Operators who violate the same regulation five times within three months, or receive a written warning and still fail to submit a complete report, will be fined NT$60,000~300,000. \n\nThe revisions to the Management Regulations Governing Responsible Enterprises for Regulated Recyclable Waste have been published on the EPA's Web site (http:\/\/w3.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx).", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "recycling", "titlename": "Reporting Deadline for Recyclers of \"Four Large Appliances\" Extended with Warning System Added", "position": "print\/V15\/V15-04" }, { "no": "2818", "title": "\"Four Big Appliances\" Reporting Deadline Extended for Recyclers", "preview": "recycling\n\n\"Four Big Appliances\" Reporting Deadline Extended for Recyclers\n\nAs of 1 July 2011 the EPA requires vendors, recyclers, and treatment organizations that recycle the \"four big appliances\" (TVs, washing machines, refrigerators, and air-conditioners) to submit online reports for the units they receive detailing volumes, condition, and subsequent receiving enterprises. This is to ensure that these appliances are disposed of through legally-sanctioned channels and are not dissembled in a way that could pollute the environment. The EPA took charge of revising the existing regulations, and now appliance vendors are required to fill out a joint recycling form when they receive an unwanted appliance from a customer and to ensure that the form accompanies the appliance when it is handed on to a recycler or treatment plant. The recycler or treatment plant is then responsible for submitting an online report detailing the condition the appliance was received in. In order to allow recyclers or treatment plants adequate time in which to do this the EPA has revised the regulations to extend the reporting deadline from five to seven working days. Operators who fail to report within the given time period will be given more time to do so, but if they still fail to report then fines of NT$60,000~300,000 will be levied. Operators who fail to file an initial report more than four times within a three month period in the same category will be fined directly.", "content": "recycling\n\n\"Four Big Appliances\" Reporting Deadline Extended for Recyclers\n\nAs of 1 July 2011 the EPA requires vendors, recyclers, and treatment organizations that recycle the \"four big appliances\" (TVs, washing machines, refrigerators, and air-conditioners) to submit online reports for the units they receive detailing volumes, condition, and subsequent receiving enterprises. This is to ensure that these appliances are disposed of through legally-sanctioned channels and are not dissembled in a way that could pollute the environment. The EPA took charge of revising the existing regulations, and now appliance vendors are required to fill out a joint recycling form when they receive an unwanted appliance from a customer and to ensure that the form accompanies the appliance when it is handed on to a recycler or treatment plant. The recycler or treatment plant is then responsible for submitting an online report detailing the condition the appliance was received in. In order to allow recyclers or treatment plants adequate time in which to do this the EPA has revised the regulations to extend the reporting deadline from five to seven working days. Operators who fail to report within the given time period will be given more time to do so, but if they still fail to report then fines of NT$60,000~300,000 will be levied. Operators who fail to file an initial report more than four times within a three month period in the same category will be fined directly.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "recycling", "titlename": "\"Four Big Appliances\" Reporting Deadline Extended for Recyclers", "position": "print\/V15\/V15-01" }, { "no": "2788", "title": "\"Golden Decade National Vision of Sustainable Environment\" Announced", "preview": "generaly policy\n\n\"Golden Decade National Vision of Sustainable Environment\" Announced \n\nResponding to global climate change and resource conservation trends, Taiwan is not only in the process of establishing the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, integrating each agency’s work on pollution prevention and nature conservation, but is also strengthening the protection of environmental resources and keeping a balanced ecosystem. President Ma Ying-jeou has proclaimed this as the \"Golden Decade, National Visions,\" a scheme consisting of Four Assurances, including the promise of environmental sustainability and social justice. This policy will revolve around the concepts of green energy, carbon reduction, creation of an ecosystem preservation-based homeland, and disaster prevention and relief.\n\nEnvironmental Sustainability is listed as the Fifth Vision in the \"Golden Decade, National Visions.\" Policy ideals for this include new forms of energy that prioritize energy conservation and carbon reduction as well as the safety and preservation of a healthy environment. These concepts build on current trends in energy conservation and carbon reduction, development of clean energy and expansion of green production. Green energy and recycling of resources is beneficial to the rebuilding of both urban and rural environments. Other focal points include national land planning and watershed management so as to make further progress in water resources utilization, nature conservation, integrated waste management, pollution clean-up, ocean and wetland protection, and the creation of an ecosystem preservation-based homeland. New highlights include the utilization of cloud computing technology in disaster prevention and relief, strengthening community coordination of disaster prevention, as well as further initiatives to restore ecological balance such as slope stabilization, flood prevention, reforestation, degraded habitat restoration, and maintenance of national land security. \n\nThe EPA has adhered to this vision for environmental sustainability in setting forth the following three environmental protection core policies for the next decade:\n\n1. Green Energy and Carbon Reduction\n\nTasks in this area include expediting the restructuring of industry to develop low-carbon energy and promote renewable energy installations, gradually decreasing dependence on nuclear energy, developing sound market and legal mechanisms that foster energy conservation and carbon reduction, and establishing support for green lifestyles that emphasize energy and water conservation.\n\nGoals: \n\n．Reduce national CO2 emissions to 2005 levels by the year 2020\n\n．Annually increase energy efficiency by over 2% so that energy intensity decreases 12% below 2010 levels by the year 2016, and 18.3% below 2010 levels by the year 2020\n\n．Increase total installed capacity of renewable energy to 4.58 million Kw by 2016 and 6.04 million Kw by 2020. Annual power production for these years is projected at 12.2 kWh and 16.1 kWh, respectively (equivalent to the annual power consumption of 4.03 million households)\n\n．Create a low-carbon homeland and foster new ways of living that conserve energy and reduce carbon emissions so that all citizens are partaking in green consumption\n\nStrategies:\n\n．Put maximum effort into promoting renewable energy\n\n．Develop sound energy conservation and carbon reduction market mechanisms, legal infrastructure and implementation systems\n\n．Expedite low-carbon production and promote regional integration of energy and resources\n\n．Expand research and development of new energy technologies and their applications in the green energy industry\n\n．Promote a low-carbon homeland and lifestyles that emphasize energy and water conservation\n\n2. Ecosystem preservation-based homeland\n\nTasks in this area include promotion of national land planning and watershed management, resource recycling, pollution reduction and ecosystem conservation, and spreading new concepts of living more harmoniously with mountains, forests, rivers, oceans, wetlands and all natural resources in a manner that brings society closer to the goal of creating a healthy sustainable ecological homeland.\n\nGoals:\n\n．Emphasize sustainable development in national land planning to ensure equal emphasis is put on development, conservation and disaster prevention\n\n．Continue to strengthen information transparency and public participation to ensure human and environmental rights\n\n．Promote resource recycling for zero waste, and pollution prevention to conserve and protect the ecosystem\n\n．Implement development of water resources through control of overall consumption and watershed management so as to establish sustainable water environments\n\n．Develop reasonable and diverse development of water resources, including the construction of the Hushan Reservoir, which is slated for completion by 2015, as well as the planning of the Black River Niaozui Artificial Lake\n\n．Plan river, gutter, and groundwater recharging facilities for the Zhuoshui River and western Taiwan, and a groundwater recharging plan in conjunction with the Dachaozhou Artificial Lake \n\n．Strengthen reforestation to create green shields for a sustainable environment, increasing forest cover to 59.78% in five years and 60.23% in ten years\n\n．Protect biodiversity by setting up nature conservation areas, with 80 areas planned within five years and a total of 83 within ten years\n\n．Improve Central Mountain Range ecological corridors, and ecosystem protection and management in the foothills on the edges of urban areas, as well as expand national park boundaries and nature trails\n\n．Promote wetland conservation and strengthen marine protection and coastal restoration to restore natural balance in these areas.\n\nStrategies:\n\n．Develop a comprehensive national land planning system\n\n．Create clean and amenable environments\n\n．Create integrated management and development of watersheds and water resources\n\n．Strengthen reforestation\n\n．Strengthen ecosystem conservation\n\n．Strengthen marine protection and sustainable utilization of marine resources\n\n3. Disaster prevention and relief\n\nTasks in this area include promotion of climate change adaptation, nuclear energy safety, integrated slope stabilization and flood prevention, water and soil resource conservation, land subsidence prevention, building of capacity and efficiency for disaster prevention and relief, and improvement of disaster-related early warning and evacuation procedures, so as to create safe environments. \n\nGoals:\n\n．Promote climate change adaptation and implement national land security and conservation\n\n．Maintain international-level standards in holding nuclear power safety evaluations\n\n．Carry out integrated slope stabilization and flood prevention and planning in disaster-prone areas in order to minimize the threat of natural disasters\n\n．Improve planning in flood-prone areas to free people from fear and anxiety of inundation\n\n．Strengthen capacity for disaster early warning monitoring and evacuation\n\n．Develop community autonomy and civil participation in networks for prevention and relief so as to improve efficiency in preparing for and responding to disasters\n\n．Uphold the principles of \"prepare for the worst\" and \"an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure\" to strengthen disaster preparedness, deploying troops in advance and always being ready for disaster response, so that people can live in greater safety and peace of mind \n\nStrategies:\n\n．Promote climate change adaptation and implement national land security and conservation\n\n．Upgrade nuclear power safety\n\n．Develop comprehensive planning for disaster prevention\n\n．Plan for effective control of land subsidence\n\n．Strengthen capacity for monitoring, early warning and evacuation in disaster-prone areas\n\n．Enhance basic-level government capabilities for disaster prevention and relief, and help communities build capacity to prevent and deal with disasters independently\n\n．Implement pre-disaster evacuation and troop deployment", "content": "generaly policy\n\n\"Golden Decade National Vision of Sustainable Environment\" Announced \n\nResponding to global climate change and resource conservation trends, Taiwan is not only in the process of establishing the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, integrating each agency’s work on pollution prevention and nature conservation, but is also strengthening the protection of environmental resources and keeping a balanced ecosystem. President Ma Ying-jeou has proclaimed this as the \"Golden Decade, National Visions,\" a scheme consisting of Four Assurances, including the promise of environmental sustainability and social justice. This policy will revolve around the concepts of green energy, carbon reduction, creation of an ecosystem preservation-based homeland, and disaster prevention and relief.\n\nEnvironmental Sustainability is listed as the Fifth Vision in the \"Golden Decade, National Visions.\" Policy ideals for this include new forms of energy that prioritize energy conservation and carbon reduction as well as the safety and preservation of a healthy environment. These concepts build on current trends in energy conservation and carbon reduction, development of clean energy and expansion of green production. Green energy and recycling of resources is beneficial to the rebuilding of both urban and rural environments. Other focal points include national land planning and watershed management so as to make further progress in water resources utilization, nature conservation, integrated waste management, pollution clean-up, ocean and wetland protection, and the creation of an ecosystem preservation-based homeland. New highlights include the utilization of cloud computing technology in disaster prevention and relief, strengthening community coordination of disaster prevention, as well as further initiatives to restore ecological balance such as slope stabilization, flood prevention, reforestation, degraded habitat restoration, and maintenance of national land security. \n\nThe EPA has adhered to this vision for environmental sustainability in setting forth the following three environmental protection core policies for the next decade:\n\n1. Green Energy and Carbon Reduction\n\nTasks in this area include expediting the restructuring of industry to develop low-carbon energy and promote renewable energy installations, gradually decreasing dependence on nuclear energy, developing sound market and legal mechanisms that foster energy conservation and carbon reduction, and establishing support for green lifestyles that emphasize energy and water conservation.\n\nGoals: \n\n．Reduce national CO2 emissions to 2005 levels by the year 2020\n\n．Annually increase energy efficiency by over 2% so that energy intensity decreases 12% below 2010 levels by the year 2016, and 18.3% below 2010 levels by the year 2020\n\n．Increase total installed capacity of renewable energy to 4.58 million Kw by 2016 and 6.04 million Kw by 2020. Annual power production for these years is projected at 12.2 kWh and 16.1 kWh, respectively (equivalent to the annual power consumption of 4.03 million households)\n\n．Create a low-carbon homeland and foster new ways of living that conserve energy and reduce carbon emissions so that all citizens are partaking in green consumption\n\nStrategies:\n\n．Put maximum effort into promoting renewable energy\n\n．Develop sound energy conservation and carbon reduction market mechanisms, legal infrastructure and implementation systems\n\n．Expedite low-carbon production and promote regional integration of energy and resources\n\n．Expand research and development of new energy technologies and their applications in the green energy industry\n\n．Promote a low-carbon homeland and lifestyles that emphasize energy and water conservation\n\n2. Ecosystem preservation-based homeland\n\nTasks in this area include promotion of national land planning and watershed management, resource recycling, pollution reduction and ecosystem conservation, and spreading new concepts of living more harmoniously with mountains, forests, rivers, oceans, wetlands and all natural resources in a manner that brings society closer to the goal of creating a healthy sustainable ecological homeland.\n\nGoals:\n\n．Emphasize sustainable development in national land planning to ensure equal emphasis is put on development, conservation and disaster prevention\n\n．Continue to strengthen information transparency and public participation to ensure human and environmental rights\n\n．Promote resource recycling for zero waste, and pollution prevention to conserve and protect the ecosystem\n\n．Implement development of water resources through control of overall consumption and watershed management so as to establish sustainable water environments\n\n．Develop reasonable and diverse development of water resources, including the construction of the Hushan Reservoir, which is slated for completion by 2015, as well as the planning of the Black River Niaozui Artificial Lake\n\n．Plan river, gutter, and groundwater recharging facilities for the Zhuoshui River and western Taiwan, and a groundwater recharging plan in conjunction with the Dachaozhou Artificial Lake \n\n．Strengthen reforestation to create green shields for a sustainable environment, increasing forest cover to 59.78% in five years and 60.23% in ten years\n\n．Protect biodiversity by setting up nature conservation areas, with 80 areas planned within five years and a total of 83 within ten years\n\n．Improve Central Mountain Range ecological corridors, and ecosystem protection and management in the foothills on the edges of urban areas, as well as expand national park boundaries and nature trails\n\n．Promote wetland conservation and strengthen marine protection and coastal restoration to restore natural balance in these areas.\n\nStrategies:\n\n．Develop a comprehensive national land planning system\n\n．Create clean and amenable environments\n\n．Create integrated management and development of watersheds and water resources\n\n．Strengthen reforestation\n\n．Strengthen ecosystem conservation\n\n．Strengthen marine protection and sustainable utilization of marine resources\n\n3. Disaster prevention and relief\n\nTasks in this area include promotion of climate change adaptation, nuclear energy safety, integrated slope stabilization and flood prevention, water and soil resource conservation, land subsidence prevention, building of capacity and efficiency for disaster prevention and relief, and improvement of disaster-related early warning and evacuation procedures, so as to create safe environments. \n\nGoals:\n\n．Promote climate change adaptation and implement national land security and conservation\n\n．Maintain international-level standards in holding nuclear power safety evaluations\n\n．Carry out integrated slope stabilization and flood prevention and planning in disaster-prone areas in order to minimize the threat of natural disasters\n\n．Improve planning in flood-prone areas to free people from fear and anxiety of inundation\n\n．Strengthen capacity for disaster early warning monitoring and evacuation\n\n．Develop community autonomy and civil participation in networks for prevention and relief so as to improve efficiency in preparing for and responding to disasters\n\n．Uphold the principles of \"prepare for the worst\" and \"an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure\" to strengthen disaster preparedness, deploying troops in advance and always being ready for disaster response, so that people can live in greater safety and peace of mind \n\nStrategies:\n\n．Promote climate change adaptation and implement national land security and conservation\n\n．Upgrade nuclear power safety\n\n．Develop comprehensive planning for disaster prevention\n\n．Plan for effective control of land subsidence\n\n．Strengthen capacity for monitoring, early warning and evacuation in disaster-prone areas\n\n．Enhance basic-level government capabilities for disaster prevention and relief, and help communities build capacity to prevent and deal with disasters independently\n\n．Implement pre-disaster evacuation and troop deployment", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "generaly policy", "titlename": "\"Golden Decade National Vision of Sustainable Environment\" Announced", "position": "print\/V14\/V14-12" }, { "no": "2730", "title": "Application Period Opens for 2011 \"Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Action Mark\"", "preview": "Ecolabeling\n\nApplication Period Opens for 2011 \"Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Action Mark\" \n\nTo encourage enterprises civic organizations and communities to conserve energy and reduce carbon emissions, the EPA is holding the \"Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Action Mark\" activities from now to 15 September 2011. Before this deadline, interested parties may apply on the EPA's EcoLife Web site to obtain the \"Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Action Mark,\" upon passing review.\nThe EPA stated that the \"Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Action Mark\" activity has been ongoing since 2009 and to date 56 enterprises, civic organizations and communities have obtained the Mark, showing that the program is well received by the general public and the business community. The EPA therefore expressly reminds enterprises, organizations and communities interested in applying for the \"Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Action Mark\" in 2011 to register early while the opportunity lasts. \nFor details on this program and application information please visit the EPA's EcoLife Web site (http:\/\/ecolife.epa.gov.tw\/default.aspx).", "content": "Ecolabeling\n\nApplication Period Opens for 2011 \"Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Action Mark\" \n\nTo encourage enterprises civic organizations and communities to conserve energy and reduce carbon emissions, the EPA is holding the \"Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Action Mark\" activities from now to 15 September 2011. Before this deadline, interested parties may apply on the EPA's EcoLife Web site to obtain the \"Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Action Mark,\" upon passing review.\nThe EPA stated that the \"Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Action Mark\" activity has been ongoing since 2009 and to date 56 enterprises, civic organizations and communities have obtained the Mark, showing that the program is well received by the general public and the business community. The EPA therefore expressly reminds enterprises, organizations and communities interested in applying for the \"Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Action Mark\" in 2011 to register early while the opportunity lasts. \nFor details on this program and application information please visit the EPA's EcoLife Web site (http:\/\/ecolife.epa.gov.tw\/default.aspx).", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Eco-labeling", "titlename": "Application Period Opens for 2011 \"Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Action Mark\"", "position": "print\/V14\/V14-08" }, { "no": "2677", "title": "EPA Holds \"Targeting Carbon Neutral\" International Conference", "preview": "Climate Change\n\nEPA Holds \"Targeting Carbon Neutral\" International Conference \n\nOn 9 and 10 March 2011 the EPA held a two-day international forum titled \"Targeting Carbon Neutral,\" offering the public an opportunity to better understand carbon neutrality. Industry operators, governmental officials, scholars, and researchers from the US and the UK were invited to share experiences on the development of carbon neutrality. \n\nAll production and assemblage activities initiated by humans generate a carbon footprint, but if people strive to reduce emissions and obtain carbon credits to offset the emissions from products, organizations, and activities, there will be no net increase in greenhouse gases and carbon neutrality* can be attained. In recent years the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and other institutions have actively promoted carbon neutrality and have received enthusiastic response from governments and enterprises worldwide.\n\nDuring the forum, British Standards Institution (BSI) Senior Manager Mark Fraser spoke on the development experiences of cities and enterprises promoting carbon neutrality in England. Assistant Chancellor for Facilities at the University of South Carolina Aiken (USC Aiken), Mike Jara, discussed US university responses to carbon neutrality initiatives. To date, 677 university presidents have signed pledges to propose carbon neutral campus plans within two years. BSI Managing Director Gao Yi-min explained that to resolve the lack of global accreditation standards for carbon neutrality procedures and practices, in April 2010 the PAS 2060 Standard for Carbon Neutrality (a specification for the demonstration of carbon neutrality) was announced as the standard procedures and specifications for carbon neutrality.\n\nEPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen stated that the current international initiative of putting carbon neutrality into practice is extremely multidimensional, with products, activities, enterprises, cities, and even national governments promoting carbon neutral projects. The EPA is presently engaged in assisting local manufacturers of panel boards and shampoo to implement trial carbon neutral plans. In addition to accelerating the dissemination of carbon neutral concepts and ensuring environmental benefits, the EPA is actively engaged in setting up a carbon neutral registration management platform. This platform will provide related local and overseas information, and the public can also use the platform to register and announce carbon neutral activities. The EPA is currently drawing up national \"Carbon Neutral Implementation and Declaration Guidelines (draft)\" as it continues to take progressive steps towards encouraging the public's compliance with carbon neutral standards. \n\nAt this forum, local and foreign speakers along with distinguished guests shared a breadth of valuable knowledge and experiences on promoting carbon neutrality. The EPA took note of these recommendations and intends to use this feedback in future policy planning and promotion. Moreover, this forum invited the public to join together and cooperate with government institutions and organizations in efforts to implement carbon neutrality. The general public is encouraged to support carbon neutral enterprises and their products to help take steps towards achieving \"net zero\" emissions.\n\n* Carbon neutrality refers to first inventorying and reducing the carbon footprints of organizations, products, services, and activities, and then obtaining reduction credits to offset unavoidable emissions, thus ensuring there will be no net increase in greenhouse gases.", "content": "Climate Change\n\nEPA Holds \"Targeting Carbon Neutral\" International Conference \n\nOn 9 and 10 March 2011 the EPA held a two-day international forum titled \"Targeting Carbon Neutral,\" offering the public an opportunity to better understand carbon neutrality. Industry operators, governmental officials, scholars, and researchers from the US and the UK were invited to share experiences on the development of carbon neutrality. \n\nAll production and assemblage activities initiated by humans generate a carbon footprint, but if people strive to reduce emissions and obtain carbon credits to offset the emissions from products, organizations, and activities, there will be no net increase in greenhouse gases and carbon neutrality* can be attained. In recent years the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and other institutions have actively promoted carbon neutrality and have received enthusiastic response from governments and enterprises worldwide.\n\nDuring the forum, British Standards Institution (BSI) Senior Manager Mark Fraser spoke on the development experiences of cities and enterprises promoting carbon neutrality in England. Assistant Chancellor for Facilities at the University of South Carolina Aiken (USC Aiken), Mike Jara, discussed US university responses to carbon neutrality initiatives. To date, 677 university presidents have signed pledges to propose carbon neutral campus plans within two years. BSI Managing Director Gao Yi-min explained that to resolve the lack of global accreditation standards for carbon neutrality procedures and practices, in April 2010 the PAS 2060 Standard for Carbon Neutrality (a specification for the demonstration of carbon neutrality) was announced as the standard procedures and specifications for carbon neutrality.\n\nEPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen stated that the current international initiative of putting carbon neutrality into practice is extremely multidimensional, with products, activities, enterprises, cities, and even national governments promoting carbon neutral projects. The EPA is presently engaged in assisting local manufacturers of panel boards and shampoo to implement trial carbon neutral plans. In addition to accelerating the dissemination of carbon neutral concepts and ensuring environmental benefits, the EPA is actively engaged in setting up a carbon neutral registration management platform. This platform will provide related local and overseas information, and the public can also use the platform to register and announce carbon neutral activities. The EPA is currently drawing up national \"Carbon Neutral Implementation and Declaration Guidelines (draft)\" as it continues to take progressive steps towards encouraging the public's compliance with carbon neutral standards. \n\nAt this forum, local and foreign speakers along with distinguished guests shared a breadth of valuable knowledge and experiences on promoting carbon neutrality. The EPA took note of these recommendations and intends to use this feedback in future policy planning and promotion. Moreover, this forum invited the public to join together and cooperate with government institutions and organizations in efforts to implement carbon neutrality. The general public is encouraged to support carbon neutral enterprises and their products to help take steps towards achieving \"net zero\" emissions.\n\n* Carbon neutrality refers to first inventorying and reducing the carbon footprints of organizations, products, services, and activities, and then obtaining reduction credits to offset unavoidable emissions, thus ensuring there will be no net increase in greenhouse gases.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "EPA Holds \"Targeting Carbon Neutral\" International Conference", "position": "print\/V14\/V14-04" }, { "no": "2653", "title": "\"Love 100 Flea Market\" Encourages Reuse of Resources", "preview": "Recycling\n\n\"Love 100 Flea Market\" Encourages Reuse of Resources \n\nChinese New Year has arrived and so has National Cleanup Week. Family members of each household thoroughly cleaned up their residences and neighborhoods following a custom that traditionally symbolizes the act of getting rid of the old and greeting the new. Events for this year's National Cleanup Week included providing the public with removal services for bulk waste, environmental rectification, a community volunteer environmental cleanup day, and a resource reuse and recycling flea market. \n\nThis year welcomes the nation's centennial, and on January 31, the EPA held the \"National Cleanup Week \"Love 100 Flea Market\" charity event to promote the efficient reuse of resources and extend the lives of products. Top-level officials and employees donated home appliances and goods that were showcased and put up for sale. All the proceeds from this event went to local disadvantaged groups and public welfare organizations, while effectively extending the lives of resources. The EPA hopes that the flea market event will inspire and remind the public to cherish natural resources and refrain from throwing away household goods that are still functional. These practices will reduce energy consumed for waste handling and foster a new, thrifty lifestyle movement throughout society.", "content": "Recycling\n\n\"Love 100 Flea Market\" Encourages Reuse of Resources \n\nChinese New Year has arrived and so has National Cleanup Week. Family members of each household thoroughly cleaned up their residences and neighborhoods following a custom that traditionally symbolizes the act of getting rid of the old and greeting the new. Events for this year's National Cleanup Week included providing the public with removal services for bulk waste, environmental rectification, a community volunteer environmental cleanup day, and a resource reuse and recycling flea market. \n\nThis year welcomes the nation's centennial, and on January 31, the EPA held the \"National Cleanup Week \"Love 100 Flea Market\" charity event to promote the efficient reuse of resources and extend the lives of products. Top-level officials and employees donated home appliances and goods that were showcased and put up for sale. All the proceeds from this event went to local disadvantaged groups and public welfare organizations, while effectively extending the lives of resources. The EPA hopes that the flea market event will inspire and remind the public to cherish natural resources and refrain from throwing away household goods that are still functional. These practices will reduce energy consumed for waste handling and foster a new, thrifty lifestyle movement throughout society.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "\"Love 100 Flea Market\" Encourages Reuse of Resources", "position": "print\/V14\/V14-02" }, { "no": "2651", "title": "Promoting \"Model Environmental Protection Districts\" to Create Comfortable Living Environments", "preview": "Environmental Sanitation\n\nPromoting \"Model Environmental Protection Districts\" to Create Comfortable Living Environments \n\nAnping District of Tainan City was selected as the EPA's 2010 \"Model Environmental Protection District.\" The culmination of a year's efforts driven by community spirit that sparked widespread participation of residents, enabled them to create a comfortable living environment by achieving the seven environmental sanitation sustainable indicators. These indicators are: \"making the local environment comfortable,\" \"cleaning and opening up the sewage ditches,\" \"cleanup of residential yards,\" \"greenfication of vacant buildings and land,\" \"cleanup of indoor air,\" \"filling in potholes and smoothing out roads,\" and \"minimizing toxic substances for a healthy environment.\" Anping District was able to do all this while continuing to preserve its unique local flavor and demonstrate environmental consciousness. The EPA subsidized funding for improvements and greenfication, and the rest of the actual work came from the support of city government departments and district offices leading neighborhood chiefs to work and promote together. Community residents closely cooperated in patrolling the environment and doing cleanup work that improved the collective environmental sanitation quality of their neighborhoods.", "content": "Environmental Sanitation\n\nPromoting \"Model Environmental Protection Districts\" to Create Comfortable Living Environments \n\nAnping District of Tainan City was selected as the EPA's 2010 \"Model Environmental Protection District.\" The culmination of a year's efforts driven by community spirit that sparked widespread participation of residents, enabled them to create a comfortable living environment by achieving the seven environmental sanitation sustainable indicators. These indicators are: \"making the local environment comfortable,\" \"cleaning and opening up the sewage ditches,\" \"cleanup of residential yards,\" \"greenfication of vacant buildings and land,\" \"cleanup of indoor air,\" \"filling in potholes and smoothing out roads,\" and \"minimizing toxic substances for a healthy environment.\" Anping District was able to do all this while continuing to preserve its unique local flavor and demonstrate environmental consciousness. The EPA subsidized funding for improvements and greenfication, and the rest of the actual work came from the support of city government departments and district offices leading neighborhood chiefs to work and promote together. Community residents closely cooperated in patrolling the environment and doing cleanup work that improved the collective environmental sanitation quality of their neighborhoods.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Sanitation", "titlename": "Promoting \"Model Environmental Protection Districts\" to Create Comfortable Living Environments", "position": "print\/V14\/V14-02" }, { "no": "2622", "title": "Green Hotels Adopt \"Green Coin\" Donation System", "preview": "Eco-labeling\n\nGreen Hotels Adopt \"Green Coin\" Donation System \n\nTo encourage green behavior of hotel guests in Taiwan the EPA referred to the Green Coin plan promoted in hotels in Japan. Currently there are 37 hotels and guesthouses in Taiwan participating in this \"plan to spread green actions.\" During the period 1 January 2011 to 31 December 2011, customers of the total 45 participating businesses will be rewarded Green Coins when they choose not to use disposable toiletries or have their towels, sheets and other goods changed during longer stays. The Green Coins can then be donated via collection boxes to support environmental protection efforts of NGOs. Local environmental protection bureaus (EPBs) will then count the green coins received from businesses during this period, convert the amounts into total donations, and publicize the related information on the EPA Green Life Web site. The EPA and EPBs will hold a ceremony to issue donations. More information is viewable at http:\/\/greenliving.epa.gov.tw\/GreenLife\/WalkSing\/MotelInfo.aspx.", "content": "Eco-labeling\n\nGreen Hotels Adopt \"Green Coin\" Donation System \n\nTo encourage green behavior of hotel guests in Taiwan the EPA referred to the Green Coin plan promoted in hotels in Japan. Currently there are 37 hotels and guesthouses in Taiwan participating in this \"plan to spread green actions.\" During the period 1 January 2011 to 31 December 2011, customers of the total 45 participating businesses will be rewarded Green Coins when they choose not to use disposable toiletries or have their towels, sheets and other goods changed during longer stays. The Green Coins can then be donated via collection boxes to support environmental protection efforts of NGOs. Local environmental protection bureaus (EPBs) will then count the green coins received from businesses during this period, convert the amounts into total donations, and publicize the related information on the EPA Green Life Web site. The EPA and EPBs will hold a ceremony to issue donations. More information is viewable at http:\/\/greenliving.epa.gov.tw\/GreenLife\/WalkSing\/MotelInfo.aspx.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Eco-labeling", "titlename": "Green Hotels Adopt Green Coin Donation System", "position": "print\/V13\/V13-12" }, { "no": "2545", "title": "EPA Drafts \"Environmental Sanitation and Beautification Promotion Act\"", "preview": "Toxic Substance\n\nEPA Drafts \"Environmental Sanitation and Beautification Promotion Act\"\n\nIn recent years residents have placed increasing importance on environmental sanitation visual beautification, and overall quality of residential environments. To ensure each level of government actively improves environmental sanitation and visual aesthetics to create peaceful, attractive and healthy living environments, the EPA has formulated the draft Environmental Sanitation and Beautification Promotion Act (環境衛生及美質促進法).\n\nThe main framework of the Environmental Sanitation and Beautification Promotion Act (draft) reinforces integration of central and local management mechanisms through the \"Environmental Sanitation and Beautification Guidelines\" drafted by the EPA, \"Environmental Sanitation and Beautification Management Plans\" drafted by county and municipal governments, and \"Environmental Sanitation and Beautification Promotion Plans\" drafted by local administrative offices. These regulations will enforce greening and beautification of public and private vacant lots, maintenance of billboards, signs, and utility poles and lines, as well as maintenance and management of sanitation in vacant lots, vacant buildings, and public restrooms. The new Act is seen as a way to solve current problems of environmental unkemptness and reach the goal of creating a beautiful and harmonious environment. \n\nIn recent years the government has initiated active efforts to improve environmental sanitation, including the elimination of garbage, maintenance of sanitation at public toilets, upkeep of unkempt areas, cleanup of residential areas, elimination of breeding spots for vector mosquitoes, removal of illegal advertisements, clearance and maintenance of scenic areas, and environmental cleanliness performance evaluation, inspection and enforcement. While implementation of the above measures has already met noticeable results, there is still much room for improvement in terms of environmental sanitation and visual aesthetics. The disorganized billboards and signs, untidy vendor stalls, littered streets, disarranged utility poles and lines, and cluttered fire escape alleys are all problems that need to be solved in order to uphold environmental sanitation and the appearance of the city.\n\nCurrent management of environmental sanitation and visual aesthetics is regulated by ordinances set by different ministries, making it difficult to clarify responsibility and work to the greatest overall effect. While some county and city governments stipulate environmental cleanliness and maintenance through local government ordinances, it was deemed necessary to draft the Environmental Sanitation and Beautification Promotion Act in order to thoroughly solve the abovementioned problems on a national level. The Act would integrate the powers of each government ministry to actively promote environmental sanitation and beautification. The main objective of the Act is to enhance the overall sense of serenity and beauty in living environments throughout Taiwan, and ensure that all residents can live in attractive, healthy and peaceful neighborhoods.", "content": "Toxic Substance Management\n\nEPA Drafts \"Environmental Sanitation and Beautification Promotion Act\"\n\nIn recent years residents have placed increasing importance on environmental sanitation visual beautification, and overall quality of residential environments. To ensure each level of government actively improves environmental sanitation and visual aesthetics to create peaceful, attractive and healthy living environments, the EPA has formulated the draft Environmental Sanitation and Beautification Promotion Act (環境衛生及美質促進法).\n\nThe main framework of the Environmental Sanitation and Beautification Promotion Act (draft) reinforces integration of central and local management mechanisms through the \"Environmental Sanitation and Beautification Guidelines\" drafted by the EPA, \"Environmental Sanitation and Beautification Management Plans\" drafted by county and municipal governments, and \"Environmental Sanitation and Beautification Promotion Plans\" drafted by local administrative offices. These regulations will enforce greening and beautification of public and private vacant lots, maintenance of billboards, signs, and utility poles and lines, as well as maintenance and management of sanitation in vacant lots, vacant buildings, and public restrooms. The new Act is seen as a way to solve current problems of environmental unkemptness and reach the goal of creating a beautiful and harmonious environment. \n\nIn recent years the government has initiated active efforts to improve environmental sanitation, including the elimination of garbage, maintenance of sanitation at public toilets, upkeep of unkempt areas, cleanup of residential areas, elimination of breeding spots for vector mosquitoes, removal of illegal advertisements, clearance and maintenance of scenic areas, and environmental cleanliness performance evaluation, inspection and enforcement. While implementation of the above measures has already met noticeable results, there is still much room for improvement in terms of environmental sanitation and visual aesthetics. The disorganized billboards and signs, untidy vendor stalls, littered streets, disarranged utility poles and lines, and cluttered fire escape alleys are all problems that need to be solved in order to uphold environmental sanitation and the appearance of the city.\n\nCurrent management of environmental sanitation and visual aesthetics is regulated by ordinances set by different ministries, making it difficult to clarify responsibility and work to the greatest overall effect. While some county and city governments stipulate environmental cleanliness and maintenance through local government ordinances, it was deemed necessary to draft the Environmental Sanitation and Beautification Promotion Act in order to thoroughly solve the abovementioned problems on a national level. The Act would integrate the powers of each government ministry to actively promote environmental sanitation and beautification. The main objective of the Act is to enhance the overall sense of serenity and beauty in living environments throughout Taiwan, and ensure that all residents can live in attractive, healthy and peaceful neighborhoods.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "EPA Drafts Environmental Sanitation and Beautification Promotion Act", "position": "print\/V13\/V13-06" }, { "no": "2459", "title": "\"Environmental Classrooms\" Offer Learning Sites and Stimulate Local Economy", "preview": "General Policy\n\n\"Environmental Classrooms\" Offer Learning Sites and Stimulate Local Economy\n\nThe EPA has been promoting \"Environmental Classrooms\" at the local level not only creating optimal sites for environmental studies, but also providing a chance for each county and city to develop a \"Community Environmental Economy\" once they gain popularity. On 3 November 2009, the EPA evaluated the opportunity to establish an Environmental Classroom at Gaoyuan Community in Longtan Township, Taoyuan County. Participants were excited about the multifunctional aspects of the program.\n\nThe Environmental Classroom project is part of a new policy promoted by the EPA this year. The project entailed selecting 24 areas among the most outstanding environmental communities to become Environmental Classrooms. The unique aspect of this project compared to previous environmental community projects is that the Environmental Classroom should provide opportunities for both education and guided tours. The services of each Environmental Classroom are provided to other communities and schools around Taiwan to serve as a site for learning experiences. This system has been developed to facilitate nationwide promotion of some of the best schemes and measures implemented by outstanding environmental communities.", "content": "General Policy\n\n\"Environmental Classrooms\" Offer Learning Sites and Stimulate Local Economy\n\nThe EPA has been promoting \"Environmental Classrooms\" at the local level not only creating optimal sites for environmental studies, but also providing a chance for each county and city to develop a \"Community Environmental Economy\" once they gain popularity. On 3 November 2009, the EPA evaluated the opportunity to establish an Environmental Classroom at Gaoyuan Community in Longtan Township, Taoyuan County. Participants were excited about the multifunctional aspects of the program.\n\nThe Environmental Classroom project is part of a new policy promoted by the EPA this year. The project entailed selecting 24 areas among the most outstanding environmental communities to become Environmental Classrooms. The unique aspect of this project compared to previous environmental community projects is that the Environmental Classroom should provide opportunities for both education and guided tours. The services of each Environmental Classroom are provided to other communities and schools around Taiwan to serve as a site for learning experiences. This system has been developed to facilitate nationwide promotion of some of the best schemes and measures implemented by outstanding environmental communities.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Environmental Classrooms Offer Learning Sites and Stimulate Local Economy", "position": "print\/V12\/V12-12" }, { "no": "2452", "title": "\"Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Mark\" to Distinguish Green Corporations", "preview": "Climate Change \n\"Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Mark\" to Distinguish Green Corporations \n\nThe EPA launched the Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Mark program as a way of encouraging domestic enterprises businesses and private corporations to take energy conservation and carbon reduction initiatives. The EPA will grant the Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Mark to any enterprise, business or private corporation that applies and qualifies in this program. \n\nThe EPA has planned the Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Mark program as a way to get more enterprises, businesses and private corporations to take initiatives to conserve energy and reduce their carbon footprint. The Mark serves as an award to show that the recipient enterprise, business or private corporation is involved in energy conservation and carbon reduction actions. The public is also encouraged to use this Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Mark as a way of distinguishing which companies partake in energy conservation and carbon reduction. The EPA encourages all companies to apply for the Mark and has invited experts and scholars in related fields to audit and select recipients based on their level of participation in the EPA's EcoLife Web site, self-initiated energy conservation and carbon reduction management measures, and results of energy conservation and carbon reduction actions. Companies that pass the selection process will receive the Mark and two of the most outstanding performers in each region (north, central, south, and east Taiwan for a total of eight) will be selected as the EPA's demonstration models for promoting energy conservation and carbon reduction in the future.\n\nThe application and selection period for the award concluded on 10 December 2009 and results will be posted on the EPA's EcoLife Website (http:\/\/ecolife.epa.gov.tw\/) under the section on the Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Mark.", "content": "Climate Change \n\"Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Mark\" to Distinguish Green Corporations \n\nThe EPA launched the Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Mark program as a way of encouraging domestic enterprises businesses and private corporations to take energy conservation and carbon reduction initiatives. The EPA will grant the Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Mark to any enterprise, business or private corporation that applies and qualifies in this program. \n\nThe EPA has planned the Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Mark program as a way to get more enterprises, businesses and private corporations to take initiatives to conserve energy and reduce their carbon footprint. The Mark serves as an award to show that the recipient enterprise, business or private corporation is involved in energy conservation and carbon reduction actions. The public is also encouraged to use this Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Mark as a way of distinguishing which companies partake in energy conservation and carbon reduction. The EPA encourages all companies to apply for the Mark and has invited experts and scholars in related fields to audit and select recipients based on their level of participation in the EPA's EcoLife Web site, self-initiated energy conservation and carbon reduction management measures, and results of energy conservation and carbon reduction actions. Companies that pass the selection process will receive the Mark and two of the most outstanding performers in each region (north, central, south, and east Taiwan for a total of eight) will be selected as the EPA's demonstration models for promoting energy conservation and carbon reduction in the future.\n\nThe application and selection period for the award concluded on 10 December 2009 and results will be posted on the EPA's EcoLife Website (http:\/\/ecolife.epa.gov.tw\/) under the section on the Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Mark.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "\"Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Mark\" to Distinguish Green Corporations", "position": "print\/V12\/V12-12" }, { "no": "2450", "title": "\"Squidmobile\" Reporting and Rewarding Regulations Under Revision", "preview": "Air Quality \n\"Squidmobile\" Reporting and Rewarding Regulations Under Revision\n\nThe EPA issued a preannouncement of revisions to regulations on rewards for people who report \"squidmobiles\" the local term for vehicles that emit black exhaust. The revisions would allow rewards to be issued to informants submitting only one photograph showing exhaust in excess of Vehicle Air Pollution Emission Standards, rather than the current requirement of three photographs. Informants submitting videos of polluting vehicles will now also be eligible for the reward. These changes are expected to increase the number of rewarded reports of polluting vehicles. \n\nThe EPA indicated that in order to encourage more people to report polluting vehicles, from 1 January 2009, a rule was passed to offer a reward of NT$300 to people who report polluting vehicles. Statistics of informants and reported people from January to September 2009 were compiled together with opinions and suggestions from local environmental protection bureaus for a review of the system. The EPA is now considering relaxing the criteria for receiving the reward and clearly stating the standards and criteria that decide whether a reward can be given. To avoid issuing multiple notices to reported \"squidmobile\" owners to take their vehicles in for examination, the revisions call for multiple reports to be treated as one case so that only one notice need be issued. The revisions also clearly state a rate at which rewards can be given and budget source for monetary rewards. The main points of revisions to the Vehicle Air Pollution Emissions Reporting and Rewarding Regulations (使用中汽車排放空氣污染物檢舉及獎勵辦法) are as follows:\n\n1. For cases in which vehicle owners have already been notified by competent authorities to take a regular or unscheduled examination, if the vehicle is then reported as a polluting vehicle by the public, it should be treated as the same case.\n\n2. Criteria for obtaining the reward have been changed and the new option of reporting video clips is allowed.\n\n3. It is stipulated that rewards must be issued at least once per quarter and the EPA must randomly check up on the handling of reports.\n\n4. It is stipulated that half of the money for the reward shall be subsidized by the EPA.", "content": "Air Quality \n\"Squidmobile\" Reporting and Rewarding Regulations Under Revision\n\nThe EPA issued a preannouncement of revisions to regulations on rewards for people who report \"squidmobiles\" the local term for vehicles that emit black exhaust. The revisions would allow rewards to be issued to informants submitting only one photograph showing exhaust in excess of Vehicle Air Pollution Emission Standards, rather than the current requirement of three photographs. Informants submitting videos of polluting vehicles will now also be eligible for the reward. These changes are expected to increase the number of rewarded reports of polluting vehicles. \n\nThe EPA indicated that in order to encourage more people to report polluting vehicles, from 1 January 2009, a rule was passed to offer a reward of NT$300 to people who report polluting vehicles. Statistics of informants and reported people from January to September 2009 were compiled together with opinions and suggestions from local environmental protection bureaus for a review of the system. The EPA is now considering relaxing the criteria for receiving the reward and clearly stating the standards and criteria that decide whether a reward can be given. To avoid issuing multiple notices to reported \"squidmobile\" owners to take their vehicles in for examination, the revisions call for multiple reports to be treated as one case so that only one notice need be issued. The revisions also clearly state a rate at which rewards can be given and budget source for monetary rewards. The main points of revisions to the Vehicle Air Pollution Emissions Reporting and Rewarding Regulations (使用中汽車排放空氣污染物檢舉及獎勵辦法) are as follows:\n\n1. For cases in which vehicle owners have already been notified by competent authorities to take a regular or unscheduled examination, if the vehicle is then reported as a polluting vehicle by the public, it should be treated as the same case.\n\n2. Criteria for obtaining the reward have been changed and the new option of reporting video clips is allowed.\n\n3. It is stipulated that rewards must be issued at least once per quarter and the EPA must randomly check up on the handling of reports.\n\n4. It is stipulated that half of the money for the reward shall be subsidized by the EPA.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "\"Squidmobile\" Reporting and Rewarding Regulations Under Revision", "position": "print\/V12\/V12-12" }, { "no": "2035", "title": "Rewards Offered for Online Reporting of \"Squid Vehicles\"", "preview": "Air Quality Considering the health risks caused by pollutants in drinking water the EPA is referencing each nation's drinking water quality standards and looking at the feasibility of conducting an integrated assessment of the domestic situation, analysis, treatment technology, and economic benefits. The following related revisions are being planned for Article 3 of the Drinking Water Quality Standards: 1) control standards for the two heavy metals lead and antimony will be tightened; 2) the scope of control for bromate has been amended to not only cover water supply system treated with ozone disinfectants, but all water supply systems; and 3) new stipulations have been added to control chlorite and dioxin.", "content": "Air Quality Considering the health risks caused by pollutants in drinking water the EPA is referencing each nation's drinking water quality standards and looking at the feasibility of conducting an integrated assessment of the domestic situation, analysis, treatment technology, and economic benefits. The following related revisions are being planned for Article 3 of the Drinking Water Quality Standards: 1) control standards for the two heavy metals lead and antimony will be tightened; 2) the scope of control for bromate has been amended to not only cover water supply system treated with ozone disinfectants, but all water supply systems; and 3) new stipulations have been added to control chlorite and dioxin.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Rewards Offered for Online Reporting of Squid Vehicles", "position": "print\/V10\/V10-09" }, { "no": "2012", "title": "Green First \"Environmental Cup\" Recycling Debate Contest", "preview": "Recycling Encouraging junior college students to pay heed to environmental issues the EPA held the first \"Environmental Cup\" nationwide junior college recycling debate contest. The event kicked off on 24 July 2007 with EPA Deputy Minister Chang Tzi-chin presiding over the opening ceremony and helping run the contest. College student contestants took turns with a warm up debate contest asking and answering interesting questions about recycling in everyday life. The event provided a look into the degree of understanding college students have about resource recycling.", "content": "Recycling Encouraging junior college students to pay heed to environmental issues the EPA held the first \"Environmental Cup\" nationwide junior college recycling debate contest. The event kicked off on 24 July 2007 with EPA Deputy Minister Chang Tzi-chin presiding over the opening ceremony and helping run the contest. College student contestants took turns with a warm up debate contest asking and answering interesting questions about recycling in everyday life. The event provided a look into the degree of understanding college students have about resource recycling.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Green First \"Environmental Cup\" Recycling Debate Contest", "position": "print\/V10\/V10-08" }, { "no": "1997", "title": "New Maps Let You \"See the Noise\"", "preview": "Noise Control \n\nNew Maps Let You \"See the Noise\"\n\nBelieve it or not sound can not only be heard but also seen! The EPA has introduced urban noise mapping technology from the European Union to aid in noise control. Preliminary maps have been drawn for Taipei City and will gradually expand to include densely populated areas of each county and city.\n\nTaiwan is following the EU's example of drafting local noise maps in urban areas. The EPA explains that in introducing noise mapping experience from nations and cities in the EU, it first evaluated the feasibility and effectiveness of regional urban noise mapmaking in Taiwan. The preliminary phase drew up boundaries for three districts of Taipei City (Zhongshan, Songshan and Neihu) covering a total of 25 square kilometers. Noise volume distribution results help estimate and evaluate the impacts of external noise sources, and are very helpful for noise control and improvement work. \n\nThe EPA indicates that it will continue to expand the boundaries of this initial map throughout this year (2007). After the technology matures, the EPA will assist each county and city environmental protection bureau (EPB) with making noise maps for densely populated areas and applying their information to assist in promptly handling sudden noise outbursts and effectively ameliorating noise problems.\n\nThe 1996 Green Paper issued by the European Commission showed that 20% of the EU population has been seriously impacted by noise. Scientists and public health experts believe that noise levels have already reached intolerable levels and recommend noise mapping to help control the situation. Therefore in July 2002, the EU mandated the Directive on Environmental Noise, which stipulates standards for each member state to follow in drawing up urban noise maps. Member states are still in the process of developing maps. Governments in Paris, Madrid, and London are investing money toward surveying noise sources and drawing up noise maps. The maps are posted online for all to view as a reference to help understand the environmental quality of residential areas.\n\nBased on statistics, public nuisance complaints in recent years have predominantly concerned noise pollution, accounting for 31% of all public nuisance complaints in 2006. In order to gain firm control over changes in volume of noise pollution sources, and to prevent sudden outbursts of noise, the EPA has drawn on the EU nation and city noise mapping experience in completing a localized version of a regional urban noise mapping system. A pilot mapping project has been completed for an area of Taipei City delineated by Nanjing E. Rd on the north, Dazhi St. and Wende Rd. on the south, Fuxing N. Rd. on the east, and Tiding Rd. on the west.\n\nIn addition to using simulation software to draft preliminary noise maps, the system also integrates GIS data analysis and complements measurement results to calibrate and verify predominant road and traffic noise sources for a given locality. The noise range for traffic noise at main roads is set at 71-85 decibels (depicted by purple and red). Building noise between streets ranges from 46-60 decibels (yellow and green). In general, the louder the noise, the darker the color. Noise volumes are thus easily determined at a glance based on color (see illustration).\n\nThe EPA aims to ensure that Taiwan's noise control technology keeps up with international trends. In the future, people can refer to noise maps available for viewing on the Internet to check on the noise conditions in residential areas. Inspectors can also use this system to strengthen enforcement of sudden noise sources, which will help maintain a peaceful environment and reduce the number of noise complaints.", "content": "Noise Control \n\nNew Maps Let You \"See the Noise\"\n\nBelieve it or not sound can not only be heard but also seen! The EPA has introduced urban noise mapping technology from the European Union to aid in noise control. Preliminary maps have been drawn for Taipei City and will gradually expand to include densely populated areas of each county and city.\n\nTaiwan is following the EU's example of drafting local noise maps in urban areas. The EPA explains that in introducing noise mapping experience from nations and cities in the EU, it first evaluated the feasibility and effectiveness of regional urban noise mapmaking in Taiwan. The preliminary phase drew up boundaries for three districts of Taipei City (Zhongshan, Songshan and Neihu) covering a total of 25 square kilometers. Noise volume distribution results help estimate and evaluate the impacts of external noise sources, and are very helpful for noise control and improvement work. \n\nThe EPA indicates that it will continue to expand the boundaries of this initial map throughout this year (2007). After the technology matures, the EPA will assist each county and city environmental protection bureau (EPB) with making noise maps for densely populated areas and applying their information to assist in promptly handling sudden noise outbursts and effectively ameliorating noise problems.\n\nThe 1996 Green Paper issued by the European Commission showed that 20% of the EU population has been seriously impacted by noise. Scientists and public health experts believe that noise levels have already reached intolerable levels and recommend noise mapping to help control the situation. Therefore in July 2002, the EU mandated the Directive on Environmental Noise, which stipulates standards for each member state to follow in drawing up urban noise maps. Member states are still in the process of developing maps. Governments in Paris, Madrid, and London are investing money toward surveying noise sources and drawing up noise maps. The maps are posted online for all to view as a reference to help understand the environmental quality of residential areas.\n\nBased on statistics, public nuisance complaints in recent years have predominantly concerned noise pollution, accounting for 31% of all public nuisance complaints in 2006. In order to gain firm control over changes in volume of noise pollution sources, and to prevent sudden outbursts of noise, the EPA has drawn on the EU nation and city noise mapping experience in completing a localized version of a regional urban noise mapping system. A pilot mapping project has been completed for an area of Taipei City delineated by Nanjing E. Rd on the north, Dazhi St. and Wende Rd. on the south, Fuxing N. Rd. on the east, and Tiding Rd. on the west.\n\nIn addition to using simulation software to draft preliminary noise maps, the system also integrates GIS data analysis and complements measurement results to calibrate and verify predominant road and traffic noise sources for a given locality. The noise range for traffic noise at main roads is set at 71-85 decibels (depicted by purple and red). Building noise between streets ranges from 46-60 decibels (yellow and green). In general, the louder the noise, the darker the color. Noise volumes are thus easily determined at a glance based on color (see illustration).\n\nThe EPA aims to ensure that Taiwan's noise control technology keeps up with international trends. In the future, people can refer to noise maps available for viewing on the Internet to check on the noise conditions in residential areas. Inspectors can also use this system to strengthen enforcement of sudden noise sources, which will help maintain a peaceful environment and reduce the number of noise complaints.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Noise Control", "titlename": "New Maps Let You See the Noise", "position": "print\/V10\/V10-07" }, { "no": "1942", "title": "EPA Offers Free Showings of \"An Inconvenient Truth\"", "preview": "The EPA has begun promoting the film \"An Inconvenient Truth\" this April (2007) to enhance public awareness of global warming in Taiwan. All interested schools from the junior high school level and above environmental NGOs, public welfare groups or community organizations can apply to have this film shown free of charge as a public educational activity on climate change. The documentary is helpful in increasing public awareness and understanding of climate change issues as well as giving people incentives to reduce carbon dioxide emissions through everyday actions. The announcement of this offer was met with enthusiastic response from all circles, including local corporations Shin Kong Financial Holding Co. Ltd. and China Steel Co. Nearly 100 showings have been arranged and an estimated 40,000 people in Taiwan have already seen this film.", "content": "The EPA has begun promoting the film \"An Inconvenient Truth\" this April (2007) to enhance public awareness of global warming in Taiwan. All interested schools from the junior high school level and above environmental NGOs, public welfare groups or community organizations can apply to have this film shown free of charge as a public educational activity on climate change. The documentary is helpful in increasing public awareness and understanding of climate change issues as well as giving people incentives to reduce carbon dioxide emissions through everyday actions. The announcement of this offer was met with enthusiastic response from all circles, including local corporations Shin Kong Financial Holding Co. Ltd. and China Steel Co. Nearly 100 showings have been arranged and an estimated 40,000 people in Taiwan have already seen this film.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "EPA Offers Free Showings of \"An Inconvenient Truth\"", "position": "print\/V10\/V10-04" }, { "no": "1122", "title": "Subsidy for Restaurants to Provide Discounts for \"BYOT\" Customers", "preview": "The EPA continues efforts to reduce the use of disposable tableware by creating ways to encourage the public to get into the BYOT habit that is, to \"Bring Your Own Tableware\". The EPA has announced its ongoing search for 1000 storefront restaurant operators who are willing to provide discounts to BYOT customers. Each business can receive a subsidy of NT$10,000, and the funds will be distributed to each local city and county environmental protection authorities by ratio. Those interested can download application forms from the EPA's website: www.epa.gov.tw\/bag. The application deadline is June 30, 2003.", "content": "The EPA continues efforts to reduce the use of disposable tableware by creating ways to encourage the public to get into the BYOT habit that is, to \"Bring Your Own Tableware\". The EPA has announced its ongoing search for 1000 storefront restaurant operators who are willing to provide discounts to BYOT customers. Each business can receive a subsidy of NT$10,000, and the funds will be distributed to each local city and county environmental protection authorities by ratio. Those interested can download application forms from the EPA's website: www.epa.gov.tw\/bag. The application deadline is June 30, 2003.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Subsidy for Restaurants to Provide Discounts for \"BYOT\" Customers", "position": "print\/V6\/V6-03" }, { "no": "679", "title": "A Talk With \"Factor Four\" Author Dr. Ernst Ulrich von Weizs?cker", "preview": "At the urging of Administrator Lin on December 10 the EPA held the \"Factor Four Seminar – the Resource Efficiency Revolution\" at Taipei's International Conference Center. At the event keynote speaker Dr. von Weizs?cker, author of \"Factor Four\" and member of the German Parliament, addressed domestic industry leaders, public representatives and top academics. The discussion revolved around raising Taiwan's resource efficiency, environmental quality, and international competitiveness.\n\nNatural resources are not inexhaustible and how we consume them now impacts the wealth of future generations. The critical question then becomes, how can industry create business opportunities out of raising resource efficiency and \"making more with less?\" To help Taiwan prepare to meet the challenges of the new millennium, EPA Administrator Edgar Lin invited the author of worldwide bestseller \"Factor Four,\" Dr. Ernst Ulrich von Weizs?cker, to visit Taiwan. Lin organized a discussion session between Dr. von Weizs?cker and legislators, renowned experts and industry leaders from Taiwan.\n\n\"Factor Four\" is a report by the Club of Rome, to which Dr. von Weizs?cker belongs. During his speech, Dr. von Weizs?cker discussed another Club of Rome book, \"The Limits to Growth,\" which was published in 1972. The book used computer models to show that continued growth under the current industrial model would lead to continuous global destruction. Dr. von Weizs?cker's observations show that today we are moving ever closer towards the end forecast in this model. Twenty years later, the Club of Rome's latest report proposes a new path to the future that is both upbeat and feasible. In the face of limited natural resources, the new path attempts to find a way to maintain current levels of prosperity (not waste) without destroying the environment.\n\nDr. von Weizs?cker points out that current standard uses of natural resources are overly wasteful. For example in the United States 93% of natural resource inputs are not incorporated in the products that go to market and 80% of commercial products are used once and then thrown away. Unfortunately, even the remaining 20% of products are not used to the end of their lifespan. During the production and consumption processes, a huge quantity of natural resources are needlessly wasted. Wasted resources are not fully utilized, have no benefit for society, and in fact are responsible for worsening environmental quality and generating toxic materials that move through all natural mediums to pollute our environment.\n\nDr. von Weizs?cker emphasizes that full, efficient use of nature's resources can generate four times the value obtained under current methods of use, thus \"Factor Four.\" Based on this concept the amount of resources consumed by humans on this planet could be reduced by 1\/2 while still doubling prosperity! Going the factor four path resolves the double bind posed by trying to preserve current quality of life while worrying about future resource deficiencies.\n\nEdgar Lin spoke on the incredible waste of energy produced by electric plants. When lighting a lightbulb at current levels of efficiency, 70% of the energy required is simply wasted during transmission from the plant before it even reaches the lightbulb. Furthermore, only 10% of the remaining 30% is actually converted into light, which is to say that only 3% of the total energy is actually used while the rest is wasted during transmission. Lin pointed out that this type of waste in production or consumption can only be cured by raising the efficiency of resource use. Lin believes that the \"efficiency revolution\" will turn environmental protection measures from a major cost into a key source of profit.\n\nAdministrator Lin believes that the concepts outlined in \"Factor Four\" have already gained widespread acceptance in advanced nations, leading to a new form of \"natural\" capitalism. Looking at Taiwan, Lin believes that Taiwan's industries can lower management costs and improve competitiveness by integrating factor four concepts into their management models, fully utilizing resources, encouraging employee innovation and raising resource productivity. Such companies will solidify their advantage in domestic markets and be ready to jump into the international markets that will be opened with Taiwan's accession to the WTO.", "content": "At the urging of Administrator Lin on December 10 the EPA held the \"Factor Four Seminar – the Resource Efficiency Revolution\" at Taipei's International Conference Center. At the event keynote speaker Dr. von Weizs?cker, author of \"Factor Four\" and member of the German Parliament, addressed domestic industry leaders, public representatives and top academics. The discussion revolved around raising Taiwan's resource efficiency, environmental quality, and international competitiveness.\n\nNatural resources are not inexhaustible and how we consume them now impacts the wealth of future generations. The critical question then becomes, how can industry create business opportunities out of raising resource efficiency and \"making more with less?\" To help Taiwan prepare to meet the challenges of the new millennium, EPA Administrator Edgar Lin invited the author of worldwide bestseller \"Factor Four,\" Dr. Ernst Ulrich von Weizs?cker, to visit Taiwan. Lin organized a discussion session between Dr. von Weizs?cker and legislators, renowned experts and industry leaders from Taiwan.\n\n\"Factor Four\" is a report by the Club of Rome, to which Dr. von Weizs?cker belongs. During his speech, Dr. von Weizs?cker discussed another Club of Rome book, \"The Limits to Growth,\" which was published in 1972. The book used computer models to show that continued growth under the current industrial model would lead to continuous global destruction. Dr. von Weizs?cker's observations show that today we are moving ever closer towards the end forecast in this model. Twenty years later, the Club of Rome's latest report proposes a new path to the future that is both upbeat and feasible. In the face of limited natural resources, the new path attempts to find a way to maintain current levels of prosperity (not waste) without destroying the environment.\n\nDr. von Weizs?cker points out that current standard uses of natural resources are overly wasteful. For example in the United States 93% of natural resource inputs are not incorporated in the products that go to market and 80% of commercial products are used once and then thrown away. Unfortunately, even the remaining 20% of products are not used to the end of their lifespan. During the production and consumption processes, a huge quantity of natural resources are needlessly wasted. Wasted resources are not fully utilized, have no benefit for society, and in fact are responsible for worsening environmental quality and generating toxic materials that move through all natural mediums to pollute our environment.\n\nDr. von Weizs?cker emphasizes that full, efficient use of nature's resources can generate four times the value obtained under current methods of use, thus \"Factor Four.\" Based on this concept the amount of resources consumed by humans on this planet could be reduced by 1\/2 while still doubling prosperity! Going the factor four path resolves the double bind posed by trying to preserve current quality of life while worrying about future resource deficiencies.\n\nEdgar Lin spoke on the incredible waste of energy produced by electric plants. When lighting a lightbulb at current levels of efficiency, 70% of the energy required is simply wasted during transmission from the plant before it even reaches the lightbulb. Furthermore, only 10% of the remaining 30% is actually converted into light, which is to say that only 3% of the total energy is actually used while the rest is wasted during transmission. Lin pointed out that this type of waste in production or consumption can only be cured by raising the efficiency of resource use. Lin believes that the \"efficiency revolution\" will turn environmental protection measures from a major cost into a key source of profit.\n\nAdministrator Lin believes that the concepts outlined in \"Factor Four\" have already gained widespread acceptance in advanced nations, leading to a new form of \"natural\" capitalism. Looking at Taiwan, Lin believes that Taiwan's industries can lower management costs and improve competitiveness by integrating factor four concepts into their management models, fully utilizing resources, encouraging employee innovation and raising resource productivity. Such companies will solidify their advantage in domestic markets and be ready to jump into the international markets that will be opened with Taiwan's accession to the WTO.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "A Talk With Factor Four Author Dr. Ernst Ulrich von Weizs?cker", "position": "print\/V4\/V4-01" }, { "no": "674", "title": "EPA Establishes Threshold to Avoid Import of \"Inkfish\" Vehicles", "preview": "Beginning January 1 2001 the Taiwan government lifted restrictions on the import of used cars. Recently the EPA convened a public hearing attended by over 50 participants, including representatives from the Ministry of Transportation, the Energy Commission and associations representing automobile dealerships and manufacturers to discuss this development. The EPA Air Bureau stated that with the lifting of restrictions it is important to consider how to prevent Taiwan from becoming a \"dumping ground\" for used vehicles. The EPA vowed to take the necessary steps to clamp down and ensure that substandard vehicles from other countries are not allowed to enter Taiwan.\n\nAs of January 1, 2001 Taiwan has agreed to ease restrictions on the import of used cars. In order to take firm control of the situation, the EPA has drafted a control method to require imported used cars to meet a minimum air emissions threshold of Taiwan’s 1999 phase three emissions standards. The EPA Bureau of Air Quality Protection and Noise Control has been working quickly to convene meetings with related government agencies and industry representatives to discuss the issue.\n\nFor cars that have been used for four years or less the control method utilizes a system based on model certification. Each model must apply for an inspection certificate from the EPA. The EPA will test one car for every 200 imported to check for compliance with the standard. For cars that have been in use for more than four years each individual vehicle must pass inspection. The cars that pass inspection can be imported. A representative from the Taiwan Transportation Vehicle Manufacturers' Association, which opposes the large-scale import of used cars, stated that model certification is not effective for evaluating used cars. The Association recommended approval of small batches of imports as a better approach.\n\nThe Transportation Vehicle Manufacturers' Association stated that model certification is only relevant for new vehicles that have been mass-produced according to the same specifications in factories with good quality control. Second-hand cars have already been in use for a number of years and may have undergone significant modification. If the EPA only relies on inspection information related to the original manufacture or design, it will be impossible to guarantee air quality. Therefore, the Association recommended using a system of batch approval that would mean for every 20 vehicles imported one should be randomly selected for testing.\n\nThe Association emphasized that Taiwan should follow the model of developed countries and not that of the developing world which often accepts “garbage” from other countries. The United States, Europe and Japan perform individual testing on imported used cars. Only given the doubts about Taiwan’s ability to implement an individual testing system does the Association recommend batch approval as a means to prevent an invasion of used cars.\n\nHowever, not all companies agree with this opinion. Some companies noted that since used cars will be allowed for import, the government should not erect any barriers that go against WTO principles of fair trade.\n\nThe EPA stated that it will develop fair and feasible regulations after further assessment of enterprises' comments.", "content": "Beginning January 1 2001 the Taiwan government lifted restrictions on the import of used cars. Recently the EPA convened a public hearing attended by over 50 participants, including representatives from the Ministry of Transportation, the Energy Commission and associations representing automobile dealerships and manufacturers to discuss this development. The EPA Air Bureau stated that with the lifting of restrictions it is important to consider how to prevent Taiwan from becoming a \"dumping ground\" for used vehicles. The EPA vowed to take the necessary steps to clamp down and ensure that substandard vehicles from other countries are not allowed to enter Taiwan.\n\nAs of January 1, 2001 Taiwan has agreed to ease restrictions on the import of used cars. In order to take firm control of the situation, the EPA has drafted a control method to require imported used cars to meet a minimum air emissions threshold of Taiwan’s 1999 phase three emissions standards. The EPA Bureau of Air Quality Protection and Noise Control has been working quickly to convene meetings with related government agencies and industry representatives to discuss the issue.\n\nFor cars that have been used for four years or less the control method utilizes a system based on model certification. Each model must apply for an inspection certificate from the EPA. The EPA will test one car for every 200 imported to check for compliance with the standard. For cars that have been in use for more than four years each individual vehicle must pass inspection. The cars that pass inspection can be imported. A representative from the Taiwan Transportation Vehicle Manufacturers' Association, which opposes the large-scale import of used cars, stated that model certification is not effective for evaluating used cars. The Association recommended approval of small batches of imports as a better approach.\n\nThe Transportation Vehicle Manufacturers' Association stated that model certification is only relevant for new vehicles that have been mass-produced according to the same specifications in factories with good quality control. Second-hand cars have already been in use for a number of years and may have undergone significant modification. If the EPA only relies on inspection information related to the original manufacture or design, it will be impossible to guarantee air quality. Therefore, the Association recommended using a system of batch approval that would mean for every 20 vehicles imported one should be randomly selected for testing.\n\nThe Association emphasized that Taiwan should follow the model of developed countries and not that of the developing world which often accepts “garbage” from other countries. The United States, Europe and Japan perform individual testing on imported used cars. Only given the doubts about Taiwan’s ability to implement an individual testing system does the Association recommend batch approval as a means to prevent an invasion of used cars.\n\nHowever, not all companies agree with this opinion. Some companies noted that since used cars will be allowed for import, the government should not erect any barriers that go against WTO principles of fair trade.\n\nThe EPA stated that it will develop fair and feasible regulations after further assessment of enterprises' comments.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "EPA Establishes Threshold to Avoid Import of \"Inkfish\" Vehicles", "position": "print\/V4\/V4-01" }, { "no": "636", "title": "Alternative Energy: Concept of \"Virtual Power Plant\" Proposed", "preview": "Whether or not construction of Taiwan's Fourth Nuclear Power Plant will continue has become an international focus of attention. Some believe that insufficient diversification during development of Taiwan's energy structure has created part of the need for reliance on the fourth nuclear power plant. To address this concern Edgar Lin recently called an energy and environment conference to discuss the future of electricity development in Taiwan. Lin stated \"Energy problems are actually environmental problems, because if you are wasting energy you can't possibly be doing good on the environment. So, solving energy problems can also solve environmental problems.\"\n\nOn October 19 EPA Administrator Edgar Lin called experts and academics together for the \"Environment and Energy Conference.\" Traditionally the EPA is not actively involved in energy affairs, thus when organizing the conference Administrator Lin noted that conserving electricity reduces the need to build power plants thus reducing environmental pollution. This approach falls in line with the EPA's transition from end-of-pipe pollution controls to at source pollution prevention. \n\nThe conference proceeded from improving energy efficiency and conservation to promotion and application of renewable energy and an analysis of energy use and electricity development in light of replacement plans for the Fourth Nuclear Power Plant. Administrator Lin pointed out that Taiwan is located in the subtropics but that most buildings are constructed in a way suited for living in the tropics, without consideration of energy consumption problems. Relying on construction of power plants alone cannot solve energy problems. In particular, alleviating peak load burdens related to air conditioning usage was never considered, for this reason the EPA has designed a household efficiency plan that could reduce peak energy consumption by 20%. \n\nDuring the meeting a National Taiwan University Professor asserted that the most serious problem facing Taiwan is the continuous growth of the summer-winter peak load amplitude over the last twenty years. In 1999 the greatest discrepancy reached 5.9 million kilowatts, equivalent to twice the total capacity of the Fourth Nuclear Power Plant. Each year the peak load amplitude increases by an average of 900 thousand kilowatts. This sort of economic model, where the government builds large base load plants while allowing summer peak load consumption to grow unabated, will collapse sooner or later. As such, the only real solution is to reduce industrial and private energy use from cooling and air conditioning and alleviate the discrepancy between peak and base load usage.\n\nDuring the conference Executive Vice President of the Industrial Technology Research Institute, Bob Yang (楊日昌) proposed the concept of the \"virtual power plant.\" Raising energy efficiency, promoting application of renewable energy, and using a number other methods to conserve energy would in effect amount to creating a new power plant out of thin air. The costs associated with building this type of \"virtual power plant\" are far below that of building a so called \"real power plant.\"\n\nThe only obstacle to building the \"virtual power plant,\" according to Yang, is its insubstantiality, with no bids issued and no tangible end to its construction. The \"virtual power plant\" requires managing market side supply and demand to see to its long term maintenance. Yang stated that the \"virtual power plant\" must \"generate\" however much electricity is required by the market, but where does this electricity come from? According to Yang, \"generation\" comes from improving the efficiency of conservation, transmission, and management of electricity. But this is no easy task. As Yang says, \"to get to the peach blossom garden you must first cross the mountains.\"\n\nAdministrator Lin expressed his agreement. He pointed out that in theory and in reality, a decentralized distribution system, effective peak load management, and greater use of renewable energy are definitely doable. Although difficult, Lin equated the situation to that of the fourth nuclear power plant, during a society's switch from an \"old paradigm\" to a \"new paradigm\" conflict will definitely arise. However, he emphasized that this is merely the challenge that must be met during a paradigm shift.", "content": "Whether or not construction of Taiwan's Fourth Nuclear Power Plant will continue has become an international focus of attention. Some believe that insufficient diversification during development of Taiwan's energy structure has created part of the need for reliance on the fourth nuclear power plant. To address this concern Edgar Lin recently called an energy and environment conference to discuss the future of electricity development in Taiwan. Lin stated \"Energy problems are actually environmental problems, because if you are wasting energy you can't possibly be doing good on the environment. So, solving energy problems can also solve environmental problems.\"\n\nOn October 19 EPA Administrator Edgar Lin called experts and academics together for the \"Environment and Energy Conference.\" Traditionally the EPA is not actively involved in energy affairs, thus when organizing the conference Administrator Lin noted that conserving electricity reduces the need to build power plants thus reducing environmental pollution. This approach falls in line with the EPA's transition from end-of-pipe pollution controls to at source pollution prevention. \n\nThe conference proceeded from improving energy efficiency and conservation to promotion and application of renewable energy and an analysis of energy use and electricity development in light of replacement plans for the Fourth Nuclear Power Plant. Administrator Lin pointed out that Taiwan is located in the subtropics but that most buildings are constructed in a way suited for living in the tropics, without consideration of energy consumption problems. Relying on construction of power plants alone cannot solve energy problems. In particular, alleviating peak load burdens related to air conditioning usage was never considered, for this reason the EPA has designed a household efficiency plan that could reduce peak energy consumption by 20%. \n\nDuring the meeting a National Taiwan University Professor asserted that the most serious problem facing Taiwan is the continuous growth of the summer-winter peak load amplitude over the last twenty years. In 1999 the greatest discrepancy reached 5.9 million kilowatts, equivalent to twice the total capacity of the Fourth Nuclear Power Plant. Each year the peak load amplitude increases by an average of 900 thousand kilowatts. This sort of economic model, where the government builds large base load plants while allowing summer peak load consumption to grow unabated, will collapse sooner or later. As such, the only real solution is to reduce industrial and private energy use from cooling and air conditioning and alleviate the discrepancy between peak and base load usage.\n\nDuring the conference Executive Vice President of the Industrial Technology Research Institute, Bob Yang (楊日昌) proposed the concept of the \"virtual power plant.\" Raising energy efficiency, promoting application of renewable energy, and using a number other methods to conserve energy would in effect amount to creating a new power plant out of thin air. The costs associated with building this type of \"virtual power plant\" are far below that of building a so called \"real power plant.\"\n\nThe only obstacle to building the \"virtual power plant,\" according to Yang, is its insubstantiality, with no bids issued and no tangible end to its construction. The \"virtual power plant\" requires managing market side supply and demand to see to its long term maintenance. Yang stated that the \"virtual power plant\" must \"generate\" however much electricity is required by the market, but where does this electricity come from? According to Yang, \"generation\" comes from improving the efficiency of conservation, transmission, and management of electricity. But this is no easy task. As Yang says, \"to get to the peach blossom garden you must first cross the mountains.\"\n\nAdministrator Lin expressed his agreement. He pointed out that in theory and in reality, a decentralized distribution system, effective peak load management, and greater use of renewable energy are definitely doable. Although difficult, Lin equated the situation to that of the fourth nuclear power plant, during a society's switch from an \"old paradigm\" to a \"new paradigm\" conflict will definitely arise. However, he emphasized that this is merely the challenge that must be met during a paradigm shift.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Alternative Energy: Concept of Virtual Power Plant Proposed", "position": "print\/V1\/V3-17" }, { "no": "378", "title": "EPA Promulgates Regulations to Encourage the Public to Report \"Inkfish\" Vehicles", "preview": "On August 18 the EPA announced draft regulations to encourage citizens to report vehicles suspected of emitting high levels of air pollutants. People who see polluting vehicles can report the sighting within seven days to relevant authorities. Reports must include the vehicle's license plate number and the time, date and location of the sighting. It is up to the competent authority at issue to notify the vehicle to undergo inspection after a tune up. The reporting individual will be awarded 100 NTD for those vehicles failing to meet emissions standards after inspection.", "content": "On August 18 the EPA announced draft regulations to encourage citizens to report vehicles suspected of emitting high levels of air pollutants. People who see polluting vehicles can report the sighting within seven days to relevant authorities. Reports must include the vehicle's license plate number and the time, date and location of the sighting. It is up to the competent authority at issue to notify the vehicle to undergo inspection after a tune up. The reporting individual will be awarded 100 NTD for those vehicles failing to meet emissions standards after inspection.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "EPA Promulgates Regulations to Encourage the Public to Report \"Inkfish\" Vehicles", "position": "print\/V3\/V3-01" }, { "no": "331", "title": "Waste Act Amendment to Emphasize Industry Responsibility for \"Waste Life Cycle\"", "preview": "The EPA recently launched a full scale review of the Waste Disposal Act leading to key recommendations including: (1) handling resource recovery through separate chapters; (2) strengthening the control of solid waste streams and intensifying efforts to ensure that industry assumes full \"waste life cycle\" responsibility for wastes generated; and (3) significantly raising fine levels and making repeat offenders subject to criminal prosecution. The EPA further plans to retain a team of lawyers to fully prosecute companies that continue to illegally dispose of wastes.\n\nFollowing the recent illegal shipment of mercury-contaminated sludge to Cambodia by the Formosa Plastics Corp., the problem of inadequate solid waste treatment capacity in Taiwan has become ever more apparent. Recognizing that new action must be taken, the Executive Yuan requested the EPA to redraft amendments to the Waste Disposal Act.\n\nThe EPA had been racing to get an earlier set of amendments approved by the EY so that they could be passed by the previous session of the Legislative Yuan (LY). These proposed amendments primarily targeted changes to the administrative underpinnings of the Act and concentrated many waste management regulations into only a few articles. Now, with an extended timetable to develop the legislation, the EPA has the time to conduct a comprehensive review of the Act's contents and structure.\n\nRevision of resource recycling regulations is one area in urgent need of attention. In the current Act, all regulations relevant to recycling are compressed into Article 10.1 of the Act -- making this section exceptionally large and unwieldy. The EPA is currently examining ways to break Article 10.1 into its logical component parts and requiring issues related to resource recovery be handled by special regulations. Also, regulations governing solid waste management are undergoing extensive rework to give them more punch and to ensure more comprehensive coverage.\n\nThe principal foci of EPA deliberations regarding industrial solid waste management are how best to strengthen regulations to ensure that industry assumes \"final treatment responsibility\" for wastes generated and how to make offenders liable to criminal prosecution. The EPA is also preparing to significantly raise penalties. The maximum fine for certain violations of the Act may go as high as NT$10 million. \n\nCurrent EPA Administrator Hsun-Hsiung Tsai has from early on wanted to promote a concept of \"waste life cycle responsibility.\" During last year's revision of the Waste Disposal Act, Administrator Tsai seriously considered making firms that general solid waste legally and financially responsible for the final disposal of their wastes, and for all associated environmental contamination. This responsibility would be effective regardless of whether the pollution generator handled the wastes on their own (through proper disposal or recycling) or hired a certified clearance and treatment firm to do so. Following reports of Formosa Plastics Corp.'s illegal shipment of mercury-contaminated sludge to Cambodia, the EPA began serious discussions on entering \"waste life cycle responsibility\" into the law books.\n\nFinally, in light of the large sums of taxpayer money spent each year to clean up illegally dumped industrial waste and to restore contaminated sites, the EPA has decided to retain a team of professional lawyers to help claim damage compensation from companies that have illegally disposed of their wastes.", "content": "The EPA recently launched a full scale review of the Waste Disposal Act leading to key recommendations including: (1) handling resource recovery through separate chapters; (2) strengthening the control of solid waste streams and intensifying efforts to ensure that industry assumes full \"waste life cycle\" responsibility for wastes generated; and (3) significantly raising fine levels and making repeat offenders subject to criminal prosecution. The EPA further plans to retain a team of lawyers to fully prosecute companies that continue to illegally dispose of wastes.\n\nFollowing the recent illegal shipment of mercury-contaminated sludge to Cambodia by the Formosa Plastics Corp., the problem of inadequate solid waste treatment capacity in Taiwan has become ever more apparent. Recognizing that new action must be taken, the Executive Yuan requested the EPA to redraft amendments to the Waste Disposal Act.\n\nThe EPA had been racing to get an earlier set of amendments approved by the EY so that they could be passed by the previous session of the Legislative Yuan (LY). These proposed amendments primarily targeted changes to the administrative underpinnings of the Act and concentrated many waste management regulations into only a few articles. Now, with an extended timetable to develop the legislation, the EPA has the time to conduct a comprehensive review of the Act's contents and structure.\n\nRevision of resource recycling regulations is one area in urgent need of attention. In the current Act, all regulations relevant to recycling are compressed into Article 10.1 of the Act -- making this section exceptionally large and unwieldy. The EPA is currently examining ways to break Article 10.1 into its logical component parts and requiring issues related to resource recovery be handled by special regulations. Also, regulations governing solid waste management are undergoing extensive rework to give them more punch and to ensure more comprehensive coverage.\n\nThe principal foci of EPA deliberations regarding industrial solid waste management are how best to strengthen regulations to ensure that industry assumes \"final treatment responsibility\" for wastes generated and how to make offenders liable to criminal prosecution. The EPA is also preparing to significantly raise penalties. The maximum fine for certain violations of the Act may go as high as NT$10 million. \n\nCurrent EPA Administrator Hsun-Hsiung Tsai has from early on wanted to promote a concept of \"waste life cycle responsibility.\" During last year's revision of the Waste Disposal Act, Administrator Tsai seriously considered making firms that general solid waste legally and financially responsible for the final disposal of their wastes, and for all associated environmental contamination. This responsibility would be effective regardless of whether the pollution generator handled the wastes on their own (through proper disposal or recycling) or hired a certified clearance and treatment firm to do so. Following reports of Formosa Plastics Corp.'s illegal shipment of mercury-contaminated sludge to Cambodia, the EPA began serious discussions on entering \"waste life cycle responsibility\" into the law books.\n\nFinally, in light of the large sums of taxpayer money spent each year to clean up illegally dumped industrial waste and to restore contaminated sites, the EPA has decided to retain a team of professional lawyers to help claim damage compensation from companies that have illegally disposed of their wastes.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Waste Act Amendment to Emphasize Industry Responsibility for Waste Life Cycle", "position": "print\/V2\/V2-10" }, { "no": "290", "title": "EPA Insists BOO Waste Incinerator Projects Adopt \"Qualified Minimum Bid\" Approach", "preview": "Although a few local governments planned to adopt the \"reasonable bid\" contract negotiation approach for bidding on waste incinerator projects using the BOO scheme the EPA insisted bid opening adopt the \"lowest qualified bid\" approach to prevent construction delays and to guard against fraud. On December 15 of last year, Changhwa County Government decided to award a project contract based on the latter approach. This move is expected to serve as a positive model for other counties and municipalities.\n\nOn December 15 of last year, Changhwa County Government held a bidding document review meeting for a waste incineration project in Changhwa County using the BOO scheme. It was decided in the meeting that contract award would adopt the \"qualified minimum bid\" approach currently being set by the EPA. To ease the financial burden of bid preparation, open bids will be split into two rounds. The first round will be for tendering qualification and technical specification bids, and the second round will be for tendering the price bid.", "content": "Although a few local governments planned to adopt the \"reasonable bid\" contract negotiation approach for bidding on waste incinerator projects using the BOO scheme the EPA insisted bid opening adopt the \"lowest qualified bid\" approach to prevent construction delays and to guard against fraud. On December 15 of last year, Changhwa County Government decided to award a project contract based on the latter approach. This move is expected to serve as a positive model for other counties and municipalities.\n\nOn December 15 of last year, Changhwa County Government held a bidding document review meeting for a waste incineration project in Changhwa County using the BOO scheme. It was decided in the meeting that contract award would adopt the \"qualified minimum bid\" approach currently being set by the EPA. To ease the financial burden of bid preparation, open bids will be split into two rounds. The first round will be for tendering qualification and technical specification bids, and the second round will be for tendering the price bid.\n\nThe Changhwa County government was apparently concerned that the EPA’s \"qualified minimum bid\" bid opening regulation would likely effect construction or operating quality as the lowest price proposal would win the contract. They hoped that the contract award method would be changed to the \"reasonable bid\" approach typically used to select technical consulting organizations. \n\nHowever, if the \"reasonable bid\" approach set by the Changhwa County government is used, the authority and responsibility of local evaluation committees would have to be strengthened, and the progress of waste incinerator project construction would be delayed. After conducting a cost-benefit analysis, the EPA decided to stay with the \"qualified minimum bid\" model.\n\nTo guard against fraud and excessive subjectivity of appraisal committee members, draft regulations regarding the appraisal of most favorable bids (under the Government Procurement Act), have set criteria for seven evaluation principles and five selection methods, each with a set of related guidelines. However, Changhwa County government’s original plan has neither criteria for evaluation principles nor does it meet the \"most favorable bid\" appraisal criteria.\n\nThe \"most favorable bid\" appraisal criteria require that appraisal committee members appraise \"technology, quality and function,\" \"management and business clauses\" and \"price\" based on technology, management and price, respectively. This requirement focuses on the expertise of appraisal committee members and prevents any single appraisal committee member from dictating the score of any single bidder. Under these conditions, about nine out of ten appraisal committee members in Changhwa County would have to be replaced.\n\nAnother issue is whether the \"qualified minimum bid\" approach would lead to price wars that affect the construction and operating quality of plants. To promote the construction and operation of waste incinerator plants by state-run and private enterprises, the EPA established a comprehensive regulatory scope for construction and operation. This scope covers equipment items, construction quality, capability testing, regulations regarding environmental emissions and contracts contain strict oversight provisions. These concerns are therefore unwarranted.\n\nApart from Changhwa County, local governments in Yunlin County and Hsinchu County have also expressed interest in adopting the \"reasonable bid\" approach to promoting waste incinerator projects using the BOO model. However, according to regulations concerning incentives for state-run and private waste incinerator construction and operation, local appraisal committee members evaluate bidding documents according to laws but have no responsibility to set the laws. Therefore, county and municipal governments are the leading authorities but they have no authority to change laws or regulations on their own.\n\nAfter receiving a certain amount of pressure and many communications from the EPA, Changhwa County decided that the project in the North of the county would stay with the \"qualified minimum bid\" model for bid opening. This move is expected to serve as a positive model for other counties and municipalities. The EPA will continue to strengthen communications to persuade other county and municipal governments to adopt the \"qualified minimum bid\" approach.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "EPA Insists BOO Waste Incinerator Projects Adopt Qualified Minimum Bid Approach", "position": "print\/V2\/V2-08" }, { "no": "289", "title": "EPA Disagrees with \"Gradual Decay\" of Former RCA Contamination", "preview": "Having completed remediation of contaminated soil at the former RCA site in Taoyuan the current owner on December 16 of last year in a feasibility assessment of remediation work expressed hope that the site would gradually recover via natural decay and dissipation of organic pollutant contamination as current technology was not feasible. In response, the RCA Remediation Taskforce noted that decay rates for some ranges of the groundwater were neither clear nor stable and ordered the current owner to provide more information pertaining to questions raised by members of the review committee.", "content": "Having completed remediation of contaminated soil at the former RCA site in Taoyuan the current owner on December 16 of last year in a feasibility assessment of remediation work expressed hope that the site would gradually recover via natural decay and dissipation of organic pollutant contamination as current technology was not feasible. In response, the RCA Remediation Taskforce noted that decay rates for some ranges of the groundwater were neither clear nor stable and ordered the current owner to provide more information pertaining to questions raised by members of the review committee.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil and Groundwater", "titlename": "EPA Disagrees with Gradual Decay of Former RCA Contamination", "position": "print\/V2\/V2-08" }, { "no": "3682", "title": "", "preview": "", "content": "", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "", "titlename": "", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-4" }, { "no": "3681", "title": "", "preview": "", "content": "", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "", "titlename": "", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-4" }, { "no": "3680", "title": "", "preview": "", "content": "", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "", "titlename": "", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-4" }, { "no": "3679", "title": "", "preview": "", "content": "", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "", "titlename": "", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-4" }, { "no": "3678", "title": "", "preview": "", "content": "", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "", "titlename": "", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-4" }, { "no": "3677", "title": "", "preview": "", "content": "", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "", "titlename": "", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-4" }, { "no": "3676", "title": "", "preview": "", "content": "", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "", "titlename": "", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-4" }, { "no": "3675", "title": "", "preview": "", "content": "", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "", "titlename": "", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-4" }, { "no": "3674", "title": "Capacity Building for Environmental Monitoring", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring Capacity Building for Environmental Monitoring \nTaiwan’s environmental monitoring operations began with air quality monitoring and later extended to frequent sampling and monitoring of water quality of rivers, reservoirs, marine areas and groundwater. The aim of monitoring is to provide the public the most precise and detailed data on environmental quality. By combining various environmental databases with geographic information systems (GIS) to support environmental policy, the EPA will keep integrating each administrative system and pushing for computerization of government operations. In this way, information technology is utilized as well as possible to assist in policy implementation.", "content": "Capacity Building for Environmental Monitoring \nTaiwan’s environmental monitoring operations began with air quality monitoring and later extended to frequent sampling and monitoring of water quality of rivers, reservoirs, marine areas and groundwater. The aim of monitoring is to provide the public the most precise and detailed data on environmental quality. By combining various environmental databases with geographic information systems (GIS) to support environmental policy, the EPA will keep integrating each administrative system and pushing for computerization of government operations. In this way, information technology is utilized as well as possible to assist in policy implementation.\nAir quality monitoring and forecasting to provide transparent and real-time information\nThe purpose of environmental quality monitoring is to help the public understand the quality of surrounding environments. Air quality monitoring stations in Taiwan form a network that keeps watch of air quality in different places and announces forecasts. To provide more detailed information, since 1998 forecasts have included UV readings to help notify the public of times to take appropriate precautions.\nTo date, the EPA has established a total of 77 air quality monitoring stations. Results from these are available on the EPA website in forms of real-time air quality information as well as complete monitoring data throughout the years. Types of monitoring stations are listed as follows:\n1. General air quality monitoring stations: 60 sites \nThese are set in densely populated areas, areas that may be subject to high pollution, or areas that reflect the air quality distribution of a larger region. These stations provide data on the air quality of people’s living environments. For instance, data from stations in county\/city districts indicate concentrations of various representative pollutants to which the local population is exposed. \n2. Industrial air quality monitoring stations: Five sites in Toufen, Xianxi, Mailiao, Taixi, and Cianzhen. \nThese are set in windy areas downwind from industrial parks to help better understand the impacts of industrial pollutants. Locations are densely populated and encounter potentially high concentrations of pollutants. Stations are located in immediately adjacent downwind areas if the apparent pollution sources are at a lower height, and several kilometers downwind if the emission sources are high smokestacks.\n3. Traffic air quality monitoring stations: Six sites in Fongshan, Sanchong, Zhongli, Yonghe, Fuxing, and Datong\nEstablished in areas of heavy traffic to measure the air quality to which pedestrians are exposed. Monitoring data is used to evaluate effectiveness of controls on vehicle emissions, as well as vehicle pollutants to which pedestrians are exposed.\n4. National park air quality monitoring stations: Two sites in Hengchun and Yangming\nSet at appropriate sites in national parks to help understand current air quality conditions and predict future trends within the protected zones. Locations are away from major roads, parking lots, or other disruptions caused by pollution such as sources of burning.\n5. Background air quality monitoring stations: Five sites in Wanli, Guanyin, Sanyi, Qiaotou, and Fugueijiao. (Wanli and Sanyi serve simultaneously as general stations) \nSet in areas where there is relatively little pollution, or in windy upwind areas in total quality control zones. These monitor the amount of pollutants brought by prevailing winds. They are located away from the impacts of pollution sources, to measure general air quality conditions and determine whether there are transboundary pollutants from outside Taiwan.\n6. Special monitoring stations\nOther special monitoring stations include:\n● Mobile monitoring stations: six monitoring vehicles\n● Photochemical monitoring stations: nine sites\n● Research stations: Lulin Background Monitoring Station in Yushan National Park\nAuxiliary weather facilities include:\n● Light Detection and Ranging (Lidar): One in National Central University in Zhongli, Taoyuan\nIn 2017, the EPA finished integrating information and services of 211 monitoring stations in total, including 316 sets of automated smokestack exhaust monitoring data collected from 107 factories. The purpose is to keep large smokestack emissions under close watch and build a complete emission database in order to effectively monitor total emissions and ensure air quality.\nWater monitoring results as significant references for prevention strategies\nBesides monitoring air quality, which has the most immediate public impact, the EPA also conducts regular sampling and monitoring of water quality in rivers, reservoirs, groundwater, seas and so on. It aims to understand current water pollution conditions and their year to year changes, data which serves as references for water pollution prevention strategies. Monitoring results are published in annual reports for public evaluation as well as used in regular analysis of water quality trends for public inquiry.\nMonitoring results help government agencies that make decisions and the general public to understand current water quality conditions and trends. They also help with the detection, prediction, and response to problems that occur suddenly, as well as the mapping out of long-term pollution prevention strategies. Based on the open data principle, all water monitoring data is published on the EPA’s Environmental Water Quality Information website (http:\/\/wq.epa.gov.tw\/) for public inquiry and downloading.\nImprovement of environmental monitoring capacity\nThe EPA’s current efforts to enhance its environmental monitoring capacity include:\n1. Promoting the Environmental Quality Sensing Internet of Things (IoT)\nA. Development and establishment of the comprehensive Environmental Quality Sensing IoT\nIn the four-year period 2017-2020, the EPA will improve air quality monitoring sensors, develop water quality monitoring sensors, establish a sensor testing and certification platform and system, and expand sensor spots for air quality and farmland pollution. Other operations include integrating systems of monitoring stations and sensor spots, as well as constructing a smart environmental monitoring data center and a universal application service and integration platform. It is expected to reach the following goals:\n(1) Increase data precision for environmental controls and provide correct information to meet local needs.\n(2) Provide more detailed forecasts down to town and district levels, so that pollution and weather conditions can be precisely predicted in order to carry out emergency emission reductions.\n(3) Improve pollution controls to enhance enforcement of regulations and maintain a better environment using IoT technology to trace times and sources of pollution hotspots.\nSince the project began in 2017, the main focus has been establishing infrastructure and operation systems, first setting 500 air quality sensing spots in the central region. Other work involved development of various technology, operation testing, and data analysis.\nB. Tightening air quality monitoring\nThe EPA keeps 77 air quality monitoring stations nationwide running smoothly and conducts manual monitoring of PM2.5 at 31 stations. With usability higher than 96% after quality assurance and control (QA\/QC), monitoring data is available online in real time, and AQI and PM2.5 values for the next three days are forecast three times daily. An early alarm mechanism is in place to remind people to take precautions against transboundary pollutants (usually sand storms and smog from China). Furthermore, national air quality monitoring resources are integrated to account for air quality in industrial zones and smokestack emissions as pollution sources, in order to achieve better data disclosure and wider public supervision. \nThe EPA also has also implemented a demonstration plan on the smart urban and rural sensor IoT, using IoT technology and developing air quality microsensors, while conducting small-scale monitoring for specific pollution sources. Citizens are actively participating in monitoring to reduce occurrences of pollution and to safeguard public health.\n2. Promoting environmental data integration\n(1) Integrating environmental resources and data\nIn its Environmental Cloud plan, the EPA has combined environmental data for atmosphere, water, earth, forests, and ecosystems and developed a diverse information service. Through the data exchange system, over 1,933 databases from central and regional authorities were integrated and shared between 2013 and December 2016. \nThe EPA has also expanded the capacity of its shared sensor data platform to provide better integrated environmental information. Real-time information from micro-scaled air quality monitoring projects conducted by citizens is included, such as social platforms established by non-governmental organizations. Examples of technology used include the Location Aware Sensing System (LASS), consisting of open-source, not-for-profit environmental sensors, as well as open data platforms such as AirBox used in some counties\/cities. All greatly assist the public to obtain the most local environmental data.\n(2) Enhancing open data platforms\nIn compliance with the government’s Open Data policy, a total of 980 databases have been opened, reaching the goal of p 960 databases in 2016. Availability of environmental data is enhanced with over 1.8 million references and downloads as well as value-adding uses by over 600,000 users. Items available in open databases have increased nearly fourfold since the platform established in 2013 in order to build an information service cloud.\n(3) Improving the Environmental Message App\nThe launch of the Environmental Message service is a model demonstration of the application of open data. People can check real-time monitoring information, historic data and forecasts via control boards and images. The app also sends out warnings and notifications on air quality and other information. More than 260,000 people downloaded the app in 2017, with up to 20,000 users during daily peak hours and over a million views per month. It has become an indispensable environmental information service in the daily lives of users.\nFor its plan in 2018, the EPA will strive toward the following directions:\n(1) Continuing to implement the New Generation Environmental Quality Monitoring and Testing Development Plan\n(2) Continuing to establish the foundation of the Environmental Quality Sensing IoT\n(3) Expanding the environmental resource and information service platform to enhance service efficiency and application values\n(4) Providing comprehensive information services\n(5) Strengthening data evaluation and project management in the Environmental Sensing Data Center and integrating nationwide air quality data\nAll latest environmental monitoring data and results are provided by the EPA via channels such as the internet and mass media in real time. Future efforts will focus on continuing to integrate environmental databases with environmental geographic information system (GIS) and offering support to policy-making pro-cesses. Operations will also include integrating various administrative systems, promoting online government operations, utilizing information technology, and assisting innovative services and implementation of environmental policies.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "Capacity Building for Environmental Monitoring", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-4" }, { "no": "3675", "title": "Amendments to Facilities Standards for the Recycling, Storage, and Disposal of Electrical and Electronic Waste Preannounced", "preview": "Waste Amendments to Facilities Standards for the Recycling, Storage, and Disposal of Electrical and Electronic Waste Preannounced\nTo increase the flexibility for the development of disposal technology, the EPA preannounced the amendments to the Facilities Standards for the Recycling, Storage, and Disposal of Electrical and Electronic Waste. The amendments focused on regulations related to disposal technology in Articles 2, 5, and 11 of the Standards.", "content": "Amendments to Facilities Standards for the Recycling, Storage, and Disposal of Electrical and Electronic Waste Preannounced\nTo increase the flexibility for the development of disposal technology, the EPA preannounced the amendments to the Facilities Standards for the Recycling, Storage, and Disposal of Electrical and Electronic Waste. The amendments focused on regulations related to disposal technology in Articles 2, 5, and 11 of the Standards.\nThe EPA keeps abreast of increasing advancements in industrial technology and takes them into account when drafting regulations. It considered the flexibility of development of disposal technology, the environmental quality of operations, safety, and the strengthening of controls on and management of harmful substances. The main points of the amendments are as follows: \n1) Definitions are added for machinery processing systems and sections related to current practices for manual dismantling are revised. The EPA also added regulations regarding the processing of electronic components containing mercury. When processing electrical and electronic products with components containing mercury, the disposing facility must summit a pilot plan and monitor the environment in order to properly control harmful substances within such waste materials. \n2) To protect the environment and make the best use of materials, reusable resources and other types of materials must be sorted in order to improve follow-up treatment and recycling.\n3) Developmental flexibility for the disposal of integrated circuits (IC) is increased. The amendments also renamed integrated circuits to printed circuit boards (PCB). These changes are made to help turn electrical and electronic waste into a valuable resource through recycling.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "wastte", "titlename": "Amendments to Facilities Standards for the Recycling, Storage, and Disposal of Electrical and Electronic Waste Preannounced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-3" }, { "no": "3674", "title": "Heavy Fine Imposed on Ship Sarvin for Illegal Oil Discharge", "preview": "Water\nHeavy Fine Imposed on Ship Sarvin for Illegal Oil Discharge\nWith the cooperation of the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the use of satellite images, the EPA discovered the Iranian vessel Sarvin discharging waste oil illegally into waters off the west coast of Taiwan. Thus, the ship’s operators were imposed with a fine of NT$1.5 million based on the Marine Pollution Control Act (海洋污染防治法) on 2 March 2018. The EPA met with the South Maritime Affairs Center of the Maritime Port Bureau, the Coast Guard, and the Kaohsiung City Marine Bureau when the ship docked at Kaohsiung Port on 4 March. The agencies negotiated with the ship owner to authorize its shipping agent in Taiwan to pay the fine on behalf of the ship owner.", "content": "Heavy Fine Imposed on Ship Sarvin for Illegal Oil Discharge\nWith the cooperation of the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the use of satellite images, the EPA discovered the Iranian vessel Sarvin discharging waste oil illegally into waters off the west coast of Taiwan. Thus, the ship’s operators were imposed with a fine of NT$1.5 million based on the Marine Pollution Control Act (海洋污染防治法) on 2 March 2018. The EPA met with the South Maritime Affairs Center of the Maritime Port Bureau, the Coast Guard, and the Kaohsiung City Marine Bureau when the ship docked at Kaohsiung Port on 4 March. The agencies negotiated with the ship owner to authorize its shipping agent in Taiwan to pay the fine on behalf of the ship owner. \nThe EPA stated that the Marine Pollution Control Act covers the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) which extends 200 nautical miles from the baseline of the territorial sea. To better monitor the ocean for any pollution and illegal activities, the EPA has signed the Establishing Satellite-Based Marine Oil Monitoring Collaborative Activity agreement with National Central University’s Center for Space and Remote Sensing Research and the US NOAA. Hence, Taiwan’s territorial sea is to be regularly monitored by satellites, and the EPA will be informed if anything unusual happens. \nThe satellite images for this case were captured by the European satellite Sentinel-1 at 5:52:33 am on 9 October 2017. They noticed in the picture that a ship seemed to be discharging waste fuel off the coast of Kaohsiung. Based on the agreement on Taiwan-US environmental protection cooperation, the NOAA helped to interpret the images and verify the pollution caused by the oil discharge.\nMeanwhile, the EPA also asked the Ministry of Transportation and Communications’ Harbor and Marine Technology Center to assist in identifying the ship by using its automatic identification system (AIS). The Center discovered that the route of an Iranian vessel named Sarvin matched the oil track perfectly. Judging from the satellite images, the ship discharged about five metric tons of waste oil for at least two or three hours, leaving a pollution track that was almost 60 km long. Considering that illegal discharge is a serious violation of Article 29 of the Marine Pollution Control Act, the EPA decided to impose a heavy fine on the ship owner in accordance with Article 53 of the same Act.\nAround 9 am on 4 March 2018, the EPA was informed by the Maritime and Port Bureau that the vessel Sarvin was going to dock at Kaohsiung Port that day. The EPA immediately notified related central and local agencies to organize a thorough inspection of the ship when it arrived. Moreover, the EPA asked the shipping agent in Taiwan for the Sarvin to inform the ship owner of the violation and the fine that had to be paid when the ship docked. The ship was requested to cooperate in accordance with the Marine Pollution Control Act.\nAfter a negotiation, the ship owner authorized its shipping agent in Taiwan to handle the case. The agent took a copy of the penalty document and paid the fine. \nThe EPA emphasized that it will continue to monitor Taiwan’s water with high tech equipment such as satellites and unmanned aerial vehicles for illegal waste oil discharge, fuel transfer, or any other kinds of polluting behavior. The EPA will also collaborate with the Ministry of Transportation and Communications and the Coast Guard Administration to conduct further investigations and on-board inspections. By doing so, the EPA aims to deter such violations from occurring again.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Heavy Fine Imposed on Ship Sarvin for Illegal Oil Discharge", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-3" }, { "no": "3673", "title": "Emergency Response Meetings Held for Air Quality Control", "preview": "Air\nEmergency Response Meetings Held for Air Quality Control\nOn 3 March 2018, in response to poor air quality in western Taiwan, the EPA established a central command center and held three emergency response meetings. In the meetings, the participants discussed control measures that could be taken to curb the air pollutants. The participants were from: the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taiwan Power Company, and other related ministries. During the meeting, a total of eight local command centers were established by different cities\/counties, and the emergency response measures that had been taken by both local and central governments were reported. The EPA also reminded both public and private premises to strengthen their air quality control when air pollution is more severe.", "content": "Emergency Response Meetings Held for Air Quality Control\nOn 3 March 2018, in response to poor air quality in western Taiwan, the EPA established a central command center and held three emergency response meetings. In the meetings, the participants discussed control measures that could be taken to curb the air pollutants. The participants were from: the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taiwan Power Company, and other related ministries. During the meeting, a total of eight local command centers were established by different cities\/counties, and the emergency response measures that had been taken by both local and central governments were reported. The EPA also reminded both public and private premises to strengthen their air quality control when air pollution is more severe. \nThe EPA forecasted that the air quality in western Taiwan on 4 March 2018 would be at the most severe level because of poor atmospheric dispersion conditions due to weaker morning wind speeds. The AQI in northern Taiwan and the Hsinchu\/Miaoli emission control zones was predicted to flash red for the day, but it was possible to drop to orange level if there were stronger wind speeds and better atmospheric dispersion conditions in the morning. However, with reduced wind speed at night and the accumulation of pollutants, the AQI level could resume to a red level. Affected by transboundary pollutants, Matsu Island and Kinmen Island were expected to receive red or orange alerts on 4 March. Orange alerts were also issued to central Taiwan and the Yunlin\/Chiayi\/Tainan emission control zones. On the other hand, the air quality in the Kaohsiung\/Pingtung zones and Penghu was rated moderate and the air quality in Yilan and Hualien\/Taitung zones was rated good.\nTo reduce the impact of air pollution on the following day, Taiwan Power Company started to take voluntary reduction measures and cut electricity output at the following plants starting on 2 March: Taichung Power Plant, Hsinta Power Plant, Hsieh-ho Power Plant, and Linkou Power Plant. In the meantime, various government-owned enterprises tried to help improve the air quality by increasing the use of natural gas to avoid burning more highly polluting fuel and by tightening the equipment testing and the regular inspections both within and around the plants. Moreover, they stopped soot blowing, increased the frequency of water sprinkling at raw material storage sites to prevent fugitive dust, operated in high energy efficient mode, and reduced pollutant emissions and total electricity output. \nThe EPA also reminded all participants of the Tainan Ancient Capital International Marathon held on the following day to carefully monitor their own health conditions. They were advised to immediately seek medical help if any symptoms were detected.\nThe EPA and government at all levels will continue taking emission reduction measures. The EPA will also keep a close eye on air quality changes and track the effectiveness of air pollution control measures.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Emergency Response Meetings Held for Air Quality Control", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-3" }, { "no": "3672", "title": "Amendments to Three Environmental Education Regulations Preannounced", "preview": "Environmental Education\nAmendments to Three Environmental Education Regulations Preannounced \nOn 6 March 2018, in response to the amendments to the Environmental Education Act announced on 29 November 2017 and considering the implementation status, the EPA preannounced draft amendments to the Environmental Education Act Enforcement Rules, Implementation Regulations for Environmental Education Plans and Results Reporting, and Regulations for Organizing Environmental Seminars.", "content": "Amendments to Three Environmental Education Regulations Preannounced \nOn 6 March 2018, in response to the amendments to the Environmental Education Act announced on 29 November 2017 and considering the implementation status, the EPA preannounced draft amendments to the Environmental Education Act Enforcement Rules, Implementation Regulations for Environmental Education Plans and Results Reporting, and Regulations for Organizing Environmental Seminars.\nThe EPA amended the enforcement rules to add the definition and implementation details of “other activities” for environmental education, which all employees, teachers, and students need to attend for at least four hours per year. Also, in order to provide the competent authority a clear reference and standards for penalties, the EPA set a deadline for taking such courses. The following are the main points of the amendments:\n1. The Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act will be included as one of the environmental protection laws specified in the Environmental Education Act. Also, the greenhouse gas management fund has been listed under the category of environmental protection fund.\n2. The Implementation Regulations for Environmental Education Plans and Results Reporting and the Regulations for Organizing Environmental Seminars have been formulated as authorized by the Environmental Education Act. Adjustments have also been made to remove outdated content. \n3. The definition of “other activities” stated in Article 19-3 of the Act has been added, which does not include visiting activities.\n4. To serve as a reference for issuing penalties, it has been added to Article 24 of the Act that the deadline for taking the environmental education courses shall not surpass 90 days.\nThe draft of the Implementation Regulations for Environmental Education Plans and Results Reporting was formulated in accordance with Article 19 Paragraph 2 of the Act. The main purpose of the implementation regulations is to educate all institutions, government-run business institutions, schools, and organizations with more than 50% of their funding sponsored by the government on how to formulate and implement environmental education plans and to report the outcomes of carrying out plans. As for the Regulations for Organizing Environmental Seminars, draft amendments have been made to lift the limit on the first hour of the seminar being environmental ethics lessons. Therefore, the disciplinary institution will be able to incorporate environmental protection related experience activities, internships, and practices when organizing an environmental seminar. Also, the amendments stipulate that offenders can apply for a one-time extension if they are unable to attend a seminar for a legitimate reason.\nThe EPA started holding environmental seminars in 2011. The Environmental Education Act stipulates that the following entities are required to participate in up to eight hours of environmental seminars: violators of environmental protection laws and autonomous entities that have been subjected to a fine higher than NT$5,000; and, businesses that have been suspended or shut down by the government. The Regulations for Organizing Environmental Seminars aims to strengthen the implementation of environmental seminars in order to enable the disciplinary organization to provide seminar contents that are better suited for the offenders, and serve as a clear standard and guideline for the disciplinary organization. Through these seminars, the EPA hopes to improve the environmental knowledge of offenders and educate them to respect and maintain the environment that all rely on.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Amendments to Three Environmental Education Regulations Preannounced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-3" }, { "no": "3671", "title": "Chemicals Amendments to Management Regulations for Toxic Chemical Substances Response, Detection, and Alarm Equipment Announced", "preview": "Chemicals Amendments to Management Regulations for Toxic Chemical Substances Response, Detection, and Alarm Equipment Announced \nThe EPA announced amendments to the Management Regulations for Toxic Chemical Substances Response, Detection, and Alarm Equipment. The amendments are intended to effectively implement safety measures and on-site warnings for harmful chemical substances for operators using toxic substances. The provisions stipulate specifications for response materials, and requirements for the installation, automatic records, data storage and regular maintenance of detection and alarm equipment. The changes should effectively increase the self-management capability of operators and lower the risk of accidents.", "content": "Amendments to Management Regulations for Toxic Chemical Substances Response, Detection, and Alarm Equipment Announced \nThe EPA announced amendments to the Management Regulations for Toxic Chemical Substances Response, Detection, and Alarm Equipment. The amendments are intended to effectively implement safety measures and on-site warnings for harmful chemical substances for operators using toxic substances. The provisions stipulate specifications for response materials, and requirements for the installation, automatic records, data storage and regular maintenance of detection and alarm equipment. The changes should effectively increase the self-management capability of operators and lower the risk of accidents. \nThe main points for the amendments include the following. Operators are to have protection gear ready for personnel in the event of dangerous exposure. They must install safety and leakage treatment systems, comparable to those for chlorine, for the highly toxic gases hydrogen cyanide and fluorine. Installed detection and alarm response systems are required to have automatic record keeping, record concentration values, and undergo regular maintenance and tests in order to ensure the alert and response functions will work properly in the event of an incident. Regarding accuracy of operator information, operators are to conduct biannual reviews of response equipment, detection and warning systems and operation plans. The amendments expand regulations for external pipeline management and provide standards for flow pressure in order to have better control of pipeline leakages.\nThe main items amended are as follows:\n1. Definitions and explanations are added for response and containment equipment, portable leakage detection systems, safety barriers and protection systems, external leakage treatment systems, backup power, and automatic recording.\n1. Regulations are specified for the amount of equipment for personal safety and air-supplying respirators on operating sites.\n2. Regulations are added regarding requirements for safety barriers and external leakage systems for toxic chemicals such as hydrogen cyanide and fluorine to reduce the risk of accidents.\n3. Regulations are added on the flow of toxic chemical substances in external pipes and automatic emergency signals in the event of an irregularity.\n4. Regulations are added stipulating that operators regularly inspect and update installation and operation plans for reporting systems, and response, detection and alarm equipment.\n5. Specifications are added for the configuration and function of detection and alarm systems.\n6. Regulations for mandatory tests and adjustments for response and alarm equipment are added.\n7. There have been changes in the production, use, and storage of certain toxic chemicals that have followed technological advancements and developments in response and alarm equipment. As such, there is no need for central competent authorities to issue regulations for installing additional response and alarm equipment. \n8. Those toxic chemicals include substances such as darocaine, aniline, chromium trioxide, phthalic anhydride, dimethyl sulfate, tributyltin oxide. Thus, previous regulations for additional equipment have been removed.\n9. For toxic chemical operators working before the implementation of these amendments, such operators are to complete inspections of response, detection, and alarm equipment within six months of promulgation of the amendments. There will be no leeway regarding the time for inspections. Relevant provisions have been deleted. \nThe EPA emphasized that there is a one-year grace period from the promulgation date of the amendments, which will be implemented in March 2019. The EPA urges operators to take pre-emptive measures as they can reduce the losses incurred from accidents. Operators must follow the regulations and provide the settings for response equipment, detection and alert systems as well as operational plans to the local competent authorities for future reference.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Chemicals", "titlename": "Chemicals Amendments to Management Regulations for Toxic Chemical Substances Response, Detection, and Alarm Equipment Announced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-3" }, { "no": "3670", "title": "Amendments to Management Regulations for Toxic Chemical Substances Response, Detection, and Alarm Equipment Announced", "preview": "Chemicals", "content": "Amendments to Management Regulations for Toxic Chemical Substances Response, Detection, and Alarm Equipment Announced \nThe EPA announced amendments to the Management Regulations for Toxic Chemical Substances Response, Detection, and Alarm Equipment. The amendments are intended to effectively implement safety measures and on-site warnings for harmful chemical substances for operators using toxic substances. The provisions stipulate specifications for response materials, and requirements for the installation, automatic records, data storage and regular maintenance of detection and alarm equipment. The changes should effectively increase the self-management capability of operators and lower the risk of accidents. \nThe main points for the amendments include the following. Operators are to have protection gear ready for personnel in the event of dangerous exposure. They must install safety and leakage treatment systems, comparable to those for chlorine, for the highly toxic gases hydrogen cyanide and fluorine. Installed detection and alarm response systems are required to have automatic record keeping, record concentration values, and undergo regular maintenance and tests in order to ensure the alert and response functions will work properly in the event of an incident. Regarding accuracy of operator information, operators are to conduct biannual reviews of response equipment, detection and warning systems and operation plans. The amendments expand regulations for external pipeline management and provide standards for flow pressure in order to have better control of pipeline leakages.\nThe main items amended are as follows:\n1. Definitions and explanations are added for response and containment equipment, portable leakage detection systems, safety barriers and protection systems, external leakage treatment systems, backup power, and automatic recording.\n1. Regulations are specified for the amount of equipment for personal safety and air-supplying respirators on operating sites.\n2. Regulations are added regarding requirements for safety barriers and external leakage systems for toxic chemicals such as hydrogen cyanide and fluorine to reduce the risk of accidents.\n3. Regulations are added on the flow of toxic chemical substances in external pipes and automatic emergency signals in the event of an irregularity.\n4. Regulations are added stipulating that operators regularly inspect and update installation and operation plans for reporting systems, and response, detection and alarm equipment.\n5. Specifications are added for the configuration and function of detection and alarm systems.\n6. Regulations for mandatory tests and adjustments for response and alarm equipment are added.\n7. There have been changes in the production, use, and storage of certain toxic chemicals that have followed technological advancements and developments in response and alarm equipment. As such, there is no need for central competent authorities to issue regulations for installing additional response and alarm equipment. \n8. Those toxic chemicals include substances such as darocaine, aniline, chromium trioxide, phthalic anhydride, dimethyl sulfate, tributyltin oxide. Thus, previous regulations for additional equipment have been removed.\n9. For toxic chemical operators working before the implementation of these amendments, such operators are to complete inspections of response, detection, and alarm equipment within six months of promulgation of the amendments. There will be no leeway regarding the time for inspections. Relevant provisions have been deleted. \nThe EPA emphasized that there is a one-year grace period from the promulgation date of the amendments, which will be implemented in March 2019. The EPA urges operators to take pre-emptive measures as they can reduce the losses incurred from accidents. Operators must follow the regulations and provide the settings for response equipment, detection and alert systems as well as operational plans to the local competent authorities for future reference.\n\nAmendments to Management Regulations for Toxic Chemical Substances Response, Detection, and Alarm Equipment Announced \nThe EPA announced amendments to the Management Regulations for Toxic Chemical Substances Response, Detection, and Alarm Equipment. The amendments are intended to effectively implement safety measures and on-site warnings for harmful chemical substances for operators using toxic substances. The provisions stipulate specifications for response materials, and requirements for the installation, automatic records, data storage and regular maintenance of detection and alarm equipment. The changes should effectively increase the self-management capability of operators and lower the risk of accidents. \nThe main points for the amendments include the following. Operators are to have protection gear ready for personnel in the event of dangerous exposure. They must install safety and leakage treatment systems, comparable to those for chlorine, for the highly toxic gases hydrogen cyanide and fluorine. Installed detection and alarm response systems are required to have automatic record keeping, record concentration values, and undergo regular maintenance and tests in order to ensure the alert and response functions will work properly in the event of an incident. Regarding accuracy of operator information, operators are to conduct biannual reviews of response equipment, detection and warning systems and operation plans. The amendments expand regulations for external pipeline management and provide standards for flow pressure in order to have better control of pipeline leakages.\nThe main items amended are as follows:\n1. Definitions and explanations are added for response and containment equipment, portable leakage detection systems, safety barriers and protection systems, external leakage treatment systems, backup power, and automatic recording.\n1. Regulations are specified for the amount of equipment for personal safety and air-supplying respirators on operating sites.\n2. Regulations are added regarding requirements for safety barriers and external leakage systems for toxic chemicals such as hydrogen cyanide and fluorine to reduce the risk of accidents.\n3. Regulations are added on the flow of toxic chemical substances in external pipes and automatic emergency signals in the event of an irregularity.\n4. Regulations are added stipulating that operators regularly inspect and update installation and operation plans for reporting systems, and response, detection and alarm equipment.\n5. Specifications are added for the configuration and function of detection and alarm systems.\n6. Regulations for mandatory tests and adjustments for response and alarm equipment are added.\n7. There have been changes in the production, use, and storage of certain toxic chemicals that have followed technological advancements and developments in response and alarm equipment. As such, there is no need for central competent authorities to issue regulations for installing additional response and alarm equipment. \n8. Those toxic chemicals include substances such as darocaine, aniline, chromium trioxide, phthalic anhydride, dimethyl sulfate, tributyltin oxide. Thus, previous regulations for additional equipment have been removed.\n9. For toxic chemical operators working before the implementation of these amendments, such operators are to complete inspections of response, detection, and alarm equipment within six months of promulgation of the amendments. There will be no leeway regarding the time for inspections. Relevant provisions have been deleted. \nThe EPA emphasized that there is a one-year grace period from the promulgation date of the amendments, which will be implemented in March 2019. The EPA urges operators to take pre-emptive measures as they can reduce the losses incurred from accidents. Operators must follow the regulations and provide the settings for response equipment, detection and alert systems as well as operational plans to the local competent authorities for future reference.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Chemicals", "titlename": "Amendments to Management Regulations for Toxic Chemical Substances Response, Detection, and Alarm Equipment Announced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-3" }, { "no": "3669", "title": "2017 Green Car Models Announced", "preview": "Air\n 2017 Green Car Models Announced", "content": "2017 Green Car Models Announced", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "2017 Green Car Models Announced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-3" }, { "no": "3668", "title": "Recycling Rate Reaches Record High of 50%", "preview": "Recycling Recycling Rate Reaches Record High of 50%", "content": "Recycling Rate Reaches Record High of 50%", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Recycling Rate Reaches Record High of 50%", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-3" }, { "no": "3667", "title": "Promoting Natural Gas Power Generation during Poor Air Quality Season", "preview": "Air\nPromoting Natural Gas Power Generation during Poor Air Quality Season \nTo improve air quality, the EPA advocates a policy of expanding the use of natural gas for power generation. During the time of year most prone to poor air quality, it is necessary to adjust the means of power generation, and thus power plants are required to increase the use of natural gas for power generation, or, natural gas receiving stations are required to increase their supply to power generation plants. To facilitate this, the EPA waives the restrictions on power plants regarding emission volumes and total quantity control, as specified in the plants’ business certificates.", "content": "Promoting Natural Gas Power Generation during Poor Air Quality Season \nTo improve air quality, the EPA advocates a policy of expanding the use of natural gas for power generation. During the time of year most prone to poor air quality, it is necessary to adjust the means of power generation, and thus power plants are required to increase the use of natural gas for power generation, or, natural gas receiving stations are required to increase their supply to power generation plants. To facilitate this, the EPA waives the restrictions on power plants regarding emission volumes and total quantity control, as specified in the plants’ business certificates. \nTo cope with seasonal poor air quality, the EPA announced on 31 October 2016 that public or private premises that adopt low-polluting fuel power generation facilities or supply low-polluting gas fuel to power generation facilities shall be exempt from punishment under the Air Pollution Control Act once their proposed actions have been reviewed and approved beforehand. This is done to enhance the flexibility of using natural gas for power generation. Qualifying enterprises, however, must file their applications with the local competent authority before they can conduct their operations. Once their applications are approved, they should still comply with regulations governing standards for air pollutant emissions. In the event that weather conditions are not conducive to the diffusion of air pollutants, or when air quality shows clear signs of deterioration, or when enterprises fail to conduct their operations in accordance with regulations, the relevant competent authorities shall have the power to order suspension or stoppage of such enterprises’ operations. \nThe EPA emphasized that Taiwan’s poor air quality season occurs from October to March. Academics and people from all sectors of society have called attention to the fact that many lower-polluting natural gas power generation plants have not been put to full use in this period. They maintain that during fall and winter, the operation of coal-fired power plants should be reduced, and principally replaced by natural gas power plants to greatly reduce air pollution. Natural gas power plants also produce air pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, however they produce much less air pollution compared to coal-fired power plants. The EPA has thus specifically revised its restrictions on natural gas power generation, allowing Taipower and ten other private power companies to reduce their impacts on air pollution during the poor air quality season, and improve the air quality during fall and winter. \nAccording to the EPA, the low nitrogen oxide burner (LNB) has been developed to the point where source control of nitrogen oxide emission concentrations can be below 10 ppm, and selective catalyst reduction equipment (SCR) nitrogen oxide tube end treatment efficiency has been raised up at least 80%. In the future, the EPA will request existing power generation plants to phase out old LNBs so as to reduce the production of nitrogen oxides, while at the same time increasing the number of preventive facilities such as (SCRs). In addition, the EPA will supervise local governments to control the emission volumes from natural gas power generation plants through continuous automated monitoring and strengthen the control measures during fall and winter. In this way, the emission of pollutants can be greatly reduced, and domestic air quality can be greatly improved.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Promoting Natural Gas Power Generation during Poor Air Quality Season", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-3" }, { "no": "3666", "title": "EPA, Police and Prosecutors Jointly Crack Down on Illegal Dumping and Excavation Refill", "preview": "Environmental Inspection\nEPA, Police and Prosecutors Jointly Crack Down on Illegal Dumping and Excavation Refill \nSeveral enterprises in Kaohsiung City, Hsinchu County, Taoyuan City and Miaoli County disposed of sludge and waste solvents through illegal waste clearance companies for a low price. The wastes were later found illegally dumped in six warehouses and illegal landfills located in Taoyuan City and Hsinchu County. On 17 March 2017, after a year of investigation, the Taoyuan District Prosecutors Office prosecuted all the violating enterprises involved in the cases in accordance with the Waste Disposal Act. The violators will face sentences of up to five years in prison, a maximum fine of NT$15 million, and a requirement to pay for cleaning and recovery of the dumping sites. In addition, an enterprise in Yunlin County that was found to be refilling sites illegally was fined, and its illegal gains were confiscated.", "content": "EPA, Police and Prosecutors Jointly Crack Down on Illegal Dumping and Excavation Refill", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Inspection", "titlename": "EPA, Police and Prosecutors Jointly Crack Down on Illegal Dumping and Excavation Refill", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-3" }, { "no": "3665", "title": "Controls on Illegal Chemicals Tightened to Secure Egg Product Safety", "preview": "Chemicals\nControls on Illegal Chemicals Tightened to Secure Egg Product Safety\nLunar New Year is the time when a large variety of food products hit the market. Recently, the Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau (TCSB) of the EPA and the Council of Agriculture (COA) jointly assisted egg farmers with the safe usage and control of related chemical substances. This helped to ensure the safety of eggs and food products containing eggs, so that the public could consume them without safety concerns.", "content": "Controls on Illegal Chemicals Tightened to Secure Egg Product Safety\nLunar New Year is the time when a large variety of food products hit the market. Recently, the Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau (TCSB) of the EPA and the Council of Agriculture (COA) jointly assisted egg farmers with the safe usage and control of related chemical substances. This helped to ensure the safety of eggs and food products containing eggs, so that the public could consume them without safety concerns.\nThe TCSB said that feed additives are likely to come from raw chemical material suppliers. Since its establishment in 2016, the TCSB has worked with county and city environmental bureaus to assist and inspect over 3,000 raw chemical material suppliers in Taiwan to implement at-source controls for food safety. Besides re-inspections of raw chemical material suppliers in 2018, the 2018 Egg Farmers’ Chemical Substances Self-Management Improving Plan was also implemented. In addition, the inspection and assisting of egg farms have been expanded, with the completion of 20 farm inspections before the lunar New Year. Instruction on four principles for farm chemical substance controls were given as well, namely: clarifying origins, applying chemicals correctly, using chemicals safely, and storage management. \nAlso, the Guidance for Egg Farmers Chemical Substance Self-Management will be formulated in 2018. It will include organizing 20 to 30 education workshops, building partnerships with egg farmers, and collaborating to stop chemical contamination of egg products. All are efforts to prevent food safety incidents like fipronil-contaminated chicken eggs and duck eggs contaminated with Sudan Red G from occurring again.\nThe TCSB emphasized that only a few egg farmers use chemicals that make eggs presentable for sale, despite their health risks, probably because they are unfamiliar with components in feed additives or are persuaded by salespersons’ pitches or misleading local rumors. However, the use of illegal drugs and disinfectants for disease vector control stirs up public concern. Through conveying to egg farmers the correct usage of chemical substances, the EPA hopes to help farmers make reasonable profits, while ensuring public health and safeguarding food safety.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Chemicals", "titlename": "Controls on Illegal Chemicals Tightened to Secure Egg Product Safety", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-3" }, { "no": "3664", "title": "Taiwan’s Response to International Climate Agreements", "preview": "Taiwan’s Response to International Climate Agreements\nClosely related to the sustainable development of all nations and the continued existence of species, climate change is an urgent challenge faced by the international community. As average global temperatures keep reaching record highs, impacting human survival and ecosystems, Taiwan continues to cut carbon emissions by following the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. In 2017, the National Climate Change Action Guidelines that had been formulated by the EPA and related agencies was approved by the Executive Yuan. The Guidelines not only lay out principles for national greenhouse gas reduction and climate change mitigation policies, but launched the interministerial response to jointly reach the carbon reduction goals stated in the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act.", "content": "Taiwan’s Response to International Climate Agreements\nClosely related to the sustainable development of all nations and the continued existence of species, climate change is an urgent challenge faced by the international community. As average global temperatures keep reaching record highs, impacting human survival and ecosystems, Taiwan continues to cut carbon emissions by following the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. In 2017, the National Climate Change Action Guidelines that had been formulated by the EPA and related agencies was approved by the Executive Yuan. The Guidelines not only lay out principles for national greenhouse gas reduction and climate change mitigation policies, but launched the interministerial response to jointly reach the carbon reduction goals stated in the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act.\nIn response to global carbon reduction efforts, the Executive Yuan approved the National Climate Change Action Guidelines in February 2017. The Guidelines serve as the general directions for policies on greenhouse gas mitigation and adaptation to climate change. The EPA consulted with various central industrial competent authorities to set carbon reduction goals for the first stage. To jointly lower emissions, practical responsibilities have been delegated to each sector after referring to emission contributions, current emissions, reduction trends as well as potential reductions in the energy, production, transportation, residential and business, agricultural, and environmental sectors. A public hearing was also held on 23 November 2017 in order to collect opinions from the public. Approved by the Executive Yuan on 23 January 2018, the Guidelines stipulate reductions that start slowly and later accelerate. The target of cutting emissions by 2020 to 2% lower than that of the baseline year 2005, and other mid-term goals, are outlined. It aims to gradually achieve the long-term reduction goals during the next 139 years.\nTo reach the reduction goals of each stage, the EPA consulted with central regulatory authorities and formulated the draft Greenhouse Gas Reduction Promotion Program. It was submitted to the Executive Yuan on 2 January 2018 for approval and future implementation. Since carbon reduction efforts involve transformation of energy sources, consumer behaviors, and industrial structures, countries tend to proceed via cautious planning and promotion with long-term goals set for 2030 or 2050. Taiwan’s current new energy policies and conservation movements will start a preliminary energy transformation, although it may even slightly increase carbon emissions. However, in the long run, with all ministries shouldering their responsibilities and through continuous hard work, the long-term reduction goals can be accomplished.\nTo build an incentive mechanism that encourages emission sources to cut greenhouse gases, the EPA has established inventory, audit, and registration systems and gathered data of major carbon-emitting enterprises. A total of 280 enterprises, which account for 87.6% of Taiwan’s industrial and energy sources of carbon emissions, are listed as under regulatory control. Furthermore, seven greenhouse gas auditing institutes are permitted to authenticate various data and information, which will be used as a basis to establish total control and emission trading systems.\nVarious incentive measures\nTo raise industry’s awareness of climate change mitigation and carbon emission reduction, the EPA has been promoting the system for carbon footprint labels. Also, the Low-Carbon Product Award Regulations were promulgated on 10 July 2017 to increase tangible incentives for enterprises to apply for carbon footprint labels (or “carbon labels”) and carbon footprint reduction labels (or “carbon reduction labels”).\nIn addition, the EPA drafted the Regulations Governing Incentives for Greenhouse Emission Sources Compliant with Efficiency Standards. These regulations aim to reward announced emission sources that have begun to take carbon emission mitigation measures before being included in the total emission control, as well as to serve as a basis for the certification of Taiwan’s voluntary mitigation results. Subsidies are also in place to reward enterprises that install generators to produce electricity from methane extracted from landfills.\nBuilding a low-carbon sustainable homeland\nTo strengthen local capacities to achieve low-carbon status, the EPA and regional governments actively promoted the Low-Carbon Sustainable Homeland Certification and Rating Promotion Plan. Villages, neighborhoods, towns, and regional governments are encouraged and helped to sign up to receive a rating. From 1 July 2014 to February 2018, participants comprised a total of 22 regional governments, 325 towns and cities (accounting for 88.3% of 368 towns in Taiwan with an average county\/city participation of over 50%), and 3,474 villages\/neighborhoods (accounting for 44.2% of 7,851 villages\/neighborhoods in Taiwan with an average county\/city participation of 35%). Fifty-three silver class certifications and 861 bronze class certifications were awarded after evaluation. In 2017, a total of 138 communities were newly certified.\nThe average energy conservation per person at the borough level in 2017 compared to 2016 have been analyzed, showing that the average energy saved was 3.79 kWh\/person in boroughs that did not participate in the certification, 4.22 kWh\/person in participating boroughs, and 5.74 kWh\/person in boroughs receiving bronze certification, and 14.91 kWh\/person in boroughs receiving silver certification. This is evidence of largely improved public awareness of the importance of energy conservation and carbon reduction and that participants are working hard to achieve and live a low-carbon lifestyle by adopting new behaviors.\nRaising public awareness to act on climate change\nAn information disclosure platform has been established to promote strategies for a low-carbon and sustainable lifestyle. Also, an online platform has been set up to integrate diverse knowledge and information relevant to climate change, energy conservation, carbon reduction, low-carbon lifestyles, and impact mitigation. It serves as a channel to promote policies in response to climate change and practical tips on living a low-carbon life.\nRegional governments and civic organizations are brought together to cooperate on energy conservation, carbon reduction, and climate change mitigation. In 2017, 22 regional governments have been subsidized with a total of NT$61,500,000. In addition, promotion of energy conservation and carbon reduction measures are carried out in local communities alongside the efforts of civic organizations to encourage participation in environmental protection activities and events. A total of 47 civic organizations have received grants to jointly build a low-carbon sustainable society.\nEnterprises that perform well are also given rewards for emission reduction. Those that install generators to produce electricity from methane extracted from landfills are provided with monetary rewards, with a total of NT$5,712,000 disbursed in 2017. Such capacity for treatment of methane reached 10,065 metric tons, equivalent to reducing 70,588 metric tons of carbon emissions.\nTaiwan’s Response to International Climate Agreements\nClosely related to the sustainable development of all nations and the continued existence of species, climate change is an urgent challenge faced by the international community. As average global temperatures keep reaching record highs, impacting human survival and ecosystems, Taiwan continues to cut carbon emissions by following the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. In 2017, the National Climate Change Action Guidelines that had been formulated by the EPA and related agencies was approved by the Executive Yuan. The Guidelines not only lay out principles for national greenhouse gas reduction and climate change mitigation policies, but launched the interministerial response to jointly reach the carbon reduction goals stated in the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act.\nIn response to global carbon reduction efforts, the Executive Yuan approved the National Climate Change Action Guidelines in February 2017. The Guidelines serve as the general directions for policies on greenhouse gas mitigation and adaptation to climate change. The EPA consulted with various central industrial competent authorities to set carbon reduction goals for the first stage. To jointly lower emissions, practical responsibilities have been delegated to each sector after referring to emission contributions, current emissions, reduction trends as well as potential reductions in the energy, production, transportation, residential and business, agricultural, and environmental sectors. A public hearing was also held on 23 November 2017 in order to collect opinions from the public. Approved by the Executive Yuan on 23 January 2018, the Guidelines stipulate reductions that start slowly and later accelerate. The target of cutting emissions by 2020 to 2% lower than that of the baseline year 2005, and other mid-term goals, are outlined. It aims to gradually achieve the long-term reduction goals during the next 139 years.\nTo reach the reduction goals of each stage, the EPA consulted with central regulatory authorities and formulated the draft Greenhouse Gas Reduction Promotion Program. It was submitted to the Executive Yuan on 2 January 2018 for approval and future implementation. Since carbon reduction efforts involve transformation of energy sources, consumer behaviors, and industrial structures, countries tend to proceed via cautious planning and promotion with long-term goals set for 2030 or 2050. Taiwan’s current new energy policies and conservation movements will start a preliminary energy transformation, although it may even slightly increase carbon emissions. However, in the long run, with all ministries shouldering their responsibilities and through continuous hard work, the long-term reduction goals can be accomplished.\nTo build an incentive mechanism that encourages emission sources to cut greenhouse gases, the EPA has established inventory, audit, and registration systems and gathered data of major carbon-emitting enterprises. A total of 280 enterprises, which account for 87.6% of Taiwan’s industrial and energy sources of carbon emissions, are listed as under regulatory control. Furthermore, seven greenhouse gas auditing institutes are permitted to authenticate various data and information, which will be used as a basis to establish total control and emission trading systems.\nVarious incentive measures\nTo raise industry’s awareness of climate change mitigation and carbon emission reduction, the EPA has been promoting the system for carbon footprint labels. Also, the Low-Carbon Product Award Regulations were promulgated on 10 July 2017 to increase tangible incentives for enterprises to apply for carbon footprint labels (or “carbon labels”) and carbon footprint reduction labels (or “carbon reduction labels”).\nIn addition, the EPA drafted the Regulations Governing Incentives for Greenhouse Emission Sources Compliant with Efficiency Standards. These regulations aim to reward announced emission sources that have begun to take carbon emission mitigation measures before being included in the total emission control, as well as to serve as a basis for the certification of Taiwan’s voluntary mitigation results. Subsidies are also in place to reward enterprises that install generators to produce electricity from methane extracted from landfills.\nBuilding a low-carbon sustainable homeland\nTo strengthen local capacities to achieve low-carbon status, the EPA and regional governments actively promoted the Low-Carbon Sustainable Homeland Certification and Rating Promotion Plan. Villages, neighborhoods, towns, and regional governments are encouraged and helped to sign up to receive a rating. From 1 July 2014 to February 2018, participants comprised a total of 22 regional governments, 325 towns and cities (accounting for 88.3% of 368 towns in Taiwan with an average county\/city participation of over 50%), and 3,474 villages\/neighborhoods (accounting for 44.2% of 7,851 villages\/neighborhoods in Taiwan with an average county\/city participation of 35%). Fifty-three silver class certifications and 861 bronze class certifications were awarded after evaluation. In 2017, a total of 138 communities were newly certified.\nThe average energy conservation per person at the borough level in 2017 compared to 2016 have been analyzed, showing that the average energy saved was 3.79 kWh\/person in boroughs that did not participate in the certification, 4.22 kWh\/person in participating boroughs, and 5.74 kWh\/person in boroughs receiving bronze certification, and 14.91 kWh\/person in boroughs receiving silver certification. This is evidence of largely improved public awareness of the importance of energy conservation and carbon reduction and thTaiwan’s Response to International Climate Agreements\nClosely related to the sustainable development of all nations and the continued existence of species, climate change is an urgent challenge faced by the international community. As average global temperatures keep reaching record highs, impacting human survival and ecosystems, Taiwan continues to cut carbon emissions by following the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. In 2017, the National Climate Change Action Guidelines that had been formulated by the EPA and related agencies was approved by the Executive Yuan. The Guidelines not only lay out principles for national greenhouse gas reduction and climate change mitigation policies, but launched the interministerial response to jointly reach the carbon reduction goals stated in the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act.\nIn response to global carbon reduction efforts, the Executive Yuan approved the National Climate Change Action Guidelines in February 2017. The Guidelines serve as the general directions for policies on greenhouse gas mitigation and adaptation to climate change. The EPA consulted with various central industrial competent authorities to set carbon reduction goals for the first stage. To jointly lower emissions, practical responsibilities have been delegated to each sector after referring to emission contributions, current emissions, reduction trends as well as potential reductions in the energy, production, transportation, residential and business, agricultural, and environmental sectors. A public hearing was also held on 23 November 2017 in order to collect opinions from the public. Approved by the Executive Yuan on 23 January 2018, the Guidelines stipulate reductions that start slowly and later accelerate. The target of cutting emissions by 2020 to 2% lower than that of the baseline year 2005, and other mid-term goals, are outlined. It aims to gradually achieve the long-term reduction goals during the next 139 years.\nTo reach the reduction goals of each stage, the EPA consulted with central regulatory authorities and formulated the draft Greenhouse Gas Reduction Promotion Program. It was submitted to the Executive Yuan on 2 January 2018 for approval and future implementation. Since carbon reduction efforts involve transformation of energy sources, consumer behaviors, and industrial structures, countries tend to proceed via cautious planning and promotion with long-term goals set for 2030 or 2050. Taiwan’s current new energy policies and conservation movements will start a preliminary energy transformation, although it may even slightly increase carbon emissions. However, in the long run, with all ministries shouldering their responsibilities and through continuous hard work, the long-term reduction goals can be accomplished.\nTo build an incentive mechanism that encourages emission sources to cut greenhouse gases, the EPA has established inventory, audit, and registration systems and gathered data of major carbon-emitting enterprises. A total of 280 enterprises, which account for 87.6% of Taiwan’s industrial and energy sources of carbon emissions, are listed as under regulatory control. Furthermore, seven greenhouse gas auditing institutes are permitted to authenticate various data and information, which will be used as a basis to establish total control and emission trading systems.\nVarious incentive measures\nTo raise industry’s awareness of climate change mitigation and carbon emission reduction, the EPA has been promoting the system for carbon footprint labels. Also, the Low-Carbon Product Award Regulations were promulgated on 10 July 2017 to increase tangible incentives for enterprises to apply for carbon footprint labels (or “carbon labels”) and carbon footprint reduction labels (or “carbon reduction labels”).\nIn addition, the EPA drafted the Regulations Governing Incentives for Greenhouse Emission Sources Compliant with Efficiency Standards. These regulations aim to reward announced emission sources that have begun to take carbon emission mitigation measures before being included in the total emission control, as well as to serve as a basis for the certification of Taiwan’s voluntary mitigation results. Subsidies are also in place to reward enterprises that install generators to produce electricity from methane extracted from landfills.\nBuilding a low-carbon sustainable homeland\nTo strengthen local capacities to achieve low-carbon status, the EPA and regional governments actively promoted the Low-Carbon Sustainable Homeland Certification and Rating Promotion Plan. Villages, neighborhoods, towns, and regional governments are encouraged and helped to sign up to receive a rating. From 1 July 2014 to February 2018, participants comprised a total of 22 regional governments, 325 towns and cities (accounting for 88.3% of 368 towns in Taiwan with an average county\/city participation of over 50%), and 3,474 villages\/neighborhoods (accounting for 44.2% of 7,851 villages\/neighborhoods in Taiwan with an average county\/city participation of 35%). Fifty-three silver class certifications and 861 bronze class certifications were awarded after evaluation. In 2017, a total of 138 communities were newly certified.\nThe average energy conservation per person at the borough level in 2017 compared to 2016 have been analyzed, showing that the average energy saved was 3.79 kWh\/person in boroughs that did not participate in the certification, 4.22 kWh\/person in participating boroughs, and 5.74 kWh\/person in boroughs receiving bronze certification, and 14.91 kWh\/person in boroughs receiving silver certification. This is evidence of largely improved public awareness of the importance of energy conservation and carbon reduction and that participants are working hard to achieve and live a low-carbon lifestyle by adopting new behaviors.\nRaising public awareness to act on climate change\nAn information disclosure platform has been established to promote strategies for a low-carbon and sustainable lifestyle. Also, an online platform has been set up to integrate diverse knowledge and information relevant to climate change, energy conservation, carbon reduction, low-carbon lifestyles, and impact mitigation. It serves as a channel to promote policies in response to climate change and practical tips on living a low-carbon life.\nRegional governments and civic organizations are brought together to cooperate on energy conservation, carbon reduction, and climate change mitigation. In 2017, 22 regional governments have been subsidized with a total of NT$61,500,000. In addition, promotion of energy conservation and carbon reduction measures are carried out in local communities alongside the efforts of civic organizations to encourage participation in environmental protection activities and events. A total of 47 civic organizations have received grants to jointly build a low-carbon sustainable society.\nEnterprises that perform well are also given rewards for emission reduction. Those that install generators to produce electricity from methane extracted from landfills are provided with monetary rewards, with a total of NT$5,712,000 disbursed in 2017. Such capacity for treatment of methane reached 10,065 metric tons, equivalent to reducing 70,588 metric tons of carbon emissions.\nat participants are working hard to achieve and live a low-carbon lifestyle by adopting new behaviors.\nRaising public awareness to act on climate change\nAn information disclosure platform has been established to promote strategies for a low-carbon and sustainable lifestyle. Also, an online platform has been set up to integrate diverse knowledge and information relevant to climate change, energy conservation, carbon reduction, low-carbon lifestyles, and impact mitigation. It serves as a channel to promote policies in response to climate change and practical tips on living a low-carbon life.\nRegional governments and civic organizations are brought together to cooperate on energy conservation, carbon reduction, and climate change mitigation. In 2017, 22 regional governments have been subsidized with a total of NT$61,500,000. In addition, promotion of energy conservation and carbon reduction measures are carried out in local communities alongside the efforts of civic organizations to encourage participation in environmental protection activities and events. A total of 47 civic organizations have received grants to jointly build a low-carbon sustainable society.\nEnterprises that perform well are also given rewards for emission reduction. Those that install generators to produce electricity from methane extracted from landfills are provided with monetary rewards, with a total of NT$5,712,000 disbursed in 2017. Such capacity for treatment of methane reached 10,065 metric tons, equivalent to reducing 70,588 metric tons of carbon emissions.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate change", "titlename": "Taiwan’s Response to International Climate Agreements", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-3" }, { "no": "3665", "title": "", "preview": "", "content": "", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "", "titlename": "", "position": "" }, { "no": "3664", "title": "", "preview": "", "content": "", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "", "titlename": "", "position": "" }, { "no": "3663", "title": "Motorcycle Exhaust Inspection Rate Reaches 72%", "preview": "Air\n Motorcycle Exhaust Inspection Rate Reaches 72%", "content": "Motorcycle Exhaust Inspection Rate Reaches 72%\nTo raise public awareness of regular motorcycle maintenance and inspections and address the air pollution problems caused by motorcycles, the EPA has been implementing regular motorcycle exhaust inspections since 1998. In 2017, more than 6.7 million motorcycles were inspected, which resulted in an increased rate of motorcycles showing up for inspections, from 39.4% to 72%, as well as a lower amount of failing results. Statistics further indicate that motorcycles inspected regularly usually have a lower pollutant concentration compared to those not inspected regularly, and also have a lower tendency to fail inspections. This proves that the motorcycle inspection scheme has an effect on reducing pollutant emissions. \n\nIn the latest draft amendments to the Air Pollution Control Act, the EPA has revised the inspection of “in-use motorcycles” to “registered motorcycles” in order to make enforcement easier. The EPA also changed the minimum fine to NT$500 in proportion to the seriousness of the violation. In addition, the EPA reminds the public that if any of the following situations occurs and improvements are not made before the second appointed deadline, their license plates will be cancelled by the motor vehicle supervision authorities: motorcycles not showing up for inspections within six months of the assigned time; motorcycles not registering for a re-inspection in accordance with the law; or, failing the re-inspection. The EPA expects that these measures will raise vehicle owners’ willingness to take their vehicles in for inspections and re-inspections, maintain and repair their motorcycles, and replace old motorcycles.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Motorcycle Exhaust Inspection Rate Reaches 72%", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-2" }, { "no": "3662", "title": "Management Regulations for Reuse of Common Industrial Waste Announced", "preview": "Waste\n \nManagement Regulations for Reuse of Common Industrial Waste Announced", "content": "Management Regulations for Reuse of Common Industrial Waste Announced\nTo carry out resource recycling and reuse, the EPA announced the Management Regulations for Reuse of Common Industrial Waste on 8 January 2018. The regulations stipulate that, if deemed necessary, the EPA will be responsible for enacting unified reuse category and management regulations when certain industrial waste is reused by two or more industries. \nCurrently, industrial wastes that are reused by industries falling under two competent authorities are considered as control priorities, such as food waste, used cooking oil, scrap iron, paper, glass, plastics, scrap single metals (copper, zinc, aluminum, and tin), and disused concrete utility poles. In the future, the control of industrial waste reuse will focus on source control and product management. Hence, reuse organizations are requested to register for reuse review and submit their industrial waste disposal plans in advance. In addition, they are also required to report the reutilization of their industrial waste and track the waste flow. If there is any violation against the waste reuse management regulations, the facility’s qualification for waste reuse will be annulled, fines or penalties will be imposed, and improvements will be required by a limited time.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Management Regulations for Reuse of Common Industrial Waste Announced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-2" }, { "no": "3661", "title": "Unlimited Fine Incorporated in Draft Regulations for Determination and Calculation of Illegal Gains", "preview": "Waste\n Unlimited Fine Incorporated in Draft Regulations for Determination and Calculation of Illegal Gains\nIn response to the new amendments to the Waste Disposal Act, the EPA has formulated a draft of the Determining and Calculating of Illegal Gains Obtained from Waste Disposal Act Violations. The regulations focus on harsher penalties, confiscation of illegal gains and the removal of the limits on the fines.", "content": "Unlimited Fine Incorporated in Draft Regulations for Determination and Calculation of Illegal Gains\nIn response to the new amendments to the Waste Disposal Act, the EPA has formulated a draft of the Determining and Calculating of Illegal Gains Obtained from Waste Disposal Act Violations. The regulations focus on harsher penalties, confiscation of illegal gains and the removal of the limits on the fines.\n\nAccording to Article 63-1 Paragraph 2 of the Waste Disposal Act amended on 18 January 2017, if ill-gotten gains from violations surpass the maximum amount of the statutory fine, the penalty shall be aggregated within the scope of the ill-gotten gain and not be limited by the maximum of the statutory fine. Therefore, to help executing authorities determine and calculate the illegal gains obtained by violators, the EPA has formulated the draft of Determining and Calculating Illegal Gains Obtained from Waste Disposal Act Violations, pursuant to the Waste Disposal Act.\n\nThe draft of the regulations also includes: the types of illegal gains (such as active gains and passive gains), sources of data\/information for calculating illegal gains, methods to determine the period for which illegal gains should be calculated, methods to calculate\/estimate illegal gains, penalties for any involved violators who gained illegal benefits, etc. Meanwhile, executing authorities will be required to commission professional agencies for the calculation and estimation of illegal gains. \n\nThe EPA aims to deter deliberate violations of the Waste Disposal Act by punishing violators financially with fines and confiscating their illegal gains.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Unlimited Fine Incorporated in Draft Regulations for Determination and Calculation of Illegal Gains", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-2" }, { "no": "3660", "title": "List of Products Made from Industrial Waste Requiring Flow Tracking Announced", "preview": "Waste\n7. List of Products Made from Industrial Waste Requiring Flow Tracking Announced\nIn accordance with the amendments to the Waste Disposal Act, the EPA has listed industrial waste products for land reclamation or land accretion that require flow tracking. This was done in order to prevent inappropriate uses of or refilling with such products that could pollute the environment or harm human health. The announcement will go into effect on 1 August 2018.", "content": "List of Products Made from Industrial Waste Requiring Flow Tracking Announced\nIn accordance with the amendments to the Waste Disposal Act, the EPA has listed industrial waste products for land reclamation or land accretion that require flow tracking. This was done in order to prevent inappropriate uses of or refilling with such products that could pollute the environment or harm human health. The announcement will go into effect on 1 August 2018.\nAmendments to the Waste Disposal Act were announced on 18 January 2017, adding Article 39-1 which states that the central industry competent authority shall be responsible for the whereabouts of the reuse products which are designated by the central competent authority, and shall conduct environmental monitoring when necessary. The situations needing tracking include: (1) when reuse products are used in sea or land reclamation; (2) when reuse products are used improperly and are likely to endanger the environment or human health; or (3) when the central competent authority considers it necessary to strengthen the control of such reuse products.\n\nThe objective of the amendments is to utilize mechanisms such as flow tracking or environmental monitoring to prevent inappropriate use of reused products, which can harm both the environment and human health. In addition, the amendments allow the government to better control the environmental impacts of reused products and promote appropriate applications.\nIn consideration of the concept of the amendments and practical needs, the EPA listed industrial waste applications for land reclamation and accretion as the Reused Products from Industrial Waste Required for Tracking. The reuse of coal ash, waste foundry and electric arc furnace slag – all products made of industrial wastes – as accretion materials for construction projects or as road base components will be tracked by the relevant ministries in accordance with the Waste Disposal Act. Should reuse present any risk of environmental harm, monitoring will be carried out to prevent the inappropriate use of materials that can pollute the environment. The regulations will enter into effect on 1 August 2018.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "List of Products Made from Industrial Waste Requiring Flow Tracking Announced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-2" }, { "no": "3659", "title": "Amendments to Motor Vehicle Noise Control Standards Announced", "preview": "Noise Control\n6. Amendments to Motor Vehicle Noise Control Standards Announced\nTo effectively control the noise produced by motor vehicles and align with international standards, the EPA announced amendments to Article 3 Table 2 of the Motor Vehicle Noise Control Standards on 22 January 2018. These amendments tighten restrictions on motor vehicle noise to make domestic standards consistent with international ones.", "content": "Amendments to Motor Vehicle Noise Control Standards Announced\nTo effectively control the noise produced by motor vehicles and align with international standards, the EPA announced amendments to Article 3 Table 2 of the Motor Vehicle Noise Control Standards on 22 January 2018. These amendments tighten restrictions on motor vehicle noise to make domestic standards consistent with international ones.\n\nThe EPA states that noise from engines, intake, exhaust and tires make up the primary sources of motor vehicle noise. However, the previous inspection regimen focused heavily on restricting noise from engines, intakes, and exhaust. With advancements in automotive technology, sources of noise from city driving are not limited to the power systems of vehicles; tire noise has seen a steady increase in relative importance. Newly promulgated UN and EU noise control limits and inspection methods have drastically changed the tests for noise produced by vehicle acceleration. \n\nTo effectively reduce the impact of city traffic noise on people’s lives, the EPA referred to new international regulations to draft the latest amendments. Specifically, the EPA based the revisions on the EU’s new vehicle noise standards (UN\/ECE R51.03), which were promulgated in February 2016 and went into effect in July 2016. \n\nThe EPA noted that the amendments are consistent with international standards for regulating noise due to acceleration. They also take Taiwan’s population density into consideration, based on comprehensive evaluations of traffic noise in Taiwan. The amendments particularly tighten controls for rear engines standards when stationary, which is set at a standard value of two decibels. This will be done in order to further improve motor vehicle noise control.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Noise Control", "titlename": "Amendments to Motor Vehicle Noise Control Standards Announced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-2" }, { "no": "3658", "title": "Revised Standards and Rules for Environmental Impact Assessment Preannounced", "preview": "EIA\n5. Revised Standards and Rules for Environmental Impact Assessment Preannounced\nIn January 2018, further to draft amendments preannounced in 2017 for two environmental impact assessment (EIA) regulations, the EPA announced revisions of these drafts in order to gather feedback from the public. This second preannouncement allows the EPA to make the amendments more thorough by taking more public opinion into consideration.", "content": "Revised Standards and Rules for Environmental Impact Assessment Preannounced\nIn January 2018, further to draft amendments preannounced in 2017 for two environmental impact assessment (EIA) regulations, the EPA announced revisions of these drafts in order to gather feedback from the public. This second preannouncement allows the EPA to make the amendments more thorough by taking more public opinion into consideration.\n\nThe EPA preannounced the amendments to the Standards for Determining Specific Items and Scope of Environmental Impact Assessments for Development Activities (hereafter referred to as Standards and the amendments to the Environmental Impact Assessment Enforcement Rules on 27 April 2017. The EPA also held 10 public hearings between June and August of 2017. Through this process, it used the various comments and suggestions to adjust the content of the revisions. In order to create a stronger and more thorough amendment, the EPA preannounced that it will gather opinions and further comments from a variety of fields. \n\nThe major revisions to the Standards between this draft and the previous draft are summarized below.\n1. With regards to extension of mining rights for approved areas, a revision was made to exclude oil and natural gas mining from making use of this extension. In addition, mines that underwent an EIA within a period of ten years prior the expiration of mining rights are not required to have an additional EIA when applying for an extension.\n\n2. To keep in step with urban development and improvements in construction techniques, buildings 120 meters tall and above are to undergo an EIA.\n\n3. Renewable power generation facilities with a capacity of less than 2,000 kW are not required to have an EIA; whereas thermal energy facilities with a capacity of 10,000 kW or above shall undergo an EIA. The necessity of EIAs for the extraction of hot spring water to generate thermal energy, which is then discharged back underground, will be determined by the standards regulating thermal energy. In addition, hydropower systems that use existing ditches or irrigation works, with a capacity of under 20,000 kW, are not required to undergo an EIA.\n\n4. A new category of development to undergo EIA is added to cover camping sites located on sloped land with a developed area or cumulative developed area of one hectare or more.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "EIA", "titlename": "Revised Standards and Rules for Environmental Impact Assessment Preannounced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-2" }, { "no": "3657", "title": "Coordinating Regulations Regarding Large-Scale Incinerators Announced", "preview": "Air\n4. Coordinating Regulations Regarding Large-Scale Incinerators Announced\nThe EPA promulgated the Regulations Regarding Coordination of Existing Large-Scale Incinerators on 8 January 2018. The regulations were made in accordance with amendments made to the Waste Disposal Act on 18 January 2017. The EPA will coordinate the conditions, procedures, fees, and other details for coordinated use of incinerators.", "content": "Coordinating Regulations Regarding Large-Scale Incinerators Announced\nThe EPA promulgated the Regulations Regarding Coordination of Existing Large-Scale Incinerators on 8 January 2018. The regulations were made in accordance with amendments made to the Waste Disposal Act on 18 January 2017. The EPA will coordinate the conditions, procedures, fees, and other details for coordinated use of incinerators.\nThe key points of the Regulations Coordinating Existing Large-Scale Incinerators are listed below:\n1. In accordance with Article 28 of the Waste Disposal Act, the requirements for coordinating incinerator operations apply only when responding to abnormal situations, which are defined as unforeseeable circumstances, temporary situations, non-human factors, and other scenarios requiring coordination as deemed necessary by the EPA.\n\n2. Principles are set for coordination of incinerator operations by central competent authorities. A comprehensive evaluation will be done on existing incinerators, which shall investigate the amount of general industrial waste collected, the status of operations, and the amounts remaining after processing. It also examines the average hauling distance for waste disposal, each incinerator’s adherence to regulations laid out in the Waste Disposal Act Article 28 Paragraph 6 Subparagraph 1 and 2, and any other relevant data. Coordination is based on the national annual average per capita daily waste. The amount of general waste handled by environmental protection facilities in their respective jurisdictions as well as the amount that other cities\/counties\/municipalities can help process shall be exempted. The central competent authority will also examine whether the adjusted amount being requested has a yearly decrease of 2%.\n\n3. Regulations are established for offices applying for coordination to cover the expenses incurred by existing incinerators while processing general waste from other cities\/counties\/municipalities. Additional agreements between the two parties shall be exempt.\n\n\n4. The authority applying for coordination and the one being coordinated are to determine the ratio for bottom ash or the recycled aggregates to be moved back. In the event that the reuse channel for recycled aggregates made from incinerator bottom ash is obstructed, the competent central authority is to step in and coordinate based on relevant regulations.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Coordinating Regulations Regarding Large-Scale Incinerators Announced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-2" }, { "no": "3656", "title": "Boiler Air Pollutant Emission Standards Preannounced", "preview": "Air\n3. Boiler Air Pollutant Emission Standards Preannounced\nOne major objective of the Air Pollution Control Action Plan recently proposed by the Executive Yuan is to reduce pollution by expediting phase-outs of boilers. The EPA thus has drafted the Boiler Air Pollutant Emission Standards, specifying both controls and subsidies. Its implementation will drastically cut down emissions of sulfur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matters.", "content": "Boiler Air Pollutant Emission Standards Preannounced\nOne major objective of the Air Pollution Control Action Plan recently proposed by the Executive Yuan is to reduce pollution by expediting phase-outs of boilers. The EPA thus has drafted the Boiler Air Pollutant Emission Standards, specifying both controls and subsidies. Its implementation will drastically cut down emissions of sulfur oxides (Sox), nitrogen oxides (Nox), and particulate matters.\n\nIn response to the growing public demand for air quality, the Executive Yuan put forth the Air Pollution Control Action Plan: Halving Red Alert Days on 21 December 2017. Amelioration of boiler air pollutant emissions is a major focus for improving air quality. \nTo hasten the phase-out of boilers and further cut pollution emissions, the EPA drafted the Boiler Air Pollutant Emission Standards, which specifies controls and subsidies. For each individual industry, emission standards for boiler air pollutants are the same regardless of operation scale or fuel types. However, industries will follow their own specific emission standards if they are already in place. \nThe EPA stressed that steam boilers account for more than 70% of Taiwan’s stationary source pollution. All boilers, except for those controlled under emission standards for specific industries, fall under the purview of the Stationary Pollution Source Air Pollutant Emission Standards. Besides industrial manufacturing, boilers are also used in hospitals, schools, and hotels, often located in densely populated urban areas. The pollutants produced can easily affect regional air quality and become public nuisances, which lead to the necessity of establishing emission standards for boiler facilities.\n\nThe EPA pointed out that countries such as Japan, Korea and the US have tightened boiler emission standards and also that Taiwan’s end-of-pipe pollutant treatment technology has become more mature., The EPA therefore considered it necessary to tighten emission standards, strengthen control measures and improve air quality. The draft of the Boiler Air Pollutant Emission Standards takes reference from international standards, evaluations of current emissions in Taiwan, best available control technology, and cost-effect analysis results. It is estimated that yearly emissions of Sox, Nox, and particulate matters will be reduced by 6,930 metric tons, 3,190 metric tons, and 1,119 metric tons, respectively.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Boiler Air Pollutant Emission Standards Preannounced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-2" }, { "no": "3655", "title": "Revised Air Pollution Control Fee Rates Preannounced for Stationary Sources", "preview": "Air\n2. Revised Air Pollution Control Fee Rates Preannounced for Stationary Sources\nTo strengthen controls on air pollutants emitted from public and private premises, revisions to the Stationary Source Air Pollution Control Fee Rates were preannounced on 30 January 2018. The fee rate revisions provide economic incentives to encourage private and public premises to add air pollution control equipment and operate it effectively, instead of relying only on pollution control fees to lower pollution emissions.", "content": "Revised Air Pollution Control Fee Rates Preannounced for Stationary Sources\nTo strengthen controls on air pollutants emitted from public and private premises, revisions to the Stationary Source Air Pollution Control Fee Rates were preannounced on 30 January 2018. The fee rate revisions provide economic incentives to encourage private and public premises to add air pollution control equipment and operate it effectively, instead of relying only on pollution control fees to lower pollution emissions.\n\nSince collection of air pollution control fees for construction project particulates (total suspended particulates, TSPs) commenced in 1997, the EPA has kept more than half of Taiwan’s particulate matters under control. To further improve air quality, the EPA has planned to target stationary sources other than construction projects, which include TSP-emitting pipes in private and public emission stacks, stacking sites and transfer points. Fee rates range from NT$32 to NT$55, depending on emission levels. Extra fees are added if the TSPs contain harmful substances such as lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic, hexavalent chromium, dioxins, and so on.\n\nAs nitrogen oxide (Nox) emissions generated by natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) combustion in Taiwan have roughly doubled over the last decade, there should be more effective controls in place. As a result, enterprises with seasonal Nox emissions of more than 24 metric tons will be targeted for Nox fee collection, so as to encourage installation of control equipment and improvements in operations.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Revised Air Pollution Control Fee Rates Preannounced for Stationary Sources", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-2" }, { "no": "3654", "title": "Equal Focus on Economic Incentives and Pollution Reduction for Air Pollution Control", "preview": "Air \n Equal Focus on Economic Incentives and Pollution Reduction for Air Pollution Control\n\nThe strategies for air pollution control in Taiwan are focused equally on economic incentives and pollution reduction. Since its announcement and implementation in 1975, the Air Pollution Control Act (空氣污染防制法) has gone through eight amendments to become a comprehensive legal framework for air pollution control in Taiwan. Since the last amendments took place in 2002, the EPA has taken into consideration the major air pollution incidents in recent years and deemed it necessary for review and revision. Amendments include harsher penalties for an expanding target base, authorizing local environmental bureaus to designate air quality zones, and having cash rewards in place for the reporting of illegal activities. The EPA hopes that adopting economic incentives and harsher punishments will effectively cut pollution and improve air quality.", "content": "Equal Focus on Economic Incentives and Pollution Reduction for Air Pollution Control\n\nThe strategies for air pollution control in Taiwan are focused equally on economic incentives and pollution reduction. Since its announcement and implementation in 1975, the Air Pollution Control Act (空氣污染防制法) has gone through eight amendments to become a comprehensive legal framework for air pollution control in Taiwan. Since the last amendments took place in 2002, the EPA has taken into consideration the major air pollution incidents in recent years and deemed it necessary for review and revision. Amendments include harsher penalties for an expanding target base, authorizing local environmental bureaus to designate air quality zones, and having cash rewards in place for the reporting of illegal activities. The EPA hopes that adopting economic incentives and harsher punishments will effectively cut pollution and improve air quality.\n\nAfter preannouncing the draft amendments to the Air Pollution Control Act on 23 June 2017, the EPA collected public opinion by holding three hearings. The draft was then revised and submitted to the Executive Yuan on 31 October. The draft amendments were approved by the Executive Yuan on 14 December and sent to the Legislative Yuan on 22 December, however, the amendments did not enter the agenda of the 2017 session. In response to the public’s demand for clean air, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee recently visited the Legislative Yuan, which agreed to include the revisions as a priority in the coming review session, in order to expedite the legislation process.\n\nThe amendments focus on harsher penalties, a whistleblower mechanism, environmental information disclosure, and enhancement of public participation. Details include increasing penalties, raising fees for violations, recovering illegal gains, providing rewards to encourage reporting illegal activities, and designating air quality zones. Other measures include implementing controls on mobile pollution sources, adding controls on mobile sources besides transportation, controls for chemicals containing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), information disclosure, and more. \n \n\n\n\nMajor amendments to the Air Pollution Control Act\n\nTo formulate regulations concerning emergency response and total quantity control (TQC) for severe air quality deterioration, the Act requires participation of all relevant authorities. Amendments are based on legislative procedures, discussions and public hearings to which stakeholders and related ministries were invited to attend – which are all necessary in order to ensure comprehensive and mutual understanding. \n\nThe main amendments are as follows:\n\n1. For Class 3 Control Zones, the EPA shall set standards for local environmental bureaus to follow concerning the mandatory pollution emission reduction for existing sources. Also, air pollution control plans formulated by local environmental bureaus are to be approved by the EPA. \n\n2. For existing pollution sources located in TQC zones that do not meet air quality standards, regulations are newly added for authorization of pollution reduction credit auctions. \n\n3. Emission standards are added for air pollutants in public and private premises. Health risk factors should be taken into consideration for the inclusion of regulated harmful air pollutants into the emission standards.\n\n4. When formulating regulations for the establishment of new stationary pollution sources and operating permits, the EPA is authorized to use unified evaluation principles nationwide. Considering air quality improvement requires the planning and management of local governments, the current regulations concerning the commissioning of other governmental authorities to handle permit applications and extensions have been deleted.\n5. Controls on fuels and other air pollution-causing substances are to be separated, so fuels used in stationary pollution sources at public and private premises will have to meet fuel standards and require specific permits. The qualifications to obtain permits to use other air pollution-causing substances have also been established.\n\n6. When evaluating permit extensions, local environmental bureaus shall adhere to the newly added emission standards for pollutants from stationary sources that are required to be reduced. The EPA-approved air pollution control plans shall also be followed when calculating emissions pertaining to permit issuance as well as to specify valid permit extension periods.\n\n7. Controls are added for mobile pollution sources other than transportation vehicles, and bans placed on the installation of emission defeat devices on vehicles. In addition, taking into account the wearing out of acceleration systems and pollution control devices, the EPA may tighten emission standards for vehicles manufactured more than ten years ago to better keep emissions under control. \n\n8. Pollution-control equipment for mobile sources needs to be certified by the EPA.\n\n9. New regulations are added to authorize competent authorities to designate air quality control zones in ports and industrial zones. Furthermore, use of highly polluting vehicles is limited, while their phase-out will be accelerated.\n\n10. The manufacturing, import and sale of VOC-containing products should meet the EPA’s ingredient standards.\n\n11. The minimum criminal penalty is specified, while maximum criminal sentences and fine limits are raised. An index for exceeding standards is specified for harmful air pollutants in emissions, and punishments are detailed for burning materials that produce harmful substances.\n\n12. With the Water Pollution Control Act (水污染防制法) as reference, the amount of fines are increased ten-fold. The range for penalized targets is also expanded.\n\n13. Maximum fines for violations are raised.\n\n14. A new dual mechanism is established to both recover illegal gains and impose fines. Fines are collected when fuel sellers and importers or public and private enterprises do not file and pay air pollution control fees according to regulations. This revenue, along with illegal gains recovered by competent authorities, should only be used on air pollution control and also as special control funds.\n\n15. Penalties are issued based on each violation committed instead of violations for consecutive days.\n\n16. The minimum penalty is adjusted to lessen the burden on disadvantaged citizens and impose lighter punishment for minor offenses.\n\n17. Heavier fines are imposed for manufacturing, selling, or installing emission defeat devices.\n\n18. Cash rewards are put in place to encourage citizens to report illegal activities at public and private premises.\n\n19. The EPA takes references from foreign examples of protecting whistleblowers and state witnesses in the Water Pollution Control Act to encourage corporate employees to report illegal practices.\n\nTable: Main points of amendments to the Air Pollution Control Act\n1 Integrating review principles for permit application 6 Increasing controls on VOC-containing chemical products\n2 Strengthening fuel controls 7 Adjusting penalties and raising fines\n3 Reviewing TQC systems 8 Improving the whistleblowing mechanism\n4 Implementing controls on harmful air pollutants 9 Providing rewards to encourage reporting of illegal activities\n5 Implementing controls on mobile pollution sources 10 Promoting full information disclosure to expand public participation\n\n\n\n \nEmission standards will be tightened for vehicles over ten years old.\n\nFuture Outlook \nFor factory emissions, the amendments start with regulating fuel components, placing pollution controls at both the source and the end of emission pipes. For emissions from mobile sources, the EPA will authorize regional environmental bureaus to designate air quality control zones in order to limit or ban the use of highly polluting transportation.\n\nTo raise penalties and ensure that everyone responsible is penalized, those failing to file and pay air pollution control fees as mandated will be tracked for five years and pay twice the amount. Regional environmental bureaus are required to set reduction goals for pollution sources based on the guidelines for pollutant emission reduction. Also, for violators who fail to improve by given deadlines, penalties will be imposed based on each violation committed instead of by consecutive days of violations.\n\nIn an attempt to stop business and industrial establishments from violating the Air Pollution Control Act and affecting public health, the heaviest fine is raised from NT$1,000,000 to NT$20,000,000. The EPA has specified limits for emissions of harmful pollutants as well as penalties for burning materials that produce specified substances hazardous to health. The maximum fines are increased ten-fold for legal persons or individuals, with an expanded range of regulatory targets. \n\nConclusion\n\nPremier Ching-Te Lai expressed that air pollution improvement needs action plans to be implemented, on top of regulatory revisions. Therefore, each department of the Executive Yuan would be required to actively participate and also assist and supervise regional governments to jointly carry out air pollution control work.\n\nMinister Lee promised to collect air pollution fees for particulate pollutants from stationary sources, and the fee collection is expected to begin on July 2018, at the earliest. In the future, the EPA and the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) will comb through all pollution emissions produced by state-run corporations before reducing them by 25% in three years. It is hoped that via both economic incentives and pollution reduction measures, improvement of air quality will be hastened.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Equal Focus on Economic Incentives and Pollution Reduction for Air Pollution Control", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-2" }, { "no": "3644", "title": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations Announced", "preview": "Water\nAmendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations Announced\nOn 27 December 2017, the EPA announced amendments to the Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations ( 水污染防治措施及檢測申報管理辦法). The amendments require operators of public sewage systems with a permitted daily wastewater discharge of more than 1,500 cubic meters to install an automated water quality and quantity monitoring system. The amendments also include stipulations that coal-fired power plants must implement total mercury quantity control and that wastewater of specific industries must be channeled for separate storage and treatment. Several amendments on livestock waste were also added in the regulations. For example, enterprises involving cattle and pigs are required to utilize their livestock waste, and small-scale pig farming enterprises should submit wastewater management plans. Furthermore, the amendments also aim to strengthen the pollution control and management of wastewater recycling. Grace periods will be given if deemed necessary.", "content": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations Announced\nOn 27 December 2017, the EPA announced amendments to the Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations ( 水污染防治措施及檢測申報管理辦法). The amendments require operators of public sewage systems with a permitted daily wastewater discharge of more than 1,500 cubic meters to install an automated water quality and quantity monitoring system. The amendments also include stipulations that coal-fired power plants must implement total mercury quantity control and that wastewater of specific industries must be channeled for separate storage and treatment. Several amendments on livestock waste were also added in the regulations. For example, enterprises involving cattle and pigs are required to utilize their livestock waste, and small-scale pig farming enterprises should submit wastewater management plans. Furthermore, the amendments also aim to strengthen the pollution control and management of wastewater recycling. Grace periods will be given if deemed necessary.\nDue to the significant amount of wastewater effluents from public sewage systems and violations related to improperly treated wastewater or unpermitted wastewater discharge, the EPA decided to stipulate that all enterprises with a permitted daily wastewater discharge of more than 1,500 cubic meters install automated water quality and quantity monitoring systems. All installations should be completed by the end of July 2019. \nBecause of the mercury content in coal, wastewater with mercury is also produced in the process of fluegas desulfurization (FGD) in coal-fired power plants. The EPA therefore revised the effluent standards to tighten the limit for mercury. In addition, as of 1 January 2018, such power plants are also required to report related information on the total mercury value in the coal they use, and shall undertake extra management measures when the total mercury value reaches a specified concentration.\nAs for industries that have manufacturing processes with high pollution potentials, separate wastewater collection and treatment can increase wastewater treatment efficiency while also reducing operational costs. Hence, the following industries are obliged to collect and treat their wastewater based on its characteristics: the wafer fabrication industry and the semiconductors manufacturing industry; the optoelectronic materials and components manufacturing industry; the printed circuit board manufacturing industry; the electroplating industry; and, the metal finishing industry. \nTo increase the efficiency of recycling livestock waste, pig and cattle farms are required to recycle their wastewater and have a minimum reuse rate of 10%. To provide sufficient time for existing livestock enterprises to adapt to the changes, a grace period of five to 12 years, depending on the scale of the enterprise, will be given.\nLivestock enterprises with 20 to 200 pigs often discharge improperly treated livestock waste into surface water bodies, reducing water quality. The EPA thus decided that it is necessary to inspect wastewater treatment facilities to monitor their operation and functionality. Also, livestock enterprises are now required to submit their wastewater management plans and to receive a permit from the relevant competent authority for discharging effluent. The documents required for wastewater reports have also been simplified in order to encourage enterprises to submit their reports in accordance with the law. For enterprises that have never violated the Water Pollution Control Act (水污染防治法) within the year prior to the first day of the report submission month, only the water quality reports are required. The EPA plans to improve information transparency by disclosing real-time automated water quality monitoring data collected from public wastewater sewers. Additionally, the EPA has also simplified the regulations on the management of livestock waste fermentation sediment and liquid, in order to assist livestock enterprises and to improve water quality.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations Announced", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-1" }, { "no": "3643", "title": "Draft Amendments to Air Pollution Control Act to be Reviewed by Legislative Yuan", "preview": "Air\nDraft Amendments to Air Pollution Control Act to be Reviewed by Legislative Yuan\nA draft of amendments to the Air Pollution Control Act ( 空氣污染管制法) was preannounced by the EPA on 23 June 2017 and approved by the Executive Yuan on 14 December 2017. On 22 December, the draft was submitted to the Legislative Yuan for review. Major amendments include at-source fuel and product control, end-of-pipe emission standards for control of harmful substances, and harsher penalties for expanded targets. There are also new provisions regarding a whistleblower mechanism and information disclosure.", "content": "Draft Amendments to Air Pollution Control Act to be Reviewed by Legislative Yuan\nA draft of amendments to the Air Pollution Control Act ( 空氣污染管制法) was preannounced by the EPA on 23 June 2017 and approved by the Executive Yuan on 14 December 2017. On 22 December, the draft was submitted to the Legislative Yuan for review. Major amendments include at-source fuel and product control, end-of-pipe emission standards for control of harmful substances, and harsher penalties for expanded targets. There are also new provisions regarding a whistleblower mechanism and information disclosure. \nThe highlight of the amendments include revisions for stationary pollution source regulations, such as at-source controls on fuels and products, end-of-pipe emission limits for harmful substances, and harsher penalties for an expanded range of targets. For mobile sources, the revisions focus on expediting the phase-out of old automobiles, inclusion of vehicles as control targets, and designated air quality control zones. Also, a mechanism for whistleblowers and requirements for full information disclosure to the public have been added to facilitate public participation.\nIn addition, on the site of the demonstration against air pollution held in Kaohsiung on 17 December, Minister Ying-Yuan Lee promised to charge air pollution control fees for particulate matter emissions from stationary sources starting as early as July 2018. The EPA also completed an inventory with the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) on state-owned enterprises, which are expected to reduce pollution by 25% within three years. Further to the effort to improve air quality through economic incentives as well as pollution reduction measures, if air quality does not improve, control fees for sulfur oxides and nitrogen oxides will be raised.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Draft Amendments to Air Pollution Control Act to be Reviewed by Legislative Yuan", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-1" }, { "no": "3642", "title": "Executive Yuan Convenes Meeting to Review 2017 Food Safety", "preview": "Chemicals\nExecutive Yuan Convenes Meeting to Review 2017 Food Safety\nOn 7 December 2017, the Executive Yuan’s Office of Food Safety held the 2017 Food Safety Management Review Meeting. Related agencies such as the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW), the Council of Agriculture (COA), the Ministry of Education (MOE), and the EPA attended the meeting. The review meeting aimed to jointly evaluate food safety management achievements and improve performance in the future by listening to opinions from all sectors.", "content": "Executive Yuan Convenes Meeting to Review 2017 Food Safety\nOn 7 December 2017, the Executive Yuan’s Office of Food Safety held the 2017 Food Safety Management Review Meeting. Related agencies such as the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW), the Council of Agriculture (COA), the Ministry of Education (MOE), and the EPA attended the meeting. The review meeting aimed to jointly evaluate food safety management achievements and improve performance in the future by listening to opinions from all sectors. The Executive Yuan’s Office of Food Safety invited the members of the Executive Yuan’s Food Safety Committee, scholars and experts, legislators, civic groups, representatives from industry organizations, and citizens to the 2017 Food Safety Management Review Meeting. The meeting was also broadcast live on the Facebook pages of the COA and the MOHW’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In the meeting, ideas on school lunches, pesticide control, and at-source management of chemical substances with food safety concerns were discussed. On the topic of “Environmental Monitoring and At-Source Management for Chemicals with Food Safety Risks”, the EPA’s Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau (TCSB) presented related achievements. For instance, the EPA has established an at-source control mechanism and worked to maintain safe production environments since the establishment of the TCSB. Soil, drinking water and effluents are all tested and verified that they are up to standard. All industrial chemical products are under the EPA’s management, and inspections and warnings will occur once an abnormal flow of products is found. Manufacturing processes are also well controlled to prevent improper usage of industrial chemical products. In 2017, a total of 2,196 chemical substance suppliers were selected for auditing. \nBesides ensuring close cooperation of the central and local governments, the Executive Yuan continues to strengthen collaboration across different agencies, and to upgrade the platform linking the executive and judicial branches on investigations into food- or medicine-related offences. Meanwhile, governmental, industrial, and civic organizations are also joining forces to improve at-source management and tighten audits and testing for agricultural and food safety through big data analysis. All of this is done to carry out the five major food safety policies to the fullest, in order to maintain high standards for food safety and sanitation.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Chemicals", "titlename": "Executive Yuan Convenes Meeting to Review 2017 Food Safety", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-1" }, { "no": "3641", "title": "Plastic-Free Ocean Promoted in Response toInternational Trend", "preview": "wastePlastic-Free Ocean Promoted in Response toInternational TrendStarting 1 January 2018, the EPA implemented two measures in response to rising global attention on plastic waste in oceans. One measure broadens restrictions on the use of plastic shopping bags to seven additional industries, while the other is a ban on the manufacture and import of six categories of products containing plastic microbeads. With these new measures, the EPA hopes to guide enterprises to provide environmentally friendly products and encourage the public to reduce the use of plastic in their daily lives, in order to help attain a plastic-free ocean, while protecting the marine environment and the life within it.", "content": "Plastic-Free Ocean Promoted in Response toInternational TrendStarting 1 January 2018, the EPA implemented two measures in response to rising global attention on plastic waste in oceans. One measure broadens restrictions on the use of plastic shopping bags to seven additional industries, while the other is a ban on the manufacture and import of six categories of products containing plastic microbeads. With these new measures, the EPA hopes to guide enterprises to provide environmentally friendly products and encourage the public to reduce the use of plastic in their daily lives, in order to help attain a plastic-free ocean, while protecting the marine environment and the life within it.According to United Nations statistics, roughly eight million metric tons of plastic waste enter the world’s oceans every year. The UN estimates that, by weight, there will be as much plastic in the ocean as there is fish by 2025, which will ultimately impact food supplies and human diets. Lowering and limiting plastic use is hence necessary. To raise public awareness, the EPA brought in Hsin-Yao Huang, the 2017 Golden Horse Award winner for best new director, to shoot a short film on lowering plastic use.The EPA calls on the public to support the policy of at-source reduction of plastic bags. Stores and shops can refrain from offering plastic bags, and consumers can carry out daily practices such as bringing their own shopping bags and reusing plastic bags. The EPA hopes that all residents will contribute to environmental protection by limiting the use of single-use plastic bags.Expanding the targets and scope of plastic bag restrictionsIn 2002, the EPA kicked off the first stage of the plastic restriction policy by limiting the use of plastic shopping bags and single-use plastic utensils. On 1 July 2006, cafeterias in government facilities and schools became the first targets to stop providing single-use utensils. Next, in March 2007, the Restrictions on the Use of Plastic Trays and Packing Boxes was announced to limit plastic trays and packing boxes for eggs, fresh produce, bread and pastries.Minister Ying-Yuan Lee pointed out that, despite the public’s support of the plastic ban policy, plastic bag usage still needs to be reduced at source in a pain-free process. Thus, in order to encourage consumers to bring their own shopping bags, reuse plastic bags and reduce the use of single-use plastic shopping bags, in August 2017 the EPA announced the revised Targets, Implementation and Effective Date of Restricting the Use of Plastic Shopping Bags, which added seven more categories of targets. The restriction on use of plastic bags now covers 14 categories. Previously, only seven categories were subject to these restrictions, namely, government facilities, private schools, department stores\/ shopping malls, wholesale stores, supermarkets, chain convenience stores, and fast food chains. The new policy adds another seven categories: pharmacies\/drugstores; medical equipment stores; retailers of household appliances and photographic, electronic, and communication equipment; bookstores and stationery stores; laundries; beverage shops; and bakeries.The new categories add 80,000 businesses to the previous 20,000 already subject to the controls. With a total of 100,000 businesses now subject to the restrictions, it is expected that 1.5 billion fewer plastic bags will be used every year. The EPA explained that, in consideration of food sanitation and safety, free plastic bags are allowed for packing bread or fresh produce. If the food itself is already packaged, additional plastic bags shall not be provided free of charge.Ban on manufacture, import, and sales of cosmetics and personal care products containing plastic microbeads In response to international concerns over ocean waste, the EPA aims to assist Taiwan’s personal care product industry to switch to environmentally friendly ingredients, and to import products free of microbeads. As a result, the Ban on Manufacturing, Import, and Sale of Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Containing Microbeads was announced in August 2017. Six categories of products, namely, microbead-containing shampoo, facial cleansers and makeup removers, shower gels, soaps, body scrubs, and toothpastes, are banned from being manufactured or imported as of 1 January 2018. Sales of such products will be banned as of 1 July 2018. The ban applies to products containing microbeads smaller than 5 mm in diameter.Sailing Toward a Plastic-Free OceanAt the 2017 Environmental Protection Technology Exhibition, the EPA showcased its accomplishments on land-originated waste reduction as well as clean-ups of beach and ocean floor garbage. However, ocean wastes can reach all corners of the big blue, and it is difficult to trace their sources. With limited resources and manpower for marine environment protection, it is imperative to integrate resources from different fields and form a feasible plan to tackle marine waste. In July 2017, the EPA announced its initiative to establish the Marine Waste Management Platform along with eight civic environmental organizations. On this platform, all sectors can exchange ideas and opinions on marine waste, including land-originated, beach, ocean floor, and floating garbage, to jointly work toward the goal of plastic-free oceans.Future outlookEnvironmental damage caused by plastic waste can severely devastate marine ecosystems and threaten the survival of marine life, thus restricting use of plastics is a major global environmental issue. Plastics also pose a danger to human health if not properly disposed of. Other than expanding the plastic ban that has been running for 15 years, the EPA has prioritized “plastic-free oceans” as a major focus and will further push this policy with greater energy. Minister Lee called on the public to cooperate with the new policy and fully support it to quickly speed up its implementation, which will result in a reduction of plastic use, and ultimately a plastic-free environment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Plastic-Free Ocean Promoted in Response toInternational Trend", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-1" }, { "no": "3653", "title": "Ninety-six Schools Obtain Eco-Campus Certifications", "preview": "Environmental Education\nNinety-six Schools Obtain Eco-Campus Certifications", "content": "Ninety-six Schools Obtain Eco-Campus Certifications", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Ninety-six Schools Obtain Eco-Campus Certifications", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-1" }, { "no": "3652", "title": "Fertilizer from Livestock Waste Fermentation Slurry Shows Significant Results after Two Years on 211 Farms", "preview": "Waste\nFertilizer from Livestock Waste Fermentation Slurry Shows Significant Results after Two Years on 211 Farms\nThe EPA’s promotion of using livestock waste fermentation sediment and fluid as fertilizer led to outstanding results in 2017. Nationwide, 211 farms made use of the fermentation sediment and fluid, and after applying such fertilizers, farmers regularly noted impressive results.", "content": "Fertilizer from Livestock Waste Fermentation Slurry Shows Significant Results after Two Years on 211 Farms\nThe EPA’s promotion of using livestock waste fermentation sediment and fluid as fertilizer led to outstanding results in 2017. Nationwide, 211 farms made use of the fermentation sediment and fluid, and after applying such fertilizers, farmers regularly noted impressive results. Farmers in Yunlin County observed that corn stalks were noticeably stronger and the fields produced 10-20% more than those on which chemical fertilizers were applied. In Hualien County, farmers used such fertilizers for water bamboo and rice. They found that the water bamboo was sweeter than average, and rice paddies had an increase in yield. The benefits of using fermentation sediment and fluid have spread through word of mouth, and more livestock farms and farmers have begun to adopt it, treating livestock waste as a useful resource. Making fermentation sediment and fluid is only one of the ways to use livestock waste. The EPA is subsidizing local governments, and also commissioned the Swine Association, to hold public meetings and observation tours. The EPA has also assisted farmers in examining the ingredients of the fermentation sediment and fluid, as well as with applications to take part in the program. From 2016 to the end of 2017, there were 211 farms that used fermentation sediment and fluid as fertilizer.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Fertilizer from Livestock Waste Fermentation Slurry Shows Significant Results after Two Years on 211 Farms", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-1" }, { "no": "3651", "title": "Environmental Education Act Amended to Add Environmental Cognition Education", "preview": "Environmental Education\nEnvironmental Education Act Amended to Add Environmental Cognition Education\nThe Environmental Education Act was promulgated in 2010 and has never been amended. To respond to current circumstances, the EPA announced amendments to seven articles of the Act on 29 November 2017. The key points of the amendments are summarized below.", "content": "Environmental Education Act Amended to Add Environmental Cognition Education", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Environmental Education Act Amended to Add Environmental Cognition Education", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-1" }, { "no": "3650", "title": "Green Point Scheme Expanded to Help Build a Green Economy", "preview": "Ecolabeling\nGreen Point Scheme Expanded to Help Build a Green Economy\nOn 12 December 2017, the EPA announced that four smart card services joined the green point redemption program, making it even easier and more attractive to accrue green points. These additions are Easycard,i-Pass, icash, and HappyCash.", "content": "Green Point Scheme Expanded to Help Build a Green Economy\nOn 12 December 2017, the EPA announced that four smart card services joined the green point redemption program, making it even easier and more attractive to accrue green points. These additions are Easycard,i-Pass, icash, and HappyCash.\nTo participate in the program and start collecting green points, individuals simply download the Green Points app. Users can accrue points by taking public transportation, purchasing green products and participating in environmental activities. Users will receive one green point for every NT$1 spent, then one hundred points may be exchanged to receive a NT$1 discount on green products. This program was designed to attract more people to participate, and within one year more than 100,000 people have enrolled.\nIn addition, the EPA offers incentives to encourage the public to take public transportation during winter, the season in which air quality usually deteriorates due to transboundary pollution. Taking public transportation during the winter season or making green purchases over weekends can both earn participants ten times the number of points. There are also monthly draws for green products. Taipei, Kaohsiung and Taoyuan airport metros all have also joined the green point program. In addition, many well-known enterprises actively participate in the program, including nine retail distributors and 23 service enterprises. The EPA stated that stores have seen an increase in shoppers’ inquiries about green points. This trend reflects the spread of the green economic effects generated by green marketing. For more information regarding green points and related activities, please visit http:\/\/www.greenpoint.org.tw\/.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Ecolabeling", "titlename": "Green Point Scheme Expanded to Help Build a Green Economy", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-1" }, { "no": "3649", "title": "Taiwan and Korea Hold Soil and GroundwaterRemediation Forum", "preview": "International CooperationTaiwan and Korea Hold Soil and GroundwaterRemediation ForumDelegations from Taiwan and South Korea met on 12 December 2017 to begin a three-day forum on soil and groundwater remediation technology and management, as part of the bilateral cooperation between the two countries on this issue. Korea sent 13 delegates led by Yong-Kyu Park, Director General of the Water Supply and Sewerage Policy Office of the Ministry of Environment (MOE). The EPA’s delegation was also composed of 13 experts, academics and members from the Taiwan Soil and Groundwater Environmental Protection Association, and was led by Dr. Weber Chen, Director of the Soil and Groundwater Remediation Fund Management Board (SGRFMB).", "content": "Taiwan and Korea Hold Soil and GroundwaterRemediation ForumDelegations from Taiwan and South Korea met on 12 December 2017 to begin a three-day forum on soil and groundwater remediation technology and management, as part of the bilateral cooperation between the two countries on this issue. Korea sent 13 delegates led by Yong-Kyu Park, Director General of the Water Supply and Sewerage Policy Office of the Ministry of Environment (MOE). The EPA’s delegation was also composed of 13 experts, academics and members from the Taiwan Soil and Groundwater Environmental Protection Association, and was led by Dr. Weber Chen, Director of the Soil and Groundwater Remediation Fund Management Board (SGRFMB).In 2012, Taiwan and Korea signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Soil and Groundwater Remediation, and a four-year extension was signed in Seoul, Korea in 2016.According to the memorandum, conferences will be held in Taiwan and Korea on a rotating basis. Korea sent a delegation consisting of representatives of governmental agencies, the Korea Society of Soil and Groundwater Environment (KOSSGE) and the Korea Environment Industry & Technology Institute (KEITI) to attend the conference in Taiwan inDecember 2017.In recent years, both Taiwan and Korea have gained a better understanding of soil and groundwater remediation and management. Progress was madein areas such as oil leakage prevention at gas stations and groundwater quality monitoring. The2017 conference further extended to topics such as off-site soil remediation and groundwater quality control.On 12 December, a steering committee meeting washeld to discuss issues such as the achievements of industrial and academic exchanges and research, and the following year’s discussion topics. Time was also spent to confirm information exchanged, which included the Korean government’s research budget for management of soil and groundwater, related industries, and operations abroad. Taiwan shared information on policy development for related industries and on the current status of contamination sites under management. A forum was held after the steering committee meeting, in which scholars and experts from both countries were invited to share views on new soil and groundwater inspection technologies, land revitalization development, as well as methods and cases of farmland inspection and remediation.The EPA has actively participated in remediation related international cooperation and exchanges since it established the Working Group on Remediation of Soil and Groundwater Pollution of Asian and Pacific Region (ReSAG) in 2010. Through such international cooperation, the EPA hopes to advance local and regional remediation capabilities.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "International Cooperation", "titlename": "Taiwan and Korea Hold Soil and GroundwaterRemediation Forum", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-1" }, { "no": "3648", "title": "Achievements of Internet of Things for the Environment Published", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring", "content": "Achievements of Internet of Things for the Environment Published\nOn 29 December 2017, with Minister Ying-Yuan Lee in attendance, the EPA held a conference in which it demonstrated the changes and chances (C&C) brought about by an environmental Internet of Things (IoT). The conference exhibited Taiwan’s research and development in the production of sensor components for environmental quality monitoring, along with a certification platform. Other achievements included the primary application of the environmental IoT in industrial parks, in hot spot analysis, and smart inspections. \nExperts from the Industrial Economics and Knowledge Center (IEK) and Chunghwa Telecom were invited to the conference to discuss the applications of smart city technology and possible industrial opportunities. The event was streamed live to further stimulate a dialogue between the government and civic groups regarding the future of the IoT for environmental quality. It is hoped that the public and private sectors will work together to provide better air quality, build an environmental IoT, and design blueprints for smart cities with an environmental IoT.\nThe conference displayed the initial results of the IoT for environmental quality sensors. Four areas are prioritized for the next four years: industrial sensors, community sensors, transportation sensors, and supporting sensors (for areas without monitor stations within a 20-kilometer radius). The IoT will link 10,200 installed sensors in various locations for monitoring air quality as well as other applications.\nThe EPA emphasized that the current application of an environmental IoT focuses on the analysis of pollution hot spots and smart environmental inspections. With references on smart urban planning from other nations, monitoring data from micro-sensors have been applied in areas such as public health protection and transportation route planning. Big data analysis and early warning systems reduce people’s exposure to pollutants. The EPA will continue to promote a certification system aligned with international standards, and thus improve Taiwan’s international competitiveness in the realm of producing sensor components. Supported by the results and applications of tests conducted in Taiwan, the EPA hopes that Taiwan can promote a comprehensive environmental IoT service across the globe.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "Achievements of Internet of Things for the Environment Published", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-1" }, { "no": "3647", "title": "Regulations for Hydrochlorofluorocarbon Consumption Management Amended", "preview": "Chemicals\nRegulations for Hydrochlorofluorocarbon Consumption Management Amended\nThe EPA and the Bureau of Foreign Trade (BFT) of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) have reached an agreement on the standardization of regulations regarding the Standard Classification of Commodities of the Republic of China (CCC Code) for the import and export of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). The EPA becomes the competent authority, and announced the amendments to the Regulations Regarding Hydrochlorofluorocarbon Consumption Management. The amendments went into effect on 1 January 2018.", "content": "Regulations for Hydrochlorofluorocarbon Consumption Management Amended\nThe EPA and the Bureau of Foreign Trade (BFT) of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) have reached an agreement on the standardization of regulations regarding the Standard Classification of Commodities of the Republic of China (CCC Code) for the import and export of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). The EPA becomes the competent authority, and announced the amendments to the Regulations Regarding Hydrochlorofluorocarbon Consumption Management. The amendments went into effect on 1 January 2018.\nThe EPA stated that the Regulations Regarding Hydrochlorofluorocarbon Consumption Management had been formulated in order to comply with the Montreal Protocol. The Regulations manage the production, import, export and consumption of HCFCs. Based on the Regulations, enterprises that import HCFCs must apply for an import quota from the EPA. After receiving the quota, the enterprises must obtain an import permit through the BFT’s electronic import and export certification system to import\/export HCFC related commodities, as well as for customs inspection.\nAfter the amendments, both quota and permit applications as well as customs inspection will all be done through the electronic Import and Export Certification System for Chemical Substances Controlled by the Montreal Protocol, established by the EPA. This modification will reduce the possibility of enterprises submitting applications to the wrong agencies.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Chemicals", "titlename": "Regulations for Hydrochlorofluorocarbon Consumption Management Amended", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-1" }, { "no": "3646", "title": "Air Quality Background Monitoring Station for Transboundary Pollution Installed on Fugui Cape", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring\nAir Quality Background Monitoring Station for Transboundary Pollution Installed on Fugui Cape\nIn October 2017, the EPA installed an air monitoring station on Fugui Cape that will provide real-time data on pollutants coming from overseas during the northeast monsoon season.", "content": "Air Quality Background Monitoring Station for Transboundary Pollution Installed on Fugui Cape\nIn October 2017, the EPA installed an air monitoring station on Fugui Cape that will provide real-time data on pollutants coming from overseas during the northeast monsoon season.\nLocated at Taiwan’s northernmost point, Fugui Cape is completely unaffected by local pollutants during the northeast monsoon season and hence is a perfect site for monitoring transboundary pollutants from China. In addition, Fugui Cape is being managed as a natural park and is not surrounded by large communities or other major pollution sources. It is also 30 meters above sea level, a good elevation for a monitoring station. As a result, the EPA collaborated with the Academia Sinica and established an air quality monitoring station within the Academia Sinica’s atmospheric aerosol monitoring station at Fugui Cape, using the Coast Guard’s existing facilities. The items being monitored include: PM2.5, PM10, SO2, CO, O3, NO, NO2, total hydrocarbons (THC), non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHC), wind speed, wind direction, atmospheric temperature, and others. The trial runs have been completed and the monitoring station is now in operation. \nThe EPA points out that central and southern Taiwan are now into the dry season. The decrease in rainfall combined with the seasonal northeast wind that carries transboundary air pollutants from China, along with the sinking air flow result in a diminished diffusion of air pollutants, causing poor winter air quality in central and southern Taiwan. The Fugui Cape air monitoring station will provide additional data needed for monitoring overseas pollutants. \nThe Fugui Cape station has also been set up with energy saving and carbon reduction in mind. The EPA not only enhanced the efficiency of thermal insulation to reduce energy loss, but also installed solar panels to provide electricity for the air conditioners and equipment in the station. Excess electricity generated by the solar panels is sent to the TaiPower grid as green energy. The power panels are estimated to generate about 19,000 kWh of electricity annually, which can reduce 9,917 kg of carbon emissions.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "Air Quality Background Monitoring Station for Transboundary Pollution Installed on Fugui Cape", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-1" }, { "no": "3645", "title": "Red Alert Days for PM2.5 to be Half 2015 Level by 2019", "preview": "Air\nRed Alert Days for PM2.5 to be Half 2015 Level by 2019\nThe last few months in Taiwan, people have been more concerned about the health impacts of poor air quality. Since his inauguration, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee has been setting stricter air quality improvement targets, including the reduction of red alert days (daily average PM2.5 > 54 μg\/m?) by 20% of 2015 levels by 2017 and 50% by 2019.", "content": "Red Alert Days for PM2.5 to be Half 2015 Level by 2019\nThe last few months in Taiwan, people have been more concerned about the health impacts of poor air quality. Since his inauguration, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee has been setting stricter air quality improvement targets, including the reduction of red alert days (daily average PM2.5 > 54 μg\/m?) by 20% of 2015 levels by 2017 and 50% by 2019.\nThe Air Quality Index (AQI) is composed of a variety of air pollutant indicators for reporting daily air quality. Every country has its own air quality indices that have similar names but differ in standards for severity, such as the US AQI, South Korea’s CAI (Comprehensive Air Quality Index), Australia’s Daily Air Quality Index (DAQI), China’s AQI, and so on. To improve air quality, the EPA aims to reduce the number of red alert days (PM2.5 ≧ 54 μg\/m?) by 20% of 2015 levels by 2017, and 50% by 2019 \nTo help reduce the number of red alert days, the EPA started using the AQI from 1 December 2016. The AQI lowers the threshold for issuing a red alert to the public. Previously, the EPA issued a red alert warning when daily average PM2.5 concentration reached 71μg\/m? (AQI purple level); now it is issued if the level reaches 54μg\/m? (AQI red level). In 2016, there were a total of 143 days on which the daily PM2.5 concentration reached 71μg\/m? and 874 days on which the concentration reached 54μg\/ m?. Lowering the threshold for a red alert therefore warns residents of deterioration in the air quality earlier, to alert them to take response measures sooner. The EPA also tightened the air quality control rules to enable it to take swifter reduction measures. The air quality control measures that were originally taken on days when the PM2.5 value reached 71μg\/ m? must now be taken when PM2.5 levels reach 54μg\/m?. The EPA also reminds the public to pay more attention to changes in air quality so that they can take precautions further in advance. To this end, the EPA will start releasing warnings once the PM2.5 concentration reaches 35.5μg\/m? (AQI orange level) in an effort to help prevent continuing deterioration of air quality.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Red Alert Days for PM2.5 to be Half 2015 Level by 2019", "position": "print\/V21\/V21-1" }, { "no": "3640", "title": "Over 2,000 Environmental Volunteers Gather in Taitung to Take on Environmental Puzzle Challenges", "preview": "Environmental Education\nOver 2,000 Environmental Volunteers Gather in Taitung to Take on Environmental Puzzle Challenges \n\nOver 2,000 Environmental Volunteers Gather in Taitung to Take on Environmental Puzzle Challenges", "content": "Over 2,000 Environmental Volunteers Gather in Taitung to Take on Environmental Puzzle Challenges \nOn 12 November 2017, the EPA and the Taitung County Government held the 2017 National Outstanding Environmental Volunteer Meeting at Taitung County Stadium. Vice President Chen Chien-Jen, EPA Deputy Minister Thomas Chan, and Taitung Magistrate Justin Huang all personally attended the event to provide opening remarks for the event and cheer on participants. Over 2,000 volunteers from Taiwan’s 22 cities and counties were selected as winners from the first round of contests held in their respective areas. Participants gave their all as they competed for their district in an exciting contest that tested their environmental knowledge.\nFrom this year onward, the National Environmental Volunteer Meeting will be held annually on the second Saturday of November. It will give volunteers an opportunity to learn more about the environment and will provide a platform for participants and teams to interact, learn together and grow in cohesiveness. This year, the contest comprised four events that combined elements of environmental knowledge, entertainment, and team building. There was also an environmental Q&A to provide an exciting way to learn and interact. \n\n\nOn 12 November 2017, the EPA and the Taitung County Government held the 2017 National Outstanding Environmental Volunteer Meeting at Taitung County Stadium. Vice President Chen Chien-Jen, EPA Deputy Minister Thomas Chan, and Taitung Magistrate Justin Huang all personally attended the event to provide opening remarks for the event and cheer on participants. Over 2,000 volunteers from Taiwan’s 22 cities and counties were selected as winners from the first round of contests held in their respective areas. Participants gave their all as they competed for their district in an exciting contest that tested their environmental knowledge.\nFrom this year onward, the National Environmental Volunteer Meeting will be held annually on the second Saturday of November. It will give volunteers an opportunity to learn more about the environment and will provide a platform for participants and teams to interact, learn together and grow in cohesiveness. This year, the contest comprised four events that combined elements of environmental knowledge, entertainment, and team building. There was also an environmental Q&A to provide an exciting way to learn and interact.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Over 2,000 Environmental Volunteers Gather in Taitung to Take on Environmental Puzzle Challenges", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-12" }, { "no": "3639", "title": "Regulations on Review Management of Industrial Waste Disposal Plan Announced", "preview": "Waste\nRegulations on Review Management of Industrial Waste Disposal Plan Announced", "content": "Regulations on Review Management of Industrial Waste Disposal Plan Announced\nOn 16 November 2017, the EPA announced the Regulations Governing the Review of Industrial Waste Disposal Plans in response to the amendments to the Waste Disposal Act of 18 January 2017, which have significantly increased an enterprise’s responsibility to manage the disposal of the waste it produces. The said responsibilities most importantly include making proposed plans that detail operations data, the amount of industrial waste produced, and how the waste will be disposed of. The EPA drafted the Regulations Governing the Review of Industrial Waste Clearance and Disposal Plans to strengthen the legal basis for industrial waste disposal plans and improve the regulatory system. Details were added for expiration dates, revocations and cancellations of plans. By clarifying the regulations, the EPA has improved the administration of waste-producing enterprises by creating more uniformity and efficiency in local government review processes, while also providing more comprehensive management rules on the waste products of enterprises.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Regulations on Review Management of Industrial Waste Disposal Plan Announced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-12" }, { "no": "3638", "title": "Views on Strategic EIA for Establishing New Science Parks Collected", "preview": "EIA\nViews on Strategic EIA for Establishing New Science Parks Collected", "content": "EIA\nViews on Strategic EIA for Establishing New Science Parks Collected\nThe second task force consultation meeting of the Strategic Environmental Assessment Statements on Establishment and Expansion of Science Parks was held on 8 November 2017. In the meeting, the discussion among the EIA review committee and civic groups revolved around the promotion idea that has been modified and proposed by the Ministry of Science and Technology. The main focus of the proposal is “not to exceed the EIA-approved total emissions of the existing science parks, and the local government of the proposed new or expanded science park will be responsible for the emission reduction when there is any excess of the emission cap. However, the task force, based on the opinions of the EIA committee, considered this idea insufficient and lacking in applicable practical actions. Therefore, it was recommended that before the third consultation meeting is held, the Ministry of Science and Technology should improve the idea in consideration with the development plans of the science parks, and the total amount of land the parks will need. \nAs for the air quality improvement issues that the public is concerned about, the EIA committee suggested that the Ministry of Science and Technology modify the concept by referring to the Offset Principles for Air Pollutant Emissions Produced in Developmental Activities and the review principles for the expansion of the Sixth Naphtha Cracking Plant Complex. The EPA also recommended that the Ministry of Science and Technology use the offset ratio of 1 to 1.2 in order to gradually improve air quality in Class 3 control zones.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "EIA", "titlename": "Views on Strategic EIA for Establishing New Science Parks Collected", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-12" }, { "no": "3637", "title": "EPA Holds 2017 International Chemical Management Conference", "preview": "Chemicals", "content": "EPA Holds 2017 International Chemical Management Conference \nThe two-day International Chemical Management Conference was held on 9-10 November 2017 by the Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau (TCSB) of the EPA. During the conference, experts from various fields in Taiwan and from the EU, Korea, the US and Vietnam discussed practical implementation and future plans regarding management of chemicals. The conference successfully served as an excellent platform for experience sharing and international cooperation.\nIn the conference, experts from different countries shared their future plans and implementation experiences with national and international chemical management. The topics discussed included: the EU’s current status and future plans of the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH); the current chemical management situation in Vietnam; Korea’s chemical management system; and, the amendments and plans of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) in the US. The TCSB also took the opportunity to discuss management policies and the future outlook for chemical management in Taiwan, and also exchanged opinions and learned from other experts.\nThe EPA states that careful assessment of the impact of chemical substances on human health, the environment, society and economy, and carefully managing such substances is the common goal of the international community. Therefore, in order to improve the management of chemicals throughout their life cycles, the TCSB has developed a vision for building a sustainable and safe chemical environment. By referring to the Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM), it set nine indicators as a part of the development strategy for chemical management. The experience gained from this conference will be very beneficial to future policy making.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Chemicals", "titlename": "EPA Holds 2017 International Chemical Management Conference", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-12" }, { "no": "3636", "title": "Used Tire Recycling Problems Resolved", "preview": "Waste\nUsed Tire Recycling Problems Resolved \nOwing to a significant drop in the amount of shredded used tires taken as a supplemental fuel in 2016, the end-of-cycle treatment of used tires was affected and hence their stockpiles grew. Thus, the EPA put extra effort into expanding the reuse channels for used tires. For example, the EPA encouraged the disposal industry to take volume reduction measures, such as shredding tires into tiny pieces. Also, the EPA subsidized local governments for the temporary storage and emergency treatment of used tires. As a result, the scrap tire disposal problems have been resolved, and the monthly average reuse amount has exceeded 10,000 metric tonnes since March 2017.", "content": "Used Tire Recycling Problems Resolved \nOwing to a significant drop in the amount of shredded used tires taken as a supplemental fuel in 2016, the end-of-cycle treatment of used tires was affected and hence their stockpiles grew. Thus, the EPA put extra effort into expanding the reuse channels for used tires. For example, the EPA encouraged the disposal industry to take volume reduction measures, such as shredding tires into tiny pieces. Also, the EPA subsidized local governments for the temporary storage and emergency treatment of used tires. As a result, the scrap tire disposal problems have been resolved, and the monthly average reuse amount has exceeded 10,000 metric tonnes since March 2017.\nAn estimate of over 120,000 metric tonnes of tires are discarded annually, meaning that about 10,000 metric tonnes of waste tires need to be processed every month. Of these, 8,600 metric tonnes are shredded, and the used tires are mainly sold to co-generation plants and pulp and paper companies as a supplemental fuel. The EPA explains that the recycling channels of used tires are divided into two types, according to their sources. Used tires produced by households, motorcycle and bicycle repair stores are categorized as general wastes and should be handed to local waste collection teams. Those generated by specific industries, such as tire stores and automobile repair stores, have to be disposed of on their own or require waste treatment companies in accordance with Article 28 of the Waste Disposal Act.\nAfter being transported to processing plants and before being shredded and reused, used tires will first have to be inspected and certified according to Article 39 of the Waste Disposal Act. There are three main ways to reuse waste tires: as a fuel alternative, using them as substitutes for coal; deriving tire oil and carbon black from them using pyrolysis; and granulating them for reuse as a feedstock material for other products.\nLast year, the five reuse organizations that use tires as a fuel alternative all encountered different situations that suppressed the clearance of used tires (for example, suspension, reduction of used tires, damage to equipment). As a result, the total amount of discarded tire reuse declined to an average of 7,500 metric tonnes per month. In response to this problem, the EPA implemented various new strategies. First, the EPA assisted the existing reuse organizations to resume or even increase their use of shredded used tires as fuel. The EPA also assigned processing plants that still have available storage space to shred their used tires to increase the storage capacity. In this way, the EPA was able to store an extra 4,200 metric tonnes of used tires per month. In addition, the EPA simplified export processes to encourage foreign reuse companies to purchase shredded used tires from Taiwan and to expand more reuse channels. It is estimated that the amount of used tires exported to Japan for reuse purposes had exceeded 4,800 metric tonnes by the end of October this year.\nAccording to statistics, the total amount of stockpiled used tires had decreased from 4,695 metric tonnes in March 2017 to 1,318 metric tonnes in the beginning of November 2017. In fact, the total amount of used tires piled up in Taiwan now is far lower than the permitted amount by 3,000 metric tonnes, which is only 43.9% of the total permitted amount. The statistics also indicate that the EPA’s administrative measures have effectively resolved the disposal problems caused by the insufficient reuse volume.\nMore information on recycling companies for used tires can be found on the website of the Resource Recycling Fund Management Board (http:\/\/recycle.epa.gov.tw\/), by contacting the EPA or calling the toll-free number 0800-085-717.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Used Tire Recycling Problems Resolved", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-12" }, { "no": "3635", "title": "Regulations for Determining Due Responsibility of Commissioning Enterprises in Waste Disposal Announced", "preview": "Waste\nRegulations for Determining Due Responsibility of Commissioning Enterprises in Waste Disposal Announced\nBased on the Waste Disposal Act, the EPA has set up the Regulations for Determining Due Responsibility of Commissioning Enterprises in Waste Disposal, which went into effect upon its announcement on 24 November. This was done in order to strengthen the joint responsibility that companies have with regard to waste production and to raise their awareness of the regulatory measures. This also makes enterprises aware of the need to exercise due responsibility when commissioning an agency to dispose of waste. These standards allow for central and local competent authorities to have clearly defined standards to follow when determining whether an enterprise has exercised due care.", "content": "Regulations for Determining Due Responsibility of Commissioning Enterprises in Waste Disposal Announced\nBased on the Waste Disposal Act, the EPA has set up the Regulations for Determining Due Responsibility of Commissioning Enterprises in Waste Disposal, which went into effect upon its announcement on 24 November. This was done in order to strengthen the joint responsibility that companies have with regard to waste production and to raise their awareness of the regulatory measures. This also makes enterprises aware of the need to exercise due responsibility when commissioning an agency to dispose of waste. These standards allow for central and local competent authorities to have clearly defined standards to follow when determining whether an enterprise has exercised due care.\nAn amendment was announced to Paragraph 1 Article 30 of the Waste Disposal Act on 18 January 2017. It largely increased collateral responsibilities for the proper disposal of waste. In the event that a commissioned agency has not properly disposed of waste, and the commissioning enterprise has not exercised full responsibility, both entities will be held responsible for waste disposal and cleaning up the environment.\nThe EPA has set the Regulations for Determining Due Responsibility of Commissioning Enterprises in Waste Disposal based on the authorization of the Waste Disposal Act. The Regulations are for the benefit of enterprises to understand the standards and steps for commissioning an agency to dispose of waste. They also provide guidelines for special municipality, county, and city competent authorities for determining whether an enterprise has exercised due responsibility. \nThe regulations clearly outline required control measures, for both enterprises with mandatory placement of technicians and those with non-mandatory ones, when commissioning an agency to dispose of waste. They include policies wherein a business must commission the assistance of relevant industry associations, academic associations, specialized technicians, professional engineers, or legal entities. Upon completing waste disposal procedures, a commissioned agency is contractually obliged to provide documentation proving that appropriate disposal was carried out. When disposing of the waste listed in Table 2, the commissioned agency must cooperate with the commissioning enterprise disposal inspections. \nThe regulations include nine articles. Other than providing the legal basis, the key points are listed below:\n1. Control measures for enterprises with mandatory placement of professional waste disposal personnel, as stipulated by the Waste Disposal Act, Article 18, Paragraph 2, when commissioning an agency to dispose of waste.\n2. Control measures for enterprises not required by the EPA to have mandatory placement of professional waste disposal personnel when commissioning an agency to dispose of waste. \n3. Measures and scales for enterprises to commission relevant industrial associations, academic associations, specialized technicians, professional engineers, or legal entities.\n4. An enterprise is required to request the industry association to which it belongs to initiate a joint-inspection of the disposal or reuse agency commissioned. The result shall be made available to members of the association for reference. \n5. Responsibilities of enterprises and relevant authorities to provide documentation to determine due diligence, and authorities to determine whether agencies fail to properly dispose of waste in cross-jurisdiction cases.\n6. Special municipality, county, and city competent authorities are to hold hearings when determining due diligence.\n7. Obligation of enterprises to assist in investigations. Special municipality, county, and city competent authorities are required to assess the distribution, scope and amount of improperly disposed waste.\nThe EPA stressed that if enterprises focus more on disposal and treatment procedures for the waste they produce, this can lower the chance of inappropriate waste disposal while preserving the environment, and facilitate more efficient resource life cycles.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Regulations for Determining Due Responsibility of Commissioning Enterprises in Waste Disposal Announced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-12" }, { "no": "3634", "title": "Vice President Chen Gives Keynote Speech at Asia-Pacific Children’s Health Symposium", "preview": "General Policy", "content": "Vice President Chen Gives Keynote Speech at Asia-Pacific Children’s Health Symposium\nOn 8 November 2017, Vice President Chen Chien-Jen attended the joint opening of the Environmental Protection Technology Exhibition and the Asia-Pacific Children’s Health Symposium. Vice President Chen shared with the participants Taiwan’s outstanding medical achievements in a keynote speech on preventive medicine for children. About 200 guests attended the opening ceremony, including officials from the USEPA, Australia, New Zealand and Southeast Asian countries, along with representatives from local enterprises, government organizations and academia. EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee, Acting Assistant Administrator of the USEPA Jane Nishida, and the Deputy Director of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) Robert Forden, delivered opening speeches. \nIn his keynote speech, Vice President Chen stated that Taiwan and the US first signed a bilateral environmental cooperation agreement in 1993, which has grown into the International Environmental Program (IEP), launched in 2014. He further pointed out that Taiwan is always willing to share its experiences in environmental protection, and that the IEP is a global program that particularly focuses on the Asia-Pacific region, the most rapidly developing part of the world. Thus far, more than 60 events have been organized with more than 40 countries participating. Through the IEP, Taiwan is able to collaborate with dozens of organizations in the US, Asia, and across the globe to tackle the environmental and public health challenges that affect children’s health.\nAs the world becomes more concerned with environmental issues, Vice President Chen emphasized that in addition to actively improving domestic environments, Taiwan would like to contribute to the world by providing solutions to regional problems and improving the quality of regional environments. Taiwan would love to share its experiences in environmental protection and looks forward to strengthening collaboration on environmental law enforcement with Southeast Asian countries so that the environment will be protected while economies develop. He gave thanks to all the guests for attending the events and expressed hope that environmental professionals will contribute to a healthy environment for the next generation.\nActing Assistant Administrator of the USEPA, Jane Nishida, expressed gratitude to Vice President Chen, Deputy Director of the AIT Robert Forden, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee, and the Taiwan government for their efforts in successfully carrying out the IEP and hosting the events. Without the hard work of these parties, international cooperation such as the IEP would not have been possible. She particularly thanked the environmental scholars and professionals who travelled from various countries and said the world needs their work for a better living environment and to safeguard the health of children.\nIn his remarks, Minister Lee stated that with environmental protection technology as the theme of the Exhibition and the Annual Conference of the Chinese Institute of Environmental Engineering, the event demonstrated achievements in a circular economy, clean air, plastic-free ocean and caring for Earth. Through the exhibition of advanced technologies and products, the high level of Taiwan’s environmental technology that are the fruit of collaboration of government, academia and industry were fully displayed. \nMinister Lee further pointed out many advanced technologies showcased in the exhibition, such as an air quality monitoring vehicle, water sampling technology for dioxin testing, bio-screen tests, and a time lapse capsule for heavy metal monitoring that uses ion exchange resins. These advanced technologies not only help safeguard public health in the areas of air, ocean, and farmland, but also add impetus to Taiwan’s efforts in establishing hotspots for a circular economy.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Vice President Chen Gives Keynote Speech at Asia-Pacific Children’s Health Symposium", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-12" }, { "no": "3633", "title": "Highly Efficient EIA Review Process for Offshore Wind Power Reaches a Milestone in Green Energy", "preview": "EIA\nHighly Efficient EIA Review Process for Offshore Wind Power Reaches a Milestone in Green Energy\nThe EPA has processed 22 environmental impact assessment (EIA) reviews for offshore wind power. The initial investigation process has been highly efficient, with 19 cases completed in six months, and resulted in recommendations to pass the EIAs. The increased efficiency of the EIA process stems from government policies on impact assessments. The EPA enumerates demands and issues related to the environment by conducting on-site surveys and taking stock of local residents’ opinions, as well as initiating joint investigations to ascertain the cumulative effects of development. These steps have allowed the EPA to take both economic development and environmental protection into account.", "content": "Highly Efficient EIA Review Process for Offshore Wind Power Reaches a Milestone in Green Energy\nThe EPA has processed 22 environmental impact assessment (EIA) reviews for offshore wind power. The initial investigation process has been highly efficient, with 19 cases completed in six months, and resulted in recommendations to pass the EIAs. The increased efficiency of the EIA process stems from government policies on impact assessments. The EPA enumerates demands and issues related to the environment by conducting on-site surveys and taking stock of local residents’ opinions, as well as initiating joint investigations to ascertain the cumulative effects of development. These steps have allowed the EPA to take both economic development and environmental protection into account.\nIn accordance with Taiwan’s renewable energy goals, the EPA handled 22 EIA reviews for offshore wind power, with 19 cases completing the preliminary review within six months. The EPA explained that the capacity of installations, which already passed the preliminary review, is up to 10.07 GW. This is a significant increase from cases processed in 2016, which were 0.61 GW. This adjustment is in line with Taiwan’s 2025 renewable energy goals and the government’s objective to have “selections for 3 GW and bids for 2.5 GW” from offshore wind power. These advancements will allow Taiwan to reach a major milestone in green energy. \nDespite the fact that Taiwan’s renewable energy development trails that of western European countries, the government has taken steps to actively promote renewable energy. In order to reach Taiwan’s 2025 energy goals, the EPA first completed its Policy Assessment for Offshore Wind Power Development on 28 December 2016. It also set up consultations and investigated the most prevalent environmental issues for offshore wind power development and possible response measures. This information will aid plans for development as well as provide a reference and benchmark for the follow-up EIA reviews. As the 19 cases continue through the review process, the review committee will determine how environmental policies and consultations align with practical application. The EPA will enumerate the specific demands derived from the most common environmental issues. \nCivic group concerns about the conservation of the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin are an example of a frequent issue arising during the EIA process. Thus, the EIA review placed a strong emphasis on determining and restricting the direct impacts of construction and piling. The EPA set standards for distances that should be restricted to development and will carefully monitor construction during the pile-driving period. The EPA also set regulations on restricted distances, noise monitoring during pile driving, the application of soft starters and noise-reducing engineering, and restricted the time for pile driving. In addition, during initial investigations, the EPA recommended that the noise threshold comply with German standards (StUK4, 2013). The sound exposure level (SEL) value for noise 750 meters below water in watch areas must not exceed 160dB. In areas where mothers and juveniles of whales and dolphins are discovered, the threshold values will be further restricted.\nThe EPA reiterated that it wishes to have an efficient process for the EIA procedure as it promotes a number of large developments. Cases brought forward that should pass, will pass. Cases that require modification will receive specific details on what needs to be adjusted. Assessments are to be completed within three reviews. The EPA will reduce environmental concerns to the lowest level and seek to prevent any protests or conflicts that could arise later in development. Conducting effective EIA is the only means to sustainable economic development.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "EIA", "titlename": "Highly Efficient EIA Review Process for Offshore Wind Power Reaches a Milestone in Green Energy", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-12" }, { "no": "3632", "title": "EPA Announces Draft Phase 1 Greenhouse Gas Emission Control Goals", "preview": "Climate Change\nEPA Announces Draft Phase 1 Greenhouse Gas Emission Control Goals\nAfter consulting with relevant central competent authorities, the EPA has formulated the Phase 1 Goals for Greenhouse Gas Emission Controls (draft). This task is to be shared by the central government entities responsible for energy, manufacturing, transportation, residential and commercial affairs, agriculture, and the environment. Subsequent public hearings and meetings will be held to gather ideas from all fields for the Executive Yuan’s reference.", "content": "EPA Announces Draft Phase 1 Greenhouse Gas Emission Control Goals\nAfter consulting with relevant central competent authorities, the EPA has formulated the Phase 1 Goals for Greenhouse Gas Emission Controls (draft). This task is to be shared by the central government entities responsible for energy, manufacturing, transportation, residential and commercial affairs, agriculture, and the environment. Subsequent public hearings and meetings will be held to gather ideas from all fields for the Executive Yuan’s reference.\nArticle 11 of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act mandates setting phased goals for greenhouse gas emission control for five-year periods. Thus, the EPA has consulted with various central competent authorities, and after many discussions has formulated the Phase 1 Goals (draft). With measures starting from small reductions in the early stages to steeper reductions in later stages, the goal for 2020 greenhouse gas emissions is set at 260.717 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents, 2% lower than the emission level in 2005, which is used as the baseline. The goals for the following phases are a 10% reduction from the baseline by 2025 and a 20% reduction by 2030.\nRelative emission contributions (see graph below), current emissions, reduction trends, and reduction potentials of the six sectors have been taken into account. The draft of the Phase 1 Goals clarifies each sector’s responsibilities and requires joint efforts on carbon reduction in addition to setting overall national emission targets. As the energy sector is likely to have increased emissions during the transitional period, it nonetheless needs to strive to reach its phased goals. \nMeanwhile, the government has also mapped out complementary projects and measures to further cut emissions, for example in the EPA’s draft of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Action Plan, on overall reductions. Also, the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC), Ministry of the Interior (MOI), and Council of Agriculture (COA) each proposed drafts for the Greenhouse Gas Emission Control Action Programs for their respective areas of responsibility, along with evaluation standards and more detailed targets for greenhouse gas emission control. Public opinion will be gathered concerning all the measures and programs above during the public hearings on phased control goals. \nThe EPA pointed out that after the draft goals are approved by the Executive Yuan, ministers are responsible for each sector’s emission reduction will be required to present annual implementation reports. Each department’s own progress on phased goals will be examined based on emission statistics and data, and those that fail to reach targets will be required to provide improvement plans. Combined with evaluations and modifications on a dynamic basis every five years, Taiwan is expected to phase-by-phase meet its long-term greenhouse gas emission reduction goals and reach a minimum 50% reduction from 2005 emission levels by 2050. \nThe draft specifies Phase 1 goals, which stipulate the allowed maximum of total emissions of greenhouse gases, in carbon dioxide equivalents, from 2016 to 2020. The details include:\n(1) National greenhouse gas emission control target: 1437.531 metric tonnes of CO2e\n(2) Sector greenhouse gas emission control targets:\n1. Energy sector: 163.139 metric tonnes of CO2e.\n2. Manufacturing sector: 741.543 metric tonnes of CO2e\n3. Transportation sector: 189.663 metric tonnes of CO2e\n4. Residential and commercial sector: 298.845 metric tonnes of CO2e.\n5. Agriculture sector: 26.187 metric tonnes of CO2e.\n6. Environmental sector: 18.154 metric tonnes of CO2e.\n(3) Target for greenhouse gas emissions factor for electricity (annual average): 0.517 kilograms.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "EPA Announces Draft Phase 1 Greenhouse Gas Emission Control Goals", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-12" }, { "no": "3631", "title": "EPA Minister Lee Exhibits Taiwan’s Role in Global Carbon Reduction at COP23 in Germany", "preview": "Climate Change\nEPA Minister Lee Exhibits Taiwan’s Role in Global Carbon Reduction at COP23 in Germany \nThe main influential event leading the global fight against climate change, the 23rd session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP23), was held in November in Bonn, Germany. The Executive Yuan’s delegation, led by EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee, held 31 bilateral meetings with heads of Taiwan’s diplomatic allies, along with environmental ministers, UN ambassadors and permanent representatives to the UN of several other nations, as well as some members of the German parliament. During the trip, Minister Lee gave interviews to several German TV stations and magazines, in which he expressed Taiwan’s resolve in carbon reduction.", "content": "EPA Minister Lee Exhibits Taiwan’s Role in Global Carbon Reduction at COP23 in Germany \nThe main influential event leading the global fight against climate change, the 23rd session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP23), was held in November in Bonn, Germany. The Executive Yuan’s delegation, led by EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee, held 31 bilateral meetings with heads of Taiwan’s diplomatic allies, along with environmental ministers, UN ambassadors and permanent representatives to the UN of several other nations, as well as some members of the German parliament. During the trip, Minister Lee gave interviews to several German TV stations and magazines, in which he expressed Taiwan’s resolve in carbon reduction.\nPresided over by the island nation Fiji, the two-week UNFCCC COP23 that concluded on 18 November 2017 attracted over 20,000 attendees who discussed future action guidelines for the implementation of the Paris Agreement. Taiwan took part in this important event with delegates from the public, academic, and industrial sectors, while being professional, practical, contributive and displaying a diverse and vibrant energy to establish a sustainable environment. \nMeetings with heads of state and environmental ministers of diplomatic allies\nThrough arrangements made by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and Taiwan’s Representative to Germany, Jhy-Wey Hsieh, the Executive Yuan’s delegation was able to hold 31 bilateral meetings with Taiwan’s diplomatic allies and countries friendly toward Taiwan. The delegation leader, Minister Ying-Yuan Lee, took part in 19 meetings, including discussions with the heads of state of the Marshall Islands, Nauru, St. Lucia, Swaziland and Tuvalu. He also engaged in extensive and in-depth dialogues with environmental ministers and UN ambassadors of several other nations, as well as some members of the German parliament. \nInterviews with multiple international media on Taiwan’s determination regarding carbon reduction\nDuring his stay in Germany, Minister Lee was interviewed by several Taiwanese and foreign media, such as Deutsche Welle (DW), TV Berlin, the (Taiwan) Central News Agency and Yahoo TV, and he spoke about Taiwan’s resolve and step-by-step concrete actions in energy transition and greenhouse gas emission reductions. The influential German magazines Business and Diplomacy featured Minister Lee in its November issue's cover story on Taiwan’s accomplishments and directions in response to climate change.\nLet Taiwan Help. Leave No One Behind!\nOn 13 November, DW conducted a special interview with Minister Lee. The host expressed disbelief with Taiwan’s exclusion from UNFCCC events and other significant efforts to deal with climate change. The minister stated that being deliberately blocked from participating in the UNFCCC actually accentuates Taiwan’s difficult situation and arouses international attention and sympathy. \nA video was played before the interview, showing the impact of climate change on Taiwan as well as citizen protests against nuclear power. Referring to the clip, Minister Lee emphasized Taiwan’s current path of transition to clean energy in an attempt to meet its carbon reduction goals.\nThis interview on DW’s English news channel could be seen by 100 million viewers.\n\n14 diplomatic allies advocate for Taiwan’s participation in UN Climate Change Conferences\nFor speaking in support of Taiwan in senior meetings throughout the duration of COP23 in Bonn, the delegation expressed special thanks to 12 of Taiwan’s diplomatic allies: Belize, Burkina Faso, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, the Marshall Islands, Nicaragua, St. Lucia, the Solomon Islands, Swaziland and Tuvalu. Also, 14 of Taiwan’s allies presented letters to the Chair of the Conference, President Jioji Konrote of Fiji, and the Executive Secretary of the UNFCCC Secretariat, Patricia Espinosa, to advocate for Taiwan’s inclusion and actual participation in UNFCCC meetings and other activities. \nBoth inside and outside the COP23 venue, a number of organizations from Taiwan actively voiced their views at exhibition stands and in speeches, emphasizing that Taiwan should take part in such a significant event. These included the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI), the Taiwan Research Institute (TRI), the Taiwan Institute for Sustainable Energy (TAISE), the Environmental Quality Protection Foundation (EQPF), the Taiwan Carbon Capture Storage and Utilization Association (TCCSUA), the Taiwan Association of Sustainable Ecological Engineering Development (TASEED), Delta Electronics Foundation, the Foundation of Taiwan Industry Service (FTIS), Mom Loves Taiwan, and the Taiwan Youth Climate Coalition (TWYCC). There were also city and regional representatives from Taipei, New Taipei City, Taoyuan, Tainan, and Kaohsiung answering the call of the UNFCCC for public-private collaboration as well as for central-local government cooperation to combat climate change.\nAnswering the call for global carbon reduction actions, the Executive Yuan has mapped out general guidelines for greenhouse gas mitigation and climate change adaptation by approving the National Climate Change Action Guidelines in February 2017. After consulting with the central government, the EPA also announced in November drafts of Taiwan’s Phase 1 goals for greenhouse gas emission controls, in the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Action Plan and the Greenhouse Gas Emission Control Action Programs. With initially slow and then accelerating carbon reduction measures, Taiwan is set to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions to 2% lower than that of the baseline year 2005 by 2020, to 10% lower by 2025, and to 20% lower by 2030. Moreover, practical interdepartmental measures have been brought up for energy, manufacturing, transportation, residential and commercial, agricultural, and environmental sectors to share the responsibility to cut carbon emissions in order to gradually reach Taiwan’s long-term reduction goal of having the carbon emissions 50% lower than 2005 emission levels by the year 2050.\nFuture Outlook\nClimate change is a scientifically proven fact that has real, major impacts on the planet and threatens human health and the sustainable development of the environment, societies, and economies. For a long time, Taiwan has been silently doing its duty by working relentlessly through bilateral and multilateral environmental agreements and cooperation. Hoping to establish partner relationships and face climate change alongside other members of the international community, Taiwan is more than willing to share its expertise and experiences in protecting the environment, assist nations in need, and build true friendships. Taiwan refuses to be absent in the fight to safeguard Earth against climate change, as it is of the utmost importance to build a sustainable environment for future generations.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "EPA Minister Lee Exhibits Taiwan’s Role in Global Carbon Reduction at COP23 in Germany", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-12" }, { "no": "3630", "title": "Amendments to Toxic Chemical Substances Transportation Management Regulations Preannounced", "preview": "Toxic Substance\nAmendments to Toxic Chemical Substances Transportation Management Regulations Preannounced", "content": "Amendments to Toxic Chemical Substances Transportation Management Regulations Preannounced\nThe EPA has preannounced a draft revision of the Toxic Chemical Substances Transportation Management Regulations in an effort to improve management of toxic chemical substances transport, simplify application forms, and at the same time strengthen transport enterprises’ accident response and prevention operations. This is the seventh amendment since the regulations were first announced on 8 February 1991. The major reason behind the amendments is to keep up with technological advancements. The current amendments have replaced the duplicate forms of the past with online applications, in response to the expanding capabilities of real-time tracking systems. New regulations will also increase the requirements for devices on trucks in order to improve the transportation industry’s capability to respond to and prevent accidents.\nThe amendments added guidelines for shipping small quantities of Class 1 to Class 3 toxic chemicals, in-cluding a simple duplicate form for shipping, along with the required attachment of a safety data sheet, and installation of certain software on mobile devices. The format of the duplicate forms has been modified from a six-part form to a duplicate form. In addition, during shipment, companies are to comply with regulations regarding containing devices and loading as stated in Article 84 of the Road Traffic Safety Rules. Motor vehicles transporting toxic chemicals must be installed with real-time tracking systems with upgraded specifications, which must be equipped with a barcode to allow scanning for the records of vehicles’ starting and ending points, an emergency reporting function, and communication services that meet fourth generation mobile phone mobile communication technology standards or above.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Amendments to Toxic Chemical Substances Transportation Management Regulations Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-12" }, { "no": "3629", "title": "Groundbreaking for First Food Waste Bioenergy Plant Ushers in New Era", "preview": "Waste \nGroundbreaking for First Food Waste Bioenergy Plant Ushers in New Era\nOn 24 October 2017, a groundbreaking ceremony was held for Taiwan’s first food waste bioenergy plant in Taichung’s Waipu Green Energy Ecopark. EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee and the mayor of Taichung City, Chia-Lung Lin, participated in the ceremony. It is expected that the project will be completed and pilot operations will be started by August 2018. The plant will use methane produced from food waste to generate electricity and manufacture organic fertilizer, thus not only putting the concept of a circular economy into practice, but also leading Taiwan’s food waste utilization into a new era.", "content": "Groundbreaking for First Food Waste Bioenergy Plant Ushers in New Era", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Groundbreaking for First Food Waste Bioenergy Plant Ushers in New Era", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-12" }, { "no": "3628", "title": "Twenty-seven Enterprises and Ten Environmental Protection Personnel Receive Awards", "preview": "General Policy\nTwenty-seven Enterprises and Ten Environmental Protection Personnel Receive Awards\nOn 30 October 2017, the EPA held the ceremony for the 26th Enterprises Environmental Protection Award, the highest honor enterprises can receive for environmental protection. The EPA presented awards to 27 enterprises, among which the Fab8A factory of the United Microelectronic Corporation (UMC) received a Gold Award for the third consecutive year. The ceremony also saw awards presented to ten dedicated environmental protection personnel and technicians for their commitment and devotion to their work.", "content": "Twenty-seven Enterprises and Ten Environmental Protection Personnel Receive Awards\nOn 30 October 2017, the EPA held the ceremony for the 26th Enterprises Environmental Protection Award, the highest honor enterprises can receive for environmental protection. The EPA presented awards to 27 enterprises, among which the Fab8A factory of the United Microelectronic Corporation (UMC) received a Gold Award for the third consecutive year. The ceremony also saw awards presented to ten dedicated environmental protection personnel and technicians for their commitment and devotion to their work.\nThe Enterprises Environmental Protection Award has been given since 1992 as a way to commend enter-prises’ efforts in environmental protection. Over the award’s 26-year history, 376 industries have received awards, among which 46 have been awarded for three consecutive years. In its early stages, enterprises receiving the award included conventional industries and petrochemical industries. Now the award is given to enterprises in a wide range of industries, such as the semiconductor, medicinal, educational, financial, and specialized and technical services industries. The award has evolved from focusing on pollution prevention and end-of-pipe treatment to the promotion of a circular economy. \nTwenty-seven enterprises received this year’s award. One recipient, UMC’s Fab8A factory, reduced its usage and improved its management of toxic chemical substances. It also established a comprehensive toxic accident response system and designed internal Green Innovation Awards to encourage employees to bring up proposals and take on innovative research. Externally, UMC created a Green Award, and the “Eco-echo Conservation Hope Project,” which was initiated using profits from carbon trading. These steps were taken to protect environmental biodiversity and species conservation – and foster a long-term love for ecosystem health. \nAnother recipient, Kuang Tien General Hospital, replaced high energy-consuming equipment and light bulbs. It also improved lighting management to achieve energy savings along with other carbon reduction measures. In terms of waste, the hospital took a further step by reducing single-use disposables. In addition, it began to provide bags of supplies for patients admitted into the hospital, including a cup, a toothbrush, and slippers, and multiple use of the products were encouraged. The hospital took further steps by setting goals for waste reduction contests and regular incentives.\nAlso during the ceremony, Minister Lee presented awards to ten individuals for their outstanding perfor-mance as dedicated environmental protection personnel and technicians. These recipients were all from the first line of staff that does hands-on work, and all had demonstrated high achievement through their commit-ment and approaches. Further information on award recipients is available on the EPA website (https:\/\/aeepa\/epa.gov.tw).", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Twenty-seven Enterprises and Ten Environmental Protection Personnel Receive Awards", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-12" }, { "no": "3627", "title": "Taiwan Hosts the APEC Roundtable Discussion for Sustainability of the Marine Environment", "preview": "International Cooperation\nTaiwan Hosts the APEC Roundtable Discussion for Sustainability of the Marine Environment\nOn 16-17 October 2017, the EPA hosted the 18th APEC Roundtable Meeting on Participation of the Business\/Private Sector in Sustainability of the Marine Environment. Eight members of APEC sent delegates: Taiwan, Chile, China, Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, South Korea and Thailand. The participants were from governmental and non-governmental organizations and private enterprises. Experts discussed two major issues – marine environmental protection and food security and marine resources – focusing on enhancing the participation of the private sector in the safeguarding of the marine environment and to ensure the sustainable utilization of marine resources.", "content": "Taiwan Hosts the APEC Roundtable Discussion for Sustainability of the Marine Environment\nOn 16-17 October 2017, the EPA hosted the 18th APEC Roundtable Meeting on Participation of the Business\/Private Sector in Sustainability of the Marine Environment. Eight members of APEC sent delegates: Taiwan, Chile, China, Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, South Korea and Thailand. The participants were from governmental and non-governmental organizations and private enterprises. Experts discussed two major issues – marine environmental protection and food security and marine resources – focusing on enhancing the participation of the private sector in the safeguarding of the marine environment and to ensure the sustainable utilization of marine resources.\nThe EPA stated that countries worldwide have been paying much attention to marine ecosystem conserva-tion and the sustainable use of marine resources in recent years, and noted that the United Nations also lists marine issues as its Sustainable Development Goal 14. The EPA also placed “plastic-free ocean” and “ma-rine waste reduction” among its priorities.\nDr. Huichen Chien, Executive Director of the EPA’s Office of Sustainable Development, emphasized in her opening remarks that marine resources are important food sources in the Asia-Pacific region. Climate change, pollution and overfishing put much pressure on marine resources. Only through the collaborative efforts of APEC members can marine ecosystem health be safeguarded. \nDuring the two-day roundtable discussion, the participants proposed several suggestions concerning marine environmental protection as well as resource and food safety. Suggestions included improving marine moni-toring systems and collaboration to reduce ocean trash and endocrine disrupting chemicals. In addition, the public and private sectors were encouraged to work together to reduce marine garbage, establish a public platform for information disclosure, and provide methods for implementation and enforcement. Governments can offer economic incentives to encourage fishermen to make use of environmentally friendly fishing nets and equipment. Improvements can be made through environmental education to encourage communities, fishermen, and enterprises to voluntarily participate in programs to protect the marine environment and also put an end to illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing in the global market. There were also recommendations concerning marine resource management, climate change adaptation and marine environment protection in order to maintain food security.\nA total of 16 participants presented papers on coastal environment monitoring systems, marine garbage management, reutilization of fishery waste, raising public awareness, and prevention of illegal fishing. The recommendations from the roundtable meeting will be given to the APEC’s Ocean and Fisheries Working Group (OFWG) as a reference for its 2018 meetings.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "International Cooperation", "titlename": "Taiwan Hosts the APEC Roundtable Discussion for Sustainability of the Marine Environment", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-11" }, { "no": "3626", "title": "Amendments for Tighter Controls in Marine Discharge Pipe Effluent Standards Announced", "preview": "Water\nAmendments for Tighter Controls in Marine Discharge Pipe Effluent Standards Announced\nOn 20 October 2017, the EPA announced the amendments to the Marine Discharge Pipe Effluent Standards. The amendments include stricter regulations for suspended solids (SS), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and chemical oxygen demand (COD), which will be implemented in stages. The amendments are aimed at improving the quality of the marine environment by increasing the stability and effectiveness of pipes used by enterprises or sewer systems that discharge effluents into the ocean.", "content": "Amendments for Tighter Controls in Marine Discharge Pipe Effluent Standards Announced\nOn 20 October 2017, the EPA announced the amendments to the Marine Discharge Pipe Effluent Standards. The amendments include stricter regulations for suspended solids (SS), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and chemical oxygen demand (COD), which will be implemented in stages. The amendments are aimed at improving the quality of the marine environment by increasing the stability and effectiveness of pipes used by enterprises or sewer systems that discharge effluents into the ocean.\nThe EPA stated that since some public sewage systems take in both greywater and the wastewater from interceptor sewers, the SS, BOD, COD and other water quality indicators of the take-in water are therefore below the limits announced by the EPA and apprarently need no further treatment to meet the requirements. The EPA therefore tightened the limits on SS, BOD, and COD in order to push enterprises and sewage sys-tem operators to meet their responsibilities for appropriate wastewater treatment.\nThe new limits enter into force on the day of announcement for all newly established enterprises and sewage systems, but do not take effect until 1 July 2018 for existing enterprises and sewage systems. However, for existing enterprises and sewage systems that need to undergo improvement projects to comply with the new limits, the new standards will take effect on 1 January 2021, allowing time to have their effluent pollutant reduction management plans approved by the local competent authorities and carried out accordingly.\nThe EPA stated that the current amendments to the Marine Discharge Pipe Effluent Standards focus on end-of-pipe management. Enterprises or sewage system operators that discharge wastewater into oceans need to properly operate their wastewater treatment systems or improve their wastewater treatment technology so that the concentrations of the pollutants in the effluent can be reduced and the quality of marine waterbodies can be improved.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Amendments for Tighter Controls in Marine Discharge Pipe Effluent Standards Announced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-11" }, { "no": "3625", "title": "EPA Holds Public Meeting for New Taipei City Offshore Wind Power Generators", "preview": "EIA\nEPA Holds Public Meeting for New Taipei City Offshore Wind Power Generators\nThe EPA is in the process of reviewing the case for an offshore wind power farm in New Taipei City. A meeting was held to gather public opinion on the matter. The concerns raised by the public included issues such as the offshore turbines’ impacts on fishing, landscapes and noise pollution. During the meeting, the EPA stated that the developer will be required to address all concerns raised by civic groups in the later environmental impact assessment (EIA) review process. The EPA will also closely inspect and monitor the follow-up implementation of the decisions and recommendations made by the EIA review committee.\n\nEIA\nEPA Holds Public Meeting for New Taipei City Offshore Wind Power Generators\nThe EPA is in the process of reviewing the case for an offshore wind power farm in New Taipei City. A meeting was held to gather public opinion on the matter. The concerns raised by the public included issues such as the offshore turbines’ impacts on fishing, landscapes and noise pollution. During the meeting, the EPA stated that the developer will be required to address all concerns raised by civic groups in the later environmental impact assessment (EIA) review process. The EPA will also closely inspect and monitor the follow-up implementation of the decisions and recommendations made by the EIA review committee.", "content": "EPA Holds Public Meeting for New Taipei City Offshore Wind Power Generators\nThe EPA is in the process of reviewing the case for an offshore wind power farm in New Taipei City. A meeting was held to gather public opinion on the matter. The concerns raised by the public included issues such as the offshore turbines’ impacts on fishing, landscapes and noise pollution. During the meeting, the EPA stated that the developer will be required to address all concerns raised by civic groups in the later environmental impact assessment (EIA) review process. The EPA will also closely inspect and monitor the follow-up implementation of the decisions and recommendations made by the EIA review committee.\nTo review the “New Taipei City Offshore Wind Power Project Environmental Impact Assessment Statements” submitted by the Equis Services (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., the EPA invited the members of the EIA review com-mittee to a public meeting and on-site observations in Sanzhi District, New Taipei City on 21 October 2017. Local groups’ opinions, and the comprehensive environmental background and data collected from onsite observations, will serve as references for the EIA review.\nThe EPA pointed out during the meeting that concerns raised by civic groups about wind power generators’ impacts on fishery, the landscape and noise pollution, will be addressed by the developer in the follow-up EIA review. In addition, the EPA will inspect and monitor the implementation of decisions and recommenda-tions made by the EIA review committee. Questions surrounding the necessity of developing wind power, site selection for offshore wind farms and environmental assessment of energy policies will be referred to the Bureau of Energy of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), the competent authority of the development, for further comments.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "EIA", "titlename": "EPA Holds Public Meeting for New Taipei City Offshore Wind Power Generators", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-11" }, { "no": "3624", "title": "Taiwan and US Jointly Hold Global Environmental Education Partnership Meeting", "preview": "International Cooperation\nTaiwan and US Jointly Hold Global Environmental Education Partnership Meeting\nA meeting of the Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP) was jointly held by the EPA and the USEPA on 16 and 17 October 2017 in Washington, DC, with 30 participants in attendance, representing governments and NGOs from 15 nations. Echoing to the 40th anniversary of the Tbilisi Declaration on environmental education, attendees of the GEEP meeting planned out global and regional environmental education collaboration, called for global actions and established a network of environmental education for a sustainable future.", "content": "Taiwan and US Jointly Hold Global Environmental Education Partnership Meeting\nA meeting of the Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP) was jointly held by the EPA and the USEPA on 16 and 17 October 2017 in Washington, DC, with 30 participants in attendance, representing governments and NGOs from 15 nations. Echoing to the 40th anniversary of the Tbilisi Declaration on environmental education, attendees of the GEEP meeting planned out global and regional environmental education collaboration, called for global actions and established a network of environmental education for a sustainable future.\nThe meeting was cohosted by the EPA and the USEPA. Director Tsung-Yung Liu from the EPA’s Depart-ment of Comprehensive Planning stated in his opening speech that threats of extreme weather and other challenges due to global climate change can devastate regions and cause major losses of lives and property. Only through swift actions and proactive attitudes in the area of environmental education can a sustainable future be created.\nThe 2017 GEEP meeting participants included government officials, experts and scholars from 15 nations: Taiwan, Australia, Botswana, Canada, Chile, Denmark, Ghana, India, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Russia, the Netherlands, the UK and the US. Among the participants, 23 were NGO members, and seven were gov-ernment officials.\n2017 is the 40th year since the Tbilisi Declaration on environmental education was issued. The GEEP took the meeting with the theme “Imagine a World” as an opportunity to make a global call for action, consisting of ten initiatives. Through the ActNowForEE.org website, people around the world are encouraged to take action on environmental education to construct a society in harmony with the environment and nature.\nThe 10 initiatives launched by the meeting are: become influencers in environmental education; widening impact areas; training global citizens; developing global environmental education leadership; conducting research and analysis for better practicality; linking and collaborating to seek changes; extending roles as environmental educators with successful examples; increasing opportunities of environmental education and connection with nature; strengthening the roles in environmental education based on the UN Sustainable Development Goals; and developing global environmental education funds.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "International Cooperation", "titlename": "Taiwan and US Jointly Hold Global Environmental Education Partnership Meeting", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-11" }, { "no": "3623", "title": "Taiwan and Germany Exchange Experiences on Carbon Market Mechanisms and Practices", "preview": "Climate Change\nTaiwan and Germany Exchange Experiences on Carbon Market Mechanisms and Practices\nOn 31 October, the EPA hosted the 2017 Carbon Market Capacity Building Workshop with invited guests, including representatives of the German Emissions Trading Authority (DEHSt), the Industrial Development Bureau (IDB) of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), the Bureau of Energy (BOE) of MOEA, the Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC), along with related experts, scholars, and think tanks. Germany’s implementation experiences, reform methods, and relevant carbon reduction policies were shared, and cap-and-trade mechanisms were discussed in the workshop.", "content": "Taiwan and Germany Exchange Experiences on Carbon Market Mechanisms and Practices\nOn 31 October, the EPA hosted the 2017 Carbon Market Capacity Building Workshop with invited guests, including representatives of the German Emissions Trading Authority (DEHSt), the Industrial Development Bureau (IDB) of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), the Bureau of Energy (BOE) of MOEA, the Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC), along with related experts, scholars, and think tanks. Germany’s implementation experiences, reform methods, and relevant carbon reduction policies were shared, and cap-and-trade mechanisms were discussed in the workshop.\nAs the EPA pointed out, Taiwan’s circumstances and the framework of its Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act are different from those of the EU and Germany. Social and physical conditions should be taken into consideration when learning from international experiences. Besides presenting the latest devel-opment of EU Emission Trading System (EU ETS), which is about to enter its Phase 4, the invited German experts also exchanged implementation details during the ETS’ first three phases and how it formulated policies in order to reach national emission reduction goals. \nThe EPA also mentioned that, as the EU has been running ETS for years with Germany as the leader on the EU’s climate policies, exchanges like this workshop are beneficial for Taiwan to develop its own cap-and-trade system and meet emission reduction goals. Furthermore, the workshop can help establish a long-term professional technological exchange mechanism on carbon management with Germany and discuss the feasibility of linking carbon markets on both sides so as to eventually construct an effective regional carbon market.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Taiwan and Germany Exchange Experiences on Carbon Market Mechanisms and Practices", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-11" }, { "no": "3622", "title": "Comprehensive Air Pollution Control Scheme Launched to Cut PM2.5 to 8 ?g\/m3", "preview": "Air\nComprehensive Air Pollution Control Scheme Launched to Cut PM2.5 to 8 ?g\/m3\nConcerning the ongoing 14+N Air Pollution Control Plan, on 2 November 2017, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee invited the Minister of Economic Affairs (MOEA), Jong-Chin Shen, and the Mayor of Taichung City, Chia-Lung Lin, to jointly survey the air pollution control and improvement progress of the Taipower coal-fired power plant in Taichung. Further measures, such as oil-burning boiler replacements, mobile pollution source reduction in the metropolitan Taichung area, smoke control equipment installation for night market food vendors, and establishment of a straw gasification power plant, are in place in order to minimize occurrence of poor air quality days in central Taiwan.", "content": "Comprehensive Air Pollution Control Scheme Launched to Cut PM2.5 to 8 ?g\/m3\nConcerning the ongoing 14+N Air Pollution Control Plan, on 2 November 2017, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee invited the Minister of Economic Affairs (MOEA), Jong-Chin Shen, and the Mayor of Taichung City, Chia-Lung Lin, to jointly survey the air pollution control and improvement progress of the Taipower coal-fired power plant in Taichung. Further measures, such as oil-burning boiler replacements, mobile pollution source reduction in the metropolitan Taichung area, smoke control equipment installation for night market food vendors, and establishment of a straw gasification power plant, are in place in order to minimize occurrence of poor air quality days in central Taiwan.\nMinister Lee, Minister Shen, and Mayor Lin first looked through Taipower’s air pollution control plans. The Taichung power plant has promised to upgrade pollution emission control facilities for its existing generators, install new, more efficient natural gas-powered generators, and adopt the best available control technology (BACT). As a result, power generation went from roughly 138.1 billion kWh in 2016 to over 160 billion kWh, and overall air pollutant emissions from 99 thousand metric tonnes to 66 thousand metric tonnes, a 33% reduction rate. The goal is to steadily meet domestic energy needs while minimizing air pollutant emissions per unit of energy generated. \nRegarding air quality improvement in central Taiwan, Minister Lee pointed out that conventional industrial and commercial boilers burn coal or heavy crude oil and play significant roles in affecting the air quality in central Taiwan. Currently, control measures as well as subsidies are used to encourage enterprises to switch to cleaner energy such as natural gas. Stricter national standards will be implemented in 2020, and on 20 June, Taichung City Government announced its own boiler air pollutant emission standards. The standards announced by the Taichung City Government mandate that newly installed boilers burn natural gas or run on electricity, and that existing ones switch energy sources within a year. The EPA also started to subsidize the replacement of commercial boilers in 2017, and thus far subsidy applications for five boilers in Taichung are being processed. In addition, since 2015, the Taichung City Government has received a total of 101 applica-tions after it started providing subsidies from its own budget for boiler replacement. In the future, the Indus-trial Development Bureau (IDB) of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) will follow suit. \nThe EPA’s analyses of pollution sources show that, aside from generators and industrial and commercial boilers, the local population, number of vehicles, and amount of oil pumped in gas stations have all been on the rise recently, hence driving up air pollution in Taichung. To combat air pollution caused by the increasing traffic, the city government has proposed the “Critical 8μg\/m3” Green Traffic Plan. The plan covers four areas: promoting energy consumption patterns, improving transfer efficiency, establishing an environment for low-carbon transportation, and decreasing the use of private vehicles. Twelve projects are proposed, including the addition of electric buses in busy traffic corridors and discounts for transfer to greener transportation. The plan is to be carried out jointly by the central and city governments with a budget of NT$750 million (NT$500 million from the central government and NT$250 million from the city government). In addition, the EPA will keep focusing on policies for the replacement of old diesel vehicles, installation of soot filters, and tightening of gas\/diesel-fueled vehicle emission standards so as to lower emissions from mobile sources. \nOther than industrial and commercial activities or vehicle emissions, air pollution also comes from open-air burning of rice straw after harvest, which has always been a major problem in agricultural regions in central Taiwan. According to investigations by the Council of Agriculture (COA) and the EPA, open-air burning of straw was still practiced in about 5% of rice paddies in Taiwan in 2016. \nTo handle with this issue, the Taichung City Government will build a straw gasification power plant in Waipu Green Energy Ecopark in order to deal with agricultural wastes and promote incineration treatment. Com-bined with biomass energy development and an increasing green energy supply, the city government hopes this will help build a circular economy. The straw gasification power plant will have a capacity to treat 50,000 metric tonnes of straw annually and be able to generate 24.9 million kWh of energy, while cutting 320 metric tonnes of fine particulate matter and 13,147 metric tonnes of carbon emissions. The plant therefore will greatly benefit the air quality every autumn and winter. \nIn addition, grilling and frying in night markets generate smoke and unpleasant odors often that give rise to complaints from surrounding neighborhoods. As central Taiwan’s dry weather during autumn and winter does not help disperse air pollutants, the EPA is encouraging night market vendors to install the smoke-control equipment best suited to control the pollutants they emit, such as odor-removing ozone air purifiers or electrostatic air filters. \nThe EPA has joined forces with units in the central government and regional governments to improve air quality in industrial, commercial, and agricultural areas as well as in people’s daily lives. Through improving air pollution, the EPA expects to safeguard the public’s right to fresh air and to live free from the dangers of PM2.5.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Comprehensive Air Pollution Control Scheme Launched to Cut PM2.5 to 8 ?g\/m3", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-11" }, { "no": "3621", "title": "Promotion of Carbon Label and Carbon Reduction Label", "preview": "Climate change\nPromotion of Carbon Label and Carbon Reduction Label\nIn addition to the Green Mark that was launched over two decades ago to promote environmentally friendly products, the EPA established the Carbon Label (also called Carbon Footprint Label) in 2009 to help reduce carbon footprints. The carbon labeling is promoted in two phases: carbon footprint disclosure (Carbon Label) and the Carbon Reduction Label. The EPA hopes that this will help the public better understand the importance of green consumption and the impact of carbon footprints on the environment. The EPA also hopes that through assisting the public to select low-carbon products in an easier manner, this will help move Taiwan towards becoming a low-carbon society.", "content": "Promotion of Carbon Label and Carbon Reduction Label\nIn addition to the Green Mark that was launched over two decades ago to promote environmentally friendly products, the EPA established the Carbon Label (also called Carbon Footprint Label) in 2009 to help reduce carbon footprints. The carbon labeling is promoted in two phases: carbon footprint disclosure (Carbon Label) and the Carbon Reduction Label. The EPA hopes that this will help the public better understand the importance of green consumption and the impact of carbon footprints on the environment. The EPA also hopes that through assisting the public to select low-carbon products in an easier manner, this will help move Taiwan towards becoming a low-carbon society.\n\nA product’s carbon footprint is the amount of carbon generated directly and indirectly throughout the entire life cycle of a product or service. Compared to carbon emissions, which the public is better aware of, a car-bon footprint is different as seen from a consumer’s perspective. An enterprise or industry’s carbon emission is generated during the manufacturing processes, whereas a carbon footprint calculation accounts for more factors, covering all carbon generated from raw material mining, production, assembly, shipping, product use, to waste treatment or recycling.\nCarbon footprint is a key reference for carbon reduction\nEnterprises are growing more concerned with issues of climate change and with taking a more serious stand on carbon reduction and environmentally friendly products. In response to this mindset, the product carbon footprint has become a major carbon reduction measure for governments and enterprises, as well as a ref-erence to communicate with the public on carbon reduction.\nThe Carbon Footprint Label is also known as the Carbon Label or Carbon Emission Label. The first carbon label to be introduced was the Carbon Reduction Label created by the UK in 2006. With a carbon labeling system, carbon emission sources throughout all stages of a product’s life cycle are made transparent, allowing companies to adjust manufacturing processes to lower carbon emission and help consumers use products in ways that maximize carbon reduction.\nConcepts and implementation of Taiwan’s Carbon Label\nIn response to global warming, in 2009 Taiwan began the process of establishing a carbon labeling mecha-nism. From September to November of 2009, the EPA held a carbon label design competition. A total of 1,286 designs were received, and one image, titled “Love the Environment, Lower Carbon Footprint”, was chosen after also reviewing procedures such as calculation of Taiwan’s Carbon Label.\nThe label’s logo consists of a large footprint made of a green heart and a green leaf, with a CO2 symbol and a number in the heart that indicates the labelled product’s carbon footprint. The image depicts a nature-loving heart and the determination to reduce carbon and increase green consumption so as to build a low-carbon society. In the future, the EPA hopes that through examining the carbon emissions at all stages throughout the life cycles of more products, manufacturers can find potential areas for carbon reduction. Meanwhile, consumers are encouraged to improve consumption habits, paying attention to Carbon Labels to become more environmentally mindful.\nTwo phases in promoting Carbon Label and Carbon Reduction Label \nPromotion of the carbon emission-related labels in Taiwan are implemented in two phases as described be-low.\n1. Promote Carbon Label for product carbon footprint disclosure\nCountries around the world develop their own carbon labelling systems, and no international standards on relevant measures exist. In the first stage of establishing the system, there are fewer carbon-label certified products, and carbon footprints of products within the same categories cannot be adequately compared. Thus the first phase focuses on encouraging manufacturers to analyze the carbon footprints of their products and work towards disclosing them.\nAnalysis of a product’s carbon footprint helps one understand the carbon emissions generated in different stages throughout its life cycle, allowing manufacturers to review carbon-cutting measures, such as switching to environmentally friendly materials, reducing packaging, recycling more, improving shipping efficiency, and asking material suppliers to collaborate on lowering carbon footprints. In addition to cutting carbon emissions and building a green supply chain, these steps can also reduce costs.\nConsumers can support manufacturers’ disclosure of product carbon footprints by choosing products with carbon labels as well as follow instructions on proper usage and waste treatment to lower overall carbon emissions.\n2. Establishment of a Carbon Reduction Labelling system \nThe Carbon Reduction labelling system is based on the current Carbon Label. The carbon footprints of products on Carbon Label certificates or documents issued by third party verification organizations can be used as baselines for reduction by manufacturers, who then formulate practical reduction commitments and implementation methods. After the EPA evaluates and confirms that these promises are fulfilled, a product will be certified with a Carbon Reduction Label.\nFor manufacturers, the carbon reduction labelling system will be combined with the green point system. In the future, the government will include products with a Carbon Reduction Label on its preferential procure-ment list, which would provide immense incentives for manufacturers to apply for the label. This will help cut carbon emissions and shape a complete green supply chain.\nLikewise, consumers can also choose Carbon Reduction Label-certified products, and thereby contribute to the mitigation of global warming through green consumption and building a green consumption trend.\nFuture outlook\nTo promote green production and consumption, the EPA has actively pushed for certification of various products with the Green Mark and the Carbon Label. Since the Green Mark was launched in 1992, roughly 15,000 products in diverse categories have been certified. Meanwhile, the EPA conducts inventories of Tai-wan’s greenhouse gas emissions as well as assists enterprises and manufacturers in carbon footprint calcu-lations and label certification. In the future, the EPA will continue with relevant auditing, issuance verification and promotion of products with the Carbon Label. The EPA aims to provide low-carbon products to consumers and guide Taiwan towards becoming a low-carbon society.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate change", "titlename": "Promotion of Carbon Label and Carbon Reduction Label", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-11" }, { "no": "3620", "title": "E-payment Available for Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Fees", "preview": "Soil & groundwater\nE-payment Available for Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Fees", "content": "E-payment Available for Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Fees \nThe EPA works to create convenient methods for registered enterprises to pay soil and groundwater remedi-ation fees by fully allowing e-payment beginning 1 October 2017. Now the “406 Account for Soil Pollution and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Fund” (“406 Account” in short) is the only payment account for des-ignated financial institutes.\nPreviously there were two payment methods for e-payment of soil and groundwater pollution remediation fees. One allowed enterprises to wire fees to the “401 Account for Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Funds”, while the other allowed for fees to be paid through convenience stores, ATMs, online ATMs, online banks, and bank tellers through the 406 Account. However, as of 1 October 2017, fees were all wired into the 406 Account. On the fee reporting and inquiry website for soil and groundwater pollution remediation fees (https:\/\/sgwb.epa.gov.tw\/sgwfundo\/), there are pop-up reminders and tutorial videos as well as payment-related information and a consulting hotline available for enterprises to consult.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil & groundwater", "titlename": "E-payment Available for Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Fees", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-10" }, { "no": "3619", "title": "EPA Co-holds International E-waste Management Network Meeting in Indonesia", "preview": "Waste\nEPA Co-holds International E-waste Management Network Meeting in Indonesia \nThe 7th International E-waste Management Network (IEMN) Meeting was jointly held by the Taiwan EPA, the US EPA, and the Ministry of Environment and Forestry of Indonesia in Jakarta, Indonesia, from 2 to 6 October 2017. A total of 50 participants from governments and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) of 19 countries around the world gathered to share their countries’ e-waste management experiences.", "content": "EPA Co-holds International E-waste Management Network Meeting in Indonesia \nThe 7th International E-waste Management Network (IEMN) Meeting was jointly held by the Taiwan EPA, the US EPA, and the Ministry of Environment and Forestry of Indonesia in Jakarta, Indonesia, from 2 to 6 October 2017. A total of 50 participants from governments and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) of 19 countries around the world gathered to share their countries’ e-waste management experiences.\nCommencing on 2 October 2017, the meeting was launched with Indonesia Day, featuring a series of speeches and discussions on topics focusing on current e-waste issues and challenges. The four-day semi-nar began on 3 October, and saw partner nations share their progress and current situations regarding e-waste management and policies. Participants exchanged ideas on next-stage implementing strategies, how different countries develop e-waste policies and management strategies, the latest treatment technologies, and more. Furthermore, the International Finance Corporation (IFC) was invited to talk about how it offers access to raise capital, with examples on financing for recycling projects.\nMing-Hua Hsu, the deputy executive secretary of the Recycling Fund Management Board, led Taiwan’s del-egation which was composed of EPA representatives, environmental scholars and other experts. Mr. Hsu also delivered a speech at the opening session and mentioned that through the Taiwan-US Environmental Protection Technology Cooperation Agreement, the IEMN meetings and seminars have been able to take place annually since 2011. This has allowed Taiwan to join forces with partner countries in the region and exchange e-waste recycling management experiences and strategies.\nThe meeting was held under the International Environmental Partnership (IEP), which was launched in 2014. Under this partnership, Taiwan assists partner countries on the path to building successes in environmental protection, such as establishing a recycling system. The IEP strives to expand the pool of partner countries that will work collaboratively to protect the world’s environment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "EPA Co-holds International E-waste Management Network Meeting in Indonesia", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-10" }, { "no": "3618", "title": "Taiwan Hosts 2017 International Environmental Partnership Conference", "preview": "International Cooperation\nTaiwan Hosts 2017 International Environmental Partnership Conference \nTo promote a circular economy and international environmental cooperation, the EPA held the 2017 International Environmental Partnership Conference on 25 September 2017. Government representatives and industry experts from 13 countries attended the event and shared their innovative ideas and successful cases of a circular economy for plastics and food waste.", "content": "Taiwan Hosts 2017 International Environmental Partnership Conference \nTo promote a circular economy and international environmental cooperation, the EPA held the 2017 International Environmental Partnership Conference on 25 September 2017. Government representatives and industry experts from 13 countries attended the event and shared their innovative ideas and successful cases of a circular economy for plastics and food waste.\nTo implement UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 17, “Partnerships for the Goals”, the EPA held the 2017 International Environmental Partnership Conference on 25 September. The conference included various events, such as the International Environmental Partnership Workshop on Environmental Inspection Practices, and the Innovation for Future Circular Economy. Government officials of 13 countries attended the events and exchanged experiences on environmental law enforcement and a circular economy. The participating countries included Taiwan, El Salvador, Estonia, the EU, Germany, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Thailand, the UK, the US, and Vietnam.\nAddressing the Global Circular Economy Symposium, Mayor Franc Weerwind of Almere, the Netherlands, shared successes on constructing a circular city in the metropolitan area of Amsterdam. As an important satellite city of Amsterdam, Almere is a hot demonstration spot for a circular economy in the Netherlands. In 2018, Almere will organize the World Floral Exposition with Taichung City, its sister city in Taiwan, and will take the opportunity to demonstrate these two cities’ achievements on building a circular economy.\nIn accordance with the New Southbound Policy, the conference included a series of events that involved exchanging practical environmental inspection experiences among Taiwan, American, Thai, and Vietnamese government officials. Academic, industrial, and government representatives from the EU and other countries also discussed issues regarding plastics and food waste, and related innovations and successes. The EPA hoped that through these events, bilateral, regional, and global partnerships will be further advanced.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "International Cooperation", "titlename": "Taiwan Hosts 2017 International Environmental Partnership Conference", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-10" }, { "no": "3617", "title": "EPA Urges Residents to Clean Up Surroundings on Clean Up the World Weekend", "preview": "Environmental Sanitation\nEPA Urges Residents to Clean Up Surroundings on Clean Up the World Weekend \nThe third weekend of September is Clean Up the World Weekend. To spark the public’s passion to protect the environment and take part in this global event, the EPA cleaned up the surroundings within 50 meters around the EPA building and encouraged the public to follow suit.", "content": "EPA Urges Residents to Clean Up Surroundings on Clean Up the World Weekend \nThe third weekend of September is Clean Up the World Weekend. To spark the public’s passion to protect the environment and take part in this global event, the EPA cleaned up the surroundings within 50 meters around the EPA building and encouraged the public to follow suit.\nThe EPA pointed out that in the most recent ten years of inspections of local governments’ performance in cleaning and maintenance of the environment, 11 counties or cities, 47 towns, and 107 boroughs received high marks. Sixty percent of towns have received high marks for cleanliness, showing that the environmental cleaning and maintainence work has gradually made its way to local areas.\nOne example is Dongying Borough in Yingge District of New Taipei City. This borough received an outstanding neighborhood award in 2016. There, local environmental volunteers and the borough office and district government are all actively involved in cleaning up the environment. The neighborhood took inspiration from its experience of making ceramics and turned the formerly messy area into a corridor of time. This decision gave the environment a brand new look and emphasized environmental cleanliness and tidiness as a new value. Another example can be found in Tainan City’s Jinhua Borough, which had the highest number of environmental volunteers in the southern part of the city. The borough’s willingness to participate in cleaning up the environment, its desire for transformation and its community-building, have led many government agencies to award the borough as a model community. It was previously awarded second place for Category A (population under 20,000) of the International Awards for Livable Communities.\nSince 2006, the EPA and other government agencies in the central government have continued to promote the campaign to clean up and maintain the area within 50 meters around an office building. Local govern-ments have also laid out regulations for cleaning the environment. For instance, based on Tainan City’s envi-ronmental cleaning regulations, chain convenience stores that have been announced as controlled enter-prises have a responsibility to clean areas within two meters of the businesses’ facilities or parking lots. The support and promotion of local governments has been the most powerful force in keeping the public and private spaces clean.\nAccording to EPA EcoLife Network statistics, as of 31 August 2017, a total of 17,739 volunteer patrol groups have been registered. In addition, there have been 16,799 notifications, 324,238 patrols logged, and 156,179 cleanups recorded. Most volunteers show great passion for their work to clean up and maintain the environment. Their effort reduces the burden on sanitation squads and emphasizes the need to care for the living environment together. The passion of volunteers is truly praiseworthy.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Sanitation", "titlename": "EPA Urges Residents to Clean Up Surroundings on Clean Up the World Weekend", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-10" }, { "no": "3616", "title": "Amendments to Surface Water Classification and Water Quality Standards Announced", "preview": "Water\nAmendments to Surface Water Classification and Water Quality Standards Announced \nOn 13 September 2017, the EPA announced the amendments to the Surface Water Classification and Water Quality Standards. The amendments were made to improve measurement of the quality of Taiwan’s water bodies, safeguard public health and protect the ecosystem. The revisions included five amended standards and the addition of 11 new standards.", "content": "Amendments to Surface Water Classification and Water Quality Standards Announced \nOn 13 September 2017, the EPA announced the amendments to the Surface Water Classification and Water Quality Standards. The amendments were made to improve measurement of the quality of Taiwan’s water bodies, safeguard public health and protect the ecosystem. The revisions included five amended standards and the addition of 11 new standards.\nTo better monitor waterbody quality, safeguard public health and protect the ecosystem, the EPA gathered information on surface waterbody water quality standards and toxicology data from the EU, Japan and South Korea. The EPA also conducted a comprehensive assessment of water quality of local waterbodies, water treatment and testing technologies to amend the standards. The main points for the amendments are as follows: \n1. For Article 3, Table 1 “Baseline Standards Relevant to Living Environmental Protection,” Classes IV and V are added to establish surface waterbodies’ biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) baseline standards. The concentration index for hydrogen ions in surface waterbodies in Class II and Class III was also adjusted.\n2. For Article 3, Table 2 “Baseline Standards Relevant to Health Protection,” new standards are added, in-cluding baseline standards for nickel; seven volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as carbon tetrachlo-ride, 1,2-dichloroethane, dichloromethane, toluene, 1,1,1-trichloroethane, trichloroethylene, and benzene); cyanide under the inorganic salt category; and phenol under the “other substance” category. In addition, baseline standards are modified for four heavy metals: cadmium, lead, mercury, and selenium. \nThe EPA stated that for the Baseline Standards Relevant to Protection of Living Environments, Classes IV and V of surface waterbodies’ BOD baseline standards were established considering that high BOD levels use up dissolved oxygen and produce odors. In response to the growing concern about ocean acidification, the lower limit on hydrogen ion concentration in surface waterbodies in Class II and Class III is raised from 6.0 to 6.5. \nWith regard to the Baseline Standards Relevant to Health Protection, standard values for heavy metals are further restricted due to their bioaccumulative characteristics, such as cadmium, lead, total mercury, and selenium. After considering international trends, the levels of concern placed on the pollutants, the amount used in Taiwan, and the environmental detection rate in waterbodies, the EPA has added baseline standards for ten more environmental pollutants, including nickel, cyanide, phenol, and carbon tetrachloride.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Amendments to Surface Water Classification and Water Quality Standards Announced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-10" }, { "no": "3615", "title": "EPA’s First Entrance in National Day Flower Parade with “Recycling to Save the Planet” Theme", "preview": "Recycling\nEPA’s First Entrance in National Day Flower Parade with “Recycling to Save the Planet” Theme \nThe EPA constructed a completely recyclable float that was itself made out of recycled materials for the 2017 National Day Parade. The thematic design of the float was centered on recycling to save the planet and a circular economy. During the National Day flower parade, the EPA used recycled materials and a variety of media to call on the public to work toward a circular economy and a sustainable, livable nation.", "content": "EPA’s First Entrance in National Day Flower Parade with “Recycling to Save the Planet” Theme \nThe EPA constructed a completely recyclable float that was itself made out of recycled materials for the 2017 National Day Parade. The thematic design of the float was centered on recycling to save the planet and a circular economy. During the National Day flower parade, the EPA used recycled materials and a variety of media to call on the public to work toward a circular economy and a sustainable, livable nation.\nIn 2016 Taiwan’s recycling rate reached 58%. The Wall Street Journal praised Taiwan as “the world’s geniuses of garbage disposal” and noted that Taiwan was a model for recycling. The EPA stated that this year’s National Day flower parade marked the first time it joined the fleet of floats, and its float included live dancers who expressed the efforts of the citizenry working together to keep the water clean and the mountains pristine. It also reflected people’s deep love for Mother Earth, whose spirit is seen throughout a prosperous and beautiful world in which all creation thrives. Young girls blew seeds of hope. Colorful glass was manufactured using recycled bottles. All were presented to show the limitlessness of a circular economy. Sprouts made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles were a physical manifestation of recycling. A functioning fabric made with recycled PET bottles presented the Earth’s features. A representation of new life in the form of a tree was installed inside the globe. PET bottles collected from various places were converted into 10,000 flowers, complemented with green plants that purify the air. The float exhibited the EPA’s determination to reduce carbon emissions and protect the natural environment. \nThe concepts of circular reusability and renewal of waste materials emphasize that materials can re-enter the resource recycling system. The design of the float made use of waste, such as PET bottles, metal cans, caps, and plastic bags. These materials were effectively utilized to craft the float. For example, colorful bottle caps and translucent PET bottles presented a way to reuse materials. Even better, all of the materials could be recycled again.\nAs the EPA continues to promote “Recycling to Save the Planet,” everyone in Taiwan is encouraged to recy-cle. This sort of nationwide campaigns leads to results that Taiwan can be proud of. This concept of recy-cling also brings about a circular economy, and can be seen in how recycled PET bottles were used as building materials for the float and glass reused to produce colorful glasswork. The EPA wishes to thank all of those who put their efforts toward reuse and recycling. It also continues to call on everyone to work together to recycle and save the planet, bringing about a circular economy with a sustainable, unending cycle of resources.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "EPA’s First Entrance in National Day Flower Parade with “Recycling to Save the Planet” Theme", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-10" }, { "no": "3614", "title": "Thirteen Chemicals with Food Safety Concerns Announced as Toxic", "preview": "Toxic Substance \nThirteen Chemicals with Food Safety Concerns Announced as Toxic \n To improve regulations on chemicals and reduce the risks of harmful substances in food, the EPA announced 13 chemicals, which are sometimes illegally added to food, as toxic chemical substances. Chemicals such as Rhodamine B, metanil yellow, rongalite, coumarin, and maleic acid have been involved in cases of food contamination, found in red sweet dumplings, dried tofu, wraps for spring rolls (run bing), black tea, and tapioca balls. These chemicals are all mentioned in this announcement.", "content": "Thirteen Chemicals with Food Safety Concerns Announced as Toxic \n To improve regulations on chemicals and reduce the risks of harmful substances in food, the EPA announced 13 chemicals, which are sometimes illegally added to food, as toxic chemical substances. Chemicals such as Rhodamine B, metanil yellow, rongalite, coumarin, and maleic acid have been involved in cases of food contamination, found in red sweet dumplings, dried tofu, wraps for spring rolls (run bing), black tea, and tapioca balls. These chemicals are all mentioned in this announcement.\nThe EPA indicated that the 13 chemical substances listed in the announcement are not legal food additives. Companies that illegally use such substances in food are doing so largely to cut costs and improve the ap-pearance of their products. Companies add these chemicals to improve the texture of certain foods, change their color, add fragrance, extend shelf life, or obscure the results of quality inspections. For instance, metanil yellow is a chemical used in the leather and paint industry and is roughly half the price of yellow 4 and 5 used for food coloring. Metanil yellow also has stronger dyeing properties, and as such is used in dried tofu. The chemical Rhodamine B is often used in wax paper and paint. Though not cheap, it does not fade easily and therefore might be used to produce sweet dumplings. Malachite green, known for its carcinogenic properties, is to be further regulated as it is sometimes illegally used in waterbodies for pest and disease control and affects fish and crustaceans. \nThe EPA points out that companies that use any of these 13 chemical substances must first apply for ap-proval beforehand, regardless of whether the chemicals are used in manufacturing, import, usage, or sale. The company must regularly report its operations and go through the application process mentioned above. This will allow the EPA to better grasp the flow of these chemicals. Companies are also required to have labels on all containers and packaging that read “CANNOT BE USED IN FOOD” in order to reduce accidental usage. Companies are also required to file their first report by 15 February, 2018, complete the labeling by 15 July 2018, and obtain the approval documents by 15 January 2019 in order to manufacture, import and sell such chemicals. Enterprises that do not comply will be fined NT$60,000~500,000 in accordance with the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act. \nTo strengthen the management for chemicals with food safety concerns, the Toxic and Chemical Substanc-es Bureau (TCSB) began conducting inspections of the chemical industry in February 2017. From May 2017, the TCSB has been conducting comprehensive inspections and has provided assistance to 2,196 enterpris-es. Beginning from “establishing a baseline information system,” the TCSB has promoted a form of man-agement including inventory, questions, management, and reporting. It establishes partnerships with local governments and local chemical industry associations. To improve the basic understanding of chemical substances among private enterprises, this partnership allows all parties to carry out inspections and provides assistance concerning chemical substances which may pose risks to food safety.\nIn addition to the TCSB, local inspection participants include environmental and health departments. Joint investigation not only strengthens inter-departmental law enforcement mechanisms and exchanges of man-agement experiences, but also further blocks chemicals for industrial use and other prohibited chemical sub-stances from entering the food chain. As of 26 September 2017, a total of 1,518 investigations on industrial chemical enterprises had been completed.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Thirteen Chemicals with Food Safety Concerns Announced as Toxic", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-10" }, { "no": "3613", "title": "EPA Minister Lee Visits US to Release Taiwan Report onUN Sustainable Development Goals and Meet USEPAAdministrator Pruitt", "preview": "International CooperationEPA Minister Lee Visits US to Release Taiwan Report onUN Sustainable Development Goals and Meet USEPAAdministrator PruittOn 15 September 2017 in New York City, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee gave a speech and released Taiwan’s first Voluntary National Review: Implementation of UN Sustainable Development Goals(VNR) at “A Sustainable Planet for All: Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals” conference.In his speech, Minister Lee outlined Taiwan’s SDG implementation mechanisms, achievement highlights,and efforts in assisting other nations in implementing the UN SDGs. Minister Lee also visited Washington,DC and had a meeting with President Hilda Cathy Heine of the Marshall Islands to exchange thoughts onbilateral and multilateral environmental cooperation. Minister Lee also met with USEPA Administrator ScottPruitt to exchange ideas on the International Environmental Partnership, energy saving, and nuclear waste.The two EPA heads agreed to work together on the common goal of sustainable development. In addition,Minister Lee visited the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a think tank, and delivereda speech on Taiwan’s leading environmental efforts and achievements. Minister Lee’s speeches and therelease of the Taiwan’s VNR received wide coverage from around 20 international and local media outlets.", "content": "EPA Minister Lee Visits US to Release Taiwan Report onUN Sustainable Development Goals and Meet USEPAAdministrator PruittOn 15 September 2017 in New York City, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee gave a speech and released Taiwan’s first Voluntary National Review: Implementation of UN Sustainable Development Goals(VNR) at “A Sustainable Planet for All: Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals” conference.In his speech, Minister Lee outlined Taiwan’s SDG implementation mechanisms, achievement highlights,and efforts in assisting other nations in implementing the UN SDGs. Minister Lee also visited Washington,DC and had a meeting with President Hilda Cathy Heine of the Marshall Islands to exchange thoughts onbilateral and multilateral environmental cooperation. Minister Lee also met with USEPA Administrator ScottPruitt to exchange ideas on the International Environmental Partnership, energy saving, and nuclear waste.The two EPA heads agreed to work together on the common goal of sustainable development. In addition,Minister Lee visited the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a think tank, and delivereda speech on Taiwan’s leading environmental efforts and achievements. Minister Lee’s speeches and therelease of the Taiwan’s VNR received wide coverage from around 20 international and local media outlets.Release of Taiwan’s first VNR on implementing UN SDGsOn 15 September, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee delivered a speech at “A Sustainable Earth for All Humanity: Sustainable Development Agenda” conference in New York City. The event was jointly held by the Sabin Center for Climate Change Law of Columbia University, the Global Island Partnership, and the Academic Council on the United Nations System (ACUNS), and was hosted by the director of Sabin Center, Professor Michael B. Gerrard. During his speech, Minister Lee released Taiwan’s first Voluntary National Review: Im-plementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. He described the background, implementation mechanisms, achievement highlights, as well as the efforts in assisting other nations in implementing the UN SDGs. In his opening remarks, Enele Sosene Sopoaga, Prime Minister of Tuvalu, conveyed his gratitude for Taiwan’s assistance in helping small island nations in climate change adaptation and sustainable develop-ment. In addition, four experts were invited to the panel discussions, including the Solomon Islands’ Perma-nent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Robert Sisilo, Vice President Langston James Goree VI of the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD), Ms. Angela Chang, member of Taiwan’s National Council for Sustainable Development, and Professor Hsiao-Kan Ma of National Taiwan University. The con-ference had more than 150 participants from around the world in attendance. This was the first time Taiwan presented its VNR on the UN SDGs. Minister Lee pointed out that, compared to the US and advanced European countries, Taiwan has performed fairly well. In areas such as health care, education, and women’s participation in politics, Taiwan did even better. In the future, the Taiwan govern-ment will review its progress on the UN SDGs on a regular basis as references for policymaking and imple-mentation. Taiwan will also continue to share its experiences with the international community in order to work together with other nations in pursuing sustainable development for all humankind.In his speech, Minister Lee also gave several examples of Taiwan’s accomplishments. He mentioned that starting 1 January 2018, Taiwan will ban the manufacturing and importing of microbead-containing cosmetics and expand the restrictions on providing free plastic bags. Such moves drew immense interest and praise from members of the international community. Notable contributions of Taiwan’s private sector to sustainable development were highlighted as well, such as an entrepreneur from Taiwan introducing Taiwan’s recycling scheme to Romania by establishing the largest polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle recycling system in the country. Other examples brought up by Minister Lee included the younger generation in Taiwan joining forces with youngsters from other nations to turn waste into valuable resources.On climate change, Minister Lee quoted President Tsai Ing-Wen’s words from her 2016 inauguration speech, and stressed that Taiwan will shoulder its share of responsibility as a member of the global village. Currently, the government has set mid- and long-term carbon reduction targets and will soon formulate short-term tar-gets to reduce carbon emissions.After his speech, one of the participants asked how the UN can become aware of Taiwan’s prominent SDGs accomplishments. Minister Lee replied that Taiwan’s 23 million citizens sincerely hope that the international community can get to know Taiwan’s efforts and Taiwan will continuously take actions to strive toward sus-tainable development.Meeting President Heine of the Marshall IslandsMinister Lee later visited Washington, D.C. On 16 September he had a meeting with President Hilda Cathy Heine of the Marshall Islands, accompanied by Taiwan’s Representative to the US, Ambassador Stanley Kao. Minister Lee and President Heine had an extensive discussion on climate change and environmental cooperation. Meeting USEPA Administrator Scott PruittOn 20 September, Minister Lee was accompanied by Deputy Representative to the US, James Lee, in a meeting with USEPA Administrator Scott Pruitt in his office. Having long looked forward to this meeting, Administrator Pruitt graciously acknowledged the achievements of the Taiwan-US environmental partnership and ensured that the USEPA will keep supporting the collaboration with the Taiwan EPA. The two EPA heads also discussed the future of the International Environmental Partnership, which was co-launched and promoted by the Taiwan and US EPAs in 2014, as well as issues on energy saving and nuclear waste. They agreed that the two EPAs would continue to work together on the common goal of sustainable development.Visit and speech at CSISAnother event during Minister Lee’s trip was visiting the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a think tank based in Washington, DC, and delivering a keynote speech titled “Taiwan’s Environmental Leadership” on 18 September. Minister Lee spoke about Taiwan’s environmental measures for waste treat-ment, air quality, marine environmental protection, and renewable energy. Through waste reduction, reuse, recycling and redesign, the EPA also expects to reach the goal of a circular economy, which President Tsai presented in her inaugural speech. Minister Lee also described global cooperation projects, such as the In-ternational Environmental Partnership (IEP) jointly launched with the USEPA, and the 7-Southeast Asian Studies (7-SEAS) programs conducted with US NASA. To conclude, Minister Lee showcased the contribu-tions from Taiwan’s private sector to global sustainable development. A panel discussion was held after Minister Lee’s speech, and Assistant Administrator Jane Nishida of the USEPA and Senior Vice President Michael Jonathan Green of CSIS were part of the panel.A video of Minister Lee’s speech at CSIS is available online. (https:\/\/www.csis.org\/events\/taiwans-environmental-leadership). Below are links to news coverage on Minister Lee’s visit to the US by World Trib-une and the International Institute for Sustainable Development (http:\/\/www.worldtribune.com\/economic-powerhouse-taiwan-has-made-going-green-a-national-priority\/ and http:\/\/sdg.iisd.org\/news\/taiwan-launches-first-vnr).", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "International Cooperation", "titlename": "EPA Minister Lee Visits US to Release Taiwan Report onUN Sustainable Development Goals and Meet USEPAAdministrator Pruitt", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-10" }, { "no": "3612", "title": "Draft Standards Preannounced for Determining Due Responsibility of Commissioning Enterprises in Waste Disposal", "preview": "Waste\nDraft Standards Preannounced for Determining Due Responsibility of Commissioning Enterprises in Waste Disposal", "content": "Draft Standards Preannounced for Determining Due Responsibility of Commissioning Enterprises in Waste Disposal\nThe amendment to the Waste Disposal Act was announced on 18 January 2017. Paragraph 1 of Article 30 specified that, if the commissioned agency fails to properly dispose waste, and the commissioning enterprise does not exercise due care, both parties shall have joint liability in waste disposal and improvement of the environment. The amendment sets guidelines to assist enterprises recognized by municipal, county, and city authorities to determine whether commissioned agencies properly dispose waste and take due care. It has ten articles, with the main points listed below: \n1. Legal basis.\n2. Managing measures for enterprises when commissioning waste disposal.\n3. Managing measures for enterprises for mandatory placement of professional disposal personnel.\n4. Managing measures and scales for enterprises when commissioning relevant public associations, professional technicians, professional organizations to assist in operations.\n5. A commissioning enterprise is considered fulfilling its due responsibility when reporting to local competent authorities any regulatory violations committed by a commissioned agency.\n6. An enterprise may request the industry association to which it belongs to conduct a joint investigation on disposal and reuse agencies commissioned. The result of the investigation shall be made available to enterprise members of the association for reference.\n7. Responsibilities of enterprises and relevant organizations to provide documentation to determine due diligence, and authorities to determine whether agencies fail to properly dispose of waste in cross-jurisdiction cases.\n8. Municipal, county, and city competent authorities are to hold an assembly meeting when determining due diligence.\n9. Commissioning enterprises’ collateral responsibilities and obligations of joint investigations.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Draft Standards Preannounced for Determining Due Responsibility of Commissioning Enterprises in Waste Disposal", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-9" }, { "no": "3611", "title": "Mobile Source Air Pollution Control Fees Raised", "preview": "Air\nMobile Source Air Pollution Control Fees Raised", "content": "Mobile Source Air Pollution Control Fees Raised\nThe previous mobile source air pollution control fee rate charged a single rate for fuel oil, NT$0.2 per liter of automobile gasoline or diesel fuels. However, analysis of various pollutants’ effects on PM2.5 concentrations in Taiwan shows that mobile pollution sources make up 30-37% of the total amount of PM2.5 and primarily originate from the exhaust of gas or diesel-powered vehicles or from precursors such as volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides. Current collection of air pollution control fees does not take into account the PM2.5 originating from mobile sources. \nConsidering the internalization of external environmental costs, economic incentives, and control requirements, there is a need to increase air pollution control fees from mobile sources. To reflect the actual PM2.5 emissions from gas and diesel-powered vehicles, the pollution control fees for gasoline-powered vehicles will be raised from NT$0.2 to NT$0.3 per liter. The fee for diesel-powered vehicles will increase to NT$0.4 per liter. Fees collected will be used to help ameliorate pollution caused by diesel and gasoline-powered vehicle emissions.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Mobile Source Air Pollution Control Fees Raised", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-9" }, { "no": "3610", "title": "Sediment Inspection Information Disclosed on a Regular Basis", "preview": "Soil & groundwater\nSediment Inspection Information Disclosed on a Regular Basis", "content": "Sediment Inspection Information Disclosed on a Regular Basis \nTo help people understand the quality of sediment in water bodies, on 31 August 2017 the EPA began to regularly disclose the results of regular inspections on sediment quality done by the competent authorities. This will help the public understand the condition of sediment in our water bodies. The EPA indicated that the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act included sediment quality control after the amendment of 3 February 2000. To implement the aforementioned Act, the EPA has formulated regulations regarding sediment quality indicator-based management, restriction of sediment utilization, and the reporting of sediment quality for future reference. From 1 January 2014, the competent authorities were required to conduct regular inspections of sediment quality in their jurisdiction at least once every five years and to publish their findings on the quality of the sediment. Information on the quality of sediment in water bodies is available on the EPA website for reference (https:\/\/opendate.epa.gove.tw\/). Competent authorities that have yet to complete a regular inspection of sediment quality must conduct their first round of inspection and report results by 31 December 2018, so that pollution prevention measures can be carried out.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil & groundwater\nSediment Inspection Information Disclosed on a Regular Basis", "titlename": "Sediment Inspection Information Disclosed on a Regular Basis", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-9" }, { "no": "3609", "title": "Plastic Bag Restrictions to be Expanded by January 2018", "preview": "Waste\nPlastic Bag Restrictions to be Expanded by January 2018\nTo encourage people to not only bring their own shopping bags but also reuse them, the EPA will take measures to reduce the usage of one-time use plastic shopping bags. The EPA announced the revised Plastic Shopping Bag Restriction Targets, Implementation, and Date of Implementation. Starting on 1 January 2018, fourteen industries (accounting for approximately 100,000 enterprises) will not be permitted to provide free plastic bags, and the previous regulations on thickness standards for plastic bags will be eliminated.", "content": "Plastic Bag Restrictions to be Expanded by January 2018\nTo encourage people to not only bring their own shopping bags but also reuse them, the EPA will take measures to reduce the usage of one-time use plastic shopping bags. The EPA announced the revised Plastic Shopping Bag Restriction Targets, Implementation, and Date of Implementation. Starting on 1 January 2018, fourteen industries (accounting for approximately 100,000 enterprises) will not be permitted to provide free plastic bags, and the previous regulations on thickness standards for plastic bags will be eliminated.\nBeginning in 2002, the EPA pushed for measures to reduce the use of plastic shopping bags. The regulations carry stipulations for seven sectors (accounting for 20,000 enterprises), including government facilities, public and private schools, department stores and shopping centers, hypermarkets, supermarkets, chain convenience stores, and fast food chains, all of which are required to have consumers purchase plastic bags, and are barred from providing free ones. The regulations will be expanded to seven additional industries: pharmacies; medical equipment stores; retailers of household appliances, photographic, electronic, and communication equipment stores; bookstores and stationary shops; laundries; drink stands; and bakeries. The expansion adds 80,000 enterprises that are subject to the restrictions. In the future, bookstores, drink stands and pharmacies will be restricted from providing free plastic shopping bags. It is estimated that this will reduce the number of plastic bags by 1.5 billion annually.\nThe revised regulations will supersede previous regulations regarding the thickness of paid plastic shopping bags. Now both thick and thin plastic bags are not to be provided for free. In addition, biodegradable plastic bags will no longer be excluded. The price of plastic bags will continue to be set by individual stores. In addition, in areas such as Taipei City and New Taipei City, where per-bag trash collection fees are implemented, newly authorized shopping bags can be used as trash bags. The implementation will be regulated by local governments. \nThe EPA, in conjunction with the Department of Environmental Protection of Taipei City, held a “Painless Plastic Reduction” press conference to display the joint efforts of the central and local governments. Minister Ying-Yuan Lee stated that, according United Nations statistics, every minute there is a truckload of plastic waste being dumped into the oceans around the world. It is estimated that if current trends continue, by 2050 there will be as much plastic in the water as there are fish, by mass. This trend will ultimately impact food supplies and human diets. Reducing and restricting plastic use must be done, and Minister Lee said he believes that there is public support for the current policies to do so. Now, the public must take the next step to reduce and restrict plastic use at its source by using the idea of “painless plastic reduction”, bringing one’s own shopping bags and using fewer plastic bags.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Plastic Bag Restrictions to be Expanded by January 2018", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-9" }, { "no": "3608", "title": "Complaints about Open Air Burning Increasing", "preview": "Control & Evaluation", "content": "Complaints about Open Air Burning Increasing \nBased on EPA statistics, in 2016 a total of 261,656 public nuisance complaints were received, or one complaint every two minutes. Among these, noise and offensive odors have continued to be the most frequent types of pollution causing complaints.\nThe EPA stated that open air fires accounted for 23,620 public nuisance complaints, or roughly 27.8% of the 84,949 complaints related to offensive odor last year. Open air burning of waste, weeds and branches was the most severe and have been increasing. Complaints regarding this issue peaked in October and November. It was suspected that, other than factories burning waste and scrap materials on their premises, the general public burned weeds and branches in preparation for planting winter vegetables, or burned prunings after harvesting fruit. Such practices have recently become a problem in terms of air pollution, resulting in a steady increase in complaints.\nThe EPA warns that drones and mobile monitoring systems are used regularly to track individuals who pollute the environment. Those who clear out branches or weeds should refrain from burning them, or face fines between NT$5,000 and NT$100,000. Factories will be fined between NT$100,000 and NT$1,000,000.\nThere were 83,749 complaints related to noise in 2016. Although this number is 10,000 cases fewer than that in 2015, the number of noise complaints concerning construction of buildings, road works, businesses using loudspeakers, motors, and exhaust fans have not declined. The main reason, other than the poor operation and maintenance of machines, is the lack of an effective buffer zone between noise sources and living areas.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Control & Evaluation", "titlename": "Complaints about Open Air Burning Increasing", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-9" }, { "no": "3607", "title": "Amendments to Vehicular Noise Control Standards Preannounced", "preview": "Noise Control\nAmendments to Vehicular Noise Control Standards Preannounced\nOn 15 August 2017, the EPA preannounced the draft amendments to the Motor Vehicle Noise Control Standards, an addition of the sixth phase of motor vehicle noise control standards, in order to improve the control over vehicular noise and align with the new EU standards that took effect in July 2016. The amendments will be implemented in three phases.", "content": "Amendments to Vehicular Noise Control Standards Preannounced\nOn 15 August 2017, the EPA preannounced the draft amendments to the Motor Vehicle Noise Control Standards, an addition of the sixth phase of motor vehicle noise control standards, in order to improve the control over vehicular noise and align with the new EU standards that took effect in July 2016. The amendments will be implemented in three phases. \nOn 10 December 2014, the EPA announced the sixth phase noise control standards for motorcycles in order to effectively manage motorcycle noise and meet international norms, after referring to the vehicular noise standards laid out by the United Nations and the EU. The standards for new motorcycle models were to follow UN and EU policies starting from 1 January 2017. For models already produced, the standards will take effect on 1 January 2018 so as to provide time for the motorcycle industry to comply.\nThe UN and EU implemented new standards for motor vehicle noise control on 1 July 2016 (UN\/ECE R51.03). To align standards with international norms and allow the domestic automotive industry to comply, the EPA referred to UN and EU vehicular noise control standards and implementation timetables, and then formulated the sixth phase of motor vehicle noise control standards, with a three-phase implementing process. \nIn addition, both the third and the fifth phases of the standards, implemented on 1 July 2005 and 1 January 2016 respectively, did not tighten the limits on stationary noise generated by the rear-engines of sedans and vans. With that in consideration, the sixth phase standards require lowering of the motor vehicle stationary noise standard by 2 decibels. The draft amendments to Article 3 Table 2 of the Motor Vehicle Noise Control Standards are listed below:\n1. The sixth phase standards for motor vehicle noise control are added by adopting the UN and EU testing procedures and methods and modifying vehicle classification principles.\n2. With the UN and EU regulations regarding motor vehicle noise control as references, notes for the sixth phase of both motorcycle and motor vehicle noise control standards are added and revised with detailed explanations.\n3. The limit on stationary noise produced by the rear engines of sedans and vans is lowered by 2 decibels.\nThe EPA stated that while engines, air intake exhaust, and tires are major sources of vehicular noises, the inspection methods were designed primarily to control noise from engines, air intakes, and exhaust systems. However, due to the advancement of car manufacturing technology, the contribution of noise produced by tires is increasing. Newly promulgated amendments of the UN and EU noise control standards as well as testing methods all included major adjustments to testing methods for noise caused by acceleration of vehicles. The EPA’s current amendments make reference to international standards in order to effectively reduce the impact of urban traffic noise on living environments. \nThe EPA also points out that in addition to revising acceleration noise testing regulations and keeping control standards aligned with international norms, the EPA has also taken Taiwan’s dense population and living environments into account and conducted a comprehensive review of past records of national road traffic noises. The EPA plans to tighten limits on noise produced by rear engines by 2 decibels, further strengthening restrictions on vehicular noise.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Noise Control", "titlename": "Amendments to Vehicular Noise Control Standards Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-9" }, { "no": "3606", "title": "Amendments to Regulations for Toxic Chemical Substances Response, Detection, and Alarm Equipment Preannounced", "preview": "Toxic Substance\nAmendments to Regulations for Toxic Chemical Substances Response, Detection, and Alarm Equipment Preannounced\nOn 20 July 2017 the EPA preannounced draft amendments to the Management Regulations for Toxic Chemical Substances Response, Detection and Alarm Equipment. The amendments seek to implement safety measures and on-site waste management for operators using toxic chemical substances. Besides strengthening regulations concerning alarm equipment and response materials, the amendments also require operators to improve their ability to self-manage and respond to accidents in order to bring their prevention and response systems up to standard.", "content": "Amendments to Regulations for Toxic Chemical Substances Response, Detection, and Alarm Equipment Preannounced\nOn 20 July 2017 the EPA preannounced draft amendments to the Management Regulations for Toxic Chemical Substances Response, Detection and Alarm Equipment. The amendments seek to implement safety measures and on-site waste management for operators using toxic chemical substances. Besides strengthening regulations concerning alarm equipment and response materials, the amendments also require operators to improve their ability to self-manage and respond to accidents in order to bring their prevention and response systems up to standard.\nThe EPA stated that it has been over nine years since the Management Regulations for Toxic Chemical Substances Response, Detection and Alarm Equipment was implemented in December 2007. In order to keep in step with trends and make appropriate updates, the amendments make reference to environmental protection agencies’ interview experiences with toxic chemical operators, two sessions of consultations, and compiled opinions, while also taking practical matters into consideration. The primary amendments cover: new definitions of terminology to clarify legal questions regarding toxic chemical operators and sites; the minimum amount of personal protection equipment; requirements to monitor external pipeline flow pressure, and make regular inspections of response equipment, detection and alarm equipment installation and operational plans; and, regulations for detection and alarm equipment. \nThe main points for the amendments are as follows: \n1. New additions include explanations and definitions of terminology concerning leakage detection equipment, response equipment, portable detection equipment, protection gear for personnel, safety barriers and protection systems, external leakage treatment systems, and backup power.\n2. Regulations are specified for the amount of equipment for personal safety and air-supplied respirators on operating sites.\n3. Safety barriers and external leakage treatment systems are to be in place for toxic chemicals such as phosphine, hydrogen cyanide and fluorine, to reduce risk of harm from accidents.\n4. Regulations are specified for the flow of toxic chemical substances in external pipes and automatic emergency signals when flow irregularities occur.\n5. Regulations are added stipulating that operators regularly inspect and update installation and operation plans for reporting systems, and response, detection and alarm equipment. \n6. Specifications are added for the structure and function of detection and alarm systems.\n7. Regulations for mandatory tests and adjustments for response and alarm equipment are added.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Amendments to Regulations for Toxic Chemical Substances Response, Detection, and Alarm Equipment Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-9" }, { "no": "3605", "title": "Minister Lee Inspects Naphtha Cracking Plant and Urges Better Pollution Control Practices", "preview": "Air\nMinister Lee Inspects Naphtha Cracking Plant and Urges Better Pollution Control Practices\nMinister Ying-Yuan Lee considers the air pollution control of the Sixth Naphtha Cracking Plant Complex a very important matter. He thus visited the plant on 11 August 2017 to inspect its air pollution control system and to ensure that the Formosa Petrochemical Corporation (FPC) carries out all air pollution control measures according to the relevant air pollution control plans.", "content": "Minister Lee Inspects Naphtha Cracking Plant and Urges Better Pollution Control Practices\nMinister Ying-Yuan Lee considers the air pollution control of the Sixth Naphtha Cracking Plant Complex a very important matter. He thus visited the plant on 11 August 2017 to inspect its air pollution control system and to ensure that the Formosa Petrochemical Corporation (FPC) carries out all air pollution control measures according to the relevant air pollution control plans. \nThe EPA announced the revision to the Volatile Organic Compound Air Pollution Controls and Emission Standards on 1 February 2011 to push the petrochemical industry to continuously improve air pollution measures. The amendments strengthened the control of emission sources such as exhaust gas combustion towers, storage facilities, equipment components, and wastewater treatment facilities.\nThe Sixth Naphtha Cracking Plant Complex is a major industrial district where various kinds of heavy industries gather, including the petrochemical industry and the power industry. To meet the regulations, FPC has established a waste gas recycling system, and completed building thin-film collection and closed collecting facilities for its 551 storage tanks. In addition, FPC strengthened the maintenance and inspection of its equipment to reduce leakages.\nTo effectively monitor the ambient air quality around the Sixth Naphtha Cracking Plant Complex, the EPA requested FPC to install ten monitoring stations among the following places: Mailiao, Lunbei, Baozhong, Dongshi, Taixi, Tuku, Sihu Township in Yunlin County; Dacheng Township in Changhua County; and Dongshi Township in Chiayi County. More than 100 items are being monitored by the stations, including: weather data, PM10, PM2.5, SO2, NO, NO2, CO, O3, total hydrocarbons (THC), 54 types of organic photochemical precursors, 52 types of hazardous air pollutants, formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, seven types of heavy metals, eight types of acid\/alkaline gases, six types of odorous pollutants, dioxins, and so on. \nIn addition to controlling emissions from its manufacturing processes, the EPA also requires FPC to implement air pollution controls for mobile source pollution and transportation pollution around the Mailiao Harbor. In response, FPC plans to: replace 159 diesel trucks with one's compliant with fourth stage emission standards by the end of 2017; reduce sulfur oxides emitted from ships in the Mailiao Harbor by 2,025 tons\/year by switching from fuel with sulfur content of 3.5% to 0.5% by the end of 2018; and, establish an automatic identification system (AIS) by the end of 2019 which will request vessels to decelerate while entering and leaving the harbor. The vessels must decelerate to less than 12 knots within 20 nautical miles of the Mailiao Harbor.\nTo better control the pollutant emissions in the Sixth Naphtha Cracking Plant Complex, the installation of automated continuous monitoring facilities for exhaust stacks in the industrial park is also an important part of the control measures. The automated continuous monitoring facilities on a total of 34 emission stacks have been required by the EPA to be connected to the local environmental protection authority. Therefore, more than 79% and 68% of the total sulfur oxide and nitrogen oxide emissions, respectively, are now under the control of the EPA. In addition, according to the draft of the amendments to the Stationary Sources of Air Pollution Required to Install Automated Continuous Monitoring Facilities and Connect Online to the Competent Environmental Protection Authorities preannounced on 10 July 2017, the 44 exhaust gas combustion towers in the Sixth Naphtha Cracking Plant Complex are also required to be on the control list. Additionally, the EPA will control all 44 burning towers which account for more than 81% and 69% of the total sulfur oxide and nitrogen oxide emissions, respectively. \nThe EPA points out that improvement of air pollution controls is a major component of its “14+N” air pollution control strategies. Hence, the EPA will continue to supervise the improvement of pollution control at electricity generation facilities in the Sixth Naphtha Cracking Plant Complex. The EPA will also request FPC to install more air pollution control facilities on coal-fired power generators or to replace coal-fired power generators with natural gas powered ones.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Minister Lee Inspects Naphtha Cracking Plant and Urges Better Pollution Control Practices", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-9" }, { "no": "3604", "title": "Air Quality Monitoring IoT Launched", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring\nAir Quality Monitoring IoT Launched \nThe EPA has completed the establishment of 100 air quality monitoring spots in Kuanyin Industrial Park. Inspections are done through intensive monitoring, data convergence and analysis, and the tracking of pollution hot zones and the times at which pollution is detected. The EPA and Taoyuan City Government have jointly inspected six factories, for which six violation warnings were issued, with two factories handed over to a prosecutor to face criminal offenses. The EPA states that 10,200 monitoring spots will be set up within the next four years for pollution investigations, so as to strengthen environmental monitoring and safeguard the environment and public health.", "content": "Air Quality Monitoring IoT Launched \nThe EPA has completed the establishment of 100 air quality monitoring spots in Kuanyin Industrial Park. Inspections are done through intensive monitoring, data convergence and analysis, and the tracking of pollution hot zones and the times at which pollution is detected. The EPA and Taoyuan City Government have jointly inspected six factories, for which six violation warnings were issued, with two factories handed over to a prosecutor to face criminal offenses. The EPA states that 10,200 monitoring spots will be set up within the next four years for pollution investigations, so as to strengthen environmental monitoring and safeguard the environment and public health. \nThe EPA started building the air quality monitoring Internet of Things (IoT) in 2017 and conducted the first monitoring test in Kuanyin Industrial Park. The IoT consists of sensors that collect data on PM2.5, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), temperature and humidity. The IoT is also capable of providing air monitoring data that includes a high resolution map of the air quality updated every few minutes. The map has a street by street breakdown, with a detailed display of pollutant concentrations and how they change over time. By analyzing the wind speed and direction and combining it with the map, pollution hot zones and potential emission areas can be localized. With further analyses of the spatial and temporal characteristics combined with examination of industrial pollution factors (e.g. raw materials and manufacturing processes), inspection data is expected to be significantly improved. \nThe EPA points out that the monitoring test in Kuanyin Industrial Park is simply the beginning of the air quality monitoring IoT. The EPA has already formulated future strategies on data applications and monitoring spot selections based on this experience. For instance, the EPA plans to focus on monitoring regions with many factories such as industrial parks, science and industrial parks, and export processing zones. The EPA will also establish monitoring spots in communities near industrial parks to observe how they are affected by pollutants. Furthermore, metropolitan and business areas where population and traffic are densest will be monitored for traffic and urban pollution control. As for the cities\/counties with no monitoring stations within 20 kilometers, monitoring spots will be established more gradually.\nThe EPA indicated that the environmental quality monitoring IoT not only collects monitoring data, but also incorporates other environmental data with weather conditions, reported information and regulated pollution source information for big data analysis. By using the environmental quality monitoring IoT together with other inspection tools and technology, the EPA plans to promote in-depth environmental inspection so as to improve pollution control and safeguard environmental quality.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "Air Quality Monitoring IoT Launched", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-9" }, { "no": "3603", "title": "EPA and US NASA Co-monitor Air Quality and Visibility in Central Taiwan", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring\nEPA and US NASA Co-monitor Air Quality and Visibility in Central Taiwan\nThe Taichung City Government invited the EPA to participate in the launching ceremony for a joint project on air quality and visibility monitoring in central Taiwan held on 8 September 2017. The project was organized through the cooperation of local and central governments, educational institutions and NASA of the United States, with the aim of understanding the source of poor visibility in Taichung City and to find a solution to this problem by combining advanced monitoring technology and equipment to collect scientific data.", "content": "EPA and US NASA Co-monitor Air Quality and Visibility in Central Taiwan\nThe Taichung City Government invited the EPA to participate in the launching ceremony for a joint project on air quality and visibility monitoring in central Taiwan held on 8 September 2017. The project was organized through the cooperation of local and central governments, educational institutions and NASA of the United States, with the aim of understanding the source of poor visibility in Taichung City and to find a solution to this problem by combining advanced monitoring technology and equipment to collect scientific data. \nAccording to EPA manual sampling and monitoring data of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), the average annual PM2.5 concentrations from 2013 to 2016 in Taiwan were 24, 23.5, 22 and 20 μg\/m3, respectively. The trend reflects a gradual decline in national average PM2.5 concentration and indicates the effectiveness of control measures. However, the average PM2.5 concentrations of most cities and counties still exceed the standard value of 15 μg\/m3, with the exceptions of Yilan County, Hualien County and Taitung County.\nEven though the average PM2.5 concentration in Taiwan has improved, visibility is often poor. The EPA suspects that the poor visibility may be caused by a large amount of particulate matter ranging from 0.4 to 0.7 microns in diameter. If such particles remain suspended in the air for an extended period of time, they may undergo chemical reactions leading to the formation of different particles. However, further research needs to be done to clarify the causes so that the EPA can formulate effective improvement measures based on solid evidence. The EPA has thus commissioned National Central University and National Taipei University of Technology to conduct surveys on visibility and PM2.5 in central and southern Taiwan. One of the purposes of the surveys is to understand the relationship between the sources of air pollution and the composition of PM2.5, and how particle size distribution, cloud condensation nuclei, hygroscopic growth and aerosol optical properties affect regional visibility. The surveys will also help people understand the relationships between weather conditions (e.g. temperature, humidity, and radiant flux) and the characteristics, formation and transmission of PM2.5. \nThe EPA has worked closely with US NASA on a variety of projects since 1996, attaining excellent results from the cooperation, which have included international projects related to satellite monitoring, telemetry technology, regional atmospheric monitoring, and so on. To further improve the air quality in Taiwan, the EPA plans to establish a long-term partnership with NASA. With the advanced equipment and technology provided by NASA, the EPA will be working with the Taichung City Government and domestic educational institutions to conduct research and monitoring projects to better understand the formation processes and sources of PM2.5, and how these are related to visibility. By analyzing the data, the EPA will aim to formulate practical control measures and carry out air quality protection policies based on the results of the projects.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "EPA and US NASA Co-monitor Air Quality and Visibility in Central Taiwan", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-9" }, { "no": "3602", "title": "EPA Aims for a Clean Sustainable Future on Its Thirtieth Anniversary", "preview": "General Policy\nEPA Aims for a Clean Sustainable Future on Its Thirtieth Anniversary\nThe EPA celebrated its thirtieth anniversary on 22 August 2017. The premier at the time, Chuan Lin, attended the ceremony and gave a speech. Among the attendees were ambassadors and diplomatic representatives from countries with close ties with Taiwan, delegates of foreign economic organizations, former EPA ministers and deputy ministers, heads of county and city environmental bureaus, and delegates from industry, government, and academia, all coming together to celebrate the memorable day.", "content": "EPA Aims for a Clean Sustainable Future on Its Thirtieth Anniversary\nThe EPA celebrated its thirtieth anniversary on 22 August 2017. The premier at the time, Chuan Lin, attended the ceremony and gave a speech. Among the attendees were ambassadors and diplomatic representatives from countries with close ties with Taiwan, delegates of foreign economic organizations, former EPA ministers and deputy ministers, heads of county and city environmental bureaus, and delegates from industry, government, and academia, all coming together to celebrate the memorable day.\nOn 22 August 1987, the Environmental Protection Bureau under the former Department of Health was upgraded to the Environmental Protection Administration. At the 30th anniversary ceremony, then Premier Chuan Lin acknowledged the EPA’s contributions to maintaining environmental sustainability in the past three decades and encouraged it to keep improving regulations and increase policy effectiveness. Other guests also delivered speeches, including Madaleine Majorenko, the head of the European Economic and Trade Office in Taiwan; Robert W. Forden, Deputy Director of the American Institute in Taiwan; and Datuk Pung Shuk Ken Adeline, President of the Malaysian Friendship and Trade Centre in Taipei.\nWith the invitation of Minister Ying-Yuan Lee, former Ministers Eugene Chien, Lung-Bin Hau, Juu-En Chang, and Stephen Shu-Hung Shen; former Acting Minister Long-Jin Chen; former Deputy Ministers Da-Shong Lin, Feng-Teng Chang, and Hsin-Chung Yeh; former Director Jing-Yuan Chuan of the Environmental Protection Bureau under the Department of Health (the predecessor of the EPA) all attended the ceremony. Also present were Je-Ming Chang of the Environmental Protection Society of Taiwan, directors and deputy directors of county and city Environmental Protection Bureaus, and more than 20 foreign ambassadors and diplomatic delegates, all offering the EPA wishes and congratulations.\nIn his speech, Minister Lee said that the EPA has arrived at its 30th year as a more mature entity. He thanked all former ministers for laying a solid foundation and their outstanding achievements, including many significant environmental policies. For example, former Minister Eugene Chien, as the EPA’s first minister, built the agency’s structure at the EPA’s founding stage and developed regulation prototypes, such as those of the Environmental Analysis Laboratory and the Environmental Professionals Training Institute. Minister Lung-Bin Hau initiated the restricted use of plastic bags and oversaw the adoption of the Basic Environment Act by the Legislative Yuan during his term. Minister Juu-En Chang institutionalized environmental service industries, formulated specific regulations, and advocated mandatory full waste classification. Minister Stephen Shu-Hung Shen drafted the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act and oversaw the approval of the Environmental Education Act by the Legislative Yuan. \nMinister Lee stressed that environmental protection can be achieved only through team work with cross-party, cross-generational, cross-regional, and international cooperation. For example, plastic waste is a growing threat all nations have to face, and the plastic in the oceans affects everyone. It’s just as crucial to nations, such as the UK, next to the northern Atlantic, as to Taiwan, next to the Pacific, thus Taiwan cannot avoid this threat and must work closely with other countries to protect the earth. Minister Lee closed his speech by expressing his gratitude to all former ministers for building the EPA’s solid foundations, and to his current colleagues in the EPA, directors of regional environmental protection bureaus, and all the staff in other relevant positions for their devotion and contributions.\nDuring the celebration, previously promoted activities were reviewed, and directors of each department gave reports on current tasks, such as environmental impact assessment, clean air initiatives, and flushing of toilet paper. At the ceremony, the EPA also announced that it will actively promote the establishment of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "EPA Aims for a Clean Sustainable Future on Its Thirtieth Anniversary", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-9" }, { "no": "3601", "title": "Continual Upgrading of Environmental Testing", "preview": "Environmental Analysis\nContinual Upgrading of Environmental Testing \nEnvironmental protection work relies on environmental testing capacity that provides fast and precise analyses. In 2016, the Environmental Analysis Laboratory (EAL) under the EPA carried out 45,395 tests on environmental samples, of which the majority were to detect waste or dioxins. Besides keeping updated on leading technology, Taiwan has also developed many innovative testing methods. The EPA is committed to safeguarding environmental quality by using advanced environmental testing technologies and scientific data", "content": "Continual Upgrading of Environmental Testing \nEnvironmental protection work relies on environmental testing capacity that provides fast and precise analyses. In 2016, the Environmental Analysis Laboratory (EAL) under the EPA carried out 45,395 tests on environmental samples, of which the majority were to detect waste or dioxins. Besides keeping updated on leading technology, Taiwan has also developed many innovative testing methods. The EPA is committed to safeguarding environmental quality by using advanced environmental testing technologies and scientific data.\nHow to detect fine particulate matter (PM2.5) floating in the air, or the plastic microbeads less than 0.5 millimeters in diameter that come from common facial cleansers and shower gels? What is to blame for the red river water? These problems in our surroundings all have to be documented with scientific data and answers, and the EAL is the unit to provide exactly that in order to realize environmental justice.\nRealizing environmental justice with science \nThe EAL is equipped with advanced testing instruments to assist law enforcement agencies to investigate pollution, and many of the world’s leading technologies have been adopted. Taking five major environmental pollution issues in Taiwan as examples, testing results directly associated with recent public concerns are as follows.\n1. Testing of PM2.5 Air pollution has been a hot topic in Taiwan, with air quality often rated as poor. PM2.5 is now one of the pollution indicators in the Air Quality Index (AQI) adopted by the EPA on 1 December 2016. A real-time analysis technology developed by the EAL is able to analyze the components of PM2.5, and testing results can be delivered remotely right away to further analyze the main pollution sources. The analyzed data can provide a basis for taking appropriate measures to improve mobile and stationary pollution sources.\n2. Heavy metal pollutants: Environmental problems caused by wastewater discharged by high-tech industries are major public concerns. To strengthen controls on high-tech industry effluent, the EPA added the Optoelectronic Materials and Component Manufacturing Industry Effluent Standards in 2010 with gallium, indium, and molybdenum as new control targets. As invisible, odor-free pollutants, heavy metals are extremely difficult to detect in daily life and pose great threats to the environment and human health. The development of technologies for detecting ultratrace heavy metals can precisely determine background concentrations and distributions of heavy metals in the environment.\n3. Plastic microbeads: In recent years, the international community has taken a close look at environmental and ecological harm caused by plastic microbeads. On 3 August 2017, the EPA announced the Ban on Manufacturing, Import, and Sale of Plastic Microbead-Containing Cosmetics and Personal Care Products. The manufacturing and importing of six categories of plastic microbead-containing cosmetics and personal care products will be banned starting 1 January 2018, and sales of such products will be banned starting 1 July 2018. To assist the enforcement of the regulations, the EAL has developed testing methodologies for microbeads added in daily commodities (facial cleansers, shower gels, toothpastes, etc.). \n4. River water pollution identification: Abnormal river color is usually associated with illegal discharge of wastewater. However, red river water can also occur in streams or ditches surrounded by fish farms, pig sheds, or cemeteries with no factories nearby, and thus be a cause for public anxiety. Using the latest genomic testing, forensic biology can be of great use to identify all microorganisms in the river water and help determine the cause of the water’s color change.\n5. Upgrade of dioxin testing equipment: Dioxins have been called the toxin of the century. Food safety incidents in Taiwan, for example a case involving dioxin-containing duck eggs produced in Changhua, are hot issues in the media and the public mind. Through the EAL’s newly developed technology, the costs for analysis instruments have been lowered from NT$12 million to NT$7 million, their size reduced by two thirds, and their energy conservation performance increased by a factor of five. These instruments will be able to replace the currently employed complicated and expensive technology and become the new testing tools for dioxin incidents.\nKeeping up with the world’s leading technology while striving for originality and innovation \nEnvironmental quality monitoring and pollutant investigation and identification relies on high-tech instruments to provide fast and accurate testing data. Meanwhile, the advancement of environmental testing technology is critical in improving environmental quality and also provides strong support for the promotion of government policies. Dedicated to environmental analysis for years, the EAL has kept up with the latest global trends and developed multiple innovative technologies to safeguard the environment and public health with the most up-to-date technology and scientific data.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Analysis", "titlename": "Continual Upgrading of Environmental Testing", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-9" }, { "no": "3600", "title": "Draft Amendments to the Marine Environment Categories and Marine Environment Quality Standards Preannounced", "preview": "Water\nDraft Amendments to the Marine Environment Categories and Marine Environment Quality Standards Preannounced", "content": "Draft Amendments to the Marine Environment Categories and Marine Environment Quality Standards Preannounced\nOn 25 July 2017, the EPA preannounced draft amendments to some articles of the Marine Environment Categories and Marine Environment Quality Standards (海域環境分類及海洋環境品質標準), aimed at formulating more appropriate units for measuring and indicating marine water quality so as to better protect marine environmental quality and safeguard human health. Regulations related to the current marine water quality inspection methods, techniques and ways of detecting extreme limits, as well as the categories for marine environmental quality standards, other water quality criteria, standard values and rounding off practices will be reviewed.\nThe left chart lists the water quality items and standard values for the three marine environment categories after the amendments.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Draft Amendments to the Marine Environment Categories and Marine Environment Quality Standards Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-8" }, { "no": "3599", "title": "Amendments Preannounced for Regulations on Automated Monitoring Equipment for Stationary Pollution Sources", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring", "content": "Amendments Preannounced for Regulations on Automated Monitoring Equipment for Stationary Pollution Sources \nTo better control large air pollution sources as well as expand monitoring items, the EPA preannounced amendments to the Regulations on Mandatory Automated Monitoring Equipment Installation and Data Transfer to the Authorities for Stationary Sources in Public and Private Premises on 10 July 2017. This will add monitoring items such as weight percentage concentration and operating parameters for particulate pollutants for the first through fourth batches under control. It will create a fifth batch comprised of items from primary smelting\/melting processes from the iron and steel smelting industry, metal casting processes, exhaust gas combustion towers, the optoelectronics industry, the adhesives industry, the semiconductor industry, and those that have pledged to undertake changes in environmental impact assessments. The EPA estimates the fifth batch will result in a total of 145 public and private premises along with 538 emission channels and exhaust gas combustion towers being monitored. This provides control of over 80% of sulfur oxide and nitrogen oxide emissions in Taiwan as well as a more detailed picture of volatile organic compound emissions from various industrial processes.\nSince 1993, the EPA has continually announced four batches of control targets, which include boilers within various industries, waste incineration processes, cement industry, iron and steel smelting industry, petrochemical industry, paper and pulp industry, etc. There were already 116 public and private premises and 339 emission channels under control. It also manages roughly seventy-six percent of sulfur oxide and nitrogen oxide emissions in Taiwan.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "Amendments Preannounced for Regulations on Automated Monitoring Equipment for Stationary Pollution Sources", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-8" }, { "no": "3598", "title": "Carbon Product Awards Created to Encourage Industries to Produce Low-carbon Products", "preview": "Ecolabeling\nCarbon Product Awards Created to Encourage Industries to Produce Low-carbon Products\nIn order to raise the awareness of industries of the need to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and slow global climate change, the EPA announced the Low-carbon Product Award Regulations on July 10, which will reinforce the EPA’s promotion of the product carbon footprint labelling system. The award program increases the concrete incentives for enterprises to apply for carbon footprint labels and carbon reduction labels on their products.", "content": "Carbon Product Awards Created to Encourage Industries to Produce Low-carbon Products\nIn order to raise the awareness of industries of the need to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and slow global climate change, the EPA announced the Low-carbon Product Award Regulations on July 10, which will reinforce the EPA’s promotion of the product carbon footprint labelling system. The award program increases the concrete incentives for enterprises to apply for carbon footprint labels and carbon reduction labels on their products.\nThe Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act successfully established a legal basis for greenhouse gas control in response to climate change. According to Article 24 of the Act, government agencies at all levels are to raise the awareness of citizens, schools, and industries about reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the impacts of global warming. Further, government agencies should also actively support civic organizations in promoting related activities, one of which is setting up the low-carbon product labelling system and promoting low-carbon products. The EPA has drafted the Low-carbon Product Award Regulations, comprising 12 articles, in order to better promote low-carbon products and increase incentives for companies to apply for the carbon labels and carbon reduction labels.\nTo recognize enterprises that reduce the carbon footprints of their products, the EPA will issue awards and public acknowledgements to encourage companies to disclose information about their carbon footprints and make further reductions. The stipulations for the award’s target groups and conditions, application period, method, evaluation procedures, award types and number of awardees are listed below:\n1. This award is meant for enterprises that produce low-carbon products. Applicants must not have either of the two following conditions within the year prior to applying:\n(1) Being penalized for consecutive days or ordered to cease operations or closed down due to violating environmental laws.\n(2) Incurring more than two penalties (other than those previously listed) for violating environmental laws.\n2. Low-carbon product refers to items that meet one of the following criteria:\n(1) Obtaining the right to use low-carbon footprint labels from central competent authorities, with its carbon footprint value in the top ten percent of products within the same category carrying carbon labels.\n(2) Obtaining the right to use carbon labels from central competent authorities.\n(3) Obtaining the right to use carbon labels that have passed the central authorities’ extended review period, with actual carbon reduction results.\n3. Application method: Within a year of obtaining the right to use carbon labels, carbon reduction labels, or carbon labels within the extended review period, enterprises must provide documents and apply online to the central competent authorities for the award between July 1 and August 31 each year. \n4. Evaluation Procedure \nThe central competent authorities will process award applications from companies and complete assessment of qualification documents within seven working days. If the application documents do not meet the above stipulations or are missing information, the applicant must be notified regarding the allotted time for amending the documents. Applicants that have passed the assessment will be evaluated by the central authorities on October 1 of each year in order to select the winning companies.\n5. Awards\n(1) Excellence Award, one recipient—NT$300,000. (2) Superior Award, four recipients—NT$200,000. (3) Exceptional Award, five recipients—NT$100,000.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Ecolabeling", "titlename": "Carbon Product Awards Created to Encourage Industries to Produce Low-carbon Products", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-8" }, { "no": "3597", "title": "AQI Replaces PM2.5", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring\nAQI Replaces PM2.5 \nSince the EPA integrated the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) and the PM2.5 Index and started publishing real-time Air Quality Index (AQI) data online, 90 percent of the general public has stopped searching for the PM2.5 Index online. Therefore, the EPA decided that it would stop providing the PM2.5 Index service as of August 2017.", "content": "AQI Replaces PM2.5 \nSince the EPA integrated the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) and the PM2.5 Index and started publishing real-time Air Quality Index (AQI) data online, 90 percent of the general public has stopped searching for the PM2.5 Index online. Therefore, the EPA decided that it would stop providing the PM2.5 Index service as of August 2017.\nThe EPA started publishing real-time AQI data on the Taiwan Air Quality Monitoring Network, the Environmental Message app and the Opendata website on 1 December 2016, with a view towards eventually replacing the PSI and PM2.5 Index with the AQI as the only index, and to reduce misunderstanding of readings among the general public.\nTo help the general public gradually adapt to the new index, the EPA continued providing the PM2.5 Index for another six months, until 87% of the visitors (from 740,000 visitors in December 2016 down to 90,000 in June 2017) no longer searched for the PM2.5 Index on the websites. Since the AQI had clearly replaced the need for the PM2.5 Index, the EPA stopped providing the PM2.5 Index service on 1 August 2017.\nThe EPA states that the AQI provides more comprehensive air quality information so that citizens can easily respond and take protection measures in accordance to the suggestions. The Taiwan Air Quality Monitoring Network not only sends automatic alerts to users when poor air quality conditions are imminent, it also publishes hourly monitoring data of various air pollutants. (for example, AQI, PM10, PM2.5, O3.) Furthermore, citizens can also use the EPA’s Environmental Message app to look up real-time monitoring data and to set up automatic alerts for different pollutants whenever the concentration exceeds the set limit. So far there have been 310,000 downloads of the app and the peak daily visitors has reached 20,000. The monthly average visitors has reached 1 million, indicating that the Environmental Message app has become a must-have for many people’s everyday lives.\nPollution caused by transportation in port areas is also in need of urgent action. Hence, the EPA is collaborating with different ministries, such as the Ministry of Transportation and Communications and the Ministry of Economic Affairs to promote the installation of high voltage onshore facilities, controls on old diesel vehicles, and vessel management. \nThe EPA also plans to focus, along with the Council of Agriculture (COA), on open-air straw burning. A reduction in the burning of these biofuels will lower air pollution and the smog that can affect road visibility and traffic safety. The EPA and COA will work to expand the reuse and treatment channels for this agricultural by-product, and thereby increase its value. Subsidies, for example, will be provided for the use of microorganisms to turn agricultural straw into fertilizer. \nThe EPA will continue promoting a variety of air pollution control strategies, implement controls, and reduce PM2.5 emissions at source, with the goal of improving air quality and reducing the impact of pollution on public health.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "AQI Replaces PM2.5", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-8" }, { "no": "3596", "title": "First Monitoring Results Released after Air Quality Monitoring Strengthened for Traffic Pollution", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring\nFirst Monitoring Results Released after Air Quality Monitoring Strengthened for Traffic Pollution\nThe EPA has established six new mobile traffic air-quality monitoring stations this year, and the first monitoring results from Taichung City have been released. According to the preliminary air quality monitoring results, pollutant concentrations are higher in the downtown area than other surrounding areas. Moreover, the amounts of both CO and PM2.5 are significantly higher during rush hour (8-9 AM) on weekdays, while the pollution concentration decreases on weekends due to reduced traffic. The result clearly indicates that traffic pollutants are still an important source of air pollution.", "content": "First Monitoring Results Released after Air Quality Monitoring Strengthened for Traffic Pollution\nThe EPA has established six new mobile traffic air-quality monitoring stations this year, and the first monitoring results from Taichung City have been released. According to the preliminary air quality monitoring results, pollutant concentrations are higher in the downtown area than other surrounding areas. Moreover, the amounts of both CO and PM2.5 are significantly higher during rush hour (8-9 AM) on weekdays, while the pollution concentration decreases on weekends due to reduced traffic. The result clearly indicates that traffic pollutants are still an important source of air pollution.\nThe EPA is promoting various control measures on mobile pollution sources in order to keep reducing traffic pollution. In the past, only a small number of counties\/cities had one or two air quality monitoring stations. However, the EPA has started using six monitoring stations in one single county\/city this year to closely monitor the influence of traffic on air quality, and in the future air quality monitoring will be conducted by municipalities. Furthermore, the EPA is also utilizing traffic volume data from the Department of Transportation to better understand the relationship between air pollution and other variables (for example traffic volume, time, location, etc.) to help formulate control measures. \nAccording to the monitoring results from Taichung City, the top three locations that have the highest CO concentrations are all in the downtown area. The top three locations and their CO concentrations are listed respectively as follows: Section 3 Wenxin Road (Wen-Hua Senior High School) at 0.73 ppm; Jingwu Road (Taichung Weather Station) at 0.44 ppm; and Section 2 Taiwan Boulevard (Zhongming Elementary School) at 0.40 ppm. Using Section 3 Wenxin Road as an example to analyze the relationship between traffic volume and CO concentration, during rush hour on weekdays, between 8-9 AM, the traffic volume is 1,800 cars\/hour, six times the level at non-peak hours. The average concentrations of CO and PM2.5 are also 1.8 times and 25% higher respectively. However, the traffic volume during the same time period on weekends is 35% less than weekdays, and the concentrations of CO and PM2.5 are 34% and 20% lower, respectively.\nAfter further analyzing the mobile traffic air-quality monitoring stations and other regular air quality monitoring stations in Taichung City, CO and NOX concentration were found to be, respectively, 1.6 and 1.4 times higher than at regular monitoring stations. On the contrary, O3 concentration is significantly lower near the traffic air-quality monitoring stations mainly because O3 disappears quickly after reacting chemically with NO. In terms of PM2.5, the comparison did not show any major difference between the two kinds of monitoring stations since primary PM2.5 and secondary PM2.5 combine and dissipate rapidly.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "First Monitoring Results Released after Air Quality Monitoring Strengthened for Traffic Pollution", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-8" }, { "no": "3595", "title": "Diversified Waste Treatment Plan Launched to Raise Capacity for Waste Treatment", "preview": "Environmental Inspection\nDiversified Waste Treatment Plan Launched to Raise Capacity for Waste Treatment \nCurrently Taiwan has 24 large-scale waste incineration plants in operation, for which the electricity production, sales, sales rate, and average amount of electricity generated per hour all reached a record high in 2016. The total of such electricity generated in 2016 reached 3.245 billion kWh (28 million kWh higher than in 2015) with a total of NT$4.63 billion generated from electricity sales. In addition to the generation of renewable energy, the Executive Yuan has also formulated the Diversified Waste Treatment Plan with a total of NT$15.342 billion to be invested in improving waste treatment technology and capacity.", "content": "Diversified Waste Treatment Plan Launched to Raise Capacity for Waste Treatment \nCurrently Taiwan has 24 large-scale waste incineration plants in operation, for which the electricity production, sales, sales rate, and average amount of electricity generated per hour all reached a record high in 2016. The total of such electricity generated in 2016 reached 3.245 billion kWh (28 million kWh higher than in 2015) with a total of NT$4.63 billion generated from electricity sales. In addition to the generation of renewable energy, the Executive Yuan has also formulated the Diversified Waste Treatment Plan with a total of NT$15.342 billion to be invested in improving waste treatment technology and capacity.\nTo supervise the operation and maintenance of these incineration plants as well as to enhance their operational efficiency, the EPA has been conducting annual counseling for and evaluation of them since 2001. The evaluation was gradually transformed from technical coaching to inspection and evaluation. These 24 waste incineration plants, among which 19 have been operating for more than 15 years, not only properly handle 4.27 million tons of household waste each year, but also assist in the treatment of 2.17 million tons of general industrial waste.\nAs for pollution control, the EPA has been focusing on equipment maintenance and enhancing technology. As a result, statistics have shown several improvements in different aspects. For instance, dioxin emission concentrations were reduced from the peak concentration of 0.052 ngI-TEQ\/Nm3 to 0.023 ngI-TEQ\/Nm3 in 2016 (the legal limit is 0.1 ngI-TEQ\/Nm3), and average CO emissions dropped from 8.92 ppm to 8.85 ppm in 2016 (the legal limit is 120 ppm). These achievements prove that different aspects of waste incinerator operating efficiency (including quality of management, waste-to-energy efficiency, pollution prevention and equipment maintenance) have not deteriorated from aging but have been maintained or even improved due to the effectiveness of EPA audits and the joint efforts of local EPBs, plant operators, and supervisory agencies over the years.\nTo assist old incineration plants with improving incinerator operation efficiency and to diversify waste treatment, the Executive Yuan approved the Diversified Waste Treatment Plan on 22 June 2017. With the combined investment of NT$15.342 billion from central and local governments, the Plan aims to assist counties without incineration plants to establish a variety of local waste treatment facilities or technologies so that gradually they will no longer need to rely on support from other regions. To solve waste treatment problems and increase the capacity of existing waste treatment facilities, the EPA is also providing economic incentives for waste treatment diversification as well as assistance for building mutually beneficial regional cooperation platforms.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Inspection", "titlename": "Diversified Waste Treatment Plan Launched to Raise Capacity for Waste Treatment", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-8" }, { "no": "3594", "title": "Regulations for Special Use of Existing Waste Clearance and Disposal Facilities Preannounced", "preview": "Waste\nRegulations for Special Use of Existing Waste Clearance and Disposal Facilities Preannounced \nThe EPA preannounced a draft of the Regulations for Special Use of Existing Waste Clearance and Disposal Facilities on 10 July 2017. The regulations ensure that waste clearance and disposal facilities take priority in general waste treatment and also encourage regional cooperation to solve general waste problems together.", "content": "Regulations for Special Use of Existing Waste Clearance and Disposal Facilities Preannounced \nThe EPA preannounced a draft of the Regulations for Special Use of Existing Waste Clearance and Disposal Facilities on 10 July 2017. The regulations ensure that waste clearance and disposal facilities take priority in general waste treatment and also encourage regional cooperation to solve general waste problems together.\nAmendments to the Waste Disposal Act started taking effect on 18 January 2017. Amendments include the addition of Article 28-9, which authorizes the central competent authority to enact regulations governing terms, methods, expenses and other related management matters. The EPA has drafted and preannounced the Regulations for Special Use of Existing Waste Clearance and Disposal Facilities in accordance with the abovementioned regulations.\nThe EPA indicates that Article 28-8 of the Waste Disposal Act allows the central competent authority to utilize existing waste clearance and disposal facilities when necessary, as long as general waste treatment conducted by the executing authorities is not affected, in which case the special use cannot be rejected. In consideration of the spirit of the law and practical needs, existing waste treatment facilities should prioritize general waste treatment and not reduce their general waste treatment capacity due to receiving general industrial waste. Therefore, the main focus of the Regulations for Special Use of Existing Waste Clearance and Disposal Facilities include:\nA. Special municipality, county and city competent authorities and enforcement authorities shall maintain normal operations for general waste treatment at all times and maximize their waste treatment capacity. Also, they should build an emergency response system for general waste treatment support or other supplementary measures.\nB. Special municipality, county and city competent authorities are requested to regularly submit general waste disposal plans and operations data for their disposal facility so that the EPA is able to arrange special uses accordingly and announce the waste quantity, expenses, time and capacity of special waste dispatches that the EPA will make at the selected waste disposal facilities for general waste treatment.\nC. Stipulations on evaluation of operational performance and violations, governing both the authority that applies for a special waste dispatch and the waste clearance and disposal facility.\nThe EPA expects to announce the Regulations for Special Use of Existing Waste Clearance and Disposal Facilities before October 2017.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Regulations for Special Use of Existing Waste Clearance and Disposal Facilities Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-8" }, { "no": "3593", "title": "EPA to Manage Electronic Certification System for HCFC Imports and Exports as of 2018", "preview": "Air", "content": "EPA to Manage Electronic Certification System for HCFC Imports and Exports as of 2018\nThe EPA has started to set up the electronic certification system for importing and exporting chemical substances controlled by the Montreal Protocol. Meanwhile, the Bureau of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) will transfer its authority over this electronic certification system for the imports and exports of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and all related information to the EPA in 2018 for unified management. \nTo meet the regulations stipulated in the Montreal Protocol, the EPA formulated the HCFC Consumption Management Regulations in accordance with Article 30 of the Air Pollution Control Act to manage HCFC production, import, export and use. \nAccording to Article 12 of the HCFC Consumption Management Regulations, importers with HCFC allowances are required to apply for import permits by providing the Bureau of Foreign Trade with their HCFC allowance documents issued by the central competent authority. Import permits are only valid for one use and for a limited time. Currently, importers of HCFCs are using the import permits issued by the Bureau of Foreign Trade with allowance documents issued by the EPA for verification and customs purposes. \nThe EPA has started to set up the electronic certification system for importing and exporting chemical substances controlled by the Montreal Protocol. Meanwhile, the Bureau of Foreign Trade will transfer its authority over the electronic certification system for the imports and exports of HCFCs and all related information to the EPA in 2018 for unified management. In addition, the EPA has preannounced the revision to Article 12 of the HCFC Consumption Management Regulations to clarify the confusion among applicants regarding import permits, which has been caused by the different regulations listed in the CCC code system. The revision also allows companies to conduct verifications of all imported and exported products directly through the CPT Single Window system after receiving the allowance documents from the EPA.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "EPA to Manage Electronic Certification System for HCFC Imports and Exports as of 2018", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-8" }, { "no": "3592", "title": "Manufacture, Import, and Sale of Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Containing Microbeads to be Banned in 2018", "preview": "Waste\nManufacture, Import, and Sale of Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Containing Microbeads to be Banned in 2018\nOn 3 August, the EPA announced its formulation of Manufacturing, Import, and Sale Restrictions for Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Containing Microbeads. For six categories of microbead-containing cosmetics and personal care products, manufacturing and imports are to be banned from 1 January 2018, and sales from 1 July 2018.", "content": "Manufacture, Import, and Sale of Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Containing Microbeads to be Banned in 2018\nOn 3 August, the EPA announced its formulation of Manufacturing, Import, and Sale Restrictions for Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Containing Microbeads. For six categories of microbead-containing cosmetics and personal care products, manufacturing and imports are to be banned from 1 January 2018, and sales from 1 July 2018. \nIn recent years, the United Nations has been urging the world to address the impact of plastic microbeads on aquatic and marine environments. Millimeters in diameter, these microbeads are used as extra additives in cosmetics and personal care products such as facial cleansers and shower gels, and after being flushed into waterways and oceans they cannot be decomposed in natural environments and are too tiny for collection and clearance. To effectively control and mitigate the environmental impacts of this pollutant, common international practices mostly start from the source, namely the manufacturing end, by limiting the amount of microbeads in personal care products. \nMany products in the category of personal care do not contain microbeads. Therefore, the EPA issued the announcement under the authorization of Article 21 of the Waste Disposal Act in an effort to protect waterways, oceans, and environments. Controls will be implemented in two phases in 2018 for six categories of microbead-containing products: shampoo\/hair washing products; facial cleansers and makeup removers; shower gels; soaps; scrubs; and toothpastes. Moreover, all parties and the general public are encouraged to gradually cut down purchase and use of microbead-containing products.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Manufacture, Import, and Sale of Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Containing Microbeads to be Banned in 2018", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-8" }, { "no": "3590", "title": "Amendments of Regulations Governing Air Pollution Monitoring Equipment Preannounced", "preview": "Air\nAmendments of Regulations Governing Air Pollution Monitoring Equipment Preannounced\nOn 10 July 2017, the EPA preannounced revisions to the Management Regulations Governing Stationary Source Air Pollutant Continuous Automated Monitoring Facilities. The revisions aim to strengthen audits and control measures on continuous automated monitoring facilities for factory chimneys, improve the reliability and quality of monitoring data, streamline overall management, and prevent intentional evasion of the regulations.", "content": "Amendments of Regulations Governing Air Pollution Monitoring Equipment Preannounced\nOn 10 July 2017, the EPA preannounced revisions to the Management Regulations Governing Stationary Source Air Pollutant Continuous Automated Monitoring Facilities. The revisions aim to strengthen audits and control measures on continuous automated monitoring facilities for factory chimneys, improve the reliability and quality of monitoring data, streamline overall management, and prevent intentional evasion of the regulations.\nThe main points of the revisions are as follows:\n1. Good reason must be given before changes can be made to monitoring system programs in public and private premises. For monitoring data and programs from the data acquisition handling system (DAHS) that are uploaded, archiving is required in order to enable direct comparisons during the audits done by the competent authorities.\n2. Regulations on identification codes and notes for monitoring data and recorded values are added, for example, codes indicating fire, parking, annual maintenance, operation suspension, and maintenance periods. Monitoring data from public and private premises should be noted in line with actual operations and not have identification codes altered without reason.\n3. Online transmission is adopted for monitoring equipment installation and document reporting. Information and documents for such things as original monitoring data, recorded values, and routine correction records are to be kept for six years in electronic format.\n4. The percentage of effective seasonal monitoring hours is raised from 85% to over 95%. Public and private premises should be monitored at all times to enable competent authorities to maintain a full picture of pollution emissions.\n5. Monitoring data calculation and selection is enhanced by newly adding recorded 15-minute values. To facilitate the upgrading of regulations for standard air quality controls and monitoring data quality, other additions include: variations in monitoring equipment signal gathering, average percentage of variations in lateral signal comparisons, and specifications of NO2\/NO converter efficiency. \n6. Weights, concentrations, and operating parameters of particulate pollutants are new items being monitored and will be included in the Monitoring Equipment Specification Guidelines for Stationary Source Incineration Smokestacks in Public and Private Premises as well as the Monitoring Equipment Specification Guidelines for Stationary Source Organic Volatile Compounds in Public and Private Premises. This is to ensure that monitoring operations for stationary pollution sources are carried out in public and private premises in order to enhance the management system.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Amendments of Regulations Governing Air Pollution Monitoring Equipment Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-8" }, { "no": "3589", "title": "Second Phase of Air Pollutant Total Quantity Control for Kaohsiung and Pingtung Launched in July 2018", "preview": "Air\nSecond Phase of Air Pollutant Total Quantity Control for Kaohsiung and Pingtung Launched in July 2018\nSince its implementation on 30 June 2015, the Kaohsiung-Pingtung Area Air Pollutant Total Quantity Control (TQC) Plan has produced outstanding results by tightening the air pollutant emission limits on factories. Currently the EPA is planning to kickstart the second phase on 1 July 2018, first aiming to reduce emissions of those with no pollution control equipment or best available control technology (BACT) in manufacturing processes.", "content": "Second Phase of Air Pollutant Total Quantity Control for Kaohsiung and Pingtung Launched in July 2018\nSince its implementation on 30 June 2015, the Kaohsiung-Pingtung Area Air Pollutant Total Quantity Control (TQC) Plan has produced outstanding results by tightening the air pollutant emission limits on factories. Currently the EPA is planning to kickstart the second phase on 1 July 2018, first aiming to reduce emissions of those with no pollution control equipment or best available control technology (BACT) in manufacturing processes.\nTotal quantity control (TQC) operates by first setting existing emission baselines of factories within defined control zones and then pushing for pollution reduction phase by phase. Enterprises with emissions above a certain level are required to adopt BACT for new factories or to expand the production of existing ones, and also reduce emissions elsewhere to offset any increase in the amount of pollutants they emit. This ensures a cap on air pollutant emissions within the control zones and enables phased reductions.\nThe EPA said the Plan was launched on 30 June 2015, and the approval process for emission baselines was finished by the end of 2016. The approved emissions account for 60%-80% of the total volume of allowed emissions, in effect lowering existing air pollutant emission limits of factories. By the end of first phase at the end of June 2018, a total of 161 factories should be required to carry out control measures. Estimated results include reducing 519 metric tons of total suspended particulates (TSP), 63 metric tons of SOx, 108 metric tons of NOx, and 248 metric tons of VOCs. Achieving this will display the benefits of TQC in Kaohsiung and Pingtung.\nApproved emissions are set based on the highest emissions of factories within the preceding seven years, or according to assessments based on investigations of particular manufacturing designs. Out of 616 factories listed for control, 163 have adopted BACT before the TQC Plan was implemented, so the actual emissions for many such factories are lower than their approved emissions. However, the EPA stressed that a discrepancy between actual and approved emissions cannot be used as a reduction credit to offset an increase in emissions. Actual reduction amounts can be used to offset increased emissions only when factories adopt control measures after the announcement of the TQC Plan, according to which the required reductions will be calculated. Currently, revisions to relevant regulations are underway concerning acquiring reduction credits for shutting down factories or suspending operations. The EPA will only recognize actual reduction volumes and also raise approval standards to better meet the public’s expectations for the total control system. \nThe EPA stated that the Plan will go into its second phase on 1 July 2018, prioritizing reduction efforts for factories with no control facilities or whose manufacturing processes have yet to incorporate BACT.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Second Phase of Air Pollutant Total Quantity Control for Kaohsiung and Pingtung Launched in July 2018", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-8" }, { "no": "3588", "title": "Environmental Fleet Mobilized for Nationwide Ocean Clean-up", "preview": "Water\nEnvironmental Fleet Mobilized for Nationwide Ocean Clean-up\nIn response to 2017 World Oceans Day, the EPA mobilized 19 coastal counties and cities to simultaneously launch a nationwide ocean clean-up on 22 July. Five-hundred and seven divers as well as an environmental fleet consisting of 817 ships participated in this initiative to clean the seabed around Taiwan together. A total of 20,609 kilograms of marine waste was removed in one day.", "content": "Environmental Fleet Mobilized for Nationwide Ocean Clean-up", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Environmental Fleet Mobilized for Nationwide Ocean Clean-up", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-8" }, { "no": "3587", "title": "Marine Pollution Control Fees to be Collected", "preview": "Water\nMarine Pollution Control Fees to be Collected", "content": "Marine Pollution Control Fees to be Collected", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Marine Pollution Control Fees to be Collected", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-7" }, { "no": "3586", "title": "Amendments to Regulations Governing the Collection of Water Pollution Control Fees Preannounced", "preview": "Water\nAmendments to Regulations Governing the Collection of Water Pollution Control Fees Preannounced", "content": "Amendments to Regulations Governing the Collection of Water Pollution Control Fees Preannounced\nOn 23 June 2017, the EPA preannounced amendments to the Regulations Governing the Collection of Water Pollution Control Fees. The amendments include: \n1) The start date for collection of water pollution control fees from a number of entities (households, public sewage systems, other targeted regions and institutes, community sewage systems, etc.) will be changed, to be decided later by the central competent authorities. \n2) Regulations on overdue fee payments and the calculation method of water quality and quantity for pollution improvement\/remediation have also been revised.\nTo reduce the impact of water pollution control fees on enterprises, fee collection will be divided into different stages. Starting from 1 May 2015, the EPA has begun collecting water pollution control fees from all enterprises except the livestock industry and operators of sewage systems designed for industrial parks. The livestock industry has since been included in control fee collections as of 1 January 2017. As for fee collection from households, which was originally slated to start next year, the EPA has decided to push back the collection time because it is closely related to the construction of public wastewater sewers and the collection of user fees. This will further enhance the collection policies in consideration of public rights for an even more comprehensive collection system. The new collection time for households will be announced in the future. Additionally, the collection time for the sewers that carry mainly domestic wastewater (for example: public sewage systems, other targeted regions and venues, community sewage systems, etc.) will also be adjusted in response to the control fee collection for household wastewater.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Amendments to Regulations Governing the Collection of Water Pollution Control Fees Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-7" }, { "no": "3585", "title": "High Tech Adopted to Track and Control Fine Particulate Matters", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring", "content": "High Tech Adopted to Track and Control Fine Particulate Matters", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "High Tech Adopted to Track and Control Fine Particulate Matters", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-7" }, { "no": "3584", "title": "Oil Storage Tank Maintenance Urged to Prevent Leakage", "preview": "Water\nOil Storage Tank Maintenance Urged to Prevent Leakage \nRiver water quality has been seriously impacted recently due to leakage incidents, either caused by human or other factors, of oil storage tanks in different industries and organizations (for example, the food industry, laundry industry, chemistry industry and prisons). The EPA reminds enterprises to install leakage prevention facilities in accordance with the law, and that they should also report to the competent authority any situation involving leakage, undertake emergency actions, and pay for the costs of cleaning and compensation.", "content": "Oil Storage Tank Maintenance Urged to Prevent Leakage \nRiver water quality has been seriously impacted recently due to leakage incidents, either caused by human or other factors, of oil storage tanks in different industries and organizations (for example, the food industry, laundry industry, chemistry industry and prisons). The EPA reminds enterprises to install leakage prevention facilities in accordance with the law, and that they should also report to the competent authority any situation involving leakage, undertake emergency actions, and pay for the costs of cleaning and compensation.\nAccording to the Water Pollution Control Act, above-ground oil storage tanks that can hold more than 200 liters of oil are on the EPA’s control list. Article 28 of the Water Pollution Control Act stipulates that maintenance and prevention measures are to be taken if oil tanks have the possibility of leaking into a water body. Also, should any tanks have already leaked into a water body, enterprises are required to immediately take emergency response measures and report the incident to the local competent authority within three hours. If the abovementioned measures are not taken, enterprises will incur a fine of up to NT$6 million. Furthermore, enterprises can be partially or even completely suspended if a leakage causes serious pollution. \nAccording to Article 44 of the Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations, which is stipulated based on Article 18 of the Water Pollution Control Act, above-ground fuel storage facilities at a fuel storage site shall comply with the following rules: \n1) The base shall be made of concrete or covered by impermeable materials.\n2) Overflow protection dikes with a height greater than 50 centimeters shall be erected on all sides. The containment capacity of the overflow protection dikes shall be at least 110% of the capacity of the storage facilities. Also based on the capacity of fuel storage facilities, enterprises shall maintain a sufficient supply of equipment and materials for the prevention of pollution leaks, and conduct regular maintenance on the facilities, equipment and materials. The purpose is to collect spilled oil, and enterprises will be imposed a fine of up to NT$6 million for failing to install necessary protection equipment and facilities. \nIn addition, the competent authority shall require polluters to clean up spilled oil within a time limit based on the Water Pollution Control Act. If polluters fail to clean within the given time, the competent authority will have to clean the spilled oil on behalf of polluters and collect compensation from polluters afterwards. \nThe EPA urges enterprises to install overflow protection facilities for oil storage tanks in compliance with regulations. Enterprises are also required to report any leakage to the competent authority and take emergency measures. Furthermore, enterprises will have to pay for cleaning and pollution compensation. Therefore, enterprises should take good care of their oil storage tanks and check for leakage regularly to avoid violating the law.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Oil Storage Tank Maintenance Urged to Prevent Leakage", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-7" }, { "no": "3583", "title": "Revisions to Industry Categories and Effluent Standards for Tighter Water Quality Control Preannounced", "preview": "Water", "content": "Revisions to Industry Categories and Effluent Standards for Tighter Water Quality Control Preannounced\nOn 6 June 2017, the EPA preannounced revisions to the Effluent Standards, adding control standards for two new industry categories: water reclamation enterprises and livestock slurry recycling centers (or methane recovery facilities). Also, to further improve water body quality, true color limits in the Standards were made stricter. Furthermore, to accommodate the changes, amendments to the Water Pollution Control Act Enterprise Classifications and Definitions were preannounced by the EPA on 12 June 2017 and are slated to enter effect on 1 July 2018.\nThe EPA stated that the preannounced revisions to the Effluent Standards and the enterprise classifications and definitions in the Water Pollution Control Act were made in response to the Reclaimed Water Resources Development Act, which were announced on 30 December 2015. Also in conjunction with policies on livestock slurry reutilization, reclaimed water enterprises and livestock slurry recycling centers (or methane recovery facilities) have been placed under control. Meanwhile, new limits have been added for biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), suspended solids, coliforms, and, if effluents are discharged into water source water quality protection areas, total amounts of nitrogen and phosphorous.\nFor fifteen enterprises, such as tanneries and sewage systems in industrial parks, true color standards will become stricter while the limit for free residual chlorine has been added to improve the appearance of water bodies in the eyes of the public. To better rationalize pollution controls, boron limits are separated between wastewater emitted into and outside water source water quality protection areas. Moreover, controls for suspended solids are set apart for excavating enterprises that dredge sand and gravel for processing as raw materials.\nThe major amendments of this preannounced revised, second drafts are:\n1. The effluent standards for wastewater treatment facilities are revised for enterprises, sewage systems, and buildings. \n2. Effluent standards are newly added for fifteen categories, including metal finishing, sewage systems located in industrial parks (excluding petrochemical industrial parks), and public sewage systems.\n3. The effluent standards applicable to sewage systems in petrochemical industrial parks are clarified.\nThe EPA hopes to promote recycling and reuse of water resources through these revisions aimed at increasing the use of livestock manure and slurry as fertilizers, while maintaining clean water bodies. Meanwhile, tightening limits for true color lowers the risk of pollution from dyes, and will improve the visual appearance of river bodies.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Revisions to Industry Categories and Effluent Standards for Tighter Water Quality Control Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-7" }, { "no": "3582", "title": "Stable Isotope Analysis for Soil and Groundwater Investigation", "preview": "Soil & Groundwater\nStable Isotope Analysis for Soil and Groundwater Investigation \nChlorinated organic solvents are effective degreasers and are widely used for both industrial and commercial purposes. However, if such solvents leak into soil and groundwater, the complexity of underground transmission factors makes pollution investigation and determination of responsibility difficult. Therefore, the EPA is cooperating with the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) to increase investigation capacity. The two agencies have successfully applied the technology of stable isotope analysis to soil and groundwater environmental investigations, and will continue to work on related technologies to further enhance investigations and the determination of pollution responsibility.", "content": "Stable Isotope Analysis for Soil and Groundwater Investigation", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil & Groundwater", "titlename": "Stable Isotope Analysis for Soil and Groundwater Investigation", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-7" }, { "no": "3581", "title": "Working Hand-in-Hand for Sustainable Development: the Taiwan-US Eco-Campus Partnership", "preview": "Environmental Education\nWorking Hand-in-Hand for Sustainable Development: the Taiwan-US Eco-Campus Partnership \nThe 2017 Taiwan-US Eco-Campus Teacher Professional Development Workshop took place on July 6th and 7th at Micang Elementary School and XinTai Elementary School respectively under the cooperation of the Taiwan EPA and the National Wildlife Federation (NWF). The opening ceremony at Micang Elementary School was led by Director General Liu Tsung Yung of the Taiwan EPA’s Department of Comprehensive Planning, the US EPA’s Acting Assistant Administrator Jane Nishida, as well as the American Institute in Taiwan. Students of Micang served as eco-guides for the event, explaining in English to visitors all the environmental progress achieved so far.", "content": "Working Hand-in-Hand for Sustainable Development: the Taiwan-US Eco-Campus Partnership \nThe 2017 Taiwan-US Eco-Campus Teacher Professional Development Workshop took place on July 6th and 7th at Micang Elementary School and XinTai Elementary School respectively under the cooperation of the Taiwan EPA and the National Wildlife Federation (NWF). The opening ceremony at Micang Elementary School was led by Director General Liu Tsung Yung of the Taiwan EPA’s Department of Comprehensive Planning, the US EPA’s Acting Assistant Administrator Jane Nishida, as well as the American Institute in Taiwan. Students of Micang served as eco-guides for the event, explaining in English to visitors all the environmental progress achieved so far.\nIn order to help educators build a more sustainable eco-campus, and to enhance cooperation on execution of pathways, this year the Taiwan EPA has organized a two-day Eco-Campus Teacher Professional Development Workshop, with a special speaker from the NWF, Ms. Laura Hickey, to give a lecture on project-based learning strategies. There was also a representative each from Hellgate High School in the US, Rob Jensen, and Minamata High School in Japan, Haruki Masahito, who shared their experiences on environmental education and joined the discussions. The rest of the workshop was led by Dr. Tsai Chih-Chung from National Kaohsiung Normal University, who shared with attendees how Micang and XinTai became model eco-campuses for developing relevant environmental pathways. More than 60 participants came from around Taiwan, including representatives of eco-campuses, environmental bureaus, and other interested teachers. \nThe Taiwan-US Eco-Campus Partnership Program was launched by former EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy and Minister Wei Kuo-Yen in 2014. Now in its fourth consecutive year, the number of registered schools in Taiwan reached 225 this June, including 87 schools with a Bronze Award, 44 schools with a Silver Award, and 3 Green Flag schools. The partnership has also successfully paired 85 Taiwanese schools with US schools. The Partnership Program will continue to strive for diverse international participation and cooperation as it promotes environmental education.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Working Hand-in-Hand for Sustainable Development: the Taiwan-US Eco-Campus Partnership", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-7" }, { "no": "3580", "title": "Regulations Governing Industrial Waste with Common Reuse Purposes Preannounced", "preview": "Waste\nRegulations Governing Industrial Waste with Common Reuse Purposes Preannounced\nRecent amendments to the Waste Disposal Act added regulations governing industrial wastes that have common reuse purposes and that require an integrated management approach. Following up on these amendments, the EPA preannounced the draft of the Regulations Governing Industrial Waste with Common Reuse Purposes on 29 June 2017. The draft was formulated to enhance the management of industrial waste reuse and the implementation of policies on resource recycling and reuse.", "content": "Regulations Governing Industrial Waste with Common Reuse Purposes Preannounced\nRecent amendments to the Waste Disposal Act added regulations governing industrial wastes that have common reuse purposes and that require an integrated management approach. Following up on these amendments, the EPA preannounced the draft of the Regulations Governing Industrial Waste with Common Reuse Purposes on 29 June 2017. The draft was formulated to enhance the management of industrial waste reuse and the implementation of policies on resource recycling and reuse. \nThe EPA completed the revisions to the Waste Disposal Act on 18 January 2017. The amendments cover regulations concerning labeling for product reuse, common reuse purposes and waste flow tracking. For example, the newly added Article 39 stipulates that, if deemed necessary, the EPA will integrate the management of industrial waste with common reuse purposes. The draft of the said regulations have been formulated and preannounced in accordance with relevant policies.\nIn the future, at-source control and product management will be the EPA’s key focuses in industrial waste control. The draft not only requires waste reuse facilities to register for evaluation in order to determine standards for receiving reusable waste and the quality of products made from reused waste, it also requests the tracking of waste flow and reutilization. If there is any violation against the waste reuse management regulations during the reuse process, the facility will be punished using the following measures: qualification for waste reuse will be suspended, fines or penalties will be imposed, and improvements will be required by a limited time. Industrial waste with common reuse purposes falling under two industry competent authorities is listed as a control priority; this includes: scrap iron, paper, glass, plastics, scrap single metals (copper, zinc, aluminum, and tin), and disused concrete electric poles.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Regulations Governing Industrial Waste with Common Reuse Purposes Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-7" }, { "no": "3579", "title": "Waste Disposal Act Amended to Limit Export Destinations for Hazardous Industrial Waste", "preview": "Waste\nWaste Disposal Act Amended to Limit Export Destinations for Hazardous Industrial Waste \nAmendments were made to Articles 38 and 53 of the Waste Disposal Act to improve regulations on penalties and fines and ensure the proper treatment of hazardous industrial waste exported to other countries. Through the amendments, the EPA aims to strengthen the management of hazardous industrial waste sent to other countries, in accordance with the Basel Convention. The amendments passed their third reading in May 2017, were announced on 14 June 2017, and will take effect next year.", "content": "Waste Disposal Act Amended to Limit Export Destinations for Hazardous Industrial Waste \nAmendments were made to Articles 38 and 53 of the Waste Disposal Act to improve regulations on penalties and fines and ensure the proper treatment of hazardous industrial waste exported to other countries. Through the amendments, the EPA aims to strengthen the management of hazardous industrial waste sent to other countries, in accordance with the Basel Convention. The amendments passed their third reading in May 2017, were announced on 14 June 2017, and will take effect next year. \nThe amendments to the Waste Disposal Act prioritize domestic treatment or reuse of hazardous industrial waste over exporting waste for treatment. Should exporting of waste be needed, facilities in the recipient countries receiving hazardous industrial waste must be capable of properly treating and reusing it. So far only the following countries have been approved: member states of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), nations with which Taiwan has signed bilateral treaties on transboundary movements of hazardous waste, and other nations or regions that have been approved and announced by central competent authorities. The amendments will take effect a year after their announcement to provide sufficient time for manufacturers, energy enterprises, and waste disposal organizations in Taiwan to adjust. However, enterprises that had received their export permits before the announcement will be able to maintain the expiration dates on their current permits to ensure their existing agreements with other companies remain valid.\nThe EPA stresses that the main focus of the amendments is to decrease the occurrence of pollution caused by transboundary waste movement through better domestic waste treatment. The restrictions on export destinations will reduce illegal transport of waste and ensure proper treatment of hazardous industrial waste. The EPA urges any related parties to follow the new policies and strive towards a better environment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Waste Disposal Act Amended to Limit Export Destinations for Hazardous Industrial Waste", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-7" }, { "no": "3578", "title": "Diversified Waste Treatment Leads to New Era", "preview": "Waste\nDiversified Waste Treatment Leads to New Era \nOn 6 July 2017, the EPA presented in the Legislative Yuan the Diversified Waste Treatment Plan, on which the central and local governments plan to spend NT$15.3 billion. Premier Chuan Lin expressed his strong approval for the circular economy feature of waste utilization proposed by the plan and thus asked the EPA to expedite its execution by shortening implementation periods.", "content": "Diversified Waste Treatment Leads to New Era \nOn 6 July 2017, the EPA presented in the Legislative Yuan the Diversified Waste Treatment Plan, on which the central and local governments plan to spend NT$15.3 billion. Premier Chuan Lin expressed his strong approval for the circular economy feature of waste utilization proposed by the plan and thus asked the EPA to expedite its execution by shortening implementation periods. \nFacing the issues of challenging energy development, greater awareness of environmental protection, and economic transformation, Premier Lin stated that the Diversified Waste Treatment Plan is capable of connecting related industries in Taiwan and achieving technological advancement using new technological applications and equipment. Furthermore, it bears great significance for being able to open up overseas markets and multiply its benefits. \nEPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee spoke about the historic background and needs behind the evolution of garbage disposal. For instance, garbage incineration has seen changes from waste reduction in the 1970’s, reinforced pollution controls in the 1980’s, power generation in the 1990’s, strengthened energy recycling in the 2000’s, to thorough improvement of waste-to-energy conversion efficiency as well as reduction and recycling of incinerator ash in the 2010’s. Garbage disposal in foreign countries has gradually headed toward energy production and resource reutilization, attaining greater benefits by utilizing technology such as thermal or biological waste treatment.\nIn order to realize the insightful and integrating vision of new-generation garbage disposal, there will be NT$9 billion allotted for the upgrading of incinerators and related treatment facilities, and for integrating overseas experiences with newly developed technology in Taiwan. Another NT$3.7 billion will be spent on innovative technologies, such as Mechanical Biological Treatment (MBT), gasification, anaerobic digestion (centralized), and dehydration and highly effective composting (decentralized), which will largely increase the effectiveness of waste utilization. By gradually building a circular economy, diversified waste utilization technology is sure to replace the older methods of incineration and landfilling.\nThe EPA emphasized that garbage is actually misplaced resources, and it is up to all citizens and the government to decide together whether it becomes a waste or a resource. If everyone actively generates less garbage at the beginning with proper sorting, and the government constructs diversified local disposal facilities for waste utilization, eventually a circular economy that benefits all will become a reality.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Diversified Waste Treatment Leads to New Era", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-7" }, { "no": "3577", "title": "Amendments to Air Pollution Control Act Preannounced", "preview": "Air\nAmendments to Air Pollution Control Act Preannounced \nIn response to environmental changes, the EPA preannounced the draft amendments to the Air Pollution Control Act. Amendments include raising the upper and lower fine limits, accelerating the whistleblower mechanism, as well as disclosing environmental data and information for more public participation.", "content": "Amendments to Air Pollution Control Act Preannounced \nIn response to environmental changes, the EPA preannounced the draft amendments to the Air Pollution Control Act. Amendments include raising the upper and lower fine limits, accelerating the whistleblower mechanism, as well as disclosing environmental data and information for more public participation.\nSince its implementation in 1975, the Air Pollution Control Act has been revised eight times to become a well-rounded mechanism against air pollution. However, there have been several major air pollution incidents in recent years, and most current regulations in the Act were formulated in 2002. Examination and amendments are called for as a result of socioeconomic and environmental changes and different needs for pollution controls.\nThe EPA pointed out that the amendments arise from the need to improve air quality as well as from advice from different areas. Suggestions brought up in the National Affairs Conference on Judicial Reform were taken into account, such as raising the upper and lower fine limits, accelerating the whistleblower mechanism, and disclosing environmental data and information for more public participation. Revisions mainly deal with raising regulation standards, increasing penalties for violations, recovering illegal gains, offering rewards to encourage reports of violations, delineating air quality protection areas to enforce regulations governing mobile pollution sources, adding controls on mobile pollution sources other than transportation, managing chemical products containing volatile organic compounds, and information disclosure. The major amendments are as follows:\n1. Unifying evaluation standards for permit applications: It was clarified in the requirements for permit extensions that local governments should grant a minimum three year validity period when evaluating reasonable applications for permit extensions. Permit extensions based on the emission reduction principle as well as air pollution control projects are to be allowed, in order to reach air pollution reduction goals.\n2. Reinforcing controls on bituminous coal: In conjunction with the carbon reduction periods set in national energy policies, regulations for enterprises’ fuel uses are set in terms of fuel content standards and ratios for mixed fuels. In combination with controls such as end-of-pipe emission limits, it is expected that environmental protection goals can be met while maintaining a stable national energy supply. \n3. Reevaluating total quantity control systems: For existing pollution sources within total quantity control zones that are not in compliance with air quality standards, new regulations have been added for authorizations of pollution reduction credit auctions with the objective of improving the effectiveness of the cap control system.\n4. Implementing controls on harmful air pollutants: Harmful air pollutants should be included in air pollutant emission standards for public and private venues, and health risk factors are to be taken into account in the formulation of standards.\n5. Implementing mobile pollution source control: New regulations include vehicle controls within air quality protection areas, controls on mobile pollution sources other than transportation, bans on installing defeat devices, and stricter emission standards for vehicles over ten years old.\n6. Increasing controls on chemical products containing volatile organic compounds: Manufacturing, import, and sales of chemical products that contain volatile organic compounds are to meet the quality and component requirements set by the central competent authorities.\n7. Increasing fine amounts: Upper fine limits have been raised following suggestions from the National Affairs Conference on Judicial Reform. In addition, fine amounts in the Water Pollution Control Act are being considered.\n8. Improving the whistleblower mechanism: Air pollution emission reduction requires detailed planning and the participation of multiple parties. With references from the Water Pollution Control Act as well as foreign legislation on whistleblowers and protection for witnesses, new clauses have been added to encourage employees to report illegal activities from within.\n9. Offering rewards to encourage reports of illegal activities: Relevant regulations on rewards have been added to encourage citizen reports of violations in public and private entities.\n10. Total information disclosure to expand public participation: Following the advice of the National Affairs Conference on Judicial Reform to expand citizen participation, revisions include complete disclosure of original environmental monitoring data. Also, voluntary disclosure of trial run plans are required when construction projects at public and private entities are under evaluation to resume operations after a suspension for severe violations, in order to allow for citizen participation in monitoring.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Amendments to Air Pollution Control Act Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-7" }, { "no": "3576", "title": "EPA Minister Lee Addresses European Parliament on Circular Economy", "preview": "General Policy\nEPA Minister Lee Addresses European Parliament on Circular Economy\nOn 26 June 2017, Minister without Portfolio Chen-Chung Deng and EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee, leading more than 100 representatives from government agencies, research institutes, public associations, and Taiwan industry, attended the 2017 EU-Taiwan Event on Industry of the Future held in Brussels, Belgium. It was Taiwan’s largest government-organized overseas delegation of economic and trading representatives in recent years. Besides highlighting the importance placed on bilateral economic relationships, the event also demonstrated the high expectations Taiwan’s government and private corporations have for Taiwan-EU partnerships. At the European Parliament, Minister Lee delivered a speech entitled “Taiwan, a Circular Economy Hot Spot in Asia.”", "content": "EPA Minister Lee Addresses European Parliament on Circular Economy\nOn 26 June 2017, Minister without Portfolio Chen-Chung Deng and EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee, leading more than 100 representatives from government agencies, research institutes, public associations, and Taiwan industry, attended the 2017 EU-Taiwan Event on Industry of the Future held in Brussels, Belgium. It was Taiwan’s largest government-organized overseas delegation of economic and trading representatives in recent years. Besides highlighting the importance placed on bilateral economic relationships, the event also demonstrated the high expectations Taiwan’s government and private corporations have for Taiwan-EU partnerships. At the European Parliament, Minister Lee delivered a speech entitled “Taiwan, a Circular Economy Hot Spot in Asia.”\nIn 2015 and 2016, the EU had arranged visits to Taiwan of groups consisting of industry representatives, producing fruitful results. In response to the EU’s invitation, this year a trip to Europe by a large industry group from Taiwan was organized and enthusiastically received by EU representatives. Both sides engaged in dialogues to help understand the current situations and policies for industrial development in Taiwan and Europe, as well as to look for potential areas of cooperation that would strengthen mutual industry bonds.\nIn-depth discussions between Taiwan and the EU on four issues, including circular economy and renewable energy\nAfterwards, Minister Lee spoke further on Taiwan’s efforts, as the world’s third largest waste recycler, to build a circular economy focusing on waste reutilization, industrial value chains, special circular economy zones, and potentials for industrial transformation toward a circular economy. He stated that Taiwan aims to achieve a resource recycling rate of 6.1% by 2020, as well as increase resource productivity by an annual average of 4.1% to go from NT$42.5\/kg in 2011 to NT$65.8\/kg in 2022. Compared to the average annual recycling rate of 3.4% in Austria, currently the largest recycler in the world, and 2.7% in Germany, the second largest, Taiwan’s goal demonstrates its ambition to become a circular economy leader in Asia.\nMinister Lee stated that this year’s industry dialogue was a result of Taiwan’s consensus with EU policies. In the future, there will be many opportunities for Taiwan-EU cooperation in five particular areas: plastic transformation, kitchen waste reutilization, recycling of key precious metals from e-waste, biomass material utilization, and construction waste controls.\nIn addition, representatives from Taiwan and the EU had in-depth discussions on prospects, challenges, and collaboration opportunities in areas related to circular economy, industry cluster policies, digitalization, information and communication technology (ICT), and renewable energy.\nNational Environmental Education Awards Enter their Fifth Year\nOn 27 June, at the European Parliament building in Brussels, Minister Lee delivered a talk entitled “Taiwan, a Circular Economy Hot Spot in Asia.” A total of 60 people, from Taiwan and other countries, were in attendance, including 20 Members of the European Parliament.\nMinister Lee pointed out that circular economy was one of the major policies mentioned in President Tsai Ing-Wen’s inauguration speech, so he was delighted with the many meaningful dialogues with relevant EU agencies during the visit. Through exchanges on the perspectives, strategies, and promotion experiences related to circular economy, both Taiwan and EU representatives felt some excitement toward the common principles and methods in which both sides firmly believe, and thus became even more convinced that a circular economy is the future path for the planet. \nWe must abandon outdated production and consumption models and embrace a circular economy so that economic growth can disengage from resource depletion, said Minister Lee. Only then can the world’s economy start heading in a healthy direction, helping to protect the environment while creating new jobs. The minister also mentioned that a circular economy has been kick-started in Taiwan. As the EU Center in Taiwan and various European trade offices in Taiwan recently expressed in the local media, “Now is the time to act on climate change.”\nWhile Taiwan industry representatives took part in the visit, Taiwan’s consulates across Europe arranged events for enterprises of both sides to share and exchange experiences. Many European enterprises expressed enormous interest in Taiwan’s recycling technology, opening up windows for overseas business opportunities for a circular economy.\nThis visit made known to the EU Taiwan’s key policies on sustainable economy, industrial innovation, and strengthening of global competitiveness. Besides enhancing Taiwan-EU industry partnerships and expanding the scale and diversity of foreign trade, the events also enhanced both sides’ links regarding advanced technology and should help industrial transformation and economic development in Taiwan.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "EPA Minister Lee Addresses European Parliament on Circular Economy", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-7" }, { "no": "2705", "title": "President Ma's Environmental Policy Sees Three Years of Good ResultsPresident Ma's Environmental Policy Sees Three Years of Good Results", "preview": "General PolicyFeature ArticlePresident Ma's Environmental Policy Sees Three Years of Good ResultsPresident Ma Ying-jeou's \"Health and Sustainability for Taiwan” environmental policy has achieved good results since his inauguration on 20 May 2008. Apart from legislative affairs which are still underway already 115 of the total 172 tasks have been completed, attesting to the EPA's hard work to put the President's ideals of environmental protection into practice. The many notable achievements brought forth in just three years have received support from all circles.The EPA has achieved significant concrete results on several fronts including the organizational planning of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, the legislation of the Environmental Education Act, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening of river purification, waste reduction and recycling, and nationwide clean neighborhood campaigns, as outlined in detail below:1. Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources: The EPA has coordinated the establishment of this ministry, which integrates related departments of all government agencies under one organization. The new ministry is to see to both pollution control and nature conservation work through comprehensive decision-making mechanisms and strengthened administrative efficiency.2. Legislation: Eighteen years since its inauguration, the EPA established the Environmental Education Act on 5 June 2010, making Taiwan one of the few nations with legislation on environmental education. The Act went into effect on 5 June 2011 to improve the environmental literacy of citizens. The Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act and the Indoor Air Quality Management Act have also been drafted and are currently under review by the Legislative Yuan. 3. Air quality: The percentage of poor air quality days (PSI>100) has dropped from 3.68% in 2007 to 1.44% in 2010, the best it has been in five years. The greatest margin of improvement was observed in 2010. 4. Low-carbon transportation: From 2008 to 2010, the EPA subsidized and popularized electric assisted bicycles, electric bicycles, electric scooters, hybrid cars, and dual-fuel cars, increasing the total combined number of these vehicles by 56,902. Through inter-agency negotiations, the Ministry of Finance determined on 23 February 2009 that hybrid cars shall be classified as electric cars, for which only 50% of commodity taxes are collected. The Legislative Yuan further approved the Amendments to the Commodity Tax Act on 10 January 2011, completely exempting electric cars from commodity taxes, thereby effectively decreasing their market price.5. Greenhouse gas reductions: Legislation of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act has been underway in addition to the establishment of a national greenhouse gas registry platform. Already 341 companies have voluntarily submitted data accounting for 85% of emissions in the industry and energy sectors. Efforts have been made to strengthen international cooperation on carbon credits and carbon trading. This has encouraged enterprises to voluntarily reduce carbon emissions by 33 million tonnes. Taiwan's CO2 emissions from fuel combustion saw negative growth for the first time in 20 years, dropping 4.1% from 2007 to 2008. An even greater margin of reduction occurred in 2009 as emissions were cut by another 4.9%.6. Water body water quality: Recent focus has been given to promoting the remediation and restoration of urban rivers. By the end of 2010, remediation works were completed along the Fongshan River in Kaohsiung City and the Wannian River in Pingtung County, benefitting a total of 550,000 nearby residents. Restoration and remediation works continued along three rivers in New Taipei City, including the Chung-Kang Drainage Canal, benefiting a total of 1.37 million people. The total length of seriously polluted river segments nationwide decreased from 196.3 kilometers in 2007 to 168.3 kilometers by March 2011, a total of 28 kilometers. This attests to continually improving river water quality.7. General waste reduction, sorting and recycling: By the end of February 2011, per capita garbage clearance volume was 0.475 kilograms, falling 18.52% from 2007 (0.583 kilograms), and 56.13% less than the highest recorded volume of 1.135 kilograms in 1998. By the end of February 2011, the resource recycling and reuse rate had risen to 56.77%, which is 13.81% higher than the 2007 rate of 42.96%.8. Green consumption: Guidance was provided to retailers, resulting in the transformation of 10,353 shops into Green Stores that provide general consumers a convenient way to purchase green merchandise. The EPA also established a product carbon footprint labeling system, making Taiwan the eleventh nation in the world to implement carbon labeling. 9. Clean neighborhoods: The EcoLife Web site has been promoting mobilization of citizens to help with environmental beautification and environmental sanitation in rural villages and neighborhoods. This included implementing three-tier multiple mobilization for dengue fever inspections, resulting in the elimination of 27,002 mosquito breeding grounds, the disposal of 3.99 million containers and 190,000 used tires, and the tidying of over 50,000 vacant lots. The number of regulated public toilets was increased, as was the level of cleanliness of public toilets, bringing the percentage of top quality toilets to 93% (45,327 toilets). The EPA will continue to draw together the strengths of all circles to implement the President's environmental ideals and establish a new nation that embodies low-carbon lifestyles, cycling of resources, health and sustainability. This marks a milestone for sustainable development for the coming second century of the ROC government. Performance results for the past three years are posted on the EPA Web site (http:\/\/www.epa.gov.tw).", "content": "General PolicyFeature ArticlePresident Ma's Environmental Policy Sees Three Years of Good ResultsPresident Ma Ying-jeou's \"Health and Sustainability for Taiwan” environmental policy has achieved good results since his inauguration on 20 May 2008. Apart from legislative affairs which are still underway already 115 of the total 172 tasks have been completed, attesting to the EPA's hard work to put the President's ideals of environmental protection into practice. The many notable achievements brought forth in just three years have received support from all circles.The EPA has achieved significant concrete results on several fronts including the organizational planning of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, the legislation of the Environmental Education Act, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening of river purification, waste reduction and recycling, and nationwide clean neighborhood campaigns, as outlined in detail below:1. Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources: The EPA has coordinated the establishment of this ministry, which integrates related departments of all government agencies under one organization. The new ministry is to see to both pollution control and nature conservation work through comprehensive decision-making mechanisms and strengthened administrative efficiency.2. Legislation: Eighteen years since its inauguration, the EPA established the Environmental Education Act on 5 June 2010, making Taiwan one of the few nations with legislation on environmental education. The Act went into effect on 5 June 2011 to improve the environmental literacy of citizens. The Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act and the Indoor Air Quality Management Act have also been drafted and are currently under review by the Legislative Yuan. 3. Air quality: The percentage of poor air quality days (PSI>100) has dropped from 3.68% in 2007 to 1.44% in 2010, the best it has been in five years. The greatest margin of improvement was observed in 2010. 4. Low-carbon transportation: From 2008 to 2010, the EPA subsidized and popularized electric assisted bicycles, electric bicycles, electric scooters, hybrid cars, and dual-fuel cars, increasing the total combined number of these vehicles by 56,902. Through inter-agency negotiations, the Ministry of Finance determined on 23 February 2009 that hybrid cars shall be classified as electric cars, for which only 50% of commodity taxes are collected. The Legislative Yuan further approved the Amendments to the Commodity Tax Act on 10 January 2011, completely exempting electric cars from commodity taxes, thereby effectively decreasing their market price.5. Greenhouse gas reductions: Legislation of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act has been underway in addition to the establishment of a national greenhouse gas registry platform. Already 341 companies have voluntarily submitted data accounting for 85% of emissions in the industry and energy sectors. Efforts have been made to strengthen international cooperation on carbon credits and carbon trading. This has encouraged enterprises to voluntarily reduce carbon emissions by 33 million tonnes. Taiwan's CO2 emissions from fuel combustion saw negative growth for the first time in 20 years, dropping 4.1% from 2007 to 2008. An even greater margin of reduction occurred in 2009 as emissions were cut by another 4.9%.6. Water body water quality: Recent focus has been given to promoting the remediation and restoration of urban rivers. By the end of 2010, remediation works were completed along the Fongshan River in Kaohsiung City and the Wannian River in Pingtung County, benefitting a total of 550,000 nearby residents. Restoration and remediation works continued along three rivers in New Taipei City, including the Chung-Kang Drainage Canal, benefiting a total of 1.37 million people. The total length of seriously polluted river segments nationwide decreased from 196.3 kilometers in 2007 to 168.3 kilometers by March 2011, a total of 28 kilometers. This attests to continually improving river water quality.7. General waste reduction, sorting and recycling: By the end of February 2011, per capita garbage clearance volume was 0.475 kilograms, falling 18.52% from 2007 (0.583 kilograms), and 56.13% less than the highest recorded volume of 1.135 kilograms in 1998. By the end of February 2011, the resource recycling and reuse rate had risen to 56.77%, which is 13.81% higher than the 2007 rate of 42.96%.8. Green consumption: Guidance was provided to retailers, resulting in the transformation of 10,353 shops into Green Stores that provide general consumers a convenient way to purchase green merchandise. The EPA also established a product carbon footprint labeling system, making Taiwan the eleventh nation in the world to implement carbon labeling. 9. Clean neighborhoods: The EcoLife Web site has been promoting mobilization of citizens to help with environmental beautification and environmental sanitation in rural villages and neighborhoods. This included implementing three-tier multiple mobilization for dengue fever inspections, resulting in the elimination of 27,002 mosquito breeding grounds, the disposal of 3.99 million containers and 190,000 used tires, and the tidying of over 50,000 vacant lots. The number of regulated public toilets was increased, as was the level of cleanliness of public toilets, bringing the percentage of top quality toilets to 93% (45,327 toilets). The EPA will continue to draw together the strengths of all circles to implement the President's environmental ideals and establish a new nation that embodies low-carbon lifestyles, cycling of resources, health and sustainability. This marks a milestone for sustainable development for the coming second century of the ROC government. Performance results for the past three years are posted on the EPA Web site (http:\/\/www.epa.gov.tw).", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "President Ma s Environmental Policy Sees Three Years of Good ResultsPresident Ma s Environmental Policy Sees Three Years of Good Results", "position": "print\/V14\/V14-06" }, { "no": "1513", "title": "Complete Sorting\/Zero Waste Policy Gains High Public SupportComplete Sorting\/Zero Waste Policy Gains High Public Support", "preview": "The EPA has announced the latest survey results of citizens’ and students’ environmental knowledge showing that over 90% of respondents comply with measures calling for compulsory garbage sorting, and garbage and food waste sorting and recycling at fast food chains. Already 92% of citizens say they bring a shopping bag with them when going out shopping, and over 90% of elementary and junior high school students say they are doing so as well.", "content": "The EPA has announced the latest survey results of citizens’ and students’ environmental knowledge showing that over 90% of respondents comply with measures calling for compulsory garbage sorting, and garbage and food waste sorting and recycling at fast food chains. Already 92% of citizens say they bring a shopping bag with them when going out shopping, and over 90% of elementary and junior high school students say they are doing so as well. To better understand citizens’ and students’ awareness of environmental knowledge, policy and education channels, the EPA launched the “Citizen and Student Environmental Awareness Survey” covering 30 topics including “Compulsory garbage sorting,” “Penalty for drippy air conditioners,” and “Regular cleaning and maintenance of household water purifiers.” Collecting such information on peoples’ environmental attitudes and actions will facilitate future planning of environmental education.The survey was conducted via telephone from 31 May to 7 June 2004, recording a total of 1,621 valid responses from respondents over 20 years old. Personnel were dispatched to schools to conduct interviews or hand out written questionnaires, collecting a total of 4,829 valid responses from students of junior colleges, high schools, vocational schools, junior high schools and elementary schools. Scores were tallied with a 95% confidence level and ±2.9% sampling error.As for compulsory sorting of garbage, survey results showed that 95% of citizens and students expressed willingness (including “extreme willingness”) to comply with the compulsory sorting policy. To ensure that citizens have the correct garbage sorting habits and to minimize the time required to sort, the EPA will strengthen guidance and instruction efforts and ask for citizens’ cooperation.The EPA’s method to implement source reductions involves a series of stages starting with the Restricted Use Policy on Plastic Bags and Plastic (Polystyrene) Disposable Dishware from July 2002. Survey results showed that 92% of the public, 94% of junior college students, and over 90% of high school and junior high school students voluntarily bring their own bags when shopping to reduce the use of plastic bags.The EPA is also actively promoting food waste recycling efforts with already 254 townships in all 25 counties and cities implementing the policy. Already 1,100 tonnes of food waste is recycled daily in Taiwan, and this is expected to increase to 1,600 tonnes by 2007, as well as generate NT$2.4 billion in economic benefits.Survey results revealed that 94% of citizens and 93% of junior college and high school students expressed willingness to cooperate with programs to recycle or compost household, school or neighborhood food waste.As for the June 2004 implementation of the “no drip” policy to prevent the discharge of air conditioner water into the environment, citizens were instructed to make improvements before July 2004 to avoid penalties. The survey showed that 91% of citizens and 82% of students were aware of this new policy.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Complete Sorting\/Zero Waste Policy Gains High Public SupportComplete Sorting\/Zero Waste Policy Gains High Public Support", "position": "print\/V8\/V8-04" }, { "no": "1220", "title": "Expanded Opportunities for International Exchange in Environmental ProtectionExpanded Opportunities for International Exchange in Environmental Protection", "preview": "The EPA enjoyed frequent exchanges with the international community this September. First EPA Administrator Hau Lung-bin visited Singapore and Germany and invited foreign firms to set up in Taiwan’s new Environmental Science and Technology Parks. Then the EPA welcomed US EPA delegates to Taiwan to renew a Taiwan-US environmental protection technology cooperation agreement for five more years. This agreement fosters friendly relations between Taiwan and the US through environmental technology exchanges.In step with this October’s 2003 Taiwan Business Alliance Conference in Taiwan at the Taipei World Trade Center, EPA Administrator Hau Lung-bin (郝龍斌) led a delegation to Singapore and Germany to invite foreign firms to set up in Taiwan’s new Environmental Science and Technology Parks (ESTP). The delegation met with green industries in Singapore and Germany to welcome investment in Taiwan and to carry out official bilateral environmental technology exchanges. The focus of the delegation’s visit with Singapore’s Ministry of the Environment, and Germany’s Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety, and Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology was to introduce Taiwan’s ESTP promotion plan, carry out official bilateral environmental technology exchanges and invite those countries’ officials to visit Taiwan. While in Germany, the delegation held a briefing on the ESTPs and invited environmental industries to invest in Taiwan. The delegation also met with local environmental technology firms and extended an invitation to invest in Taiwan’s ESTPs. Hau’s delegation also made a survey of Germany’s waste management system, policies and related environmental facilities.The EPA expressed that one of the biggest accomplishments of the trip was that Singapore’s Citiraya Industries Ltd. expressed strong interest in investing in the Kaohsiung ESTP. Their initial plan would invest an estimated NT$100~200 million toward the use of around one hectare. The EPA is currently extending all efforts to assist with their investment plan. Also, now that the German government has a better understanding of Taiwan’s ESTP plan, the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology will soon arrange for environmental related companies to visit Taiwan and search for investment opportunities. Through the kind effort extended by Taiwan’s representative in Germany, the delegation was able to carry out the first overseas briefing on Taiwan’s ESTPs while in Munich. Although the trip occurred during Germany’s summer vacation period, many local firms eagerly showed up for the briefing. German Federal Parliament member Hans-Josef Fell (Green Party) and Helgo Alberts, Deputy Secretary General for the Chamber of Industry and Commerce for Munich and Upper Bavaria, also attended the briefing and openly praised Taiwan’s restricted use policy on plastic bags and the speed and efficiency of its implementation. A total of twenty firms attended the briefing in Munich.The EPA expressed that while it was in the process of inviting firms, it realized that foreign businesses need to have a grasp of the market scale, regulations, standards and local cooperation partners when investing in Taiwan. Because the method of investment will be based on technology transfer or technology cooperation models, the main task of inviting firms in the future will be to assist foreign enterprises in seeking partner firms in Taiwan to help push foreign investment forward. Also, Taiwan should reinforce the functions of its Resources Reuse and Recycling Act to expand the market scale. Domestic firms wishing to cooperate with foreign firms are asked to contact the EPA’s Department of Waste Management. The contact number is 02-2311-7722 ext. 2640.While calling on Singapore’s and Germany’s environmental protection ministries, it was observed that both countries are actively engaged in developing green industry. The EPA is now even more confident that in order to advance sustainable development, it should use environmental protection policies, resource cycling, water cycling and other strategies. Such strategies will help expand the environmental industry and lead the vision in developing Taiwan’s ESTP plan; they have also become international trends for advanced nations promoting sustainable development.After the inspiring trip to Germany and Singapore, on September 23 the EPA welcomed the US EPA to a signing ceremony in Taipei to renew a Taiwan-US environmental protection technology cooperation agreement (台灣環境保護技術合作協定). Coordination Council for North American Affairs Secretary-General Andrew JC Kao (高振群) and AIT Deputy Director David J. Keegan acted as representatives for both sides in signing the agreement. Officials from the US EPA and Taiwan’s EPA were also present at the signing ceremony.Taiwan entered the first environmental technology cooperation agreement with the US in 1993, calling for the advancement of environmental protection cooperation between both governments’ administrative departments. Through this agreement, Taiwan has been continually introducing advanced pollution control technology and environmental management experience from the US over the past several years. The agreement has proved to be of great benefit towards improving Taiwan’s environmental quality and building up management mechanisms.The original agreement expired in 1998 and was renewed for five years up to this year (2003). The signing of this agreement on September 23 renewed the agreement again for another five-year term. After the signing ceremony, the EPA and the US EPA held a three-day 2003 US-Taiwan Environmental Protection Technology Cooperation Agreement Plan Review and Planning Conference. The main topics of this meeting included international cooperation in greenhouse emissions reductions, transboundary mercury pollution and control technology, and other relevant topics.", "content": "The EPA enjoyed frequent exchanges with the international community this September. First EPA Administrator Hau Lung-bin visited Singapore and Germany and invited foreign firms to set up in Taiwan’s new Environmental Science and Technology Parks. Then the EPA welcomed US EPA delegates to Taiwan to renew a Taiwan-US environmental protection technology cooperation agreement for five more years. This agreement fosters friendly relations between Taiwan and the US through environmental technology exchanges.In step with this October’s 2003 Taiwan Business Alliance Conference in Taiwan at the Taipei World Trade Center, EPA Administrator Hau Lung-bin (郝龍斌) led a delegation to Singapore and Germany to invite foreign firms to set up in Taiwan’s new Environmental Science and Technology Parks (ESTP). The delegation met with green industries in Singapore and Germany to welcome investment in Taiwan and to carry out official bilateral environmental technology exchanges. The focus of the delegation’s visit with Singapore’s Ministry of the Environment, and Germany’s Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety, and Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology was to introduce Taiwan’s ESTP promotion plan, carry out official bilateral environmental technology exchanges and invite those countries’ officials to visit Taiwan. While in Germany, the delegation held a briefing on the ESTPs and invited environmental industries to invest in Taiwan. The delegation also met with local environmental technology firms and extended an invitation to invest in Taiwan’s ESTPs. Hau’s delegation also made a survey of Germany’s waste management system, policies and related environmental facilities.The EPA expressed that one of the biggest accomplishments of the trip was that Singapore’s Citiraya Industries Ltd. expressed strong interest in investing in the Kaohsiung ESTP. Their initial plan would invest an estimated NT$100~200 million toward the use of around one hectare. The EPA is currently extending all efforts to assist with their investment plan. Also, now that the German government has a better understanding of Taiwan’s ESTP plan, the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology will soon arrange for environmental related companies to visit Taiwan and search for investment opportunities. Through the kind effort extended by Taiwan’s representative in Germany, the delegation was able to carry out the first overseas briefing on Taiwan’s ESTPs while in Munich. Although the trip occurred during Germany’s summer vacation period, many local firms eagerly showed up for the briefing. German Federal Parliament member Hans-Josef Fell (Green Party) and Helgo Alberts, Deputy Secretary General for the Chamber of Industry and Commerce for Munich and Upper Bavaria, also attended the briefing and openly praised Taiwan’s restricted use policy on plastic bags and the speed and efficiency of its implementation. A total of twenty firms attended the briefing in Munich.The EPA expressed that while it was in the process of inviting firms, it realized that foreign businesses need to have a grasp of the market scale, regulations, standards and local cooperation partners when investing in Taiwan. Because the method of investment will be based on technology transfer or technology cooperation models, the main task of inviting firms in the future will be to assist foreign enterprises in seeking partner firms in Taiwan to help push foreign investment forward. Also, Taiwan should reinforce the functions of its Resources Reuse and Recycling Act to expand the market scale. Domestic firms wishing to cooperate with foreign firms are asked to contact the EPA’s Department of Waste Management. The contact number is 02-2311-7722 ext. 2640.While calling on Singapore’s and Germany’s environmental protection ministries, it was observed that both countries are actively engaged in developing green industry. The EPA is now even more confident that in order to advance sustainable development, it should use environmental protection policies, resource cycling, water cycling and other strategies. Such strategies will help expand the environmental industry and lead the vision in developing Taiwan’s ESTP plan; they have also become international trends for advanced nations promoting sustainable development.After the inspiring trip to Germany and Singapore, on September 23 the EPA welcomed the US EPA to a signing ceremony in Taipei to renew a Taiwan-US environmental protection technology cooperation agreement (台灣環境保護技術合作協定). Coordination Council for North American Affairs Secretary-General Andrew JC Kao (高振群) and AIT Deputy Director David J. Keegan acted as representatives for both sides in signing the agreement. Officials from the US EPA and Taiwan’s EPA were also present at the signing ceremony.Taiwan entered the first environmental technology cooperation agreement with the US in 1993, calling for the advancement of environmental protection cooperation between both governments’ administrative departments. Through this agreement, Taiwan has been continually introducing advanced pollution control technology and environmental management experience from the US over the past several years. The agreement has proved to be of great benefit towards improving Taiwan’s environmental quality and building up management mechanisms.The original agreement expired in 1998 and was renewed for five years up to this year (2003). The signing of this agreement on September 23 renewed the agreement again for another five-year term. After the signing ceremony, the EPA and the US EPA held a three-day 2003 US-Taiwan Environmental Protection Technology Cooperation Agreement Plan Review and Planning Conference. The main topics of this meeting included international cooperation in greenhouse emissions reductions, transboundary mercury pollution and control technology, and other relevant topics.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Expanded Opportunities for International Exchange in Environmental Protection", "position": "print\/V6\/V6-10" }, { "no": "1034", "title": "Subsidies for Incinerator Ash Reuse and DisposalSubsidies for Incinerator Ash Reuse and Disposal", "preview": "The EPA will provide local governments with subsidies to be used to encourage private enterprises to establish final disposal sites for incinerator ash using BOO and BOT investment methods and to acquire ash reuse technology. These measures are aimed at ensuring incinerator ash is treated properly and at reducing the burden on Taiwan’s final waste disposal sites.Incineration is currently the primary municipal waste treatment method used in Taiwan. Taiwan’s 17 major municipal waste incinerators produced over 774000 metric tons of incinerator ash in 2001. A total of 32 incinerators will be operating by 2006, creating 1.81 million metric tons of ash per year. With this much ash, a substantial portion of Taiwan’s landfill space will be consumed if it continues its present policy of sending incinerator ash to landfills. Incinerator ash reuse technology has reached maturity and there are many examples of ash reuse overseas. The need for landfills can be greatly reduced if bottom ash, which is considered nonhazardous and accounts for the largest portion of incinerator ash, can be reused.In order to add regulations governing the reuse and final disposal of municipal waste incinerator ash, the EPA has broadened the existing Guidelines for Encouraging Public and Private Enterprises to Construct and Operate Final Disposal Sites for General Industrial Waste (鼓勵公民營機構興建營運一般事業廢棄物最終處置場作業要點). These expanded regulations will allow local governments, based on their particular needs, to either jointly construct both ash reuse facilities and final disposal sites on their own, or to construct only final disposal sites and select existing ash reuse plants to convert ash into a useful material. For the establishment of final disposal sites and new ash reuse facilities, local governments will encourage private enterprises to adopt BOO (build-operate-own) or BOT (build-operate-transfer) investment methods, or will build and operate these sites and facilities themselves.To provide greater incentives for private investment by reducing investment risks, the EPA will offer subsidies to local governments so as to guarantee post-incineration volumes and prices for incinerator ash treatment facilities. The EPA will guarantee a post-incineration volume equivalent to 20% of an incinerator’s design capacity. This includes sewer sludge and noncombustible garbage (accounting for 5% of an incinerator’s design capacity) and incinerator ash (accounting for 15% of an incinerator’s design capacity). The EPA will provide subsidies in order to guarantee prices up to a maximum of NT$1,000 for each metric ton of ash. These guaranteed volumes and prices will be provided for three years. These subsidies are expected to cost NT$3.58 billion.The EPA will also offer guaranteed volumes and prices for local governments that choose existing ash reuse plants. These guaranteed volumes will be set according to contracts between local governments and ash reuse plants. As for subsidies for guaranteed prices, the EPA will offer up to NT$800 per metric ton to ash reuse plants.To establish a legal basis for the reuse of incinerator ash, the EPA has also drafted Municipal Waste Incinerator Bottom Ash Reuse Regulations (垃圾焚化廠焚化底灰再利用規定). The draft would require that TCLP testing be conducted one time for every 500 metric tons of bottom ash prior to reuse. Only when TCLP tests of this ash meet hazardous industrial waste standards would the ash be suitable for reuse. This draft would permit incinerator ash to be reused only as an aggregate in non-rebar concrete, asphalt concrete and bricks, as road base material, and as a substitute covering material for landfills.Studies show that approximately 20 metric tons of steel and 3 metric tons of non-steel metals can be recovered from every 100 metric tons of municipal incinerator ash. There are also 53 metric tons of materials that can be reused as an aggregate in construction materials in each 100 metric tons of incinerator ash. With ash containing this much reusable material, the EPA has adopted an incinerator ash policy which grants priority to reuse and uses landfilling as a backup. This policy will not only reduce the demand for landfill space, it will also allow for the sustainable use of resources by promoting the recycling of valuable materials and reducing the wasteful use of resources.For more information, please call 02-2370-5888 ext. 2648.", "content": "The EPA will provide local governments with subsidies to be used to encourage private enterprises to establish final disposal sites for incinerator ash using BOO and BOT investment methods and to acquire ash reuse technology. These measures are aimed at ensuring incinerator ash is treated properly and at reducing the burden on Taiwan’s final waste disposal sites.Incineration is currently the primary municipal waste treatment method used in Taiwan. Taiwan’s 17 major municipal waste incinerators produced over 774000 metric tons of incinerator ash in 2001. A total of 32 incinerators will be operating by 2006, creating 1.81 million metric tons of ash per year. With this much ash, a substantial portion of Taiwan’s landfill space will be consumed if it continues its present policy of sending incinerator ash to landfills. Incinerator ash reuse technology has reached maturity and there are many examples of ash reuse overseas. The need for landfills can be greatly reduced if bottom ash, which is considered nonhazardous and accounts for the largest portion of incinerator ash, can be reused.In order to add regulations governing the reuse and final disposal of municipal waste incinerator ash, the EPA has broadened the existing Guidelines for Encouraging Public and Private Enterprises to Construct and Operate Final Disposal Sites for General Industrial Waste (鼓勵公民營機構興建營運一般事業廢棄物最終處置場作業要點). These expanded regulations will allow local governments, based on their particular needs, to either jointly construct both ash reuse facilities and final disposal sites on their own, or to construct only final disposal sites and select existing ash reuse plants to convert ash into a useful material. For the establishment of final disposal sites and new ash reuse facilities, local governments will encourage private enterprises to adopt BOO (build-operate-own) or BOT (build-operate-transfer) investment methods, or will build and operate these sites and facilities themselves.To provide greater incentives for private investment by reducing investment risks, the EPA will offer subsidies to local governments so as to guarantee post-incineration volumes and prices for incinerator ash treatment facilities. The EPA will guarantee a post-incineration volume equivalent to 20% of an incinerator’s design capacity. This includes sewer sludge and noncombustible garbage (accounting for 5% of an incinerator’s design capacity) and incinerator ash (accounting for 15% of an incinerator’s design capacity). The EPA will provide subsidies in order to guarantee prices up to a maximum of NT$1,000 for each metric ton of ash. These guaranteed volumes and prices will be provided for three years. These subsidies are expected to cost NT$3.58 billion.The EPA will also offer guaranteed volumes and prices for local governments that choose existing ash reuse plants. These guaranteed volumes will be set according to contracts between local governments and ash reuse plants. As for subsidies for guaranteed prices, the EPA will offer up to NT$800 per metric ton to ash reuse plants.To establish a legal basis for the reuse of incinerator ash, the EPA has also drafted Municipal Waste Incinerator Bottom Ash Reuse Regulations (垃圾焚化廠焚化底灰再利用規定). The draft would require that TCLP testing be conducted one time for every 500 metric tons of bottom ash prior to reuse. Only when TCLP tests of this ash meet hazardous industrial waste standards would the ash be suitable for reuse. This draft would permit incinerator ash to be reused only as an aggregate in non-rebar concrete, asphalt concrete and bricks, as road base material, and as a substitute covering material for landfills.Studies show that approximately 20 metric tons of steel and 3 metric tons of non-steel metals can be recovered from every 100 metric tons of municipal incinerator ash. There are also 53 metric tons of materials that can be reused as an aggregate in construction materials in each 100 metric tons of incinerator ash. With ash containing this much reusable material, the EPA has adopted an incinerator ash policy which grants priority to reuse and uses landfilling as a backup. This policy will not only reduce the demand for landfill space, it will also allow for the sustainable use of resources by promoting the recycling of valuable materials and reducing the wasteful use of resources.For more information, please call 02-2370-5888 ext. 2648.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Subsidies for Incinerator Ash Reuse and DisposalSubsidies for Incinerator Ash Reuse and Disposal", "position": "print\/V5\/V5-10" }, { "no": "778", "title": "Administrator Visits Hong Kong’s Waste Management Facilities Administrator Visits Hong Kong’s Waste Management Facilities", "preview": "Administrator Lung-Bin Hau visited Hong Kong from June 25 to June 27 to inspect local waste transshipment and treatment facilities. Following the inspection the EPA is even more convinced that cross-area waste treatment is the direction that future waste treatment must take. In late June, Administrator Lung-Bin Hau visited Hong Kong heading an inspection delegation that included the director-general of the Bureau of Solid Waste Control and other environmental protection personnel. This was the first time that Hau had left the country after being appointed EPA Administrator. The main objective of the visit was to inspect Hong Kong’s waste transshipment and treatment facilities. According to the EPA, the reason for choosing Hong Kong was that it used to be ruled by the UK, and therefore has very advanced waste treatment techniques. Add to this that, like Taiwan, Hong Kong is a small area with a large population, has a fairly limited ability to accept large volumes of garbage, encounters difficulties in obtaining new land and faces many pollution problems. When it comes to waste treatment, however, there are many areas where it is well worth it for Taiwan to borrow from Hong Kong’s experience. Hau’s main itinerary in Hong Kong included a visit to the western landfill in the New Territories, the western waste transshipment station on Hong Kong Island and the chemical waste treatment plant on Tsing Yi Island. Operation of all waste transshipment and treatment facilities in Hong Kong are outsourced to private organizations through open public tender, with the government only appointing about 10 people to each facility to supervise treatment. This is much more efficient than the current domestic practice, where many similar facilities are operated by the government. Among these facilities, the chemical waste treatment plant on Tsing Yi Island specifically treats hazardous industrial waste. The plant is located out of the way, and for this reason there are many transshipment stations in Hong Kong where waste materials are preliminarily treated and compressed before being sent on to the treatment plant. The advantage of establishing transshipment stations is that hazardous industrial waste can be preliminary treated close to where it originated, which will greatly diminish the risk of pollution during transport to the waste treatment plant. Transshipment stations can also be established across areas, cities or counties, lowering the cost of waste treatment plant construction, regardless of whether it be for hazardous or general waste. In order to facilitate the implementation of cross-area waste treatment, the ongoing amendment to the Waste Disposal Act has already incorporated a ban on local government restrictions on cross-area waste disposal and treatment. Unfortunately it was not possible to complete the passage of this law during the previous legislative session, but it is hoped that it will be passed during the coming session, solving the problem of garbage wars between cities and counties that have been so frequent in the past.", "content": "Administrator Lung-Bin Hau visited Hong Kong from June 25 to June 27 to inspect local waste transshipment and treatment facilities. Following the inspection the EPA is even more convinced that cross-area waste treatment is the direction that future waste treatment must take. In late June, Administrator Lung-Bin Hau visited Hong Kong heading an inspection delegation that included the director-general of the Bureau of Solid Waste Control and other environmental protection personnel. This was the first time that Hau had left the country after being appointed EPA Administrator. The main objective of the visit was to inspect Hong Kong’s waste transshipment and treatment facilities. According to the EPA, the reason for choosing Hong Kong was that it used to be ruled by the UK, and therefore has very advanced waste treatment techniques. Add to this that, like Taiwan, Hong Kong is a small area with a large population, has a fairly limited ability to accept large volumes of garbage, encounters difficulties in obtaining new land and faces many pollution problems. When it comes to waste treatment, however, there are many areas where it is well worth it for Taiwan to borrow from Hong Kong’s experience. Hau’s main itinerary in Hong Kong included a visit to the western landfill in the New Territories, the western waste transshipment station on Hong Kong Island and the chemical waste treatment plant on Tsing Yi Island. Operation of all waste transshipment and treatment facilities in Hong Kong are outsourced to private organizations through open public tender, with the government only appointing about 10 people to each facility to supervise treatment. This is much more efficient than the current domestic practice, where many similar facilities are operated by the government. Among these facilities, the chemical waste treatment plant on Tsing Yi Island specifically treats hazardous industrial waste. The plant is located out of the way, and for this reason there are many transshipment stations in Hong Kong where waste materials are preliminarily treated and compressed before being sent on to the treatment plant. The advantage of establishing transshipment stations is that hazardous industrial waste can be preliminary treated close to where it originated, which will greatly diminish the risk of pollution during transport to the waste treatment plant. Transshipment stations can also be established across areas, cities or counties, lowering the cost of waste treatment plant construction, regardless of whether it be for hazardous or general waste. In order to facilitate the implementation of cross-area waste treatment, the ongoing amendment to the Waste Disposal Act has already incorporated a ban on local government restrictions on cross-area waste disposal and treatment. Unfortunately it was not possible to complete the passage of this law during the previous legislative session, but it is hoped that it will be passed during the coming session, solving the problem of garbage wars between cities and counties that have been so frequent in the past.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Administrator Visits Hong Kong s Waste Management Facilities", "position": "print\/V4\/V4-08" }, { "no": "2127", "title": "EPA Holds International Forum on Environment and Transportation ManagementEPA Holds International Forum on Environment and Transportation Management", "preview": "Air Quality EPA Holds International Forum on Environment and Transportation Management The EPA recently held an international forum on “The Environment and Transportation Management” in Taipei inviting foreign experts and scholars to engage in international dialogue on three issues: 1) methods for managing and replacing vehicles in stages, 2) assessment of regional driving controls and fee collection, and 3) increasing public transportation to reduce environmental impact.The number of motor vehicles in Taiwan continues to rise, resulting not only in congested traffic and wasted social resources but also seriously affecting air quality and public health. These are unfavorable consequences in terms of sustainable development of the environment. From 21~22 February 2008, the EPA held an international forum on “The Environment and Transportation Management,” inviting foreign experts and scholars to discuss the three issues of managing or replacing vehicles in stages, assessing regional control of driving vehicles and collecting fees, and increasing public transportation to reduce environmental impact. These three issues were looked at in terms of policy theory and implementation experience drawing on foreign experience through focus topic lectures. The conclusions will serve as a reference for Taiwan when formulating related policy to expedite the promotion of vehicle control work. The forum was held by the EPA, with assistance from the Institute of Transportation, Ministry of Transportation and Communications. Professor Fujii Satoshi of Japan Tokyo Institute of Technology, Professor Hermann Knoflacher, Head of the Institute for Transport Planning and Traffic Engineering, Technical University of Vienna, Austria, and Dr. H. Christopher Frey of North Carolina State University were invited to share the experience of Japan, Europe, and the US regarding the management and replacement of vehicles in stages. Professor Lee De-hong (李德紘) of the National University of Singapore explained electronic road pricing and vehicle management policy. Mr. Brian of the Association of British Drivers spoke on the reasons for criticism of road pricing in London. Clean Air Initiative (CAI) Asia Secretariat Mr. Cornie Huizenga explained the current status of vehicle emissions management in Asia. Mr. Clive Rock, Principal of Silex Consulting Inc., a Vancouver-based consultancy specializing in urban transportation and related issues, and Dr. Gyeng-Chul Kim, deputy director of the Seoul Development Institute were invited to introduce the results of transportation systems developed in Vancouver and Seoul. Also invited to the meeting were Taipei City Transportation Department Director Luo Shiaw-shyan ( 羅孝賢 ) and Kaohsiung City Transportation Bureau Director Wang Kuo-tsai (王國材) to introduce the transportation policy development visions of these two cities and share their experience. The EPA indicates that although the EPA is not the competent authority of transportation, in recent years it has actively promoted transportation management measures including free bus systems, mass transport and bus transfers, and public bike rental systems to encourage the public to ride on public transportation and curb the use of private vehicles. In the future the EPA will continue to refer to foreign experience and evaluate the feasibility of implementing transportation management measures that are conducive to sustainable development and improving environmental quality.", "content": "Air Quality EPA Holds International Forum on Environment and Transportation Management The EPA recently held an international forum on “The Environment and Transportation Management” in Taipei inviting foreign experts and scholars to engage in international dialogue on three issues: 1) methods for managing and replacing vehicles in stages, 2) assessment of regional driving controls and fee collection, and 3) increasing public transportation to reduce environmental impact.The number of motor vehicles in Taiwan continues to rise, resulting not only in congested traffic and wasted social resources but also seriously affecting air quality and public health. These are unfavorable consequences in terms of sustainable development of the environment. From 21~22 February 2008, the EPA held an international forum on “The Environment and Transportation Management,” inviting foreign experts and scholars to discuss the three issues of managing or replacing vehicles in stages, assessing regional control of driving vehicles and collecting fees, and increasing public transportation to reduce environmental impact. These three issues were looked at in terms of policy theory and implementation experience drawing on foreign experience through focus topic lectures. The conclusions will serve as a reference for Taiwan when formulating related policy to expedite the promotion of vehicle control work. The forum was held by the EPA, with assistance from the Institute of Transportation, Ministry of Transportation and Communications. Professor Fujii Satoshi of Japan Tokyo Institute of Technology, Professor Hermann Knoflacher, Head of the Institute for Transport Planning and Traffic Engineering, Technical University of Vienna, Austria, and Dr. H. Christopher Frey of North Carolina State University were invited to share the experience of Japan, Europe, and the US regarding the management and replacement of vehicles in stages. Professor Lee De-hong (李德紘) of the National University of Singapore explained electronic road pricing and vehicle management policy. Mr. Brian of the Association of British Drivers spoke on the reasons for criticism of road pricing in London. Clean Air Initiative (CAI) Asia Secretariat Mr. Cornie Huizenga explained the current status of vehicle emissions management in Asia. Mr. Clive Rock, Principal of Silex Consulting Inc., a Vancouver-based consultancy specializing in urban transportation and related issues, and Dr. Gyeng-Chul Kim, deputy director of the Seoul Development Institute were invited to introduce the results of transportation systems developed in Vancouver and Seoul. Also invited to the meeting were Taipei City Transportation Department Director Luo Shiaw-shyan ( 羅孝賢 ) and Kaohsiung City Transportation Bureau Director Wang Kuo-tsai (王國材) to introduce the transportation policy development visions of these two cities and share their experience. The EPA indicates that although the EPA is not the competent authority of transportation, in recent years it has actively promoted transportation management measures including free bus systems, mass transport and bus transfers, and public bike rental systems to encourage the public to ride on public transportation and curb the use of private vehicles. In the future the EPA will continue to refer to foreign experience and evaluate the feasibility of implementing transportation management measures that are conducive to sustainable development and improving environmental quality.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "EPA Holds International Forum on Environment and Transportation ManagementEPA Holds International Forum on Environment and Transportation Management", "position": "print\/V11\/V11-03" }, { "no": "3575", "title": "Regulations Governing the Review of Industrial Waste Clearance and Disposal Plans Preannounced", "preview": "Waste\nRegulations Governing the Review of Industrial Waste Clearance and Disposal Plans Preannounced", "content": "Regulations Governing the Review of Industrial Waste Clearance and Disposal Plans Preannounced\nIn response to the Waste Disposal Act amended in January 2017, the EPA preannounced the draft of the Regulations Governing the Review of Industrial Waste Clearance and Disposal Plans on 24 May 2017. \nThe draft is to increase business’s responsibility and to reinforce the waste management system by setting clear regulations. After the Waste Disposal Act was amended, the business’s responsibility for waste management has increased significantly. Among the enhanced responsibilities, the industrial waste clearance and disposal plan that included the detailed operation information and the amount of waste generated are particularly important. The draft enhanced the legal framework of the process, time and principles for reviewing the submitted plans to give the review a higher legal status. The draft also added the regulations of the expiration date, revocation and cancelation of the plan. In addition, if certain wastes are generated, the enterprises need to include a copy of the contract of the clearance and disposal of such wastes in the plan.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Regulations Governing the Review of Industrial Waste Clearance and Disposal Plans Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-6" }, { "no": "3574", "title": "Amendments to Mobile Source Air pollution Control Fee Rates Preannounced", "preview": "Air\nAmendments to Mobile Source Air pollution Control Fee Rates Preannounced", "content": "Amendments to Mobile Source Air pollution Control Fee Rates Preannounced\nTo reduce the PM2.5 emissions from gasoline and diesel vehicles, the EPA adjusted the air pollution control fee rates for mobile sources to NT$0.3 per liter for gasoline and NT$0.4 per liter for diesel to put the polluter-pays principle into practice. The fee collected will be used to reduce pollutants from gasoline vehicles and diesel vehicles to improve the air quality.\nAccording to the EPA’s analysis of the contribution of different pollution sources to the concentration of PM2.5, around 30-37% of the total PM2.5 emission in Taiwan comes from mobile sources. The exhaust is mainly composed of primary PM2.5 and its precursors such as volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) and NOx. However, the existing air pollution control fees for mobile sources do not include the PM2.5 emissions from mobile sources. If taking into consideration of internalizing the external environmental costs, economic incentives and the pollution control needs, the air pollution control fee rates for mobile sources need to be raised. Therefore, the increase of the pollution control fee rates is preannounced after analyzing the vehicular consumption of gasoline and diesel and the emission of PM2.5.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Amendments to Mobile Source Air pollution Control Fee Rates Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-6" }, { "no": "3573", "title": "Regulations Governing Subsidies for Scrapping Large Old Diesel Vehicles Preannounced", "preview": "Air\nRegulations Governing Subsidies for Scrapping Large Old Diesel Vehicles Preannounced", "content": "Regulations Governing Subsidies for Scrapping Large Old Diesel Vehicles Preannounced \nThe EPA preannounced the draft of the Regulations Governing Subsidies for Scrapping Large Old Diesel Vehicles on 2 June 2017. The draft focuses on providing subsidies to phase out large diesel cars that meet the phase 1 and phase 2 vehicular emission standards and on improving fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution. \nAccording to EPA’s analysis on different pollution sources’ contribution to the concentration of PM2.5, up to 37% of PM2.5 emissions in Taiwan came from mobile sources, among which diesel trucks have the highest contribution at 16.8%. Most vehicles in Taiwan tend to be pretty old. In fact, with the exception of diesel trucks, more than 50 percent of vehicles are over 10 years old. Older cars have a higher emission of air pollutants and can worsen the air quality. Therefore, to protect the air quality, it is necessary to accelerate the process of phasing out old vehicles and strengthen the control on air pollutant emissions. To encourage car owners to get rid of their old cars, the EPA is providing an average subsidy of NT$200,000 for scrapping large diesel vehicles that are older than 18 years old.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Regulations Governing Subsidies for Scrapping Large Old Diesel Vehicles Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-6" }, { "no": "3572", "title": "Amendments to Regulations Governing General Wastes Recycling and Clearance Preannounced", "preview": "Waste\nAmendments to Regulations Governing General Wastes Recycling and Clearance Preannounced\nUnder the Waste Disposal Act, wastes generated from the daily lives of enterprise staff are classified as general wastes. On 2 June, 2017, the EPA preannounced the draft amendments of the Regulations Governing General Wastes Recycling and Clearance, which is to add relevant management regulations concerning disposal of wastes from the daily lives of enterprise staff.", "content": "Amendments to Regulations Governing General Wastes Recycling and Clearance Preannounced\nUnder the Waste Disposal Act, wastes generated from the daily lives of enterprise staff are classified as general wastes. On 2 June, 2017, the EPA preannounced the draft amendments of the Regulations Governing General Wastes Recycling and Clearance, which is to add relevant management regulations concerning disposal of wastes from the daily lives of enterprise staff.\nThe revised Waste Disposal Act took effect after the announcement on 18 Jan, 2017, placing wastes generated from the daily lives of enterprise staff under the category of general waste. Part of the draft amendments of the regulations preannounced by the EPA on 2 June 2017 add specifications for disposal of this type of waste.\nPoints in the draft amendments of the Regulations Governing General Wastes Recycling and Clearance are as follows:\n1. Coordinating with the revisions of the Waste Disposal Act, definitions are added for wastes generated from the daily lives of enterprise staff and general waste discharge.\n2. Additions include that other waste generators should authorize publicly operating waste clearance and disposal organizations, approved by competent authorities, to handle clearance and disposal of general wastes. In the newly added Announcement of Enterprises With Industrial Waste Disposal Plans, it is required to specify wastes generated from the daily lives of the staff in its waste disposal plan, and the hired general waste clearance and disposal organizations are mandated to report operating data regularly. Also, publicly operating organizations that have vehicles equipped with a tank, tank container, vessel tank, high-pressure vessel tank, and cargo tank should install a real-time tracking system.\n3. Regulations are revised that households and other waste generators should sort wastes accordingly when hiring others for the disposal of general wastes.\n4. Categories and management of general waste reuse are specified in the following table. Central competent authorities are to suspend the reuse stated in the table if it can potentially pollute the environment. Another new addition further states that, in the need of research and development for waste reutilization technology, an application must be submitted under the circumstance of a special project to the competent authorities in special municipal, county, or city governments for approval if general waste is to be used as sample with only a single batch for testing.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Amendments to Regulations Governing General Wastes Recycling and Clearance Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-6" }, { "no": "3571", "title": "Twenty-five Communities Awarded for Low-carbon Sustainability and Climate Change Achievements", "preview": "General Policy\nTwenty-five Communities Awarded for Low-carbon Sustainability and Climate Change Achievements \nOn 12 May 2017 in Tainan City, EPA Chief Secretary Hui-Chiuan Hsiao awarded the outstanding communities that achieved energy saving, carbon reduction and sustainable development. The award ceremony was held in Jinhua Borough, a low-carbon community with silver class certification, and all participants of the ceremony took a tour in the community afterward. Chief Secretary Hsiao was very much impressed with the achievements of the awarded communities in carbon reduction and sustainable development. She encouraged all the participants to continue their hard work and assist other communities to build a low-carbon community.", "content": "Twenty-five Communities Awarded for Low-carbon Sustainability and Climate Change Achievements \nOn 12 May 2017 in Tainan City, EPA Chief Secretary Hui-Chiuan Hsiao awarded the outstanding communities that achieved energy saving, carbon reduction and sustainable development. The award ceremony was held in Jinhua Borough, a low-carbon community with silver class certification, and all participants of the ceremony took a tour in the community afterward. Chief Secretary Hsiao was very much impressed with the achievements of the awarded communities in carbon reduction and sustainable development. She encouraged all the participants to continue their hard work and assist other communities to build a low-carbon community.\nThe EPA points out that it takes everyone’s participation to build a low-carbon sustainable homeland. Therefore, the EPA encourages all villages, townships, cities, and local governments to apply for the low-carbon sustainable homeland certification and suggests that they start taking action based on the six main flagship projects: ecosystem greenery, green energy and electricity saving, green transportation, low carbon building, and resource recycling.\nAfter passing both written reviews and on-site inspections done by the review team, which is composed of experts and scholars, a total of 25 communities were certified as participants between April 2016 and 10 May 2017. Of those, 17 villages and boroughs received a silver class certification (including participants from Yilan County, Tainan City, Guantian, Liouying, Syuejia and Yujing District in Tainan City, Chientan Borough, etc.) and Kaohsiung City and Kinmen County were certified as bronze class.\nLow-carbon communities are created in different ways based on environmental needs. Participants should build a low-carbon community that highlights their environmental characteristics and make adjustments based on population and financial resources.\nThe ceremony also awarded 14 local environmental protection bureaus for their performance in climate change response: Taipei City, New Taipei City, Taoyuan City, Taichung City, Tainan City, Kaohsiung City, Hsinchu City, Hsinchu County, Changhua County, Pingtung County, Hualien County, Taitung County, Penghu County and Kinmen County. In addition to the cash reward, they also received recognition on their accomplishments in promoting greenhouse gas reduction and climate change adaptation, in auditing and recording greenhouse gas emissions, and in their performance in carbon neutrality.\nThe chief secretary mentioned in the ceremony that being certified as a silver class community is not the only reason why Tainan City’s Jinhua Borough was chosen to be the ceremony venue; it also received the LivCom Award hosted by the United Nations Environment Programme in 2011. For those reasons, the community makes a good model and demonstration for other communities' reports.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Twenty-five Communities Awarded for Low-carbon Sustainability and Climate Change Achievements", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-6" }, { "no": "3570", "title": "List of Products Made from Industrial Waste and Required for Flow Tracking Preannounced", "preview": "Waste\nList of Products Made from Industrial Waste and Required for Flow Tracking Preannounced \nThe EPA preannounced the Products Made from Industrial Waste Required for Tracking on 31 May 2017. The regulations focus on reinforcing the tracking of industrial waste reuse to avoid damaging the environment from improper reuse of industrial waste. The announcement is expected to take effect in August 2018.", "content": "List of Products Made from Industrial Waste and Required for Flow Tracking Preannounced \nThe EPA preannounced the Products Made from Industrial Waste Required for Tracking on 31 May 2017. The regulations focus on reinforcing the tracking of industrial waste reuse to avoid damaging the environment from improper reuse of industrial waste. The announcement is expected to take effect in August 2018.\nThe EPA completed the revisions to the Waste Disposal Act on 18 January 2017. The amendments cover regulations concerning labeling for product reuse, common reuse purposes and waste flow tracking. Article 39-1 was also added to state that, for products announced by the EPA for reuse, the central industry competent authorities are responsible for tracking and management of product flow and for environmental monitoring.\nWith consideration to the purpose of the new policy and practical needs, the EPA is including industrial waste that can be reused for land reclamation and land filling in the Reusable Products from Industrial Waste Required for Tracking. Moreover, seven types of industrial waste (eg: coal ash, electric arc furnace slag, mixed construction or building waste materials, etc.) that can be reused as land filling materials or bottom materials for concrete roads are also covered. In the future, all government agencies should follow the Waste Disposal Act to track the flow of industrial waste. If the reuse might cause environmental pollution, the reuse should be monitored. The regulations covered in the draft are estimated to take effect from August 2018.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "List of Products Made from Industrial Waste and Required for Flow Tracking Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-6" }, { "no": "3569", "title": "Amendments to Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act Preannounced", "preview": "Toxic Substance\nAmendments to Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act Preannounced \nOn1 May, 2017, the EPA announced the new draft amendments to the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act. Other than focusing on chemical substances for food safety management and maintaining the current controls of toxic chemical substances in Categories 1 to 4, the new version also adds regulations specifically for concerned chemical substances.", "content": "Amendments to Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act Preannounced \nOn1 May, 2017, the EPA announced the new draft amendments to the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act. Other than focusing on chemical substances for food safety management and maintaining the current controls of toxic chemical substances in Categories 1 to 4, the new version also adds regulations specifically for concerned chemical substances. \nTo enhance controls on concerned chemical substances for food safety and promote at-source control of the Five-Defense Plan, the EPA has worked to revise the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act to create a secure and sustainable chemical environment. Focuses of the draft revision include expanding controls on concerned chemical substances, strengthening competent authorities’ inspecting powers, adding a cross-departmental coordination mechanism, and implement the polluter-pays principle. \nRegulations concerning controls of the current chemical substances in Categories 1 to 4 will remain intact to maintain the public’s understanding of said chemicals. On the other hand, a special chapter of regulations is added to expand listing of concerned chemical substances.\nThe EPA stated that the focuses of the revision are as follows:\n1. “Concerned chemical substances” are added to increase the number of substances listed for control under categorized management in order to keep track of their movements. Meanwhile, the EPA also strengthens competent authorities’ inspecting power.\n2. Competent authorities will intensify operations on concerned chemical substances and those that should be registered other than toxic chemicals, and inspection authority will be clearly defined. \n3. The National Chemical Substances Management Consultation Meeting is to be organized to coordinate the responsibilities and regulations for competent authorities of different industries, enhance the overall chemical substances controls in Taiwan, and reinforce inter-ministerial communication.\n4. Based on the polluter-pays principle, details such as collection purposes, targets, and utilizations of the chemical substances fund are added to increase fund sources to expanding controls on chemical substances.\n5. The emergency consulting system will be enhanced in response to environmental incidents, while current responsibilities of the central and regional competent authorities will be examined.\n6. Other new additions include the whistleblower clause, witness protection, citizens’ reports, public interest litigation, and recovery of illegal gains.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Amendments to Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-6" }, { "no": "3568", "title": "Amendments to Regulations Governing Emergency Measures to Prevent Severely Deteriorated Air Quality Announced", "preview": "Air", "content": "Amendments to Regulations Governing Emergency Measures to Prevent Severely Deteriorated Air Quality Announced \nIn response to the air quality index (AQI) in central and southern Taiwan exceeding the standard during fall and winter, the EPA announced with the Ministry of the Interior (MOI), Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC), Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW), and Ministry of Education (MOE) amendments to the Regulations Governing Emergency Measures to Prevent Severely Deteriorated Air Quality on 9 June, 2017 to hasten the improvement of air quality.\nData of manual sampling and monitoring of particulate matter (PM2.5) shows that the average PM2.5 concentrations from 2013 to 2016 in Taiwan is 24, 23.5, 22 and 20 μg\/ m3, respectively. The trend reflects a gradual decline of national PM2.5 concentrations and indicates effects of control measures. However, except for the three counties on the east coast, the average PM2.5 concentrations of other cities and counties are still higher than the standard of 15 μg\/ m3. Moreover, air quality of PM2.5 in Taiwan fluctuates with location and time of year. Monitoring stations in central and southern Taiwan receive PM2.5 reading over the standard value of 35 μg\/ m3 reached about 50% during fall and winter. Therefore, improving air quality in central and southern regions during fall and winter is a top priority of air pollution control in Taiwan. \nThe EPA pointed out that the regulations are amended for government agencies, public and private venues, use of public transportation, and student events to take emergency measures when air quality is prone to deterioration due to weather changes or other factors. Different concentrations for severely deteriorated air quality and respective response measures are primarily based on the Air Pollution Emergency Contingency Actions of the US.\nAccording to the regulations, alerts for severely deteriorated air quality are classified into two categories and five levels (two levels for alerts and three levels for severe deteriorations). Before air quality reaches a severely deteriorated state, feasible and highly effective measures like cutting down manufacturing and voluntarily reducing load are taken to improve air quality in advance while still in the state of alert.\nThe EPA emphasized that all measures on pollution source control are to stop, delay, or cut down pollutant emissions, and they shall be conducted only when personnel and facility safety is ensured so that emissions of air pollutant are lowered during the manufacturing processes. Proper measures need to be determined based on the main pollutants at the time of alert announcements, but controls should also be considered for pollution sources of precursors for (fine) particulate matter and ozone.\nIf unable to install air pollution control facilities or take relevant measures in accordance with the regulations, public or private venues must present an alternative emission-cutting proposal and carry it out after gaining approval from the competent authorities in the special municipal government, county, or city governments. After referencing from the control guidelines in alerted regions for different alert rates, these authorities will announce needed control measure, based on the local weather and characteristics of pollutant sources, and then include them in the overall air pollution control plans.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Amendments to Regulations Governing Emergency Measures to Prevent Severely Deteriorated Air Quality Announced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-6" }, { "no": "3567", "title": "EPA Provides Mercury Monitoring Instruments to Vietnam and Philippines", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring\nEPA Provides Mercury Monitoring Instruments to Vietnam and Philippines \nIn an attempt to deepen regional cooperation in atmospheric mercury monitoring, Taiwan provided wet deposition samplers for mercury to Vietnam and the Philippines to improve the effects of atmospheric mercury monitoring in East Asia. It was brought about from the agreement made during the 6th Annual Asia Pacific Mercury Monitoring Network Partners Meeting and the 2017 Atmospheric Mercury Monitoring Training Workshop, both were jointly held by the EPA and USEPA on 15 - 19 June, 2017. Attendees from environmental agencies, academia, and research circles in a total of 10 countries took part in both events, with Minister Ying-Yuan Lee of the EPA and Chief of Staff Martin Dieu of the USEPA co-presiding the opening ceremony.", "content": "EPA Provides Mercury Monitoring Instruments to Vietnam and Philippines \nIn an attempt to deepen regional cooperation in atmospheric mercury monitoring, Taiwan provided wet deposition samplers for mercury to Vietnam and the Philippines to improve the effects of atmospheric mercury monitoring in East Asia. It was brought about from the agreement made during the 6th Annual Asia Pacific Mercury Monitoring Network Partners Meeting and the 2017 Atmospheric Mercury Monitoring Training Workshop, both were jointly held by the EPA and USEPA on 15 - 19 June, 2017. Attendees from environmental agencies, academia, and research circles in a total of 10 countries took part in both events, with Minister Ying-Yuan Lee of the EPA and Chief of Staff Martin Dieu of the USEPA co-presiding the opening ceremony. \nThe EPA said that Taiwan has accumulated over a decade of atmospheric mercury monitoring data since the establishment of Lulin Atmospheric Background Station in 2006. In 2012, Taiwan also signed the cooperation agreement with the US and joined Atmospheric Mercury Network (AMNet), the first nation in Asia to become a member. With the same monitoring technology as that in advanced countries, Taiwan has begun further sharing it since 2014 by initiating pilot studies with Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia, as well as providing a wet deposition sampler for mercury. So far a total of 113 samples taken in Thailand have been delivered to Taiwan and will greatly benefit the establishment of regional mercury monitoring network in East Asia. \nTo strengthen the atmospheric mercury monitoring cooperation in the Asia Pacific region as well as monitoring capacity, the EPA and the USEPA jointly held the 6th Annual Asia Pacific Mercury Monitoring Network Partners Meeting and the 2017 Atmospheric Mercury Monitoring Training Workshop on 15 - 19 May, 2017. Representatives from environmental agencies and academic researchers from a total of 10 countries, including the US, Canada, Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Mongolia, the Philippines, and Bangladesh, attended the event and discussed various monitoring issues. The opening ceremony was presided by Minister Ying-Yuan Lee and Chief of Staff, Martin Dieu, of the USEPA. It was agreed that Taiwan would provide Vietnam and the Philippines each with a wet deposition sampler for mercury to further Taiwan’s mercury monitoring cooperation with Southeast Asian countries.\nThe meeting and the workshop both centered around the technical training of wet deposition sampling and analysis of mercury. In addition to visiting the Center for Environmental Monitoring and Technology and a mercury analysis laboratory, attendees also had hands-on practice and training on trace mercury analysis to improve the partnering countries’ quality assurance\/quality control (QA\/QC) of mercury monitoring data.\nThe EPA pointed out that the Taiwan-established Center for Environmental Monitoring and Technology can continue assisting other partnering countries in the Asia Pacific region in building mercury monitoring, sampling, and analyzing technology, personnel training, as well as regional information exchange and cooperation. In the meantime, mercury monitoring data and information of East Asian countries can also be shared, which will help expand the environmental monitoring and testing industry in Taiwan.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "EPA Provides Mercury Monitoring Instruments to Vietnam and Philippines", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-6" }, { "no": "3566", "title": "Premier Lin Visits Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau", "preview": "Toxic Substance\nPremier Lin Visits Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau\nOn 2 June 2017, Premier Lin Chuan inspected the Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau of the Environmental Protection Administration, Executive Yuan, which was established as an implementation of the first ring of President Tsai Ing-Wen’s Five-Defense Food Safety Promotion Policy to draw up a mechanism and focus on at-source control of toxic chemical substances. Through the inspection, the government showed its determination to control all toxic chemical substances from their sources and to build a sustainable environment with safe chemical substances by tracking the source and taking immediate action to protect food safety.", "content": "Premier Lin Visits Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau\nOn 2 June 2017, Premier Lin Chuan inspected the Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau of the Environmental Protection Administration, Executive Yuan, which was established as an implementation of the first ring of President Tsai Ing-Wen’s Five-Defense Food Safety Promotion Policy to draw up a mechanism and focus on at-source control of toxic chemical substances. Through the inspection, the government showed its determination to control all toxic chemical substances from their sources and to build a sustainable environment with safe chemical substances by tracking the source and taking immediate action to protect food safety.\nFood safety has become a major issue due to the multiple incidents that happened in recent years. In response, the government came up with a resolution, Five-Defense Food Safety Promotion Policy, and listed food safety as a priority for policy making in every government agency. Not only is the establishment of the Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau a key implementation of the relative policies, the inspection by Premier Lin on 2 June also shows the importance the government places on food safety.\nPremier Lin mentioned during the inspection that his goal is to achieve sustainable and green chemistry and to provide a safe and non-toxic environment for the citizens. Hence, he expects the Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau to: properly manage the sources of chemical substances by cooperating with different ministries; prevent illegal practice by conducting professional and strict inspection; develop a risk assessment and communication mechanism; and keep up with international management trends. Premier Lin also expressed his appreciation to the personnel on the toxic disaster response team for taking the risks to stand on the frontline and protect the health and happiness of our citizens. Moreover, he specifically requested that the EPA minister give priority to supporting the personnel on the response team and ensuring their safety while carrying out their missions.\nChemical substances are widely used for convenience in daily life. However, chemical substances can cause serious harm to the environment and human health if they are misused or abused. The EPA established the Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau for the goal of building a safe and sustainable chemical environment. To achieve that goal, the first step in the Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau’s plan is to develop a management strategy for chemical substances according to the UN’s Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management. \nChemical substances for general use had been under separate management by different ministries, so all the relative information was in strong need of integration. Since source management is one of the Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau’s jobs, the Chemicals Cloud was established to integrate data of chemical substances and to strengthen the cross-ministerial management. The Chemicals Cloud is not only beneficial when competent authorities are conducting inspections and comparisons, but it also provides warning service to prevent illegal use of chemical substances.\nTo ensure food safety and the safe use of chemical substances, the Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau has already started revising the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act. The revision will expand the control list of chemical substances by examining the chemical substances that are for general use or are highly discussed internationally and then gradually adding the substances with potential harmful effects onto the control list. The first step is to strengthen the management of the chemical substances that are used illegally in food by making an announcement about regulating the chemical substances that have caused domestic or international food safety problems in the past 13 years. The announcement will be able to restrict businesses from the import, manufacture, sale, or use of those chemical substances and hence reduce the risk of illegal chemical substances in food. \nTo show its determination to control chemical substances at the source, the Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau started promoting the Investigation and Guidance Plan for the Chemical Raw Material Industry from February 2017 and started the implementation on more than 2,000 businesses in May. The Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau began the plan from establishing a basic database for toxic chemical substances, and accompanied it with four supporting guidance strategies including: investigating the flow of chemical substances, asking the buyers’ usage of the chemicals, storing chemical substances separately according to their toxic characteristics, and immediately reporting any violation. Furthermore, the Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau partnered with local governments and chemical raw material business associations to conduct priority inspections on the 57 chemical substances that contain food safety risks. By providing on-site investigation and guidance, businesses could acquire the basic knowledge of chemical substances. Also, the EPA can better control the flow of chemical raw materials to avoid them being used illegally in food and harm public health.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Premier Lin Visits Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-6" }, { "no": "3565", "title": "Environmental Devotees Awarded on World Environment Day", "preview": "Environmental Education\nEnvironmental Devotees Awarded on World Environment Day\n5 June is World Environment Day. On 5 June 2017, the EPA held the ceremony for the 5th National Environmental Education Awards ceremony, which also honored outstanding Water Patrols of 2016. Six categories of awards were given out by EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee to encourage and honor awardees’ hard work. Minister Lee especially expressed his respect and appreciation to each individual and organizations nominated for the National Environmental Education Award as well as more than 10,000 community patrol members for their efforts and diligence in creating a wonderful living environment.", "content": "Environmental Devotees Awarded on World Environment Day\n5 June is World Environment Day. On 5 June 2017, the EPA held the ceremony for the 5th National Environmental Education Awards ceremony, which also honored outstanding Water Patrols of 2016. Six categories of awards were given out by EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee to encourage and honor awardees’ hard work. Minister Lee especially expressed his respect and appreciation to each individual and organizations nominated for the National Environmental Education Award as well as more than 10,000 community patrol members for their efforts and diligence in creating a wonderful living environment. \nNational Environmental Education Awards\nTo promote environmental education for all citizens, the EPA announced the National Environmental Education Awards Rewarding Regulations according to the Environmental Education Act on 5 January 2012. The National Environmental Education Awards are divided into six categories: private enterprises, schools, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, communities, and individuals.\nTo promote environmental education at the local level, local governments are in charge of the preliminary reviews and honoring those with high scores in the preliminary reviews. Up to three top places in the categories of private enterprises and government agencies, along with the first place in other categories (non-governmental organizations, schools, communities, and individuals), are then sent to the EPA for second and final evaluations. Only one candidate is chosen as “excellent” in each category. A trophy will be given to all the award recipients. In addition, cash prizes of NT$1 million will be given to winners of non-governmental organizations and communities, and NT$100,000 for the individual winners. In addition, up to six “Outstanding” awards will be given in each category with cash prizes as well. \nThe EPA emphasizes that the awards are given to honor those dedicated to the promotion of environmental education and also to enhance awardees’ social impacts. The EPA hopes the awards will inspire others to join in the efforts of environmental education by learning relevant skills and knowledge, taking actions, and shouldering their social responsibilities.\nNational Environmental Education Awards Enter the Fifth Year\nFor years the EPA has been devoting to environmental education at the root level. To encourage public participation and also honor the contribution of individuals and organizations to environmental education, the National Environmental Education Awards have been given out for five years consecutively and earning praises from environmental educators in Taiwan.\nThis year’s Excellence Awards were given to Kenting National Park, Hair O’right Int’l Corp., Tzu Chi University of Science and Technology, Taiwan Milkweed Butterfly Ecological Conservation Organization, Houbu Community Development Organization, and Secretary-General Yin-Tien Su of Chiayi County Ecological and Environmental Preservation Organization for organizations.\nDuring the awards ceremony, Minister Ying-Yuan Lee paid the highest respect and conveyed his gratitude to all nominated individuals and organizations. He pointed out that all nominees were selected for their outstanding performance in the preliminary and the second and final reviews and that their efforts in environmental education were great examples for others to follow. With a hand gesture symbolizing “love”, he further congratulated the winners for their great contributions that achieved the mission of creating a wonderful living environment.\nAll individual nominees excel in their own professional fields while showing great care for the environment. Their endeavors in documenting the environmental changes in Taiwan have given voice for the natural environment and become a part of the heart-touching history of environmental protection. As the conditions of a community can reflect whether the local environment is good or bad, communities in Taiwan have always stayed ahead in promoting environmental protection and education.\nFor the category of organizations, the candidates have been dedicated to local environmental issues with actions for years by combining surrounding resources and civic scientific strengths. The nominees in the category of schools focus on students’ learning with assistance from instructors by systematically guiding students to research and solve various environmental problems. For example, agricultural waste such as rice straw are used to create a proactive self-learning campus.\nThis year’s enterprise candidates include members of enterprises of the technology industry, farmers’ associations, the restaurant industry, manufacturing, and hospitality industry. For the category of government agencies, five out of six nominees have become certified facilities for environmental education on the unique rock oyster ecosystem in offshore island counties, astronomical observation, prehistoric culture, ecological conservation, and natural resource management. Surrounding neighborhoods are also inspired to take up and promote local ecological and environmental conservation, which further displayed government agencies’ determination and influence as activists for environmental education.\nThe EPA stated that the National Environmental Education Awards are given to honor top-performing individuals and non-governmental organizations in the field of environmental education, expand their influences, and inspire citizens to jointly create a sustainable future for all. In addition, an exhibition displaying nominees’ accomplishments was held to continue their social impacts, with winners rated “Excellent” invited to share their experiences to enhance overall capacity of all environmental educators. The EPA also expects to further integrate local environmental education resources to encourage public learning so that people from all walks of life can cultivate environmental knowledge and attitudes. \nMeritorious Water Patrols Honored for Maintaining Water Environments\nThe Awards ceremony for Water Patrols of 2016 was also held on 5 June. Minister Lee honored 12 water patrol squads and thanked them for their hard work.\nIn 2017, 383 patrol squads with 10,046 volunteers have been established to assist in protecting and keeping watch of water environments to make public participation part of the water environment inspection efforts. The EPA commended their contributions to protecting water environments and in 2016 chose a total of 12 top-performing patrols for further acknowledgement after a series of evaluation processes. Among the 12 squads, two are rated as “Excellent,” three as “Good,” four as ones with “Special Contributions” and three as “Having Potential.”\nThe 12 meritorious patrols of 2016 all displayed excellent management skills and operation experiences, as well as fruitful outcomes. Besides regular inspections, patrol squads also take up the task of maintaining their local ecological environment.\nBeishi Community Patrol Squad in Kanding, Pingtung, received the Excellence Award for collaborating with the government to jointly report livestock enterprises that violate regulations and building up the local community’s environmental awareness. Another recipient, Jinhsing Neighborhood Patrol Squad in Taoyuan took up the maintenance of the constructed wetland greening zone of the Nankan River, as well as planning and providing low-carbon micro-tours of the historical and cultural sites along the Nankan River.\nPatrol squads rated as “Outstanding” included Chungkuang Community College Water Environment Patrol Squad in Xindian, New Taipei City, which takes junior high school students on its regular patrols; Maliao Water Environment Patrol Squad in Taibao, Chiayi County, which transformed wasteland into Maliao Water Environmental Park; and Chimuo Water Environment Patrol Squad in Yuli, Hualien County proactively maintains the constructed wetlands along irrigation ditches.\nIn addition, four patrol squads were awarded for their special contribution to the water environment protection. The fishermen of the Tungyuan Fishermen’s Association in Miaoli County safeguard the oceanic ecosystem by recovering garbage found in the sea and the harbor during daily outing as well as removing the fishing nets that covered the ocean bottom to protect the marine environment. Chingshui River Ecological Conservation Association in Chushang, Nantou County, and Neigo River Patrol Squad in Taipei City, traverse the mountains and teach visitors about both rivers. \nThe Shinfu Patrol Squad in Guanshan, Taitung County consists of pig farmers and follows the government’s policy of utilizing the fermentation liquid and sediments of livestock waste as natural fertilizers. \nLastly, those rated as “Having Potential” include Erren Riverbank Development Association in Tainan City which leads the public to participate in classes in planning the management of Erren River; Red Dragonfly Patrol Squad in Jinchu, Hsinchu City, which provides regular wetland tours; and Dawn River Patrol Squad in Taichung City, which is known for its efforts in frequent patrols and ecological restoration.\nThe patrol squads not just conduct regular patrols but also keep the environment clean. Thanks to their devotion, the environmental violations are deterred and a good quality of living environment can be maintained. Minister Lee expressed his gratitude to the more than 10,000 members of water patrols for putting their love and care for the environment into practice. The EPA will keep working with local communities to encourage more residents to join water patrols and protect their homesteads as well as further pass on patrol experiences and knowledge of ecological conservation.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Environmental Devotees Awarded on World Environment Day", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-6" }, { "no": "3564", "title": "Amendments to Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards Announced", "preview": "Air\nAmendments to Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards Announced", "content": "Amendments to Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards Announced\nAfter referring to regulatory strategies in the EU and the US to ameliorate pollution from vehicular emissions, on 27 April 2017 the EPA amended Article 8 of the Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards to fall more in step with international railroad regulations, and thus improve air quality. \nThe EPA states that this amendment focuses on: (1) The addition of control standards of CO, hydrocarbon, Nox, and particulate matter emissions for railcars and locomotives with net power greater than 130 kilowatts; and (2) adoptions of the Tier 4 Emissions Standards listed in the US 40 CFR Part 1033, and the EU’s Directive 97\/68\/EC and its technical details on the testing and approval of Stage IIIB emission standards.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Amendments to Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards Announced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-5" }, { "no": "3563", "title": "Date for Comprehensive Ban on Asbestos Moved Up", "preview": "Toxic Substance\nDate for Comprehensive Ban on Asbestos Moved Up", "content": "Date for Comprehensive Ban on Asbestos Moved Up\nAsbestos is classified as a Group 1 substance carcinogenic to humans by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Currently, asbestos is only allowed to be used in the manufacturing of brake linings, while all other uses are prohibited. The EPA originally planned to ban asbestos completely starting on 1 July 2018, the same date that asbestos will be prohibited for use in the manufacturing of brake linings. However, considering new toxicological data and global management trends, the EPA has decided to move up the ban from 1 July 2018 to 1 January 2018 so as to lower the risk of laborers and the public being exposed to the carcinogen. However, manufacturers that had previously obtained manufacturing registrations or approval documents may use asbestos up to the expiration dates issued on their documents.\nThe amendment will move up the schedule for the complete ban on asbestos, including the prohibition of its use in the manufacturing of brake linings, to 1 January 2018. Enterprises that have obtained registration documents or permits for manufacturing brake linings with asbestos prior to this amendment may continue such operations until the said documents or permits expire.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Date for Comprehensive Ban on Asbestos Moved Up", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-5" }, { "no": "3562", "title": "Thirteen Chemical Substances Preannounced as Toxic to Enhance Food Safety", "preview": "Toxic Substance\nThirteen Chemical Substances Preannounced as Toxic to Enhance Food Safety \nRecent food safety incidents have revealed how chemical substances not allowed to be used in food have entered the food chain and threatened the public’s health. In light of this, the EPA preannounced on 25 April 2017 that 13 chemical substances will be listed as toxic chemical substances in accordance with the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act. The newly added chemical substances include those involved in recent food safety incidents, such as rhodamine B, methyl yellow, and Rongalite.", "content": "Thirteen Chemical Substances Preannounced as Toxic to Enhance Food Safety \nRecent food safety incidents have revealed how chemical substances not allowed to be used in food have entered the food chain and threatened the public’s health. In light of this, the EPA preannounced on 25 April 2017 that 13 chemical substances will be listed as toxic chemical substances in accordance with the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act. The newly added chemical substances include those involved in recent food safety incidents, such as rhodamine B, methyl yellow, and Rongalite. \nThe EPA established the Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau on 28 December 2016, with one of its major tasks being the control of chemical substances that pose risks to food safety. Interministerial meetings and discussions with scholars and experts have been held to discuss measures for improved management. This has led to the preannouncement of 13 chemical substances previously used as illegal food additives as toxic chemical substances.\nThe 13 chemical substances are malachite green, maleic acid, maleic anhydride, dulcin (a sweetener), potassium bromate, dimethyl fumarate, benzyl violet 4B, methyl yellow, rhodamine B, dimethyl yellow, sodium hydroxymethylsulfinate (Rongalite), melamine, and coumarin. Some enterprises have illegally used these chemical substances to reduce costs and improve the presentation of food products. The chemicals can improve texture, color and aroma, extend the impression of freshness, and help food products pass inspections. \nThe EPA points out that once a chemical substance is formally announced as toxic, enterprises are not allowed to manufacture, import, or sell it without adhering to regulations within the allotted time period. This means, for example, completing reports before January 2018, finishing label designs before June 2018, and obtaining approval documents before December 2018. \nThe new regulations will enhance control over the flow of chemical substances in the market and reduce food safety risks. The EPA has also requested that suppliers add labels to containers explicitly stating that their contents are “prohibited for use in food,” in order to prevent their intentional or accidental usage in food products. The EPA noted the importance of interministerial cooperation and will enhance related information exchanges, carry out joint audits and inspections, and coordinate relevant regulations to improve food safety.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Thirteen Chemical Substances Preannounced as Toxic to Enhance Food Safety", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-5" }, { "no": "3561", "title": "Nationwide Beach Clean-ups Held on Earth Day", "preview": "Water\nNationwide Beach Clean-ups Held on Earth Day \nTo commemorate this year’s Earth Day, on 22 April 2017, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee and Taoyuan City Mayor Wen-Tsan Cheng hosted the “422 Earth Day We Love Taiwan Beach Clean-up” event at Yongan Fishing Harbor in Taoyuan City. Representatives from local governments, enterprises, religious groups, schools, volunteers, and the general public gathered at 40 locations nationwide. A total of 35,000 participants collected 123 metric tons of trash from along 350 kilometers of coastline.", "content": "Nationwide Beach Clean-ups Held on Earth Day \nTo commemorate this year’s Earth Day, on 22 April 2017, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee and Taoyuan City Mayor Wen-Tsan Cheng hosted the “422 Earth Day We Love Taiwan Beach Clean-up” event at Yongan Fishing Harbor in Taoyuan City. Representatives from local governments, enterprises, religious groups, schools, volunteers, and the general public gathered at 40 locations nationwide. A total of 35,000 participants collected 123 metric tons of trash from along 350 kilometers of coastline.\nAmong the 35,000 participants, were American Institute in Taiwan Deputy Economic Chief Mike Pignatello, and representatives from TSMC, ASE Group, Chung Yuan Christian University, Bliss and Wisdom Buddhism Foundation, Tzu Chi Foundation, and the Society of Wilderness. Events at all locations in different counties were streamed through Facebook Live and connected with the Penghu County Government to promote the “2018 Annual Meeting of the Most Beautiful Bays in the World (MBBW)”. \nThe EPA stated that Taiwan’s coastline stretches approximately 1,600 kilometers, with approximately 1,000 kilometers accessible to the public. Beach clean-ups are usually the responsibility of coastal county governments and town halls, harbor institutes, and the Coast Guard Administration, which together collect around 5,000 metric tons of garbage annually. With a recent increase in public beach activity, environmental protection agencies are working with 400 corporate and civilian groups to maintain 1,000 kilometers of accessible coastline to promote public awareness of beach clean-ups. In the future, there will be 35,000 people working together annually to protect the coasts. \nThe EPA calls on everyone to participate, and hopes that corporations, civic groups, and the public can continue to visit the EPA’s coast adoption website (http:\/\/ecolife2.epa.gov.tw\/coastal\/default.aspx), which has no maximum or minimum limits on participants or number of participations. The EPA will provide coastal cleanup information in each county on the “We Love Taiwan Coastal Clean-up” Facebook page (https:\/\/goo.gl\/dEMd3I) in the hope that the public will join in coast adoption and beach clean-ups. If any illegally dumped waste is discovered during clean-ups, the public hazard hotline at 0800-066-666 and its online reporting system, as well as the EPA’s EcoLife Network (http:\/\/ecolife.epa.gov.tw\/) are all available for making reports.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Nationwide Beach Clean-ups Held on Earth Day", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-5" }, { "no": "3560", "title": "German Parliament Members and Experts Attend the First Taiwan-Germany Environmental Forum", "preview": "International Cooperation\nGerman Parliament Members and Experts Attend the First Taiwan-Germany Environmental Forum \nOn 12 April 2017, the EPA held the First Taiwan-Germany Environmental Forum in Taipei. Chair of the Bundestag’s (the German Parliament) Committee on the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety, Ms. B?rbel H?hn, Bundestag member Klaus Mindrup, and two other experts from Germany were invited to jointly explore future prospects for environmental cooperation between Taiwan and Germany. Both parties discussed issues such as energy conservation, carbon reduction, renewable energy development, a circular economy, and corporate and civic participation. The forum marked a new page in environmental cooperation between Taiwan and Germany.", "content": "German Parliament Members and Experts Attend the First Taiwan-Germany Environmental Forum \nOn 12 April 2017, the EPA held the First Taiwan-Germany Environmental Forum in Taipei. Chair of the Bundestag’s (the German Parliament) Committee on the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety, Ms. B?rbel H?hn, Bundestag member Klaus Mindrup, and two other experts from Germany were invited to jointly explore future prospects for environmental cooperation between Taiwan and Germany. Both parties discussed issues such as energy conservation, carbon reduction, renewable energy development, a circular economy, and corporate and civic participation. The forum marked a new page in environmental cooperation between Taiwan and Germany. \nThe First Taiwan-Germany Environmental Forum was the first talk between high-level officials from the two nations on environmental issues. EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee, Deputy Foreign Minister Fran?ois Chih-Chung Wu, Bundestag member and Chair of the Bundestag’s Committee on the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety, B?rbel H?hn, and Deputy Director General of Deutsches Institut Taipei, Sabrina Schmidt-Koschella, all gave remarks at the opening. Forum attendees included representatives from Taiwan’s industry and academia, Berlin Energy Agency CEO Dr. Michael Gei?ler, as well as managers of community service business associations, representatives of related environmental agencies, and scholarly experts from Germany. There were exchanges on a broad range of topics and the prospects of joint cooperation between Taiwan and Germany were explored. The forum received wide support from all parties, with more than 180 participants hailing from industry, government, academia and other circles. \nIn his opening remarks, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee commended Germany’s role as a global leader in promoting non-nuclear forms of energy. He pointed out that Germany’s development of renewable energy has allowed the country to move away from nuclear energy. Particularly, it now leads the world in solar and wind energy generation, which Taiwan can learn from. Minister Lee also recommended to the forum participants the book, Heart of Europe, which discusses the experiences of transitioning from high-polluting chemical factories in East Germany and the transition in the German energy sector. In the future the two countries should further exchange and interact in this field as Taiwan is currently facing similar issues. \nDeputy Foreign Minister Wu mentioned in his opening address that climate change is a critical issue that requires close global cooperation. As a member of the international community, Taiwan has actively participated in carbon-reduction activities. The government of Taiwan has passed the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act, announced Taiwan’s Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) along with carbon reduction targets, and has promoted the development of renewable energy with the goal of a nuclear-free homeland by 2025. As Germany’s achievements in environmental protection and renewable energy development are well recognized, Deputy Minister Wu said he had high expectations for the outcomes of the forum. \nDuring the forum, Chair of the Bundestag Committee on the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety, B?rbel H?hn, gave a talk entitled German Environmental Policy: Current Status and Outlook. She shared Germany’s experiences with climate policy and renewable energy development, and she explored the role of renewable energy during energy transition and the application of relevant regulations. \nOn the topic of a circular economy, other experts from Germany presented the status of Germany’s promotion of resource efficiency and bioenergy, setting the foundation of future cooperation between the two nations in a circular economy. Experts from Germany also shared measures adopted by German corporations and citizens to take part in environmental protection. Many such measures will help Taiwan to build its own public participation mechanisms.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "International Cooperation", "titlename": "German Parliament Members and Experts Attend the First Taiwan-Germany Environmental Forum", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-5" }, { "no": "3559", "title": "Amendments to Marine Discharge Pipe Effluent Standards Preannounced", "preview": "Water\nAmendments to Marine Discharge Pipe Effluent Standards Preannounced \nOn 27 April 2017, the EPA preannounced the revisions to the Marine Discharge Pipe Effluent Standards aimed at better protecting the marine environment by enhancing the operational stability and efficiency of industrial wastewater and sewage systems employing marine discharge pipes.", "content": "Amendments to Marine Discharge Pipe Effluent Standards Preannounced \nOn 27 April 2017, the EPA preannounced the revisions to the Marine Discharge Pipe Effluent Standards aimed at better protecting the marine environment by enhancing the operational stability and efficiency of industrial wastewater and sewage systems employing marine discharge pipes.\nThe EPA pointed out that in addition to greywater, public sewage systems also treat wastewater collected via interceptors. This makes water quality much worse than what the system was originally designed for, in terms of suspended solids, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD).\nTo make sure enterprises shoulder their responsibilities, the EPA has drafted the amendment to the Marine Discharge Pipe Effluent Standards which will raise control limits on suspended solids, BOD, and COD. The amended standards will apply to enterprises and sewage systems newly established on or after the day of the announcement, while existing ones will have to comply by 1 March 2018. Should specific construction be necessary for existing enterprises and sewage systems to meet the tightened control limits, local governments must submit effluent pollutant reduction control plans to be approved by the competent authorities before they are implemented, in which case the compliance date can be postponed to 1 March 2020.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Amendments to Marine Discharge Pipe Effluent Standards Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-5" }, { "no": "3558", "title": "Subsidies to Expand Use of Animal Wastes for Power Generation", "preview": "Water\nSubsidies to Expand Use of Animal Wastes for Power Generation\nTo reduce river pollution and improve air quality, the EPA is expanding the utilization of animal wastes. Under this measure, starting in 2018 large livestock operations that have facilities to generate power from methane derived from the anaerobic fermentation of animal wastes can receive subsidies to collect manure from small scale livestock operations, namely those with less than 2,000 pigs or 500 cows and a resource utilization rate of more than 75%.", "content": "Subsidies to Expand Use of Animal Wastes for Power Generation\nTo reduce river pollution and improve air quality, the EPA is expanding the utilization of animal wastes. Under this measure, starting in 2018 large livestock operations that have facilities to generate power from methane derived from the anaerobic fermentation of animal wastes can receive subsidies to collect manure from small scale livestock operations, namely those with less than 2,000 pigs or 500 cows and a resource utilization rate of more than 75%. \nThe EPA noted that 93.8% of livestock operations in Taiwan consist of small scale establishments with less than 2,000 pigs or 500 cows. However, owners lack incentives to install equipment for anaerobic fermentation and power generation with methane. The EPA has thus proposed a subsidization plan whereby it will allocate NT$1 million to local governments to subsidize large livestock operations to collect and treat animal wastes from smaller scale operations. \nThe subsidy can be used to expand facilities for anaerobic fermentation and biogas power generation. The funds will also go towards supporting the livestock industry, as well as the technology industries, social organizations and corporations working with the livestock industry to establish and operate facilities for anaerobic fermentation, power generation, and the collection, transportation, treatment, and utilization of the waste. \nThe maximum subsidy for each application is NT$50 million, of which the EPA will provide up to NT$35 million with the remaining portion to be provided by local governments. The exact amount of the EPA subsidy will depend on the financial situation of the receiving government. Large livestock operations with equipment for anaerobic fermentation and biogas power generation that do not participate in the collection and treatment of animal waste from smaller farms will not be eligible for the subsidy. \nThere are currently three ways of utilizing livestock waste as resources. First, animal waste can be anaerobically fermented to produce methane that is used to generate electricity, with the fermentation sediment and liquid used as fertilizer for farmland; second, livestock waste can be reutilized according to the Regulations Governing Agricultural Waste Reuse Management; and third, treated wastewater that meets the Effluent Standards is used for irrigation after a water pollution control permit is issued. Water pollution control fees are waived if livestock waste is utilized as a resource, and operators with higher resource utilization rates will receive priority subsidization. Subsidies granted by the EPA can be used towards purchasing tank trucks and constructing pipelines and storage collection tanks between livestock operations. \nThe EPA estimates that under the plan, NT$200 million will be invested from 2018 to 2019, to collect and treat waste from 40,000 pigs, divert 1.1 million kilograms of organic waste, generate 200 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, and reduce the equivalent of 40,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions. Livestock operators and businesses that work with them, such as, technology enterprises and social organizations, may now contact local governments or the EPA to apply for the subsidy.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Subsidies to Expand Use of Animal Wastes for Power Generation", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-5" }, { "no": "3557", "title": "Collaboration Agreement Signed with Central Weather Bureau to Enhance Environmental Monitoring", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring\nCollaboration Agreement Signed with Central Weather Bureau to Enhance Environmental Monitoring \nOn 4 May 2017, the EPA, the Central Weather Bureau (CWB) and the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) jointly signed the Technical Cooperation Agreement on Environmental Quality Monitoring and Forecasting Operations. By combining the CWB’s technical resources, the efficiency of doing calculations for the air quality model will be three times faster, resulting in better temporal and spatial resolutions and accuracy in forecasts. The CWB will assist the EPA in applying satellite data in environmental monitoring, enhancing aerosol retrieval and analyses of dust storms and biomass burning, tracing transboundary pollutants such as those from the East Asian haze or dust storms from China in real time, and using remote sensing to provide information on heat sources in order to monitor abnormal high-temperature burning incidents.", "content": "Collaboration Agreement Signed with Central Weather Bureau to Enhance Environmental Monitoring \nOn 4 May 2017, the EPA, the Central Weather Bureau (CWB) and the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) jointly signed the Technical Cooperation Agreement on Environmental Quality Monitoring and Forecasting Operations. By combining the CWB’s technical resources, the efficiency of doing calculations for the air quality model will be three times faster, resulting in better temporal and spatial resolutions and accuracy in forecasts. The CWB will assist the EPA in applying satellite data in environmental monitoring, enhancing aerosol retrieval and analyses of dust storms and biomass burning, tracing transboundary pollutants such as those from the East Asian haze or dust storms from China in real time, and using remote sensing to provide information on heat sources in order to monitor abnormal high-temperature burning incidents. \nThe EPA stated that as weather conditions are a key factor in air quality, the CWB’s WINS (Weather Integration and Nowcasting System) is used to obtain weather information such as real time ground observation data, ground and aerial weather graphs, high temporal and spatial resolution satellite images, and radar reflectivity images for analysis of local circulations and overall weather conditions. To get more detailed forecast data on air quality, the EPA and CWB have signed a cooperation agreement in which the calculating resources of the CWB’s supercomputer will be used to analyze air quality models. Additionally, high-resolution regional models will be included in analyses to greatly enhance temporal and spatial resolutions of forecast data in order to meet urgent response needs on poor air quality days in the autumn and winter. \nThe EPA also has been working with the CWB to develop remote sensing data and adopt new algorithms and image processing technology. The high-temporal resolution and high-spectrum images captured every ten minutes by Japan’s geosynchronous satellite Himawari-8 will be used. The images provided by this satellite will not only make up for the observatory data that is currently received only twice a day from the polar orbiting satellites, but will also be used to develop more satellite retrieval data such as heat sources, optical depths of aerosols, color enhancement of East Asian hazes and sandstorms. All these aim to strengthen the tracking of transboundary movement of East Asian pollutants as well as any subsequent applications for environmental monitoring.\nThe signing of the cooperation agreements will magnify the effect of information sharing and exchange between the EPA and CWB. Other than improving the efficiency of dynamic air quality forecast modelling and the use of remote sensing for environmental monitoring, the agreement will also allow exchanges of marine and land weather monitoring data and forecasting information. The EPA expects that the agreement will make the best use of the observatory information obtained by both parties and accelerate the application of environmental forecasting data.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "Collaboration Agreement Signed with Central Weather Bureau to Enhance Environmental Monitoring", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-5" }, { "no": "3556", "title": "Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) Monitoring in Taiwan", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring\nFine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) Monitoring in Taiwan\nFine particulate matter (PM2.5) has become a major issue of public concern in recent years. In addition to taking more active approaches to improve air quality, such as setting air pollution reduction goals, promoting the IoT (Internet of Things) for air quality monitoring and enhancing monitoring efforts, monitoring capacity is also being built up to provide references for formulating control measures that will better protect the public’s health.", "content": "Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) Monitoring in Taiwan\nFine particulate matter (PM2.5) has become a major issue of public concern in recent years. In addition to taking more active approaches to improve air quality, such as setting air pollution reduction goals, promoting the IoT (Internet of Things) for air quality monitoring and enhancing monitoring efforts, monitoring capacity is also being built up to provide references for formulating control measures that will better protect the public’s health.\nMonitoring data is the basis for air quality protection and air pollution control work. Effectively determining the status of air quality requires long-term operation and maintenance of monitoring systems along with comprehensive support in order to gather reliable data.\nBuilding up air quality monitoring capacity\nTo acquire accurate and reliable real-time monitoring data, the EPA will build up its monitoring capacity by heading in the following directions.\nPromoting the air quality monitoring IoT\nEnvironmental quality monitoring IoT is a new challenge taken up by the EPA, which has proposed the Environmental Quality Monitoring IoT Plan to the Executive Yuan. Under the proposal, the EPA will integrate all of Taiwan’s air quality monitoring resources, including air quality monitoring of smokestacks and in industrial areas, information disclosure for public access, using IoT technology to develop microsensors, and establishing a smart urban and rural monitoring IoT demonstration project. The demonstration project will conduct small-scale monitoring operations for certain pollutants so that the general public can participate in reducing pollution and help safeguard their own well-being. \nThe IoT plan will be carried out from 2017 to 2020. It will focus on improving air quality sensors, establishing a sensor testing and certification platform and system, expanding monitoring spots, integrating systems of monitoring stations and sensing spots, creating a smart environmental monitoring data center, developing a universal application service and integration platform, improving environmental enforcement, and transforming the operation systems into smart-working mode.\nThe EPA hopes to achieve the following goals:\n1. Improve the accuracy of environmental governance information: by meeting the demand for accurate local environmental data. \n2. Improve air quality forecasts: Improving forecasts from the regional down to township level, pinpointing abnormal weather patterns to facilitate effective responses and to implement pollution reduction management.\n3. Smart management: Improving environmental law enforcement through tracking pollution sources in pollution hotspots and to improve the overall environmental quality via the IoT.\nThe Environmental Quality Monitoring IoT Plan launched into full force in 2017. The EPA will focus on establishing basic infrastructure and operating systems by setting 500 air quality monitoring spots in central Taiwan, promoting research and development, running pilot tests, and analyzing data.\nEnhancing air quality monitoring\nTo improve the performance of air quality monitoring, the EPA has been keeping 76 monitoring stations nationwide running smoothly and conducting PM2.5 monitoring at 31 of them. Data usability is higher than 96% after quality assurance and quality control (QA\/QC) checks. All monitoring data is published on the EPA website in real time, and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for the following three days is forecast twice daily. In addition, an early alarm mechanism is in place to remind people to take extra precautions when severe transboundary pollutants such as those in dust storms and haze from China appear between November and May. \nUsing the Air Quality Index to help safeguard public health\nThe EPA has announced that it will use the AQI to help citizens understand real time air quality and its effects on humans, and to recommend the appropriate practices for reducing health impacts. Based on different levels of impact on human health, monitoring data for O3, PM2.5, PM10, CO, SO2, and NO2 in the air on any given day is each converted into a sub-index, among which the highest reading is chosen as the AQI for that day.\nThere are six AQI levels: good, moderate, unhealthy for sensitive groups, unhealthy, very unhealthy, and hazardous. All air quality monitoring data and AQI readings are available in real time on the website (http:\/\/taqm.epa.gov.tw\/). The following table shows AQI levels and the respective recommendations for the public.\nFuture outlook\nAir quality control should be based on safeguarding public health. Therefore, the EPA will tackle air pollution with more active approaches and has set national air pollution improvement goals, aiming to cut down the number of red alert days by 20% within two years, and by 50% within four years, in order to lower the exposure to PM2.5.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) Monitoring in Taiwan", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-5" }, { "no": "3555", "title": "Extra Green Points Awarded to Encourage Green Transportation on Poor Air Quality Days", "preview": "Ecolabeling\nExtra Green Points Awarded to Encourage Green Transportation on Poor Air Quality Days\nTo encourage the use of public transportation, the EPA announced that when a red alert for poor air quality based on the Air Quality Index (AQI) is forecast, those who take subways, buses or trains the next day will be eligible for green points increased tenfold. Through this incentive system, the EPA hopes to encourage members of the public to take small actions which, added up, can improve air quality.", "content": "Extra Green Points Awarded to Encourage Green Transportation on Poor Air Quality Days\nTo encourage the use of public transportation, the EPA announced that when a red alert for poor air quality based on the Air Quality Index (AQI) is forecast, those who take subways, buses or trains the next day will be eligible for green points increased tenfold. Through this incentive system, the EPA hopes to encourage members of the public to take small actions which, added up, can improve air quality. \nGreen points can be used as credits to buy products with Product Carbon Labels or the Green Mark in dedicated stores, with 100 points redeemable for NT$1 in value. They can also be used to make purchases in green hotels, green travel agencies, or environmental education venues.\nThe green transport bonus program was launched on 1 April 2017. EasyCard or iPASS users can download the Green Point app onto mobile devices or go to the Green Point website (https:\/\/www.greenpoint.org.tw\/) to create an account. Users can receive a green point for each NT dollar spent on taking subways, buses, or trains when using EasyCard or iPASS, while taking a bus trip will earn at least 20 points.\nAdditionally, users nationwide can receive green points increased tenfold by taking public transportation after a red alert based on the Air Quality Index (AQI) is issued in any region. For example, if a person takes a NT$30 subway ride (qualifying for 30 green points) and then a NT$15 bus ride (20 points) on an air quality red alert day, a total of 1,000 [(30 + 20) x 2 x 10] green points will be given for the round trip of the commute, which would be redeemable for a value of NT$10. The measure aims to encourage the public to choose public transportation instead of commuting by cars or scooters by rewarding those who make a contribution to improving air quality.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Ecolabeling", "titlename": "Extra Green Points Awarded to Encourage Green Transportation on Poor Air Quality Days", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-4" }, { "no": "3554", "title": "Major Religious Event Lightens Its PM2.5 Impact", "preview": "Air\nMajor Religious Event Lightens Its PM2.5 Impact \nThe Matsu Pilgrimage, a major annual religious activity organized by temples in central Taiwan, attracts tens of thousands of pilgrims and tourists each year. In recent years, organizers of this event have been actively trying to reduce its environmental impact by paying more attention to better resource recycling, lowering noise pollution, and more recently, reducing air pollution. Results from the EPA’s monitoring tests taken throughout the entire festival showed a significant drop in concentration of PM2.5 compared to measurements taken last year.", "content": "Major Religious Event Lightens Its PM2.5 Impact", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Major Religious Event Lightens Its PM2.5 Impact", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-4" }, { "no": "3553", "title": "Second Draft of Amendments to Regulations on Plastic Shopping Bags Preannounced", "preview": "Waste\nSecond Draft of Amendments to Regulations on Plastic Shopping Bags Preannounced\nThe EPA has preannounced the second draft of amendments to regulations on plastic shopping bags. The amendments include: adding seven categories of control targets; removing the thickness limit of plastic shopping bags; allowing enterprises to decide the prices of plastic shopping bags; requesting enterprises that provide plastic shopping bags to promote reuse and recycling of the bags by putting up signs on their", "content": "Second Draft of Amendments to Regulations on Plastic Shopping Bags Preannounced\nThe EPA has preannounced the second draft of amendments to regulations on plastic shopping bags. The amendments include: adding seven categories of control targets; removing the thickness limit of plastic shopping bags; allowing enterprises to decide the prices of plastic shopping bags; requesting enterprises that provide plastic shopping bags to promote reuse and recycling of the bags by putting up signs on their\nTo reduce single-use plastic shopping bags, the EPA preannounced the first draft amendments to the Control Targets, Implementation Methods and Implementation Date for Restricted Use of Plastic Shopping Bags on 25 October 2016. However, after the three public hearings that were held after the first preannouncement, the EPA once again revised the amendments to take into account the opinions collected. The second draft was preannounced in March 2017, with the expectation that more consumers will be encouraged to bring their own shopping bags instead of using disposable ones. The EPA plans to implement the amendments from 1 January 2018.\nThe following are the main points of the amendments:\n1. Referring to the international trends in plastic bag control and management, the amendments add seven categories of enterprises into the list of enterprises subject to restricted use of plastic bags: drugstores, cosmetic stores, and pharmacies; medical equipment stores; electrical and electronic appliance stores; book and stationery stores; laundries; beverage retailers; and bakeries.\n2. Expansion of the control list for materials used in plastic shopping bags; removal of the thickness limit of plastic shopping bags; and giving enterprises governed by the restrictions the freedom to choose the thickness of plastic bags most suitable for their use.\n3. Requesting targeted enterprises to promote reuse and recycling of plastic shopping bags by putting up signs on their premises and printing recycling messages on the bags. To further reduce the amount of plastic bags, the EPA is promoting the use of plastic shopping bags as city-authorized trash bags. For instance, local competent authorities now may request hypermarkets, supermarkets, and chain convenience stores to provide plastic bags that are charged for but can later be used as authorized trash bags. Another provision has been added to allow the competent authorities to send inspectors to observe the implementation of the regulations and strengthen their enforcement.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Second Draft of Amendments to Regulations on Plastic Shopping Bags Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-4" }, { "no": "3552", "title": "Ministers of Interior, Justice and Environment Pledge Firm Environmental Enforcement", "preview": "Environmental Inspection\nMinisters of Interior, Justice and Environment Pledge Firm Environmental Enforcement \nEPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee, Minister of Justice Tai-San Chui, Deputy Minister of the Interior Chun-Yue Chui, Deputy Director General Lung Wang of the National Police Agency, Chief Prosecutor Tian-Sheng Wang of the High Prosecutors Office and Chief Prosecutor Tai-Chao Shing of the Taipei District Prosecutors Office jointly announced on 20 March 2017 their determination to intensify law enforcement in an effort to deter environmental crimes and protect Taiwan’s environmental quality.", "content": "Ministers of Interior, Justice and Environment Pledge Firm Environmental Enforcement \nEPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee, Minister of Justice Tai-San Chui, Deputy Minister of the Interior Chun-Yue Chui, Deputy Director General Lung Wang of the National Police Agency, Chief Prosecutor Tian-Sheng Wang of the High Prosecutors Office and Chief Prosecutor Tai-Chao Shing of the Taipei District Prosecutors Office jointly announced on 20 March 2017 their determination to intensify law enforcement in an effort to deter environmental crimes and protect Taiwan’s environmental quality.\nSince 2011, to cope with complicated and changing pollution problems the EPA has been working with judicial and police departments on the investigation of major pollution incidents. As of the end of February 2017, 1,369 violations had been discovered and 5,716 people had been prosecuted. To demonstrate the resolve of both the central and local governments to fight such crimes, the heads of the Ministry of the Interior (MOI), Ministry of Justice, and the EPA gathered together and vowed to join forces to crack down on environmental crimes using heavy punishments.\nAt the press conference, details of a total of 20 environmental offenses in various categories that were cracked down on in the past five years by the joint forces were on display. One such case involved an energy company caught for emitting dioxins 48 times the limit into the air. Minister Lee emphasized that the central government will strongly support local law enforcement efforts and warned unscrupulous enterprises not to take chances, as heavy punishments will be issued.\nMinister Lee also pointed out that the achievements and experiences of the central government will be publicized so that local governments can learn how to establish joint force mechanisms to better deter illegal practices nationwide. He stated that through the combined forces of prosecutors, police and environmental personnel, crime prevention can be strengthened, environmental quality safeguarded and the competitiveness of law-abiding enterprises protected, thus achieving a win-win-win situation. \nIt was further emphasized that law enforcement technology will be continuously improved to enhance the efficacy of fighting such crime. In the future, provisions specifically for whistle blowers will be included in all relevant regulations to facilitate subsequent investigations and prosecutions. Environmental violations will result in prison sentences and heavy penalties, with all illegal gains confiscated.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Inspection", "titlename": "Ministers of Interior, Justice and Environment Pledge Firm Environmental Enforcement", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-4" }, { "no": "3551", "title": "Amendments to Working Guidelines for Environmental Impact Assessments Preannounced", "preview": "EIA\nAmendments to Working Guidelines for Environmental Impact Assessments Preannounced\nTo shorten the first phase environmental impact assessment (EIA) and enhance the functioning of the second phase EIA, the EPA preannounced amendments to the Working Guidelines for Developmental Activity Environmental Impact Assessments on 15 March 2017. The amendments aim to increase the accountability and efficiency of EIA reviews and improve the categorization of EIAs for a more efficient and comprehensive assessment system.", "content": "Amendments to Working Guidelines for Environmental Impact Assessments Preannounced\nTo shorten the first phase environmental impact assessment (EIA) and enhance the functioning of the second phase EIA, the EPA preannounced amendments to the Working Guidelines for Developmental Activity Environmental Impact Assessments on 15 March 2017. The amendments aim to increase the accountability and efficiency of EIA reviews and improve the categorization of EIAs for a more efficient and comprehensive assessment system.\nThe main points of the amendments concerning the first phase EIAs are as follows:\n1. Carrying out the concept of regional planning and control to ensure a smooth transition for national land use planning in the future. Also, the Table of Restriction Surveys for Environmentally Sensitive Areas was amended to decrease the occurrence of repetitive inquiries at different government agencies when developers are requested to conduct surveys on environmentally sensitive areas according to different regulations. As a result, the amendments will not only reduce excessive strain on administrative resources but also help developers to conduct their activities in appropriate areas. \n2. Requesting developers to give priority to using the latest data published by the government or other relevant data accumulated over a long period of time by other units while conducting environmental surveys. If developers use data different than the above mentioned, reasonable explanations shall be provided. This will reduce the time to complete surveys while enhancing accuracy of assessment of the current background information on the environment. \n3. To increase data transparency and improve public participation, the amendments to the working standards specify the requirements developers must meet before drafting their environmental impact statements. The requirements include provisions that the main contents in the preliminary draft of the statements need to be published on the assigned website for 20 days, and that a public meeting has to be held to allow for external opinions. \nThe main points of the amendments to the working guidelines with regards to the enhancement for the functionality of the second phase EIAs are as follows:\n1. Developers are required to fill out the Definition of Category Guidelines by selecting key environmental categories and items according to the review results of the environmental impact statements.\nRevisions to the Definition of Category Guidelines include an addition of several environmental categories, such as hazardous chemical substances and greenhouse gases, as well as environmental items such as bottom sediment, ecological compensation, health risk assessment, bioaccumulation, climate change reduction and adaptation, etc. The other revision states that environmental categories and items are to be organized and integrated with reference materials for defining the category.\n2. Specifying EIA technical standards for EIA reviews and execution.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "EIA", "titlename": "Amendments to Working Guidelines for Environmental Impact Assessments Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-4" }, { "no": "3550", "title": "Taiwan and Australia Jointly Investigate Oil Spill Case", "preview": "Water\nTaiwan and Australia Jointly Investigate Oil Spill Case \nIn March 2017, an oil spill incident occurred in Green Island Township, Taitung County. To track down the offenders, in early April EPA officials, along with officials from the Northern Port Center of the Maritime and Port Bureau (MPB) of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) and the representatives of the CR Classification Society, traveled 6,550 kilometers to the town of Esperance in southwestern Australia. Representing the Taiwan government, the EPA officials boarded a ship accompanied by Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) officials to conduct inspections and take samples from the ship. This inspection demonstrated Taiwan’s commitment in the area of marine environment protection and its determination to crack down on illegal activities.", "content": "Taiwan and Australia Jointly Investigate Oil Spill Case \nIn March 2017, an oil spill incident occurred in Green Island Township, Taitung County. To track down the offenders, in early April EPA officials, along with officials from the Northern Port Center of the Maritime and Port Bureau (MPB) of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) and the representatives of the CR Classification Society, traveled 6,550 kilometers to the town of Esperance in southwestern Australia. Representing the Taiwan government, the EPA officials boarded a ship accompanied by Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) officials to conduct inspections and take samples from the ship. This inspection demonstrated Taiwan’s commitment in the area of marine environment protection and its determination to crack down on illegal activities. \nTo find those responsible for the oil spill, the EPA actively traced the navigation routes of various vessels since the incident occurred on 10 March. By combining the MOTC’s data from an automatic identification system (AIS) with information from marine experts and local diving instructors on Green Island, they learned that one suspected vessel was to soon dock in the Australian port of Esperance. \nThe EPA conveyed to AMSA the Taiwan government’s determination to protect the marine environment from pollution, and also asked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) to formally request assistance from the Australian government. After days of negotiation, AMSA agreed to allow EPA personnel to board the ship in question to conduct inspections and take samples in the capacity of Taiwan government officials.\nThe EPA stated that inspection and sampling in this case closely involved marine pollution prevention and control, Port State Control (PSC), vessel equipment management, oil sampling, and security. A team of two EPA officials, one official of the Northern Port Center, and one representative from the CR Classification Center set out from Taiwan on 1 April and, upon arrival, met with AMSA’s head PSC inspector to present full details of the incident. AMSA duly acknowledged the Taiwan government’s determination and effort in this trans-national investigation to find polluters. \nThe focus of this mission was to board the vessel in question along with AMSA’s PSC inspectors and conduct inspections and sampling. While docked at Esperance Port on 4 April, the ship was boarded, 15 oil samples were collected from seven cabins on the ship, and information was collected from documents including: the certificate of the ship’s nationality, International Oil Pollution Prevention (IOPP) Certificate, crew list, oil records, and navigation plans. No clear sign of illegal dumping of waste oil was found after the initial examination of documents currently obtained.\nThe oil samples collected were divided into two sets, one of which was flown to the EPA’s Environmental Analysis Laboratory, whose test results will serve as important reference data for follow-up investigation and future study. The other set is under the custody of a professional institute with which AMSA works. \nFor the smooth conclusion of this mission, the EPA expressed its gratitude to the MOTC, MOFA, and CR Classification Center for offering personnel for the trip to Australia and professional support, and also thanked AMSA for its recognition and assistance in the pursuit of possible polluters, which resulted in the first Taiwan-Australia collaboration in the area of marine pollution control and response.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Taiwan and Australia Jointly Investigate Oil Spill Case", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-4" }, { "no": "3549", "title": "Carbon Emissions Reduction in Taiwan", "preview": "Climate Change", "content": "Carbon Emissions Reduction in Taiwan\nAs a member of the global village, Taiwan has actively taken part in the international response to climate change from the start of such efforts. Besides keeping track of international conventions, Taiwan has strived to shoulder its responsibility in reducing greenhouse gases. The EPA has announced related regulations and guidelines, such as the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act and the National Climate Change Action Guidelines. Answering the call of the 22nd Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP22) held in 2016, Taiwan has thoroughly mobilized at both the national and local levels. By formulating and fully implementing relevant regulations, Taiwan has laid out specific goals and strategies in its efforts to reduce carbon emissions. \nThe twenty-second Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP 22) was held in Morocco in November 2016. Since taking part in the UNFCCC COP1, the EPA has attended relevant activities in order to keep abreast of the latest international developments in the response to climate change and carbon reduction, while promoting Taiwan’s efforts and achievements in this area in diverse ways. \nTaiwan’s carbon reduction measures in response to global developments are listed below:\nPromulgating and implementing the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act\nThe Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act was adopted on 15 June 2015 after three readings in the Legislative Yuan, and was promulgated on 1 July 2015. The promulgation of the Act marked Taiwan’s official entry into the era of carbon reduction. The Act stipulates Taiwan’s carbon reduction target for year 2050 and lays out control targets in five-year stages. It is accompanied by economic incentives and requests to gradually establish a cap-and-trade system. Mitigation, adaptation, and green development will be the general imperatives that guide the EPA’s future actions in response to climate change.\nResponding to international efforts by sharing the global responsibility for carbon reduction\nOn 17 September 2015, the EPA submitted Taiwan’s Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) to the Executive Yuan, which approved them on 16 November 2015. \nOn 17 November 2015, the INDCs were co-announced by the EPA and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a joint press conference. Based on Taiwan’s current conditions as well as strengths and weaknesses, the INDCs were formulated in accordance with measures and guidelines in relevant international climate conventions. A carbon emission reduction goal of a 50% reduction from business as usual (BAU) levels by 2030 was stipulated, equal to a 20% reduction from 2005 levels. This stipulated goal also meets the phased goal of cutting emissions by 50% below 2005 levels by 2050, as stipulated in the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act. \nAdopting the National Climate Change Action Guidelines\nThe National Climate Change Action Guidelines, passed by the Executive Yuan on 23 February 2017, specifically sets out the general directions for Taiwan’s climate change mitigation and adaptation. The Guidelines also mobilize interministerial resources to build up national capacities in response to climate change. Giving equal importance to climate change mitigation and adaptation, the Guidelines cite ten principles for the response measures, such as excluding the option of new nuclear power facilities, along with including climate change mitigation and adaptation measures in the review of strategic environmental assessment and environmental impact assessments for development projects. The Guidelines also emphasize the incorporation of public participation, risk management, green finance, carbon pricing, and environmental education in policy formulation. The Chinese and English versions of the National Climate Change Action Guidelines and related information are available online at http:\/\/www.epa.gov.tw\/mp.asp?mp=ghgact.\nAnnouncing the Phased Greenhouse Gas Control Targets and Guidelines for Control Measures \nTo provide guidelines for formulating related control regulation for phased control targets stipulated in the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act, the EPA jointly announced the Working Guidelines for Formulating Greenhouse Gas Phased Control Targets and Control Measures with the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC), and the Council of Agriculture (COA), on 28 March 2017. The Guidelines specify procedural regulations concerning factors to be considered, formulation methods, as well as performance evaluation and adjustment mechanisms.\nTo achieve the carbon reduction goal stipulated for 2050 in the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act, control targets have been set in five-year stages and will undergo revisions on a rolling basis based on results of regular performance evaluations. For the process of formulating phased control targets, the Guidelines require estimations and scenario analyses of carbon emission trends at both the national level and sector level, in order to formulate medium-term goals and visions, and assess impacts on the economy, energy supply, the environment and society in general. Expert consultations and public hearings are also required to enhance public participation and transparency. \nIn addition, control targets in each stage will be reached through the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Promotion Program and the Sector Greenhouse Gas Emission Control Action Programs. Accompanied by the national and sector evaluation indicators, sector carbon reduction goals, and emission data and statistics, annual evaluations will be conducted to examine the performance, and parties failing to achieve the set goals will have to formulate improvement plans. After discussion by related ministries, the first stage (2016 to 2020) control targets have been formulated and will be submitted to the Executive Yuan for approval and future implementation.\nSpecifying Ministerial Responsibilities stipulated in the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act\nTo clarify carbon reduction obligations, the EPA has asked the relevant ministries to reexamine and update their own responsibilities based on the policies of President Tsai Ing-wen and Premier Lin Chuan’s policy guidelines, as well as clearly delineate the responsibilities of each ministry in accordance with Article 8 of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act.\nAs the primary National Climate Change Action Guidelines and the interministerial Working Guidelines for Formulating Greenhouse Gas Phased Control Targets and Control Measures were promulgated, the EPA will collaborate with other government agencies to set the short-term phased carbon control targets and medium-term visions based on the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act, and also draft the national Greenhouse Gas Reduction Promotion Program. Focusing on the six areas of energy, manufacturing, transportation, residence and commerce, agriculture, and environment, each agency will propose its own Sector Greenhouse Gas Emission Control Action Programs. Local governments will formulate their own greenhouse gas control implementation program in accordance with the central government’s promotion programs and the action programs as mandated by Article 15 of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act, and draft their own Greenhouse Gas Control Implementation Plan so that all carbon reduction measures can be carried out at the regional level. \nAnnouncing the Regulations Governing Incentives for Energy Efficiency Standards \nThe EPA encouraged enterprises to step up carbon reductions before the implementation of cap control by promoting a reward mechanism for greenhouse gas offset programs, based on Article 22 of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act. In an effort to establish a legal basis for the reward mechanism, the Regulations Governing Incentives for Energy Efficiency Compliance Standards were announced on 15 March to increase incentives for enterprises’ voluntary reductions.\nTo acknowledge the effects of enterprises’ mitigation measures, the regulations provide emission allowances as incentives and specify suitable applicants, qualifications, and usages of allowances. Based on Article 17 of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act, the EPA has planned to gradually formulate energy efficiency standards for different industry categories or manufacturing processes as a basis for incentives. Standards will be set first for emission sources for industrial and energy sectors, and draft standards are expected to be completed for energy efficiency for different industries and manufacturing processes in mid-2017. In the future, the system will be expanded to cover transportation, residential and commercial sectors so that enterprises intending to carry out mitigation measures can be offered incentives to do so early.\nCombining local and non-governmental momentum on carbon reduction\nThe Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act has clearly mapped out government agency authorities and promotion strategies as well as included mechanisms for public participation and division of responsibilities. To improve society’s capacity to respond to climate change, the EPA actively promotes public awareness on climate change through education. Partnerships are also established with the EPA and regional agencies to jointly carry out carbon reduction and mitigation projects so that public awareness and society’s capacity for carbon reduction can be built up, thus reducing the impacts of climate change. \nFuture outlook\nLooking to the future, Taiwan is on the verge of a turning point as it faces increasingly severe global challenges brought by climate change. In an effort to maintain a competitive edge, the Taiwan Government will come up with more proactive energy saving and carbon reduction policies and implement mitigation measures. Meanwhile, the EPA will collaborate with international partners via exchanges on relevant policies, technologies, and experiences as well as establish a management mechanism that connects to the global carbon market. As carbon reduction targets and regulations come out, the EPA hopes to improve Taiwan’s ability to respond to climate change through collaborations between the central government and local governments and between the public and private sectors, striving to construct a low-carbon society with sustainable environmental, economic, and social features.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Carbon Emissions Reduction in Taiwan", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-4" }, { "no": "3548", "title": "Amendments to Prohibitions on Activities Causing Water Pollution Preannounced", "preview": "Water\nAmendments to Prohibitions on Activities Causing Water Pollution Preannounced", "content": "Amendments to Prohibitions on Activities Causing Water Pollution Preannounced \nOn 16 February 2017, the EPA preannounced amendments to the Prohibitions on Activities Causing Water Pollution. The EPA discovered recently that there are some unscrupulous industrial operators who discharged colored wastewaters, seriously affecting the quality of water bodies. Yet, due to the fact that these enterprises are either not on the control list of the Water Pollution Control Act or because the scales do not reach the scale for control, these operators cannot be brought to justice. The EPA is therefore adding new control targets in the amendments to cover industries involved in processes that produce colored wastewater, as well as chemical substance preparation, barrel and trough cleansers, or other specified targets whose business scale do not reach the scale for control. If the pollutant concentration in the effluent of these enterprises exceeds imposed limits, this will be considered as activity sufficient to cause water pollution. Offenders will be subject to a fine of NT$30,000 to 3 million. \nThe major amendments are as follows:\n1. Enterprises involved in incense-making, dyeing, or other processes which produce colored wastewater shall be considered as engaged in activity sufficient to cause water pollution if the color of effluent reaches 550 ADMI rating or higher. \n2. Enterprises involved in chemical substance preparation, barrel or trough cleansing, food production, fermentation or livestock slaughtering that do not reach the scale for control should be considered as engaged in activity sufficient to cause water pollution if their effluent does not meet the standards for eight control items (such as biochemical oxygen demand of 80 mg\/L, chemical oxygen demand of 250 mg\/L, suspended solids of 80 mg\/L, color of water at 550 ADMI, and copper content of 3 mg\/L). \n3. The river section of a work in progress refers to a construction project that is actually being implemented. The water sampling points are to be determined by the upstream and downstream engineering work. The appropriate points are 10 meters upstream and 10 meters downstream of the construction site.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Amendments to Prohibitions on Activities Causing Water Pollution Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-3" }, { "no": "3547", "title": "Waste Flow Report to Be Extended to Supermarkets and Megamarkets", "preview": "Waste\nWaste Flow Report to Be Extended to Supermarkets and Megamarkets", "content": "Waste Flow Report to Be Extended to Supermarkets and Megamarkets\nOn 16 February 2017 the EPA preannounced the draft amendments to the Type, Scope and Scale of Businesses Required to Submit Water Pollution Control Measures. The purpose of the current amendments is to align with the draft amendments to the Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Application Review Management Regulations, which divide applicants into three categories─ namely, special permit, general permit, and simple permit ─to substantiate the implementation of appropriate practice management. The threshold for a general permit has been simplified, and businesses that are serious offenders are added as subjects required to submit their water pollution control measures. \nThe major amendments are as follows:\n1. In accordance with Article 14-1 Paragraph 1 of the Water Pollution Control Act, businesses which have been designated and announced by the central competent authorities to disclose information on effluent discharge volumes and concentrations of pollutants should submit water pollution control measures ahead of other businesses. \n2. Businesses that are required to submit water pollution control measures include: those whose daily output of wastewater exceeds 10,000 m3, or whose daily output of wastewater exceeds 100 m3 but contains hazardous substances. In addition, businesses which have violated the Water Pollution Control Act and have been ordered to cease operations or businesses, have committed serious offenses, or have previously falsified report records also fall into this category. \n3. Subjects listed on items 5-9 and 11-12 will be exempt from the need to submit water pollution control measures due to the simple nature of their wastewater and their need for a simple permit. \n4. Hospitals and medical institutions are classified as businesses that require the general permit. Hence, whether water pollution control measures are required should be decided by the quantity and content of their wastewater.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Waste Flow Report to Be Extended to Supermarkets and Megamarkets", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-3" }, { "no": "3546", "title": "English Version of Environmental Info Push App Available for Free Download", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring\nEnglish Version of Environmental Info Push App Available for Free Download \nThe EPA continues to provide the public with detailed information through real-time air quality information disclosure and warning forecasts. Awarded by the Geospatial Media and Communications Group with the Geospatial World Excellence Awards in 2016, the EPA’s Environmental Info Push App has been downloaded more than 280,000 times, with daily peak usage reaching 20,000 devices and the monthly average number of clicks hitting a million. These statistics show that the app has become part of the populace’s daily lives, with even more use during weekends.", "content": "English Version of Environmental Info Push App Available for Free Download", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "English Version of Environmental Info Push App Available for Free Download", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-3" }, { "no": "3545", "title": "EPA Holds Forum to Enhance International Participation to Deal with Climate Change", "preview": "Climate Change\nEPA Holds Forum to Enhance International Participation to Deal with Climate Change\nOn 20 February 2017, the EPA held the Forum on Participation in International Environmental Conventions. Representatives from all sectors of Taiwan society who have long been concerned with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) were invited in order to discuss ways in which non-governmental organizations (NGOs) can participate in UNFCCC activities. Also invited were representatives of various communities to discuss how they can deepen their participation in the issues. After a series of discussions, the forum arrived at a consensus on direction and a new outlook for future cooperation.", "content": "EPA Holds Forum to Enhance International Participation to Deal with Climate Change\nOn 20 February 2017, the EPA held the Forum on Participation in International Environmental Conventions. Representatives from all sectors of Taiwan society who have long been concerned with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) were invited in order to discuss ways in which non-governmental organizations (NGOs) can participate in UNFCCC activities. Also invited were representatives of various communities to discuss how they can deepen their participation in the issues. After a series of discussions, the forum arrived at a consensus on direction and a new outlook for future cooperation. \nEPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee opened the forum with a speech on Taiwan’s current status in dealing with the UNFCCC. He pointed out that President Tsai Ing-wen had clearly indicated in her May 2016 inauguration speech that Taiwan would not be absent from dealing with issues of global warming and climate change. Yet, due to international political obstacles, Taiwan is not allowed to participate in UNFCCC activities, but must participate under the status of an NGO observer. For the time being, eight civic groups from Taiwan have successfully applied to become UNFCCC observers and have actively participated in related activities. In this way, the strength of Taiwan’s NGOs is fully demonstrated. \nTwo special themes were included in the forum. The first was the sharing of success stories and highlights of past participation in international conventions by civic groups. This was done to encourage more potential and interested civic groups to participate in activities related to international conventions in the future. The other theme was the participation of local governments and the participation of women, youth, and indigenous people in international conventions. This shall prove to be a pluralistic method whereby the vitality of different communities as well as indigenous tribes can be included in international activities. All the delegates who attended the forum, including representatives from relevant ministries, local governments, civic groups, scholars and experts, industry, and so on, freely exchanged their views under the abovementioned consensus.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "EPA Holds Forum to Enhance International Participation to Deal with Climate Change", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-3" }, { "no": "3544", "title": "Amendments to Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards Preannounced", "preview": "Air\nAmendments to Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards Preannounced\nThe EPA formulated the draft of the amendments to the Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards regarding railway emissions to continually ameliorate the air pollution caused by transportation, and to stay aligned with international regulations concerning rail management. The main points of the amendments are as follows: setting air pollutant emission standards for railcars or locomotives with a net power greater than 130 kilowatts; and, adding control values for carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides and particulate matters.", "content": "Amendments to Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards Preannounced\nThe EPA formulated the draft of the amendments to the Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards regarding railway emissions to continually ameliorate the air pollution caused by transportation, and to stay aligned with international regulations concerning rail management. The main points of the amendments are as follows: setting air pollutant emission standards for railcars or locomotives with a net power greater than 130 kilowatts; and, adding control values for carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides and particulate matters.\nThe EPA has been very active in air quality improvement, so the Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards have been tightening. However, only particulate pollutant emission standards (opacity %) for trains and ships are included in Article 8 of the current Rail Air Pollutant Emission Standards. Hence, the EPA drafted amendments to Article 8 of the Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards by referencing the control strategies of the EU and the US.\nThe main points of the amendments are as follows: setting air pollutant emission standards for railcars or locomotives with a net power greater than 130 kilowatts; adding control values for carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC), nitrogen oxides (NOX) and particulate matters (PM); adopting U.S. standards and testing methods for Tier 4 engines in off-road equipment; and adopting the EU’s regulations on testing procedures and the certification proof for related subsequent amendments of Directive 97\/68\/EC.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Amendments to Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-3" }, { "no": "3543", "title": "Environmental Protection Units Mobilized to Patrol Areas Affected by Bird Flu", "preview": "Environmental Inspection\nEnvironmental Protection Units Mobilized to Patrol Areas Affected by Bird Flu\nIn response to the recent outbreak of avian influenza, the EPA has deployed emergency response units to control the affected areas and prevent further spread of the disease. Local environmental protection bureaus are to strengthen patrols in local poultry farms to prevent illegal dumping of carcasses and to assist agricultural agencies in disease control. To contain the disease and safeguard public health, the EPA has formulated the 2016 Avian Influenza Prevention and Patrol Plan, which was announced by local environmental protection bureaus in cooperation with the Central Emergency Response Center for Avian Influenza. According to the plan, poultry deliveries in the nation were banned for seven days starting 17 February 2017, during which patrols were reinforced.", "content": "Environmental Protection Units Mobilized to Patrol Areas Affected by Bird Flu\nIn response to the recent outbreak of avian influenza, the EPA has deployed emergency response units to control the affected areas and prevent further spread of the disease. Local environmental protection bureaus are to strengthen patrols in local poultry farms to prevent illegal dumping of carcasses and to assist agricultural agencies in disease control. To contain the disease and safeguard public health, the EPA has formulated the 2016 Avian Influenza Prevention and Patrol Plan, which was announced by local environmental protection bureaus in cooperation with the Central Emergency Response Center for Avian Influenza. According to the plan, poultry deliveries in the nation were banned for seven days starting 17 February 2017, during which patrols were reinforced. \nAfter the recent avian flu breakout, the EPA’s Bureau of Environmental Inspection has been cooperating with the Seventh Special Police Corps and local environmental protection bureaus to conduct inspections in the vicinity of poultry farms for carcasses dumped illegally. Also, unmanned aerial vehicles have been deployed to conduct surveillance, collect evidence and prevent any further environmental problems that may arise. To better control the disease, the EPA has sent investigation personnel to conduct inspections in person. If a large amount of carcasses are found, inspectors are to immediately contact animal health inspection authorities. The animal health inspection authorities will provide assistance in burning poultry carcasses and disinfecting the environment. The EPA expects to prevent the disease from further spreading by combining forces with other government agencies. \nThe EPA indicates that it will continue to work closely with agricultural agencies to carry out lateral communications and disease control. The northern, central, and southern branches of the Bureau of Environmental Inspection have been working in collaboration with local environmental protection bureaus to reinforce patrols around affected areas and sites with high potential for the occurrence of illegal dumping. This method can not only prevent illegal dumping of carcasses, but can also speed up emergency response if any illegal activity is discovered. \nIllegal dumping of carcasses can set back disease control and contribute to propagation of the virus. Therefore, the EPA points out that illegal dumping of poultry carcasses is in violation of the storage, clearance, and disposal regulations stipulated in Article 36 of the Waste Disposal Act and can incur fines between NT$6,000 and NT$30,00,000 in accordance with Article 52.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Inspection", "titlename": "Environmental Protection Units Mobilized to Patrol Areas Affected by Bird Flu", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-3" }, { "no": "3542", "title": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Application Review Management Regulations Preannounced", "preview": "Water\nAmendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Application Review Management Regulations Preannounced\nTo combat illegal practices while encouraging law-abiding enterprises, the EPA plans to simplify permit applications for wastewater discharge. According to the draft amendments to the Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations, permit management will be categorized based on the type of industry. Also, permits will not be issued to enterprises with multiple serious violations.", "content": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Application Review Management Regulations Preannounced\nTo combat illegal practices while encouraging law-abiding enterprises, the EPA plans to simplify permit applications for wastewater discharge. According to the draft amendments to the Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations, permit management will be categorized based on the type of industry. Also, permits will not be issued to enterprises with multiple serious violations.\nThe EPA preannounced draft amendments to the Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Review Regulations on 24 February 2017. The purpose of the amendments is to encourage compliance with the law by simplifying wastewater permit application procedures and reinforcing review and management of applications. The main points of the amendments are as follows: \n1. Water pollution control plans or permit documents differ according to the type of the industry. There are 3 types of permit: specific, general and simplified. The industries that will need a specific permit are those required to disclose the pollutant content of discharges and information in accordance with Article 14-1 of the Water Pollution Control Act. Because of the high potential (pollution) risks raised by those industries, they will not only need to perform system function tests but also acquire the signature of a qualified engineer for the permit application documents. Moreover, the EPA also tightened the regulation that requires an expert’s review of the pollutant information that enterprises are to disclose. \nIndustries that fall under the general permit category are those with complicated wastewater characteristics such as industrial parks, the dyeing and finishing industry, the leather manufacturing industry, the gold watch manufacturing industry, electroplating industry, and others. Among the enterprises mentioned above, only those with wastewater exceeding 10,000 cubic meters per day (CMD) or with original wastewater that contains more than 100 CMD of toxic substances will be required to conduct system function tests with the signature of a qualified engineer. \nThe simplified permit is for enterprises with simple wastewater characteristics such as the gravel manufacturing industry, livestock industry and service industry. For the abovementioned industries, trial runs, function tests and an engineer’s signature are not required. Even though the EPA has made the standards concerning an engineer’s signature and function tests easier for enterprises in the general and simplified permit category, serious violators will still be tested for system functionality and require a signature from a qualified engineer.\n2. Water pollution control plans or permit documents will be suspended if any of the following situations occur: committing multiple violations within 3 years; being suspended by the competent authority at least twice; committing serious violations more than twice; or, being penalized for serious pollution. Once a suspension is issued, an enterprise will not be able to apply for three years starting from the date of the suspension. Also, to prevent enterprises from evading their punishment, the address where any of the abovementioned circumstances take place cannot be used for control plan or permit application.\n3. The EPA has simplified the conditions for the modifications to be made before receiving a permit and for the required function tests, such as the following circumstances: the replacement of old wastewater treatment facilities; improvement of accessory equipment at wastewater treatment facilities as well as livestock waste bio-gas collection bags and storage tanks; and, for facilities that reduce water consumption and wastewater production but are unrelated to wastewater treatment, modifications of operating parameters and other registered data can be done after the permits are issued. Although reduction of maximum water consumption and wastewater production levels or improvement of wastewater quality can change operating parameters and other related information of the wastewater treatment facility, functionality tests will not be required since the above circumstances do not reduce the functionality of the wastewater facility.\n4. To increase review efficiency, the competent authority should provide guidance and one-time review counselling if application documents are incomplete.\n5. To encourage enterprises and operators of sewage systems to comply with the law, procedures are simplified for the application, modification, and extension of water pollution plans and permit documents for those who have never received a penalty from the competent authority under the Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations, in the year prior to the application date. For instance, enterprises with general permits are qualified to apply for simplified permits and are required to only disclose control plans and permit documents issued by the competent authority.\n6. To encourage enterprises and operators of sewage systems to comply with the law, enterprises conducting operations outside the permitted parameters may be granted a relief or reduction of the penalty based on the judgment of the competent authority for each individual case within 6 months after the draft amendment is announced, only if they have never been previously reported or found for their violations by the competent authority, and have not caused any actual pollution.\nWith the amendments, about 4,500 enterprises will be eligible for applying for the simplified permit. The competent authorities can focus resources on the investigation and management of illegal enterprises and increase review efficiency. The EPA also points out that law-abiding enterprises can enjoy simpler and cheaper application procedures.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Application Review Management Regulations Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-3" }, { "no": "3541", "title": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations Preannounced", "preview": "Water\nAmendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations Preannounced\nThe Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations have been revised five times since they were first promulgated on 16 October 2006. The revisions have led to the establishment of a management system for a variety of water pollution control measures. In addition, they have also led to the utilization of livestock waste, thus reducing pollution from source and improving river water bodies.", "content": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations Preannounced\nThe Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations have been revised five times since they were first promulgated on 16 October 2006. The revisions have led to the establishment of a management system for a variety of water pollution control measures. In addition, they have also led to the utilization of livestock waste, thus reducing pollution from source and improving river water bodies.\nTo boost the utilization efficiency of livestock waste and promote a circular economy in the livestock industry, it is necessary to make changes to the current management regulations for livestock wastewater discharge, leakage, overflow, recycling and treatment. The EPA is also taking practical measures to avoid disputes upon the execution of the law. For example, the EPA is: formulating more reduction measures for livestock wastewater effluent; removing reutilization restrictions for livestock waste on farmland; integrating the management of livestock waste leakage and overflow; reinforcing wastewater recycling; and, strengthening the management of the supplementary water sources involved. The main points of the amendments are as follows:\n1. Integrating control and emergency measures in case of leakage and overflow\n2. Livestock enterprises that keep their animals outdoors shall take reduction measures for wastewater run-off\n3. Clarifying that the usage of livestock waste fermentation liquid and sediment as farmland fertilizer, and the transportation of wastewater, complies with the Effluent Standards for watering plants that are not subject to the regulations set forth in Chapter 5.\n4. Livestock enterprises that adopt waste reutilization methods on farmland will no longer be required to establish wastewater pretreatment facilities, and the rules on waste disposal into the soil will also be suspended.\n5. Strengthening the management of wastewater recycling and reuse by restricting enterprises that do not comply with the wastewater treatment standards, and establishment of treatment facilities from reusing the wastewater in facilities not involved in the production process. Additionally, if supplementary water is to be used, enterprises should submit reasonable explanations and records of the water sources and amounts. Any dilution of effluent is strongly prohibited. The amendments also clarify the situations under which wastewater is not allowed as well as the wastewater purification criteria for the wastewater recycling system.\n6. The livestock industry shall take wastewater effluent reduction measures. Newly established farms are forbidden from discharging wastewater into surface water bodies. As for existing farms, wastewater discharge should be reduced to at least half, or lower, of the currently permitted total effluent within five years, and to a quarter within ten years. \n7. Pig farms that have less than 200 pigs are required to submit a wastewater management plan.\n8. Coal-fired power plants shall report mercury levels contained in their coal, along with other related information. Also, power plants are required to submit a management plan for mercury control when the mercury value of the coal exceeds a certain level.\n9. The following industries are to collect and treat their wastewater based on the pollutant characteristics: the wafer fabrication industry, the semiconductor manufacturing industry, the optoelectronic materials and components manufacturing industry, the printed circuit board manufacturing industry, electroplating industries and the metal finishing industry.\n10. The documents required for wastewater reports have been simplified to encourage enterprises to submit their reports in accordance with the law.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-3" }, { "no": "3540", "title": "Amendments to Effluent Standards Preannounced", "preview": "Water\nAmendments to Effluent Standards Preannounced \nOn 10 February 2017, the EPA preannounced amendments to the Effluent Standards, aimed at strengthening risk management and achieving higher water quality in water bodies. They include merging control standards with existing standards for specified industries, and added or tightened controls on heavy metals, ammonia nitrogen, and harmful substances.", "content": "Amendments to Effluent Standards Preannounced \nOn 10 February 2017, the EPA preannounced amendments to the Effluent Standards, aimed at strengthening risk management and achieving higher water quality in water bodies. They include merging control standards with existing standards for specified industries, and added or tightened controls on heavy metals, ammonia nitrogen, and harmful substances. \nThe Effluent Standards took effect in 1987 and have been reviewed and revised 16 times since then. Between 2011 and 2016, standards were set for the wafer and semiconductor industry, optoelectronic materials and component manufacturers, the petrochemical industry, the chemical industry, science park sewer systems, and petrochemical industrial park sewage systems, making substantial contributions to water pollution control. The need to revise the Effluent Standards has arisen again because farmlands are becoming contaminated due to insufficiently stringent heavy metal standards for river water quality. \nIn addition, ammonia nitrogen discharged into rivers also depletes dissolved oxygen in the water. To ameliorate this problem, tighter controls on ammonia nitrogen have been formulated for: nut and bolt manufacturing in metal finishing or electroplating; manufacturing of leather products from rawhide in the tanning industry; landfills and power plants; and, industrial park sewage systems (excluding petrochemical industrial parks). Control regulations on ammonia nitrogen and total nitrogen discharge are also set for public sewage systems. Moreover, the EPA has formulated the total quantity control for nitrogen and phosphorous discharged from hotels located in water source\/water quality\/water supply protection zones.\nDischarge of highly colorful wastewater often causes color change of water bodies and thus has negative impressions on the public, so the EPA has tightened control limits on true color saturation for paper mills and the textile industry. Controls on free residual chloride are also added to keep enterprises from using too much bleach and harming aquatic life. \nEven if effluents comply with control standards after being treated, the EPA considers the bioaccumulative nature of heavy metals and has strengthened control limits on nine of them: cadmium, lead, total chromium, hexavalent chromium, copper, zinc, nickel, selenium and arsenic. Regulated targets are enterprises in seven industries (wafer and semiconductor manufacturing, optoelectronic materials and component manufacturing, chemical industry, basic metal industry, metal finishing, electroplating, and printed circuit board manufacturing) with manufacturing that involves heavy metals and discharges reaching a certain scale, as well as sewage systems in science parks, petrochemical industrial parks, and other industrial parks. Regulations governing tin are also added, with control limits based on discharge amounts. \nAs new optoelectronic materials and component manufacturers continue to relocate in industrial parks other than petrochemical industrial parks, controls on indium, gallium, and molybdenum have been added. Taking references from the US EPA’s stricter controls for coal-fired steam power plants as well as its management project for the Minamata Convention on Mercury , the EPA has strengthened control limits for mercury, arsenic, and selenium for coal-fired power plant generators and wastewater which is produced from flue gas desulfurization (FGD) processes and then goes into treatment plants.\nTo streamline the Effluent Standards and standards for specified industries, all the aforementioned standards are combined into the Effluent Standards, with control items and limits for different industries listed in attached tables 1-14. Meanwhile, effluent standards are deleted for six specific industries, including optoelectronic materials and component manufacturing.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Amendments to Effluent Standards Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-3" }, { "no": "3539", "title": "Environmental, Police, and Mobile Vehicle Agencies Jointly Crack Down on Noisy Modified Vehicles", "preview": "Noise Control\nEnvironmental, Police, and Mobile Vehicle Agencies Jointly Crack Down on Noisy Modified Vehicles \nIn 2016, the EPA combined the forces of environmental, police, and motor vehicle agencies to jointly conduct roadside inspections in a crackdown on noisy modified vehicles. A total of 744 inspection sessions were carried out to check 26,963 vehicles. Noise tests were done on 4,274 vehicles, of which 2718 were found to be deficient in noise control and whose owners were reported for a violation. This comprises a violation reporting rate of 63.6%, a 12% growth over that of 2015, indicating that experience and improved skills had been accumulated through the joint operation to pick out violating vehicles more effectively.", "content": "Environmental, Police, and Mobile Vehicle Agencies Jointly Crack Down on Noisy Modified Vehicles \nIn 2016, the EPA combined the forces of environmental, police, and motor vehicle agencies to jointly conduct roadside inspections in a crackdown on noisy modified vehicles. A total of 744 inspection sessions were carried out to check 26,963 vehicles. Noise tests were done on 4,274 vehicles, of which 2718 were found to be deficient in noise control and whose owners were reported for a violation. This comprises a violation reporting rate of 63.6%, a 12% growth over that of 2015, indicating that experience and improved skills had been accumulated through the joint operation to pick out violating vehicles more effectively.\nAccording to the EPA’s statistics, in 2016 Taoyuan City reported the most noise violation cases, at 1,286 vehicles. Among all the noisy vehicles reported in Taiwan in 2016, 110 decibels was the loudest noise recorded. Considering the high number of violations and noise level, it is important to continuously crack down on inappropriately modified vehicles to prevent excessive noise.\nThe EPA stated that, according to Article 26 of the Noise Control Act, vehicle owners or users are to be penalized with fines of NT$1,800-3,600 for not complying with the Motor Vehicle Noise Control Standards. Violators failing to improve before the given deadline will be subject to further penalties for each occurrence. Also, the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act specifies that vehicle owners or drivers are to be fined NT$6,000-24,000 if found to be producing noise by dismantling mufflers or other means, and can be banned on the spot from driving the vehicle. During joint operations of environmental, police, and motor vehicle agencies, law enforcement officers issued penalties based on the most serious offenses found on-site.\nIn 2017, the EPA will coordinate a trial run with several counties and cities aimed at preventing reported vehicles from reinstalling modified exhaust pipes. Violations will be reported and penalties will be issued during roadside inspections. The EPA urges owners not to test their luck. Since inappropriately modified vehicles greatly disturb the peace, violators will surely receive punishment in accordance with relevant regulations.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Noise Control", "titlename": "Environmental, Police, and Mobile Vehicle Agencies Jointly Crack Down on Noisy Modified Vehicles", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-3" }, { "no": "3538", "title": "Mobile Source Pollution Control in Taiwan", "preview": "Air\nMobile Source Pollution Control in Taiwan \nMobile pollution source control is one of the EPA’s major air pollution control targets. To control pollution from motor vehicle emissions, the central government is currently taking measures in the following five directions: controls on new vehicles, controls on in-use vehicles, promotion of clean fuels, promotion of low-polluting vehicles and traffic control measures. The measures add up to comprehensive controls for motorcycle pollution emissions from the design and production stages all the way to end-use, for effectively reducing the air pollution from mobile sources and improving air quality. To control vehicle exhaust pollution, the Taiwan government has continued to push for the use of clean vehicles and clean fuels, and also works on the planning and utilization of mass transportation as a medium-term goal. In the long term, the EPA seeks to pursue sustainable development and reduce the use of private motor vehicles.", "content": "Mobile Source Pollution Control in Taiwan \nMobile pollution source control is one of the EPA’s major air pollution control targets. To control pollution from motor vehicle emissions, the central government is currently taking measures in the following five directions: controls on new vehicles, controls on in-use vehicles, promotion of clean fuels, promotion of low-polluting vehicles and traffic control measures. The measures add up to comprehensive controls for motorcycle pollution emissions from the design and production stages all the way to end-use, for effectively reducing the air pollution from mobile sources and improving air quality. To control vehicle exhaust pollution, the Taiwan government has continued to push for the use of clean vehicles and clean fuels, and also works on the planning and utilization of mass transportation as a medium-term goal. In the long term, the EPA seeks to pursue sustainable development and reduce the use of private motor vehicles. \nAs the economy developed and gross domestic product (GDP) grew, the public’s consumer demands have also grown, leading to the rapid growth of motor vehicle ownership. In Taiwan, air pollution in densely populated urban areas largely stem from motor vehicle emissions, which not only severely affect urban air quality but also harm the public’s health. Mobile pollution source control has thus become a major air pollution control project.\nCurrently, Taiwan’s mobile pollution source control is promoted in the following five major directions:\n1. New vehicle controls: tightening emission standards in phases; inspections of new vehicle models; random inspections of new vehicles\n2. In-use vehicle controls: includes regular motorcycle emission inspections; random inspections on motorcycles and diesel vehicles; encouraging reporting of vehicles with visible exhaust smoke; speeding up the phasing-out of two-stroke motorcycles; and, promoting in-use diesel vehicle maintenance systems\n3. Promoting the use of clean fuels: formulating control standards for gasoline and diesel; collecting air pollution fees for vehicle fuels; subsidizing liquefied petroleum gas; and, bans on illegal fuels\n4. Promoting low-polluting vehicles: promoting the use of electric bikes, electric cars, and electric buses; promoting the establishment of battery swap systems; and providing subsidies for the purchase of electricity-assisted bicycles and electric bikes\n5. Traffic control measures: encouraging the use of mass transportation systems; promoting environmentally-friendly driving habits, idling stop systems, and switching off of engines when parked\nMotorcycle control measures\nThe number of motor vehicles in Taiwan started growing year by year since 2003 and reached a peak of 22.34 million in 2012. Despite a slight decrease after 2013, statistics show there were still 21.51 million motor vehicles at the end of December 2016, about 1.16 times that at the end of 2003 (18.5 million). The majority of these motor vehicles are motorcycles, which reached approximately 13.66 million by the end of December 2016, comprising 63.5% of the total number of motor vehicles. The ownership ratio has increased from 81.8 motor vehicles per 100 people in 2003, to 91.4 per 100 people at the end of December 2016.\nMotorcycles are the most common private vehicle in Taiwan and have become the largest and densest mobile pollution source. Therefore, the EPA hopes to reduce pollution emissions from motorcycles by implementing the following control measures:\n1. Strengthening emission standards\nThe Sixth Phase of Motorcycle Emission Standards was announced on 28 October 2013, and took effect on 1 January 2017. Also announced on the same day, the Seventh Phase standards will take effect on 1 January 2021. Major control measures include inspections for in-use motorcycles and random testing for new ones. Inspections for new models are separated into inspections for prototypes and mass production models. Standards for carbon dioxide (CO), hydrocarbon (HC), and nitrogen oxide (NOX) from motorcycle exhaust pipes are tested both when vehicles are running and idling. Standards for particulate matters are tested both visually and with instruments. \n2. Regular inspections, audits, and roadside random inspections\nA. Regular inspections: Local environmental bureaus mail out notices to motorcycle owners to go to bureau-certified stations for inspections. Vehicles that fail regular inspections are to improve on their shortcomings and pass a re-inspection within a month.\nB. Audits and random roadside inspections: Flexible inspections during roadside pull-overs are done on only a select few in-use motorcycles. However, this remains the most effective way to immediately reduce pollution emissions. Only by expanding regular motorcycle maintenance and inspection systems, which place all in-use vehicles under strict controls, can it be ensured that in-use motorcycles that have been in use for some time are in compliance with emission standards. \nIn addition to regular inspections, roadside pull-overs, and encouraging the phasing-out of old motorcycles, it is also necessary to reinforce emission standards for new vehicles in different phases. As all new motorcycles since 2017 come with on-board diagnostics (OBD) that give reminders for maintenance, the EPA will examine the possibility of replacing regular inspections with OBD. \n3. Inspections for new vehicles and random testing and controls\nManagement of new vehicles includes inspection of new models, random testing of new vehicles, and inspections for polluting components. Whether vehicles are made domestically or imported, enterprises must apply for the Compliance Certification for Gasoline Vehicle Emissions Inspections from the EPA, with all documents for the new models and test reports showing compliance with emission and endurance standards. Only when reviews are complete and the certification is granted can sales of new models commence. \nFor motorcycle manufacturers and importers, inspections for new vehicles are carried out every year by randomly picking out vehicles for pollution emission testing at designated inspection institutes, in order to verify that all new motorcycles on sale comply with emission standards. If a new vehicle fails random testing, the EPA will withdraw the model’s compliance certification and order enterprises to recall potentially unqualified motorcycles that have been sold to undergo modifications within a given period of time. \nIn addition, every year, in-use motorcycles within their warrant periods are recalled for pollution emission testing to make sure vehicles are compliant with emission standards throughout their warrant periods. Should any vehicles fail the testing, manufacturers or importers will be mandated to recall potentially unqualified motorcycles that have been sold to undergo modifications within a given period of time. \nThrough the above measures, comprehensive controls at all stages for motorcycle pollution emissions – from design and production to in-use – are implemented. \nFuture Outlook \nPromoting the use of mass transportation systems and reducing the use of private vehicles can effectively reduce pollution from motor vehicles. For future motor vehicle emission control, the EPA will keep pushing for the use of clean vehicles and clean fuels, with planning and utilization of mass transportation systems as the medium-term goal. Moreover, it will seek to reduce the use of private vehicles as the long-term sustainable development goal, in order to diminish pollution from traffic and move toward a truly clean planet.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Mobile Source Pollution Control in Taiwan", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-3" }, { "no": "3537", "title": "Online EIA Inquiry System Provides Instant Services", "preview": "EIA\nOnline EIA Inquiry System Provides Instant Services", "content": "Online EIA Inquiry System Provides Instant Services\nSince the online environmental impact assessment (EIA) inquiry system was established in 2001, around 6,000 environmental assessment documents have been entered into it. Members of the public and interested organizations can now look up the information freely online instead of needing to apply to the EPA to view such documents. To encourage public participation in the EIA process and increase transparency, the following functions are included in the system: EIA inquiry, EIA meeting information previews, meeting attendance applications, comments, case tracking, and so on.\nAfter re-examining the EIA review mechanism in accordance with the Executive Yuan’s request, the EPA has completed drafting the contents and timetable for amendments to the related regulations. The drafts of the amendments will be preannounced on the EIA online system, as will the amendments when they are finalized.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "EIA", "titlename": "Online EIA Inquiry System Provides Instant Services", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-2" }, { "no": "3536", "title": "Amendments to Stationary Source Air Pollution Fee Rates Preannounced", "preview": "Air", "content": "Amendments to Stationary Source Air Pollution Fee Rates Preannounced", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Amendments to Stationary Source Air Pollution Fee Rates Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-2" }, { "no": "3535", "title": "Waste Flow Report to Be Extended to Supermarkets and Megamarkets", "preview": "Waste\nWaste Flow Report to Be Extended to Supermarkets and Megamarkets", "content": "Waste Flow Report to Be Extended to Supermarkets and Megamarkets", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Waste Flow Report to Be Extended to Supermarkets and Megamarkets", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-2" }, { "no": "3534", "title": "Amendments to Drinking Water Standards Announced", "preview": "Toxic Substance\nAmendments to Drinking Water Standards Announced\nTo strengthen drinking water quality management and further improve drinking water quality, the EPA amended Articles 3, 4 and 5 of the Drinking Water Standards（飲用水水質標準）, tightening standards for six health-affecting substances: nickel, mercury, chlorite, vinyl chloride, toluene, and xylene. Post-disaster standards for bromate and turbidity were also amended. The EPA expects the amendments to heighten the safety of Taiwan’s drinking water.", "content": "Amendments to Drinking Water Standards Announced\nTo strengthen drinking water quality management and further improve drinking water quality, the EPA amended Articles 3, 4 and 5 of the Drinking Water Standards（飲用水水質標準）, tightening standards for six health-affecting substances: nickel, mercury, chlorite, vinyl chloride, toluene, and xylene. Post-disaster standards for bromate and turbidity were also amended. The EPA expects the amendments to heighten the safety of Taiwan’s drinking water. \nCurrently, 68 items fall under control of the Drinking Water Standards. The EPA continues to review these regulations in light of environmental changes, technological developments and international management trends. To formulate the amendments, the EPA first assessed the current status of drinking water and the environmental background information of Taiwan, and collated drinking water standards, toxicological data and relevant regulations from a wide range of sources such as the World Health Organization and other countries. The EPA then examined the risk assessment data cited in the Drinking Water Standards and decided to enforce tighter controls on nickel, mercury, chlorite, vinyl chloride, toluene and xylene. Moreover, after taking into consideration the public’s increasing awareness and demands regarding drinking water quality, the EPA also amended the post-disaster standards for bromate and turbidity. \nThe main points of the amendments are as follows:\n? The standard for nickel will be tightened in phases: After taking into consideration the need of some water supply businesses to adjust the operation of their equipment or water purification units, the amendments are to be carried out in phases. The standard of 0.07 mg\/liter will take effect on 1 July 2018, while the standard of 0.02 mg\/liter will take effect on 1 July 2020.\n? The standard for mercury will be tightened to 0.001 mg\/liter effective from 1 July 2020. \n? The control standard for chlorite is tightened to 0.7 mg\/liter.\n? The control standard for vinyl chloride is tightened to 0.0003 mg\/liter and will be effective from 1 July 2018.\n? The standard for toluene is tightened to 0.7 mg\/liter.\n? The standard for xylene is tightened to 0.5 mg\/liter. \n? The turbidity limit for drinking water was set at 4 NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Units) when heavy rains or other natural disasters cause its source water to exceed 1,500 NTU. The limit has been amended because water can still be used for cleaning, flushing or other domestic use even if it is not suitable for drinking. Contingency measures need to be taken, however, to inform the general public that the water is not suitable for drinking, and provisional drinking water facilities need to be set up to provide drinking water to the general public. The competent environmental protection authorities at various levels need to strengthen the sampling and testing of water quality at such provisional drinking water stations. \n? In accordance with the amendment to Article 4, the conditions for the application of the free residual chlorine standard are amended accordingly.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Amendments to Drinking Water Standards Announced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-2" }, { "no": "3533", "title": "EPA, Police and Prosecutors Jointly Uncover Illegal Refilling at Excavation Sites", "preview": "Environmental Inspection\nEPA, Police and Prosecutors Jointly Uncover Illegal Refilling at Excavation Sites\nThe EPA joined forces with the Hsinchu District Prosecutors Office, the Seventh Special Police Corps, and the Hsinchu County Environmental Protection Bureau to apprehend a construction company that was illegally refilling excavation sites with industrial waste. On 23 January 2017, a total of 83 people were charged for being involved in the crime and were placed under further investigation. The offenders in this case can be sentenced for up to five years in prison and fined up to NT$15 million.", "content": "EPA, Police and Prosecutors Jointly Uncover Illegal Refilling at Excavation Sites\nThe EPA joined forces with the Hsinchu District Prosecutors Office, the Seventh Special Police Corps, and the Hsinchu County Environmental Protection Bureau to apprehend a construction company that was illegally refilling excavation sites with industrial waste. On 23 January 2017, a total of 83 people were charged for being involved in the crime and were placed under further investigation. The offenders in this case can be sentenced for up to five years in prison and fined up to NT$15 million. \nUnused land located in Xinfeng Township, Hsinchu County was originally scheduled for a nursing home. However, the company hired to construct the facility illegally took a large amount of high quality soil from the site and replaced it with industrial wastes. This activity caused serious damage to the environment and may also exacerbate soil erosion in the future. \nAfter gathering evidence for several months, the EPA and the police discovered that the land had already been refilled with about 400 truck-loads of sludge and industrial waste. Two main suspects and 83 accomplices were captured and sent to the Hsinchu District Prosecutors Office for further investigation in accordance with the Waste Disposal Act.\nThe EPA reiterates that it has formed an alliance with prosecutors, police and local environmental protection bureaus and will continue this cooperation to crack down on environmental crimes. If any member of the public suspects any violations regarding illegal waste dumping, river pollution, or any other types of environmental pollution, they are encouraged to report it to the EPA by calling 0800-066666.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Inspection", "titlename": "EPA, Police and Prosecutors Jointly Uncover Illegal Refilling at Excavation Sites", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-2" }, { "no": "3532", "title": "2016 River Water Quality Best Since Monitoring Started", "preview": "Water\n2016 River Water Quality Best Since Monitoring Started \nThe EPA has announced the river water quality monitoring results for 2016. The proportion of heavily-polluted river segments, considered an important indicator for river quality, was greatly reduced to 2.5% overall for 50 major rivers. Meanwhile, the proportion of heavily-polluted segments in the 11 key rivers undergoing remediation decreased to 7.4%, compared to 13.2% in 2001. Results for both the 50 major rivers and the 11 key remediation rivers are the best results ever observed since river monitoring started in 2001. The EPA hopes that by encouraging reporting of violations, increased penalties, better total heavy metal discharge control, and livestock waste reutilization will help achieve the goal of getting all rivers off the heavily-polluted list as soon as possible.", "content": "2016 River Water Quality Best Since Monitoring Started \nThe EPA has announced the river water quality monitoring results for 2016. The proportion of heavily-polluted river segments, considered an important indicator for river quality, was greatly reduced to 2.5% overall for 50 major rivers. Meanwhile, the proportion of heavily-polluted segments in the 11 key rivers undergoing remediation decreased to 7.4%, compared to 13.2% in 2001. Results for both the 50 major rivers and the 11 key remediation rivers are the best results ever observed since river monitoring started in 2001. The EPA hopes that by encouraging reporting of violations, increased penalties, better total heavy metal discharge control, and livestock waste reutilization will help achieve the goal of getting all rivers off the heavily-polluted list as soon as possible. \nThe EPA states that the three major river pollution sources in Taiwan are household, industrial and livestock wastewater. Rolling inspections and analysis on nationwide river water quality are conducted on a yearly basis. Seriously polluted river segments are to be set as key monitoring station sites for water quality improvement, so as to accomplish the ultimate goal of lowering water pollution at all monitoring stations to the moderately polluted level or less. \nRegarding the three major river pollution sources, the EPA has been working on the implementation of various reduction strategies for severe pollution and is continuously enhancing the plans. Not only was the Water Pollution Control Act （水污染防治法）amended on 4 February 2015 to raise the maximum fine imposed for violations to NT$20 million, but illegal gains in the event of serious violations will also be confiscated. The amendments also encouraged the public to report violations. If the information regarding a violation is proven to be accurate, the informer will be rewarded. \nNew provisions were also added to the Water Pollution Control Act which stipulate enterprises that discharge, store, or dilute wastewater without permits will not only be fined but also be ordered to suspend their operations or business entirely. To carry out total quantity control of river pollution, the EPA selected three cities\/counties (Taoyuan City, Taichung City, and Changhua County) with more serious farmland pollution in 2016 to promote the Total Heavy Metal Discharge Quantity Control Plan for Farmland Water Body Protection, and completed the delineation and announcement of total quantity control zones. \nMoreover, the EPA assists local governments to conduct inspections and tighten the effluent standards of pollution sources located along the banks of some rivers. To expedite the pollution improvement process for rivers with serious pollution or high heavy metal values, the EPA will continue to supervise and assist local governments to promote total quantity control of heavily polluted river segments and to tighten effluent standards so as to reduce river pollution caused by industrial wastewater.\nFurthermore, the EPA has been continuously promoting the use of livestock fermentation liquid and sediments as farmland fertilizer. As of the end of 2016, there were a total of 22 livestock farms whose farmland fertilizer usage applications had been approved, totaling 146 hectares of irrigated agricultural land. The EPA expects to reach the goal of approving farmland fertilizer usage applications from at least 100 livestock farms in 2017, and to continually reduce the wastewater effluent discharge into rivers.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "2016 River Water Quality Best Since Monitoring Started", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-2" }, { "no": "3531", "title": "Monitoring Resources Integrated For Better Information Sharing and Service", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring\nMonitoring Resources Integrated For Better Information Sharing and Service\nTo provide more transparent disclosure of national air quality monitoring data, the EPA has combed through and inspected the monitoring resources of all environmental authorities, special industrial parks, and state-run enterprises to integrate real-time data from a total of 205 monitoring stations (Figure 1). Data integration not only provides finer data resolution with more air quality monitoring data, but also facilitates the analysis of pollution causes and creation of model simulations to help with control measure implementation.", "content": "Monitoring Resources Integrated For Better Information Sharing and Service\nTo provide more transparent disclosure of national air quality monitoring data, the EPA has combed through and inspected the monitoring resources of all environmental authorities, special industrial parks, and state-run enterprises to integrate real-time data from a total of 205 monitoring stations (Figure 1). Data integration not only provides finer data resolution with more air quality monitoring data, but also facilitates the analysis of pollution causes and creation of model simulations to help with control measure implementation.\nThe EPA stated that a total of 205 monitoring stations that completed integration include 76 established by the EPA, 26 established by special municipality governments, 33 established in special industrial parks as required by the EPA, and 70 of large enterprises (Figure 2). Among the 205 monitoring stations, 62 are in Kaohsiung City, 18 each in New Taipei City and Taoyuan City, 16 in Taichung City, 15 in Taipei City, 12 in Yunlin County, 11 in Miaoli County, and 10 each in Tainan City and Changhua County. Also, there are more than 10 monitoring stations in each county or city which has industrial parks (Table 1). \nThe integration of the data of the 205 monitoring stations are displayed on the EPA Air Quality Monitoring Network website. Combined with Taiwan Geospatial One Stop (TGOS), the national air quality monitoring data resource integration display platform is established by providing monitoring data for applications across different platforms (webpages or mobile devices) in street or satellite models via interactive webpage design technology. Users can freely zoom in and navigate through maps to be better informed about the air quality in their surrounding environments, from the general conditions of national air quality to detailed conditions of locations right next to individual monitoring stations. Data from all integrated stations are now available on the display platform, and in the future, users will be able to choose to activate different models or layer multiple models together via Geographic Information System (GIS) technology. \nThe EPA points out that integration of national air quality monitoring data not only improves clear disclosure but also shows the government, competent authorities of industrial parks, and large enterprises such as Taipower, CPC Corporation, and China Steel are more determined and responsive to improving air quality. The EPA will continue its active supervision of emission sources and take measures to cut emissions so as to continuously improve air quality.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "Monitoring Resources Integrated For Better Information Sharing and Service", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-2" }, { "no": "3530", "title": "EPA and EPBs Co-announce 2017 Air Quality Improvement Targets", "preview": "Air\nEPA and EPBs Co-announce 2017 Air Quality Improvement Targets\nThe EPA and local environmental protection bureaus (EPBs) held a press conference on 18 January 2017 to announce the air quality improvement targets for 2017. The main target is to reduce red alert days by 20% as compared to 2015. To achieve this goal, the EPA has set three targets: halving the quantity of two-stroke motorcycles to 500,000, eliminating 10,000 old diesel vehicles, and subsidizing 1,000 boilers to switch to burning natural gas instead of oil within two years.", "content": "EPA and EPBs Co-announce 2017 Air Quality Improvement Targets\nThe EPA and local environmental protection bureaus (EPBs) held a press conference on 18 January 2017 to announce the air quality improvement targets for 2017. The main target is to reduce red alert days by 20% as compared to 2015. To achieve this goal, the EPA has set three targets: halving the quantity of two-stroke motorcycles to 500,000, eliminating 10,000 old diesel vehicles, and subsidizing 1,000 boilers to switch to burning natural gas instead of oil within two years. \nEPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee states that there is no shortcut to air pollution amelioration, and the key is to make sure control measures are properly and thoroughly executed. Although facing uncertainties caused by weather conditions, the EPA is confident it can achieve its air quality improvement targets by working with local environmental protection bureaus to actively promote related control measures.\nTo reduce pollution from sources such as factories, automobiles, open-air burning and fugitive dust, the EPA explains that it will continue to tighten emission standards, strengthen inspections, and carry out existing control measures. Additionally, the EPA will also formulate specific and quantifiable improvement targets for small boilers, two-stroke motorcycles and old diesel vehicles that are high in quantity, low in pollution emission, and which have advanced pollution control technology available for them. The improvement targets include: providing subsidies of up to NT$500,000 for each case, to about 1,000 hotels, hospitals and schools with boilers that use heavy oil, so that they can install natural gas or electricity heating equipment within two years; phasing out 10,000 heavy duty diesel trucks that meet the phase 1 and phase 2 vehicular emission standards, along with 500,000 two-stroke motorcycles; installing soot filters on 1,000 diesel vehicles; and subsidize 500 enterprises to hire green trucks\nThe EPA will work closely with local environmental protection bureaus to promote a variety of air pollution control measures and allocate reduction tasks and responsibilities according to the types and quantity of pollution sources in each area. To accomplish the goal of reducing red alert days (PM2.5 > 54 μg\/m?) by 20 percent compared to 2015, the EPA also plans to provide control tools by formulating air pollution control regulations and increase the amount of subsidies to NT$2 billion for 2017 and 2018 each.\nIn addition, local environmental protection bureaus have set their priorities: “Fresh Air, Livable City” for Taipei; “Gas Replaces Oil, Fresh Air for Taichung” for Taichung; and “Air Pollution Governance Demonstration from Siaogang” for Kaohsiung. In the future, the EPA will continue the cooperation with other ministries and local environmental protection bureaus. The EPA also urges the general public to work together on pollution control to improve air quality.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "EPA and EPBs Co-announce 2017 Air Quality Improvement Targets", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-2" }, { "no": "3529", "title": "Amendments to Waste Disposal Act Take Effect", "preview": "Waste\nAmendments to Waste Disposal Act Take Effect \nThe amendments to the Waste Disposal Act were announced on 18 January 2017 and took effect on 20 January. They clarify the definitions of wastes and what constitutes wastes to enhance enterprises’ related responsibilities for disposal and environmental improvement. The amendments also cover regulations concerning labeling for product reuse and waste flow tracking, with harsher penalties for violators.", "content": "Amendments to Waste Disposal Act Take Effect \nThe amendments to the Waste Disposal Act were announced on 18 January 2017 and took effect on 20 January. They clarify the definitions of wastes and what constitutes wastes to enhance enterprises’ related responsibilities for disposal and environmental improvement. The amendments also cover regulations concerning labeling for product reuse and waste flow tracking, with harsher penalties for violators. \nThe EPA stated that the latest amendments to the Waste Disposal Act have amended a total of 18 articles by adding three new ones and revising 15 others. \n1. Article 2 added the definition of “waste” and revised the definitions of general and industrial wastes to make the waste produced in daily life by industry staff included as general waste. In addition, industrial waste is defined in Article 2-1.\n2. An addition in Article 14 Paragraph 2 states that the central competent authorities are authorized to announce the ways of clearance and disposal of household waste.\n3. An addition in Article 28 states that executing authorities can be commissioned for industrial waste treatment only when surplus capacity is available after household waste is appropriately treated; a related provision is also added to authorize the central competent authorities to coordinate the use of existing waste treatment facilities when they are needed. \n4. Amended Article 30 clearly states that enterprises bear the same responsibility as the organizations that are commissioned for waste disposal. If the commissioned organization does not handle waste properly while its commissioner fails in his\/her supervising duty, both are liable for the clearing of the said waste as well as the improvement of the affected environment.\n5. Added into Article 39 was a stipulation that, for industrial waste with common reuse purposes falling under two industry competent authorities, the central competent authorities are to draft reuse management regulations if deemed necessary. Article 39-1 is also added to state that, for products announced by the central competent authorities for reuse, the central industry competent authorities are responsible for tracking and management of product flow and, when needed, conduct environmental monitoring.\n6. Revisions were made to provisions on penalties, to raise maximum prison sentences and fines and impose harsher penalties based on each violation, instead of continuous penalizing on a daily basis. \n7. Article 63-1 is added to authorize the central competent authorities to draft regulations concerning penalty standards and calculations of illegal gains.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Amendments to Waste Disposal Act Take Effect", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-2" }, { "no": "3528", "title": "Taiwan’s Chemical Substances Registration System", "preview": "Toxic Substance\nTaiwan’s Chemical Substances Registration System \nSince the implementation of the Regulation of New and Existing Chemical Substances Registration, the chemical substances registration system has been online for more than two years. The EPA serves as the hub of the registration system, having received a total of 11,912 submissions, and listing 26,829 chemical substances, during Phase 1 of existing chemical substance registration up to 31 Dec 2016. The Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau (TCSB) of the EPA will announce the first batch of existing chemical substances that are subject to the standard registration before the end of 2017.", "content": "Taiwan’s Chemical Substances Registration System \nSince the implementation of the Regulation of New and Existing Chemical Substances Registration, the chemical substances registration system has been online for more than two years. The EPA serves as the hub of the registration system, having received a total of 11,912 submissions, and listing 26,829 chemical substances, during Phase 1 of existing chemical substance registration up to 31 Dec 2016. The Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau (TCSB) of the EPA will announce the first batch of existing chemical substances that are subject to the standard registration before the end of 2017. \nBased on the authority given by the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act, the EPA announced the Regulation of New and Existing Chemical Substances Registration on 11 Dec 2014 and officially launched the chemical substances registration system to build up data needed for all governmental agencies’ controls on chemical substances.\nLegal basis\nThe EPA has been implementing controls on chemical substances based on the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act. The amendments to the act added provisions for the chemical substances registration system on 11 Dec 2013, and related regulations have been drafted for implementation since then. \nThe registration system involves a variety of chemical substance industries, each with a large number of operating enterprises, with relevant review standards, registration tools, and instructions that are all highly technical. In addition, the Ministry of Labor (MOL) has also implemented the Occupational Safety and Health Act and its relevant registration regulations. Under the coordination of the National Development Council, the EPA serves as the registration window to launch the single-window registration system. This practice simplifies the previous procedure of submitting duplicate registrations to two agencies and effectively lightens burdens on enterprises, an example of successful interministerial efforts to streamline administration for public convenience. \nThe registration regulations focus on requiring enterprises manufacturing or importing new chemical substances to submit registrations ahead of conducting their operations. Based on the purpose of use and the tonnage of the new chemical substances, the registration has to be submitted as standard, simplified, or small-amount registration. Only after the registration is approved can the enterprise start manufacturing or importing the substance. Enterprises that manufacture or import more than 100 kilograms of existing chemical substances have to complete the Phase 1 registrations for existing chemical substances. The EPA will announce the standard registration lists for existing chemical substances in different phases in the future, and manufacturing and import can continue only after the registrations are completed accordingly.\nResults of chemical substance registration\nSince the launch of the chemical substances registration system, a common registration platform was co-established by the EPA and the Ministry of Labor (MOL). On 8 September 2015, the MOL announced a list of 101,089 existing chemical substances. In accordance with legal requirements, the EPA had requested all enterprises that imported or manufactured over 100 kg of existing chemical substances annually to abide by the Phase 1 chemical substance registration starting from 1 September 2015 to 31 March 2016.\nDuring this period, the EPA received over 10,000 submissions and checked more than 156,000 separate items of information. Analysis showed that over 25,000 substances were registered, of which the top use was for purposes at industrial sites (37.27%), followed by usage for formulation (32.48%). The categories of products are much more diverse.\nBy 31 Dec 2016, the EPA had received over 11,912 submissions of Phase 1 existing chemical substances registration, consisting of 26,829 chemical substances. The registration of existing chemical substances is crucial for building up a complete database on these chemicals. The registry will be used as a reference for evaluating which substances will be announced as part of the first batch of chemicals that should be registered through standard registration, and also for the later work of determining toxic chemical substances that need to be controlled.\nThe EPA expects to announce by the end of 2017 the first batch of designated existing chemicals for standard registration. Details of these chemicals need to be submitted according to volumes, tonnages and items stated in the regulations. The information to be submitted includes hazard category and labeling, physical and chemical properties, and safety information. Chemicals evaluated to be toxic will be announced as toxic chemical substances and subject to controls for operations like manufacturing, import, export, sale, shipping, use, storage, and disposal in order to reduce the public’s exposure to risks.\nFor registration of new chemical substances, a total of 1,230 submissions were processed between 11 Dec 2014 and 31 Dec 2016. A total of 507 submissions also had been processed for prior evaluations of low-profile polymers.\nThrough the establishment of the chemical substances registration center and the registration platform in the past two years, the EPA has provided customized promotions to over 3,700 enterprises via official letters and emails; organized 40 seminars on the related regulations, system operation and international exchange conventions, with more than 5,900 participants; and replied to questions in over 8,500 phone calls, 2,200 emails, 600 instant messages, and 70 messages on Facebook. \nFuture outlook\nThe EPA established the Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau (TCSB) on 28 Dec 2016 as a designated competent authority, which will carry out chemical substances registration more efficiently. Yet it will still rely on joint cooperation with relevant ministries, industries, and academia. The TCSB will keep conducting rolling reviews and updating registration tools, provide Q&A services, and disseminate information to assist enterprises to submit registrations. The TCSB will also promote the system via thorough communications, continuing to collect information on experiences and methods of chemical substances control systems and technical management in the European Union, the US, and Korea, as references for future policies.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Taiwan’s Chemical Substances Registration System", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-2" }, { "no": "3527", "title": "Autumn and Winter Air Quality Improved by Adopting AQI", "preview": "Air\nAutumn and Winter Air Quality Improved by Adopting AQI", "content": "Autumn and Winter Air Quality Improved by Adopting AQI\nThe Air Quality Index (AQI) has been used by the EPA since 1 December 2016. The EPA initiates enhanced control measures whenever the index exceeds 100 (AQI>100). At present, the EPA is coordinating with industry to set times for annual maintenance or to reduce their operation capacity during periods prone to worse overall air quality. In addition, the EPA is requesting enterprises to enhance the efficiency of their pollution control equipment. To further prevent the deterioration of air quality, the EPA has also strengthened inspections of old, heavy duty diesel trucks. Since the adoption of the AQI, as of 18 December 2016, a total of 112 diesel trucks have been inspected in central and southern Taiwan on days with poor air quality. Of these trucks, two were found faulty. The violators have been reported and issued deadlines to make improvements. The EPA has also asked government-run enterprises to set an example by raising the operation efficiency of pollution control equipment, thereby reducing air pollutant emissions to improve air quality. In response to the recent days with poor air quality, the EPA has requested local environmental authorities to strengthen inspections and penalty issuance to pollution sources that violate regulations. The EPA also instructed local environmental bureaus to report inspection results in accordance with the Poor Air Quality Notification Procedures", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Autumn and Winter Air Quality Improved by Adopting AQI", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-1" }, { "no": "3526", "title": "Management Regulations for Pest Control Operators Amended", "preview": "Environmental Sanitation\nManagement Regulations for Pest Control Operators Amended \nWith a view toward enhancing the professional services provided by pest control operators and personnel who apply environmental agents, the EPA amended the Pest Control Operators Management Regulations to strengthen the management of the use of environmental agents and to bolster the public’s awareness of the importance of safety in using environmental agents.", "content": "Management Regulations for Pest Control Operators Amended \nWith a view toward enhancing the professional services provided by pest control operators and personnel who apply environmental agents, the EPA amended the Pest Control Operators Management Regulations to strengthen the management of the use of environmental agents and to bolster the public’s awareness of the importance of safety in using environmental agents. \nIn addition to requesting the full-time presence and supervision of pest control professional technical personnel during the application of environmental agents, provisions were formulated to require technical personnel to wear identification badges during their operations so as to publicly display their qualifications. Moreover, the application personnel are required to participate in related training and refresher training sessions. To allow members of the general public to fully understand the characteristic of legal environmental agents used by the pest control operators, the operators are required to submit an operating plan to their clients before any operation begins. Only after the appropriate client signs onto the operating plan can the application begin. \nIn accordance with the provisions of the Environmental Agents Control Act, the EPA formulated and announced the Pest Control Operators Management Regulations. The management regulations had previously been amended several times. The main points of the latest amendments, made on 30 December 2016, are as follows:\n1.The pest control professional technical personnel must be on site on a full-time basis to supervise operations. The training and refresher training of pest control application personnel should be conducted by a governmental agency commissioned by the central competent authority\n2.The training record of the agent application personnel shall be sent online to the appropriate competent authorities for future reference. \n3.The pest control operators shall not use expired agents for pest control. \n4.The pest control operators shall submit an application plan to the competent authorities online before the application of environmental agents. \n5.The application records shall be compiled and reported to the competent authority on a monthly basis rather than yearly.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Sanitation", "titlename": "Management Regulations for Pest Control Operators Amended", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-1" }, { "no": "3525", "title": "Amendments to Remediation Fees Collection Regulations Announced", "preview": "Soil & Groundwater", "content": "Amendments to Remediation Fees Collection Regulations Announced", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil & Groundwater", "titlename": "Amendments to Remediation Fees Collection Regulations Announced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-1" }, { "no": "3524", "title": "Collection of Livestock Industry Water Pollution Control Fees Starts", "preview": "Water\nCollection of Livestock Industry Water Pollution Control Fees Starts \nLivestock industry operators will be required to pay water pollution control fees starting from 1 January 2017, and the EPA will begin collection of these fees on 1 July 2017. Entities subject to the livestock industry water pollution control fees are those that discharge wastewater into surface water bodies, further defined by criteria stated in the enterprise classification and definitions of the Water Pollution Control Act. To ease the impact on industry, the fees will be collected incrementally over years with discounts. The EPA is offering a 30 percent discount rate off the calculated sum for the first year, and the fees collected the following year will be 20 percent off, and so on. The EPA is planning to resume the original rate as of 2020.", "content": "Collection of Livestock Industry Water Pollution Control Fees Starts", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Collection of Livestock Industry Water Pollution Control Fees Starts", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-1" }, { "no": "3523", "title": "Air Quality Improved in 2016", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring\nAir Quality Improved in 2016\nAccording to air quality monitoring results from 1 January to 25 December 2016, the concentrations of most major air pollutants has fallen compared to the previous year. For example, there were decreases in the number of days with particular matters (PM10) levels exceeding standards, as well as a lower frequency of fine particular matters (PM2.5) readings higher than 150 according to the air quality index (AQI). There were also fewer days experiencing a maximum daily eight-hour average that exceeded limits. The only exception is that the number of days on which hourly O3 levels exceeded the limit has increased. The EPA points out that air quality in 2016 improved in large part due to improvements in both local and transboundary pollution, and a larger number of rainy days.", "content": "Air Quality Improved in 2016\nAccording to air quality monitoring results from 1 January to 25 December 2016, the concentrations of most major air pollutants has fallen compared to the previous year. For example, there were decreases in the number of days with particular matters (PM10) levels exceeding standards, as well as a lower frequency of fine particular matters (PM2.5) readings higher than 150 according to the air quality index (AQI). There were also fewer days experiencing a maximum daily eight-hour average that exceeded limits. The only exception is that the number of days on which hourly O3 levels exceeded the limit has increased. The EPA points out that air quality in 2016 improved in large part due to improvements in both local and transboundary pollution, and a larger number of rainy days. \nFrom 2015 to 2016, the percentage of days on which PSI values exceeded a threshold of 100 had increased from 0.55% to 0.64% mainly because of the growth in high ozone (O3) days. On the other hand, days with PM10 value readings beyond the standard had reduced significantly. Air quality red alert days across the whole nation had fallen by 13.5%, from 997 days in 2015 to 862 days in 2016. \nMonitoring statistics show that the concentrations of most major air pollutants declined every year, indicating that pollution control measures are gradually having an effect. The EPA also points out that weather conditions have a great influence on air quality. For example, the heavy rain in southern Taiwan around January and February 2016 considerably reduced the concentration of particulate matters. On the other hand, the frequent occurrence of typhoons in autumn was favorable to the growth of ozone, which was reflected in the greater number of days with high ozone levels.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "Air Quality Improved in 2016", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-1" }, { "no": "3522", "title": "Second Batch of Premises Subject to Indoor Air Quality Act Announced", "preview": "Air\nSecond Batch of Premises Subject to Indoor Air Quality Act Announced \nTo improve indoor air quality and protect public health, on 11 January 2017 the EPA announced the second batch of premises that are to comply with the Indoor Air Quality Act, in accordance with Article 6 of the Act. After thorough consideration of the capacity, flows of people, risks caused by indoor air pollutants, and particular needs of public and private premises, the EPA is announcing the premises that should comply with the Indoor Air Quality Act batch by batch. The latest announcement adds about 900 premises to the control lists.", "content": "Second Batch of Premises Subject to Indoor Air Quality Act Announced \nTo improve indoor air quality and protect public health, on 11 January 2017 the EPA announced the second batch of premises that are to comply with the Indoor Air Quality Act, in accordance with Article 6 of the Act. After thorough consideration of the capacity, flows of people, risks caused by indoor air pollutants, and particular needs of public and private premises, the EPA is announcing the premises that should comply with the Indoor Air Quality Act batch by batch. The latest announcement adds about 900 premises to the control lists. \nThe first batch of premises that should comply with the Indoor Air Quality Act was announced on 23 January 2014 and entered effect on 1 July 2014. To better control and improve indoor air quality and safeguard public health, the EPA has expanded the scope of premises subject to the Act and thus made this announcement on the second batch of premises that should comply with the Indoor Air Quality Act.\nThe EPA states that this announcement not only includes the expansion of the controlled facilities of the premises announced in the first batch, but also the expansion to six other types of premises: museums, business operation sites of financial institutions, performance halls, cinemas, KTV\/MTV premises and gymnasiums. In total, about 900 premises and facilities are listed in the second batch.\nThe EPA is giving a grace period to reduce the impact on affected premises. Premises established before and within a year of the effective date of the announcement are required to formulate an indoor air quality maintenance and management plan. Also, the first regular indoor air quality test is to be conducted within a year of the effective date. \nAs for the premises established after the effective date of the announcement, an indoor air quality maintenance and management plan has to be made as of the establishment of premises, and the first regular indoor air quality test must be conducted within a year of the establishment date of the premises. \nThe EPA stated that this announcement has officially become effective. Therefore, owners, managers or users of premises listed in the second batch should start carrying out indoor air quality management measures in compliance with the Indoor Air Quality Act, and thus avoid penalty or punishment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Second Batch of Premises Subject to Indoor Air Quality Act Announced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-1" }, { "no": "3521", "title": "Representatives of Asian Countries Meet in Taiwan to Discuss Carbon Market Schemes", "preview": "Climate Change\nRepresentatives of Asian Countries Meet in Taiwan to Discuss Carbon Market Schemes\nThe 22nd Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP22) held in Marrakesh, Morocco, passed the Marrakesh Action Proclamation on climate and sustainable development. The proclamation reaffirmed the importance of the market incentive mechanism to achieve environmental protection goals as well as lower carbon reduction costs. To extend experience exchanges on utilizing such mechanisms with neighboring Asian countries, the EPA held the 2016 Asia Dialogue on Carbon Trading and Measures for Carbon Emission Reduction on 13 December 2016. The dialogue invited experts from five countries – Japan, Korea, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam – to discuss and exchange experiences on the designs and practical applications of carbon trading mechanisms and reduction measures.", "content": "Representatives of Asian Countries Meet in Taiwan to Discuss Carbon Market Schemes\nThe 22nd Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP22) held in Marrakesh, Morocco, passed the Marrakesh Action Proclamation on climate and sustainable development. The proclamation reaffirmed the importance of the market incentive mechanism to achieve environmental protection goals as well as lower carbon reduction costs. To extend experience exchanges on utilizing such mechanisms with neighboring Asian countries, the EPA held the 2016 Asia Dialogue on Carbon Trading and Measures for Carbon Emission Reduction on 13 December 2016. The dialogue invited experts from five countries – Japan, Korea, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam – to discuss and exchange experiences on the designs and practical applications of carbon trading mechanisms and reduction measures. \nThe EPA held the 2016 Asia Dialogue on Carbon Trading and Measures for Carbon Emission Reduction on 13 December 2016. In his opening remarks, Minister Ying-Yuan Lee mentioned that Taiwan had passed the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act in 2015 under growing global concern with climate issues, and in November 2016 it further drafted the National Climate Change Action Guidelines as the general guidelines for tasks and policies regarding greenhouse gas reduction. Among over 200 action plans designed to achieve carbon reduction in Taiwan so far, the market incentive stands out as a significant focus for future promotion that will be used to reach environmental protection goals, while lowering costs for the regulated parties.\nThe dialogue centered on two topics: the current status of carbon markets; and, exchange on the practical use of carbon reduction tools, to discuss designs and applications of emission trading and carbon reduction tools. Representatives from Japan, Korea, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam were invited to exchange insights with local experts and academics who have long been involved in these issues. Experts from Japan and Korea, both of which had implemented carbon markets for several years, pointed out that a trading mechanism is able to lower regulated enterprises’ costs of carbon reduction. However, they also mentioned that the scope of regulated emission sources needs to be sufficiently wide, and importantly, a comprehensive, well-designed system of measurement, reporting and verification (MRV) that complies with international specifications is needed as a foundation to ensure good operations of such mechanisms.\nBesides the emission trading scheme, attending representatives also shared experiences on various other reduction tools, including projects executed domestically or with other countries. It was concluded that cross-national and cross-regional cooperation is a significant supporting factor to increase the effectiveness of the reduction tools. Based on the legal framework of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act, the EPA stated that, in order to establish the policy tools able to effectively lower impacts for and costs of the regulated enterprises, it is necessary to establish an exchange mechanism on regional reduction tools and strengthen partnerships to share practical experiences. In this light, the EPA will continue its cooperation with neighboring countries to complete the development of a legal infrastructure for a cap-and-trade system, as well as closely follow international trends and collaboration opportunities in the carbon market.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Representatives of Asian Countries Meet in Taiwan to Discuss Carbon Market Schemes", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-1" }, { "no": "3520", "title": "Efficiency Standards and Incentives Planned for Carbon Reduction", "preview": "Climate Change\nEfficiency Standards and Incentives Planned for Carbon Reduction\nIn accordance with Article 22 of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act, the EPA convened a public hearing on the draft of the Regulations Governing Incentives for Greenhouse Emission Sources Compliant with Efficiency Standards. The draft aims to encourage emission sources to take voluntary early reduction actions. A total of 47 industrial organizations and government agencies attended the hearing. Through the regulations, the EPA hopes to provide incentives for the emission sources to get an early start on carbon reduction as well as to prepare for a future cap-and-trade system under the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act.", "content": "Efficiency Standards and Incentives Planned for Carbon Reduction\nIn accordance with Article 22 of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act, the EPA convened a public hearing on the draft of the Regulations Governing Incentives for Greenhouse Emission Sources Compliant with Efficiency Standards. The draft aims to encourage emission sources to take voluntary early reduction actions. A total of 47 industrial organizations and government agencies attended the hearing. Through the regulations, the EPA hopes to provide incentives for the emission sources to get an early start on carbon reduction as well as to prepare for a future cap-and-trade system under the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act. \nThe EPA pointed out that Articles 22 and 27 pertain to incentive mechanisms of the overall structure of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act. The Regulations Governing Incentives for Greenhouse Emission Sources Compliant with Efficiency Standards were drafted under the authorization of Article 22 to establish an incentive mechanism through issuing reduction quotas. Different from other incentives in the forms of subsidies or tax cuts, the regulations aim to encourage enterprises to start implementing carbon reduction measures before the implementation of a cap-and-trade system. When the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from equipment and product manufacturing meets efficiency standards, reduction quotas will be issued to an enterprise which can be used to offset its emissions once the cap system is launched. These incentives offer enterprises a new way to reduce carbon emissions and to get an early start, which would help slow down the growth of domestic carbon emissions.\nSince the reward scheme in the drafted regulations is involved with how a future cap system will operate, careful planning and consideration of consistency with current reduction schemes are needed. Taking references from relevant reward regulations, the draft states that the implementation of carbon reduction measures shall not violate any environmental laws and regulations or cause any major public nuisances and disputes. The draft also requires enterprises to improve in areas such as energy efficiency and manufacturing technology. \nThe hearing participants included representatives from 47 organizations and governmental agencies, such as the National Federation of Industries, relevant industrial associations, central government agencies like the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), and local environmental bureaus. All participant comments were collected and are being reviewed by the EPA.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Efficiency Standards and Incentives Planned for Carbon Reduction", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-1" }, { "no": "3519", "title": "New Environmental Measures Take Effect on 1 January 2017", "preview": "General Policy\nNew Environmental Measures Take Effect on 1 January 2017 \nThe EPA has announced a total of 12 major environmental policies and measures closely relevant to the general public that are to take effect on 1 January 2017. Those related to air quality, the top public concern, include: first adding fine particular matters (PM2.5) into the classification of air pollution control zones; implementation of the sixth stage of motorcycle emission standards with stricter inspections on control standards for new vehicle models, new vehicles, and vehicles in use; and, implementation of the sixth stage of motorcycle noise standards with tighter controls. For water quality, measures include automated monitoring and testing on water quality and quantity for enterprises with a daily effluent discharge of 5,000 cubic meters or more; collection of water pollution control fees for the livestock industry; and, online reporting of regular wastewater testing data as well as water pollution control plans and relevant documents. Also, the public is encouraged to use public transportation by collecting environmental reward points. As for recycling policies, subsidy fee rates for recycling dry cell batteries, lighting sources, and certain recyclables have been adjusted.", "content": "New Environmental Measures Take Effect on 1 January 2017 \nThe EPA has announced a total of 12 major environmental policies and measures closely relevant to the general public that are to take effect on 1 January 2017. Those related to air quality, the top public concern, include: first adding fine particular matters (PM2.5) into the classification of air pollution control zones; implementation of the sixth stage of motorcycle emission standards with stricter inspections on control standards for new vehicle models, new vehicles, and vehicles in use; and, implementation of the sixth stage of motorcycle noise standards with tighter controls. For water quality, measures include automated monitoring and testing on water quality and quantity for enterprises with a daily effluent discharge of 5,000 cubic meters or more; collection of water pollution control fees for the livestock industry; and, online reporting of regular wastewater testing data as well as water pollution control plans and relevant documents. Also, the public is encouraged to use public transportation by collecting environmental reward points. As for recycling policies, subsidy fee rates for recycling dry cell batteries, lighting sources, and certain recyclables have been adjusted.\n1 Revision of the Classes of Air Pollution Control Zones for Special Municipalities, Counties, and Cities The control zone of fine particulate matters (PM2.5) is added as a new class. The air pollution control zones are divided into three classes in all special municipalities and counties (cities), except Taitung County, to strengthen the work on cutting down air pollution, improve air quality, and safeguarding public health.\n2 Mandatory online submission of registration for the sale and the use of bituminous coal, petroleum coke, or other air pollution-causing materials Those with permits for the sale and the use of bituminous coal, petroleum coke, or other air pollution-causing materials are to submit registrations via the internet.\n3 The sixth stage of Motorcycle Emission Control Standards 1. Control standards for inspections for new vehicle models, new vehicles, and vehicles in use are tightened to improve air quality.\n2. The warranty time limit and mileage are extended for emission control systems.\n3. On-board diagnostic (OBD) becomes mandatory equipment to remind vehicle users to conduct check-ups and repairs when vehicular abnormalities occur.\n4. Enterprises with annual sales of 10,000 motorcycles or more are required to manufacture or import a certain amount of green-energy vehicles, such as motorcycles equipped with idle-stops, hybrid electric motorcycles, or electric motorcycles. \n4 The Sixth Stage of Motorcycle Noise Control Standards 1. Adding constant speed noise, additional sound emission provisions (ASEP), and muffler endurance test\n2. Tightening the noise control standards for new vehicle models and random onsite testing for new vehicles\n5 Automated monitoring of water quality and quantity for enterprises with daily effluent discharge of 5,000 cubic meters or more Enterprises with daily effluent discharge of 5,000 cubic meters or more are required to conduct automated monitoring and testing on wastewater quality and quantity as well as transmit data to local governments to better control the discharge of pollutants.\n6 Collection of water pollution control fee for livestock industry As polluters should pay for their offences, the collection of water pollution control fees for the livestock industry was launched on 1 January 2017. Enterprises will begin filing for fee declarations on 1 July 2017 and do so every 6 months, with a 30% discount of fees in 2017, 20% in 2018, and so on until the full amount of fees is to be collected in 2020. Funds collected are earmarked for water pollution control, and to improve the overall quality of water bodies and enterprises will be encouraged to cut down pollution emission through economic incentives.\n7 Online reporting of regular wastewater testing data 1. Enterprises and operators of sewage systems are required to report testing data online. Reporting via written documents is allowed only with permission from the local competent authorities.\n2. Make it easier for enterprises and operators of sewage systems to report testing data online to minimize mistakes and improve public access to relevant information\n8 Online submission of application, alteration, or extension of water pollution control plans or permit documents 1. Enterprises and operators of sewage systems are required to apply for, alter, or extend water pollution plans or permit documents online. Reporting via written documents is allowed only with permission from the local competent authorities.\n2. Make it easier for enterprises and operators of sewage systems to apply for, alter, or extend water pollution plans or permits documents online to minimize mistakes and further public access to relevant information\n9 Expansion of the scope of the environmental reward points for public transportation Besides subways, green points can also be collected via taking buses, coaches, and trains to encourage the use of public transportation, cut down the use of private vehicles and better encourage the public to reduce the emission of air pollutants.\n10 Restrictions on manufacturing, import and sale of dry cell batteries 1. Heavy metal limits for three types of button batteries – alkaline manganese dioxide, mercury oxide, and silver oxide – are subject to control. Manufacturers and importers are required to apply for and obtain the mercury and cadmium content verification documents of designated batteries from the local competent authorities before manufacturing or importing. Also, the serial number on the verification documents is to be put in clear print on the packaging of the batteries and articles that use them.\n2. Retailers are forbidden to sell button batteries and articles using the batteries without verification documents or without clear labels on the packaging as required. Button batteries and articles using the batteries manufactured or imported before 1 January 2017 are not subject to the new regulations.\n3. Such measures are taken to prevent batteries containing a high level of heavy metals from entering and polluting the environment.\n11 Adding straight-tube, ring-tube, compact light bulbs, and ballasts with built-in light emitting diode (LED) lighting sources as recyclables 1. Straight-tube, ring-tube, compact light bulbs, and ballasts with built-in LED lighting sources have been announced as recyclables.\n2. Manufacturing and importing enterprises are required to pay the recycling fees.\n12 Revision of the Recycling Subsidy Fee Rates To better reflect the operating costs of recycling and to maintain the stable operation of the Resource Recycling Fund, the EPA has announced revisions to recycling fee rates. Rates for five items, such as waste computers and liquid-crystal display (LCD) screens, are lowered, and those for waste keyboards are raised. The changes took effect on 1 January 2017.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "New Environmental Measures Take Effect on 1 January 2017", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-1" }, { "no": "3518", "title": "Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau Established", "preview": "Toxic Substance\nToxic and Chemical Substances Bureau Established \nOn 28 December 2016, the Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau of the EPA was officially established as an agency dedicated to the source control, auditing, and inspection of toxic and chemical substances, thus protecting public health. In the inauguration ceremony for the bureau director, Yen-Ju Hsieh, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee vowed to safeguard food safety through strengthening the auditing and registration systems for toxic and chemical substances.", "content": "Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau Established \nOn 28 December 2016, the Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau of the EPA was officially established as an agency dedicated to the source control, auditing, and inspection of toxic and chemical substances, thus protecting public health. In the inauguration ceremony for the bureau director, Yen-Ju Hsieh, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee vowed to safeguard food safety through strengthening the auditing and registration systems for toxic and chemical substances. \n On 28 December 2016, the Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau (TCSB) of the EPA was officially established in order to better safeguard the public’s health.\nThe Executive Yuan sees food safety as a major public health issue, having listed it as top priority and having drawn up a mechanism to carry out President Tsai Ing-Wen’s Five-Defense Food Safety Promotion Policy. Based in part on policy that focuses on at-source control, the TCSB is a higher-level, integrated unit set up from within current government units. Specifically tasked with toxic substance control, it is responsible for preventing food related risks at their source by controlling and tracking hazardous substances at-source as well as conducting audits and inspections related to toxic and chemical substances. \nAt the inauguration ceremony of TCSB director Yen-Ju Hsieh, Minister Ying-Yuan Lee pointed out how food safety affects all members of the public and how the EPA has taken responsibility for the management of chemical substances currently not under government control. However, because of manpower and resource limitations, interministerial coordination is needed to comprehensively implement food safety policy. The EPA outlined the challenges of integrating at-source management arising from having a total of 12 government authorities and 17 sets of regulations for chemical substances management, which leads to difficulties obtaining information on involved enterprises, the amounts of chemicals processed, and details on chemical flows through industrial chains. \nVisions and Goals\n1. Serving as the designated unit for at-source management of chemical substances \nIn recent years the public has been paying increasing attention to food safety, and considers prevention is better than fixing problems afterwards. Raising the level of managing authority, which the EPA has done by founding the TCSB as the designated competent authority, not only increases the quality and the scope of toxic and chemical substances control, but also helps reduce food-related risks.\n2. Assisting related ministries to strengthen management of chemical substances \nCurrently, a total of 12 competent authorities are in charge of managing chemical substances, with 17 sets of regulations and 36 related management systems for more than 100,000 chemicals under control. One major challenge is to improve chemical substances information management, such as information on enterprises, amounts processed, and details on flows through industrial chains. Making a thorough inventory of existing management regulations and systems is another key challenge. The TCSB will help establish the Chemicals Cloud as a cross-ministerial chemical substance information service platform to provide relevant authorities with the current status of chemical substances management and to create references for future improvement.\n3. Strengthening interministerial cooperation on audits and inspections\nThe TCSB will screen chemical substances that may enter food production streams. This will be followed by selecting enterprises that show high risk potential by using the Chemicals Cloud. Relevant ministries will then enhance inspections to prevent the use of such chemicals in food products. Also, a firewall against food-related risks has been established by building up audit and inspection capacities for chemical substances.\n4. Staying aligned with international chemical substances control trends\nTo keep up with international standards, the TCSB will compile an inventory of existing chemical substance management regulations in accordance with the guidelines, Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM), as well as hold regular interministerial meetings to ensure that Taiwan’s chemicals management is in line with international standards. The management of about 3,000 chemical substances is expected to be reinforced by 2020.\nMajor Policies\n1. Use audits to keep listed chemical substances from entering food production \n2. Completing the national chemical substance control system and keeping up with international management trends\n3. Providing consumers food safety information by establishing a chemical substance knowledge map\n4. Screening sources of chemical substances that have the potential to enter food production, and screening relevant enterprises in the upper and lower food manufacturing stream\n5. Constructing a firewall against food-related risks by enhancing capacities for audits and inspections regarding chemical substances\n6. Establishing technical teams to conduct onsite testing and inspections during toxic accidents to reduce harms and risks to the environment\n7. Establishing an accident monitoring and consulting center to provide year-round real-time professional consulting services involving toxic and chemical substances\n8. Sharing Taiwan’s experiences on toxic and chemical accident response with other nations by establishing professional training venues and providing international training programs for Southeast Asia\n9. Assisting 5,000 joint emergency response associations to integrate civic capacities for response to toxic and chemical accidents and advance toward zero harm from accidents\nAdministrative Focuses\n1. Set priority on the strengthening of management of chemical substances that have food-related risk potentials\nTo adhere to the international trends, the TCSB aims to reinforce management of toxic and chemical substances as well as risk prevention and control of specific chemicals, while working on preventing and lowering food-related risks by tracking hazardous substances. The TCSB will first pick out illegal food additives as the control priority, including 57 chemical substances, and focus on separating factory management of food-grade chemicals from that of industry-grade ones. \n2. Gradually further reinforce management of high-profile chemical substances\nBesides chemical substances with high food-related risk potentials, the TCSB will gradually intensify the controls on chemical substances that are of high international concern, recommended by government agencies for tighter controls, or are of high concern to the general public. Based on the existing database established according to the Toxic and Chemical Substances Control Act（毒性化學物質管理法）covering about 27,000 chemical substances, the TCSB will draw up a target list for tighter control. The list will include substances of high public concern, or those recommended by the 12 relevant ministries, based on 17 sets of toxic and chemical substance control regulations. Interministerial meetings will be held with invited experts to decide whether further risk assessment is needed. After the collection of related information and conducting risk assessments recommended at the expert meetings, the TCSB expects to add 500 more substances to the control list each year. Hence, five years from now, controlled chemical substances will be increased to 3,000 from the current 310. The control will be carried out under toxic chemical substances management, chemical substances registration management and the promotion of the safe use of chemical substances.\n3. Continue construction of interministerial information service system on chemical substances control \nAs of the end of 2016, the Chemicals Cloud had undergone transferring of data from 36 information systems of 12 agencies. Data on 101,089 chemical substances was brought to one platform for system planning, research, and analysis and used to develop four new applications: basic information inquiry, multifaceted selection for questionable enterprises, cross-category data comparison, and a chemical substance knowledge map. Through information integration on the Chemicals Cloud, the TCSB will keep collecting chemical substance information and integrating management systems of all competent authorities, undertake effective audits and inspections with its limited manpower by narrowing down the scope of impact, and develop relevance analysis function modules based on individual agencies’ needs so as to enhance management structure and control quantity. \n4. Establishing an interministerial coordination mechanism\n(1) Establishing an interministerial coordination mechanism\nFor routine administrative coordination and management of regular chemical substances, an interministerial coordinating unit will be established. It will check listed suspects on the Chemicals Cloud platform, including chemicals with potential to enter food production streams such as malachite green and magnesium carbonate, and provide feedback to relevant departments via an inter-ministerial coordination mechanism so as to enhance joint at-source management.\n(2) Holding risk assessment panel meetings on chemical substances\nFor chemicals of high international concern, those recommended for tighter controls by government agencies, and those of high domestic public concern, interministerial panels will be organized with experts invited to analyze the harmful levels of listed substances and conduct risk level information and risk evaluations in order to implement controls under the three guidelines for toxic substances management, chemical substance registration and control, and assistance and promotion of safe use.\n(3) Establishing an expert evaluation panel for toxic and chemical substances control\nHarmful levels and risk assessments will be undertaken according to the EPA’s Toxic Chemical Substances Screening Principles for chemical substances after analysis at the interministerial expert meetings. Afterwards, meetings will bring together panels of experts on toxic chemical substances and relevant ministries to evaluate control options for the substances in question and to give advice on toxicity classification. \n(4) Establishing a chemical substance emergency report mechanism\nA. Modeling after the reporting mechanism of the Environmental Protection and Food Safety Coordination Board jointly operated by the EPA, Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW), Council of Agriculture (COA), and Consumer Protection Committee (CPC), to swiftly handle problems an integrated emergency contact and report mechanism will be established to deal with chemical substance-related matters and convene interministerial meetings when emergencies occur. \nB. The TCSB will hold regular meetings twice a year. In addition, emergency coordinating meetings will be convened when needed.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Toxic and Chemical Substances Bureau Established", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-1" }, { "no": "3517", "title": "Eleven Enterprises Receive Outstanding Toxic Chemical Substances Management Awards", "preview": "Toxic Substance\nEleven Enterprises Receive Outstanding Toxic Chemical Substances Management Awards", "content": "Eleven Enterprises Receive Outstanding Toxic Chemical Substances Management Awards\nTo enhance the accident prevention and emergency response capacities of the government and of toxic chemical substances operators, the EPA held the 2016 Toxic Accident Case Studies and the Outstanding Toxic Chemical Substances Management Awards Ceremony on 18 November 2016. More than 300 people from industry, government, academia and research institutes attended the event. \nThe event was divided into two parts. The first part was the award ceremony at which the winning enterprises also shared their experiences. Those with outstanding performance in toxic substance management were encouraged to share their know-how so that others can follow. A total of 30 enterprises participated in the contest, which was broken down into four categories: High-tech Industry, Traditional Industry, Non-manufacturing Industry, and R&D Units. Eleven enterprises with outstanding performance were chosen for the awards after deliberation and reviews. \nThe winning enterprises included:\n1. High-tech Industry: The 5th Plant of Taiwan Semiconductors Manufacturing Corporation and the Powerchip Technology Co. Ltd. \n2. Traditional Industry: Taiwan Chlorine Industries Ltd., The Kuanyin Plant of the Chemours Company, the Kuanyin Plant of Merck Ltd (Taiwan), the Lin-yuan Plant of Formosa Plastics Corporation, and China Steel Corporation. \n3. Non-manufacturing Industry: Taiwan Responsible Care Association, Fu Jen Catholic University, and National Taiwan University Hospital. \n4. R&D Units: Refining and Manufacturing Research Institute, CPC Corporation, Taiwan. \nThe winners of the awards and their achievements are available on the Disaster Prevention Management Information System (http:\/\/toxicdms.epa.gov.tw\/GTO\/).\nThe second part of the event was focused on the case studies of the 12 toxic accidents that took place in Taiwan in 2016. Through knowledge sharing and technology exchange, valuable references were provided to disaster relief agencies.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Eleven Enterprises Receive Outstanding Toxic Chemical Substances Management Awards", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-12" }, { "no": "3516", "title": "Malaysian Officials Visit Taiwan to Gain E-waste Recycling Experience", "preview": "Waste\nMalaysian Officials Visit Taiwan to Gain E-waste Recycling Experience", "content": "Malaysian Officials Visit Taiwan to Gain E-waste Recycling Experience\nMs. Datin Hanili Ghazali, Director of Hazardous Waste Division, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment of Malaysia, led six other Malaysian officials and four experts from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to visit Taiwan from 15-18 November 2016. In addition to paying a visit to the EPA, they also met with electrical and electronic waste recycling operators to gain some experience in e-waste recycling. Executive Secretary Yiong Shing Sheu of the Resource Recycling Fund of the EPA, met the delegation and shared Taiwan’s procedures and management system in e-waste recycling, allowing the visitors to gain a deeper understanding of how Taiwan’s resource recycling system works. \nIn October 2016, the Taiwan and US EPAs along with the Malaysian Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, jointly organized the sixth International E-waste Recycling Management Network conference in Kuala Lumpur. After the conference, the Malaysian government planned to promote domestic e-waste recycling starting in 2017, and arranged officials to visit Taiwan to go through an in-depth study of Taiwan’s e-waste recycling system. The Malaysian officials and accompanying experts were briefed on the Four-in-one Program for Recycling Resources, the operational structure of resource recycling funds, determination of the recycling fee rates, and the inspection and auditing of subsidized recycling organization", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Malaysian Officials Visit Taiwan to Gain E-waste Recycling Experience", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-12" }, { "no": "3515", "title": "Regulations for Encouraging Low-carbon Products Preannounced", "preview": "Regulations for Encouraging Low-carbon Products Preannounced\nTo effectively promote low-carbon products and increase the incentives for enterprises to apply for carbon reduction labels for their products, on 23 November 2016, the EPA in accordance w ith the provisions of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act, formulated the draft of the Regulations for Encouraging Low-carbon Products. \nThe purpose of the Regulations for Encouraging Low-carbon Products is to stipulate the conditions under which enterprises can apply for a reward for their products, and the ways they can be rewarded. The time period in which they can apply for the reward, as well as the review, abolition and revocation of the reward are also stated in the draft. \nPursuant to the provisions of Article 24 of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act, government agencies at all levels should strengthen their efforts to promote awareness of climate change mitigation and greenhouse gas emission reduction to schools, enterprises, and members of the public. A part of these efforts is the establishment of the low-carbon products labeling system and the promotion of low-carbon products. In this regard, the reward scheme is developed to provide incentives for enterprises. \nTherefore, in accordance with Article 27 Paragraph 2 of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act, the EPA formulated the Regulations for Encouraging Low-carbon Products, the main points of which are as follows: \n1. Definition of the products with the same type of carbon labels \n2. The conditions, time period and ways of application \n3. Reward measures \n4. Regulations pertaining to review procedures \n5. The conditions under which rewards are abolished or revoked \n6. The obligation of enterprises which receive the reward to participate in promotional activities", "content": "Regulations for Encouraging Low-carbon Products Preannounced\nTo effectively promote low-carbon products and increase the incentives for enterprises to apply for carbon reduction labels for their products, on 23 November 2016, the EPA in accordance w ith the provisions of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act, formulated the draft of the Regulations for Encouraging Low-carbon Products. \nThe purpose of the Regulations for Encouraging Low-carbon Products is to stipulate the conditions under which enterprises can apply for a reward for their products, and the ways they can be rewarded. The time period in which they can apply for the reward, as well as the review, abolition and revocation of the reward are also stated in the draft. \nPursuant to the provisions of Article 24 of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act, government agencies at all levels should strengthen their efforts to promote awareness of climate change mitigation and greenhouse gas emission reduction to schools, enterprises, and members of the public. A part of these efforts is the establishment of the low-carbon products labeling system and the promotion of low-carbon products. In this regard, the reward scheme is developed to provide incentives for enterprises. \nTherefore, in accordance with Article 27 Paragraph 2 of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act, the EPA formulated the Regulations for Encouraging Low-carbon Products, the main points of which are as follows: \n1. Definition of the products with the same type of carbon labels \n2. The conditions, time period and ways of application \n3. Reward measures \n4. Regulations pertaining to review procedures \n5. The conditions under which rewards are abolished or revoked \n6. The obligation of enterprises which receive the reward to participate in promotional activities", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Ecolabeling", "titlename": "Regulations for Encouraging Low-carbon Products Preannounced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-12" }, { "no": "3514", "title": "Wastewater Information Disclosure Unveils Major Violations", "preview": "Water\nWastewater Information Disclosure Unveils Major Violations\nThe EPA has established the Water Pollution Control Related Information Disclosure Platform (http:\/\/waterpollutioncontrol.epa.gov.tw) to provide instant information on the state of Taiwan’s aqueous environments. The platform provides information on water pollution control limits, online reporting, automated wastewater quality and quantity monitoring data, inspection results and penalties resulting from violations, for all enterprises on the control list. The platform gives the public quick access to water pollution related information and is a part of government efforts to improve information transparency.", "content": "Wastewater Information Disclosure Unveils Major Violations", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Wastewater Information Disclosure Unveils Major Violations", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-12" }, { "no": "3513", "title": "EPA’s Water Quality Protection Department Signs MOU with France’s CEDRE", "preview": "Water", "content": "EPA’s Water Quality Protection Department Signs MOU with France’s CEDRE\nTo strengthen marine pollution prevention and emergency response, EPA Deputy Minister, Mr. Thomas Shun Kuei Chan, led a delegation of officials and experts to France’s CEDRE (Center of Documentation, Research and Experimentation on Accidental Water Pollution), where a memorandum of understanding was signed between the Taiwan EPA’s Department of Water Quality Protection and CEDRE. On 22 November 2016, under the witnesses of Deputy Minister Chan and colleagues from both sides, Director Jiunn-Horng Yeh of the Department of Water Quality Protection signed the MOU with St?phane Doll, Director of France’s CEDRE. \nEstablished in 1979, CEDRE aims to provide governments and civilian organizations in France the necessary technologies, equipment consultations and professional knowledge to deal with spills of hazardous substances that occur in marine, coastal, or inland water bodies. To fulfill this task, CEDRE’s personnel has to stand by on a 24-hour basis, and, when necessary, be ready to rush to a site to join an emergency response team and be prepared to provide professional knowledge, advice and counter-measures from a sound scientific and technological standpoint. Over the years, CEDRE has participated in dealing with numerous marine pollution incidents in France and other countries, contributing significantly to emergency responses to marine pollution incidents. \nThe EPA is the competent authority for preventing marine pollution in Taiwan. To further build the capacity for marine pollution control and emergency response capabilities, the EPA has adopted the doctrine of: “Light equipment in the front, backed up by heavy equipment at the rear. Allocation of resources should be dispersed, whereas mobilization of manpower should be done by tier.” This allows the EPA to provide rapid initial response to control pollution incidents. In addition, to enhance marine pollution response efficiency, the EPA has been subsidizing local governments to purchase the necessary emergency response equipment. The EPA has also held several international symposiums on marine pollution emergency response practices, inviting experts from CEDRE, the European Union, the United States, France, and Australia to share their experiences and technologies. \nThe signing of the MOU demonstrates the determination of Taiwan and France to work together on marine pollution emergency response. Le T?l?gramme, a regional French newspaper, reported the signing of the MOU between Taiwan and France, stating that in the future both countries will work together glove-in-hand to face the multi-faceted challenges of marine pollution, and jointly exert their efforts in protecting the marine environment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "EPA’s Water Quality Protection Department Signs MOU with France’s CEDRE", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-12" }, { "no": "3512", "title": "Experts from 15 Countries Attend Water Pollution Law Enforcement Workshop Held in Taipei", "preview": "Water\nExperts from 15 Countries Attend Water Pollution Law Enforcement Workshop Held in Taipei \nThe Taiwan EPA co-hosted the Strategies and Practices for Water Pollution Law Enforcement Workshop with the USEPA and Asian Environmental Compliance and Enforcement Network (AECEN) in Taipei on November 8-10, which had a total of 61 participants from 15 nations. Officials from the Taiwan EPA, local environmental protection bureaus, and scholars and experts attended the workshop.", "content": "Experts from 15 Countries Attend Water Pollution Law Enforcement Workshop Held in Taipei \nThe Taiwan EPA co-hosted the Strategies and Practices for Water Pollution Law Enforcement Workshop with the USEPA and Asian Environmental Compliance and Enforcement Network (AECEN) in Taipei on November 8-10, which had a total of 61 participants from 15 nations. Officials from the Taiwan EPA, local environmental protection bureaus, and scholars and experts attended the workshop. \nThe workshop was one of this year’s activities under the International Environmental Partnership Program (IEP). During the three-day agenda, participants discussed and exchanged experiences related to the topics of: Control Strategies for Water Pollution; Water Pollution Inspection Practices; Technology Used in Water Pollution Inspection and Practice; Water Pollution Control and Enforcement: Status and Challenges and Success Stories in Asian Countries; and, the Asian Environmental Compliance and Enforcement Network. Participants visited the EPA, exchanged opinions and toured the sewage treatment plant of Hsinchu Science Park to learn about the implementation of sewage treatment and pollution control by the Park Bureau. \nThe IEP was officially launched in 2014 by the Taiwan EPA and its founding partner, the USEPA. Through a simple partnership concept and a diverse approach to cooperation, and to build up achievements on environmental improvement at the regional and international levels, the IEP has formed a network of expert platforms in the region and the world dedicated to addressing common environmental challenges such as climate change, environmental law enforcement and environmental education, as well as environmental capacity building of schools, communities and countries. \nSpeaking at the opening ceremony, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee said that no efforts have been spared in water pollution law enforcement in recent years. Taiwan has established a full range of enforcement strategies and practical experience and is willing to share its experience in environmental protection with other countries. Taiwan is looking forward to strengthening cooperation with Southeast Asian countries in environmental law enforcement and assisting these countries in protecting the environment while developing their economies. This workshop aimed to provide a platform for this purpose. Through exchanging experiences, nations in Southeast Asia can work together to protect the Earth and environment. \nMinister Lee also gave a keynote speech entitled The Strategy and Effectiveness of Environmental Enforcement in Taiwan. He said that in recent years, the Taiwan EPA has been promoting a number of new environmental enforcement strategies, such as amending the Water Pollution Control Act and related measures to raise penalties, launching new programs of total maximum daily loads (TMDL), and using fermented pig slurry as farmland fertilizer. The most important thing is to strengthen water pollution enforcement, and using technological tools to monitor environmental quality and control emissions of industrial pollutants will be the trend of future environmental law enforcement. \nThe EPA said that the workshop would help showcase Taiwan's achievements in the area of environmental protection and establish a network of cooperation with Asian countries in environmental law enforcement.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Experts from 15 Countries Attend Water Pollution Law Enforcement Workshop Held in Taipei", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-12" }, { "no": "3511", "title": "EPA and Tainan City Government Jointly Hold Toxic Substance Emergency Response Drill", "preview": "Toxic substance\nEPA and Tainan City Government Jointly Hold Toxic Substance Emergency Response Drill\nOn 23 November 2016, the EPA and the Tainan City Government jointly held the annual national toxic substance accident emergency response drills in Tainan City. EPA Deputy Minister Tzu-Chin Chang and Tainan City Deputy Mayor Chun Tso Yen personally directed the drills. A total of 20 units from central and local governments, the army, and private-sector joint prevention organizations participated. The drill was an exercise in how to quickly integrate and build momentum in the public and private sectors for accident response so as to reduce risk and prevent environmental pollution.", "content": "EPA and Tainan City Government Jointly Hold Toxic Substance Emergency Response Drill", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic substance", "titlename": "EPA and Tainan City Government Jointly Hold Toxic Substance Emergency Response Drill", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-12" }, { "no": "3510", "title": "EPA Urges Landowners to Patrol Diligently to Prevent Illegal Dumping", "preview": "Waste\nEPA Urges Landowners to Patrol Diligently to Prevent Illegal Dumping \nDuring the investigation of illegal dumping cases, the EPA has discovered that in recent years, unscrupulous business operators have come up with a new ruse: They rent land or warehouses from landowners on the pretext of storing raw materials and then, within a short space of time, dump large amounts of industrial waste on the land and disappear, leaving the landowner to bear the considerable cost of having the waste disposed of properly. The EPA thus is calling on the landowners to step up patrols of any land they rent out to prevent dishonest business people from using such land to dump waste.", "content": "EPA Urges Landowners to Patrol Diligently to Prevent Illegal Dumping \nDuring the investigation of illegal dumping cases, the EPA has discovered that in recent years, unscrupulous business operators have come up with a new ruse: They rent land or warehouses from landowners on the pretext of storing raw materials and then, within a short space of time, dump large amounts of industrial waste on the land and disappear, leaving the landowner to bear the considerable cost of having the waste disposed of properly. The EPA thus is calling on the landowners to step up patrols of any land they rent out to prevent dishonest business people from using such land to dump waste. \nAccording to EPA statistics, there are 194 locations listed as controlled illegal dumping sites. To deter enterprises from illegally dumping waste, environmental agencies patrol these sites along with routes that have a high potential for being used for dumping an average of 1,492 times per year. On average, 50 sites are cleaned up annually, giving the local environment a chance to recover. The types of industrial waste removed include waste sludge, electric arc furnace slag, and varieties of liquid waste. \nIn recent years, the EPA has discovered that some unscrupulous business operators have been renting land or warehouses from landowners on the pretext of wanting to store raw materials. They then dump large amounts of industrial waste on the land within a short space of time and disappear without a trace. For example, in 2013 a landowner in Taoyuan City rented out a storage unit at NT$28,000 per month to a business operator, who then proceeded to move barrels of waste to the site for storage. The landowner discovered that the warehouse was illegally dumped industrial waste only after the renter fell behind in the rental payments and disappeared without a trace. The landowner reported it to the Taoyuan County Environmental Protection Bureau and the case is still being investigated to clarify who is responsible for the cleanup.\nAccording to the Waste Disposal Act, a landowner who rents out land or commercial premises in which waste is illegally dumped is liable for cleanup if the offending party cannot be traced or is unable to pay the costs, and if it can be shown that the landowner knew of the dumping or was overtly negligent in some way. In addition to facing a large cleanup bill, the landowner would probably also be required to cooperate with law-enforcement agencies, and may even be summoned to court. \nThe EPA has been working on a number of advanced inspections to track and catch illegal dumping offenders. These inspections include identifying and patrolling hot sites and routes attractive to offenders, and increasing the use of satellite imagery, unmanned aerial vehicles, and geographical location tracking software. Advanced tools help to deter dumping and prevent the spread of pollution by allowing the EPA to screen for suspected dumping sites, analyze spatial changes of dumping sites in real-time, and integrate information on illegal dumping from various sources. \nThe EPA urges owners of land, unused factories or warehouses to make certain that they know what their premises will be used for when renting them out and to make regular checks of their premises during the rental period to ensure that unscrupulous enterprises are not using them as illegal dumping sites. The EPA is also asking the general public to keep their eyes open and report to environmental agencies any activity in their neighborhood that they suspect could be linked to waste dumping, so that inspectors can be quickly dispatched to inspect.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "EPA Urges Landowners to Patrol Diligently to Prevent Illegal Dumping", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-12" }, { "no": "3509", "title": "Government Agencies Join Forces to Promote Circular Economy for Livestock Industry", "preview": "Water\nGovernment Agencies Join Forces to Promote Circular Economy for Livestock Industry \nFor almost one year now, the EPA and the Council of Agriculture have jointly managed applications of livestock enterprises to use fermentation liquid and solid digestate as agricultural fertilizer, instead of flushing livestock slurry away, subjecting it to anaerobic fermentation produces liquid and digestate that can be turned into fertilizer and biogas fuel, and in the process reducing water and electricity costs for the enterprises concerned. Livestock slurry is also diverted from polluting Taiwan’s rivers.", "content": "Government Agencies Join Forces to Promote Circular Economy for Livestock Industry \nFor almost one year now, the EPA and the Council of Agriculture have jointly managed applications of livestock enterprises to use fermentation liquid and solid digestate as agricultural fertilizer, instead of flushing livestock slurry away, subjecting it to anaerobic fermentation produces liquid and digestate that can be turned into fertilizer and biogas fuel, and in the process reducing water and electricity costs for the enterprises concerned. Livestock slurry is also diverted from polluting Taiwan’s rivers. \nOn 24 November 2015, the EPA announced amendments to the Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations, adding a chapter on the use of fermentation liquid and digestate as agricultural fertilizer. The EPA has been collaborating with the Council of Agriculture (COA) over the previous year to make implementation of the policy more feasible. After a recent review of difficulties encountered during implementation, the EPA made further amendments on 28 October 2016 to simplify related regulations so as to reduce the testing requirements for livestock enterprises. \nTo actively help livestock enterprises benefit from the new policy, the EPA has marshaled interministerial resources and increased incentives to promote a livestock enterprise circular economy. During the initial stage, the EPA will be subsidizing local governments to assist livestock enterprises with their proposals to use fermentation liquid and digestate as agricultural fertilizer, as well as conducting analyses of the composition of the fermentation liquid and digestate and the soil and groundwater of farmlands on which it is used. Application for such services will be free of charge. \nThe EPA has marshaled interministerial resources and increased economic incentives for livestock enterprises. The COA is offering low-interest loans (1.04%) to livestock enterprises to invest in facilities while the Bureau of Energy under the Ministry of Economic Affairs has announced a rise in the wholesale price of electricity generated with biofuels from anaerobic digestion facilities. The higher price of NT$5.0087 kW\/h should encourage livestock enterprises to generate and sell green electricity. To date, local governments have held 80 explanatory meetings and helped 267 farms to apply for assistance. \nAmong these farms, 20 have submitted their applications to local agricultural bureaus for preliminary review, 22 have applications under secondary review by the COA, and 12 have received approvals from their local government for using fermentation liquid and digestate as agricultural fertilizer. \nOn 26 November 2016, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee and COA Deputy Minister Chang-liang Weng attended a large promotional event put on by the Yunlin County Government and subsidized by the EPA to promote the utilization of livestock fermentation liquid and digestate as agricultural fertilizer. The event aimed to extol the economic benefits of using animal slurry and stressed that such utilization was simple, clean, and cost effective. \nSpeaking at the event, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee pointed out that applying for permission to use fermentation liquid and digestate as agricultural fertilizer is a simple process, and that initially the EPA will subsidize local governments to assist livestock operators compose utilization proposals and conduct related analyses. All the livestock enterprises need to do is make a phone call to their local government environmental protection bureau. Using fermentation liquid and digestate as agricultural fertilizer will save them the electricity bills of running third stage wastewater treatment facilities and the fertilizer portion of their water pollution control fees. They can also gain favor with their neighbors by creating less odor, and the rivers will also benefit from not being polluted by livestock slurry. \nThe event was also an occasion to commend 14 farms in Yunlin County for obtaining the permit for using fermentation liquid and digestate as agricultural fertilizer. The event participants also visited San Jeou Farm, the first private farm to obtain the approval. The visitors were able to see first-hand the process by which the slurry is separated by anaerobic digestion into biogas for fuel and digestate for agricultural fertilizer. \nIn the past, livestock slurry was treated as wastewater or waste, which meant that permits for effluent discharge and waste clearance and disposal were needed in accordance with the Water Pollution Control Act and the Waste Disposal Act to prevent slurry from polluting the environment or waterbodies. The idea of using of anaerobic fermentation liquid and digestate from livestock slurry as agricultural fertilizer changed previous perceptions about slurry, raising its value as a useful resource that can increase soil fertility and produce biogas for fuels, while reducing the amount of slurry entering rivers. Taking into account the improvements to river water quality, air quality in rural areas and economic benefits, the EPA is thus actively promoting the policy.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Government Agencies Join Forces to Promote Circular Economy for Livestock Industry", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-12" }, { "no": "3508", "title": "EPA and Local Governments Discuss Bottom Ash Reutilization Management", "preview": "Waste\nEPA and Local Governments Discuss Bottom Ash Reutilization Management \nOn 17 November 2016, the EPA convened the Nationwide Environmental Agencies Coordinating Meeting and discussed matters pertaining to the use of products made with incinerator bottom ash and the channels through which such products are used. They also discussed the excessive stockpiles of products made of bottom ash which could lead to reuse operators reducing or refusing to accept bottom ash, which thus may affect the operation of incinerators.", "content": "EPA and Local Governments Discuss Bottom Ash Reutilization Management \nOn 17 November 2016, the EPA convened the Nationwide Environmental Agencies Coordinating Meeting and discussed matters pertaining to the use of products made with incinerator bottom ash and the channels through which such products are used. They also discussed the excessive stockpiles of products made of bottom ash which could lead to reuse operators reducing or refusing to accept bottom ash, which thus may affect the operation of incinerators. \nThe treatment and flow of incinerator bottom ash is an issue that attracts public attention. To address the issue, in September 2016, the EPA established a specialized team to inspect the flow of incinerator bottom ash. This team also supervises the work of local government environmental protection bureaus in tracking the flow of products made of bottom ash to ensure product quality and safe use. The task force is also working with local governments to ensure that public works carried out in their jurisdictions use bottom ash products whenever possible, devise a certification system for such products, and reexamine their bottom ash reutilization management mechanisms. The goal is to strengthen the flow management of incinerator bottom ash products, improve their quality and find new uses for them. This improved management of incinerator bottom ash utilization channels will help realize the objective of resource reuse. \nBottom ash is reutilized by organizations contracted by local governments. These organizations are required by law to treat bottom ash to meet stated standards before it leaves their premises for reuse. Meanwhile, local governments are responsible to audit the product flows reported by these organizations, and the treatment fee can only be paid to a recycling organization after a report is submitted to and verified by the local competent authority. If local authorities discover that bottom ash has not gone to its reported destination, not only will the fees not be paid but the local authority will be obliged to report the offending contractor to the local prosecutors office for fraud. \nTo find more uses for bottom ash, recently the EPA along with related government engineering units successfully launched the Using Bottom Ash Products in Road Construction Pilot Plan. The EPA has co-announced three related guidelines with the Public Construction Commission: Multi-Functional Recreation Concrete (MRC), Graded Aggregate for Base Course, and Controlled Low Strength Material (CLSM) – to which two operational manuals – Incineration Bottom Ash (IBA) Recycled Aggregate as Graded Aggregate for Base Course and IBA Recycled Aggregate as CLSM – have now been added.\nThe EPA is also working with local governments to ensure that public works being carried out in their jurisdictions use bottom ash products whenever possible. Many local governments have already established inter-agencies teams to do this, and some have held meetings with public construction contractors to request using a certain percentage of bottom ash products. Some local governments have also set bottom ash product quotas for each of their internal departments. \nThe EPA is fully aware that the key to successful bottom ash product utilization is the quality of the products. The EPA is currently looking into establishing a certification procedure for bottom ash products – covering the certification and verification system, related regulations, and testing procedures – to raise the quality of products made with bottom ash. The EPA is also looking into amending the Management Measures for Reusing Refuse Incinerator Bottom Ashto strengthen control over the use and the flow of bottom ash products, increase product quality, and open up more channels for its utilization.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "EPA and Local Governments Discuss Bottom Ash Reutilization Management", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-12" }, { "no": "3507", "title": "Draft of National Climate Change Action Guidelines Announced", "preview": "Climate Change\nDraft of National Climate Change Action Guidelines Announced \nTo promote Taiwan’s greenhouse gas reduction policy, on 9 November 2016, the EPA announced the formulation of a draft of the National Climate Change Action Guidelines in accordance with Article 9 Paragraph 1 of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act On 16 November and 1 December, the consultation meeting and the second inter-ministerial discussion meeting were held, respectively. To forge the guidelines, the EPA has taken into account the Paris Agreement and advanced measures from other countries. The guidelines will serve as a roadmap for Taiwan’s greenhouse gas reduction by laying out visions, goals and principles for responding to climate change, along with rolling out the direction for climate change mitigation and adaptation.", "content": "Draft of National Climate Change Action Guidelines Announced \nTo promote Taiwan’s greenhouse gas reduction policy, on 9 November 2016, the EPA announced the formulation of a draft of the National Climate Change Action Guidelines in accordance with Article 9 Paragraph 1 of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act On 16 November and 1 December, the consultation meeting and the second inter-ministerial discussion meeting were held, respectively. To forge the guidelines, the EPA has taken into account the Paris Agreement and advanced measures from other countries. The guidelines will serve as a roadmap for Taiwan’s greenhouse gas reduction by laying out visions, goals and principles for responding to climate change, along with rolling out the direction for climate change mitigation and adaptation. \nThe EPA began drawing up the guidelines as soon as the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act was promulgated. The EPA started out by asking for suggestions and opinions from a wide range of experts, academics and NGOs, and convened meetings of related governmental agencies to discuss details. While drawing up the draft of the National Climate Change Action Guidelines, the EPA took into account the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and has given equal weight to both climate change mitigation and adaptation. The guidelines contain greenhouse gas reduction policies for six sectors, and climate change adaptation policies in eight areas as mentioned below. It also covers topics suggested by members of the public, such as enhancing public participation, risk management, green financing, carbon pricing, and education. Through the implementation of a climate change platform for collaboration, the EPA hopes to build Taiwan’s climate change adaptation capacity and advance toward achieving long-term greenhouse gas reduction targets so as to ensure sustainable development. \nThe National Climate Change Action Guidelines cover:\n1. Climate change adaptation\n1) Strengthening disaster risk assessment and governance\n2) Enhancing the resilience of basic infrastructure\n3) Ensuring water efficiency and the balance between supply and demand of water resources \n4) Safeguarding land security and strengthening integrated management\n5) Preventing coastal disasters and ensuring the sustainability of marine resources\n6) Improving energy supply and industrial adaptation \n7) Ensuring agricultural security and preserving biodiversity\n8) Strengthening medication and sanitation, enhancing disease prevention and control, and improving health risk management\n2. Climate Change Mitigation\n 1) Adjusting the energy framework and increasing efficiency\n2) Transitioning to innovative green businesses, and implementing sustainable production and consumption\n3) Developing green transportation and increasing the energy efficiency of the transportation system\n4) Establishing sustainable buildings and low-carbon living spheres\n5) Promoting sustainable agriculture\n6) Reducing environmental loads and establishing a circular society\nFor short- and mid-term reduction targets and specific measures that the stakeholders are concerned about, the EPA is currently drawing up phased reduction targets and related schemes according to the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act. Meanwhile, ministries responsible for energy, manufacturing, transportation, housing, commerce, and agriculture are required to formulate their greenhouse gas reduction and control action programs. Local governments are also required to put forth their own emission reduction implementation programs. All programs and measures included will be based on the principles of the Action Guidelines, promoted for public understanding in an open and transparent fashion, and actively implemented.\nThe EPA values all stakeholders’ opinions concerning the draft of the Action Guidelines. Suggestions from experts, academics, and civil organizations include enhancing risk communication and management, cooperation between the central and local governments, and public participation. In response to these suggestions, the EPA has revised the Action Guidelines accordingly, adding complementary policies in areas such as enhancing public participation, risk management, green financing, carbon pricing, and education. Through the climate change collaboration platform, the EPA will promote effective interministerial greenhouse gas reduction management in order to attain the benefits of sustainable social, economic, and environmental development, while safeguarding public health.\nAs civil organizations take great concern in the stipulation of phased reduction targets, the EPA will begin the procedure of conducting public hearings and submit results to the Executive Yuan for approval. All interested parties are welcome to attend the hearings and participate in reviewing relevant programs and schemes. The progress of implementation for all targets will also be reviewed later along with related programs.\nThe National Climate Change Action Guidelines (draft) is being revised in accordance with public opinion. After being approved, the implementation of the Action Guidelines will be reviewed every five years based on the achievements regarding phased control targets, the performance of ministerial action programs, local implementation programs and other related programs.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Draft of National Climate Change Action Guidelines Announced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-12" }, { "no": "3506", "title": "Taiwan and US EPAs Jointly Hold Sustainable Materials Management Conference and Technology Exhibition", "preview": "International cooperation\nTaiwan and US EPAs Jointly Hold Sustainable Materials Management Conference and Technology Exhibition", "content": "Taiwan and US EPAs Jointly Hold Sustainable Materials Management Conference and Technology Exhibition\nThe Fourth International Conference on Sustainable Materials Management and Resource Sustainability Technology Exhibition was held in Taipei from 25 to 27 October 2016. It was co-hosted by the Taiwan and the US EPAs, and sponsored by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the American Institute in Taiwan. The event included an international conference, visits and consultative meetings. On 25 October, the participants visited the ICT Museum of the Industrial Technology Research Institute to see a material flow system designed to create a green economy. The participants also visited E&E Recycling Company to see the achievements of Taiwan enterprises in resource recycling, recovery and regeneration.\nThe conference hosted over 10 officials from El Salvador, Indonesia, Japan, the UK, the US, and Thailand, and representatives from Taiwan’s central and local governments, academia, and researchers also attended. The US EPA’s former Regional Administrator for Region 9, Jared Blumenfeld, gave a speech titled “Sustainable Materials Management: The Path to Zero Waste.” The Deputy Director of the San Francisco Department of the Environment, Jennifer Kass, spoke about San Francisco's Sustainable Materials Management (SMM) efforts. The representative of the Taiwan EPA, Dr. Harvey Houng, shared Taiwan’s experiences in a speech titled \"From Waste Management to Resource Circulation and SMM in Taiwan.\" Through this conference, the EPA hoped to introduce the concepts of “limited resources, unlimited materials and circular economy in Taiwan” so that the public would realize that circular material utilization is the only way to create a promising future. \nAn international cooperation consultation meeting was also jointly held by the Taiwan and US EPAs, at which delegates to the Conference were invited to work on the scope and mechanisms of continued international cooperation. The consultation meeting will be held on a regular basis in different countries to enhance international cooperation and establish a solid cooperation mechanism to promote SMM and a circular economy.\nFrom 26 to 27 October, a Resource Sustainability Technology Exhibition was held in five pavilions. Among them, the Sustainable Materials Management Technology Pavilion highlighted the 6Rs – reduction, reuse, recycling, energy recovery, land reclamation, and redesign. The exhibition explained sustainable materials management with computers onsite for visitors to operate themselves to understand the flow and distribution of various materials. It also had 3D printers that use environmentally friendly polylactic acid, for visitors to print products.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "International cooperation", "titlename": "Taiwan and US EPAs Jointly Hold Sustainable Materials Management Conference and Technology Exhibition", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-11" }, { "no": "3505", "title": "Winning Short Films on Green Design Available Online", "preview": "Waste\nWinning Short Films on Green Design Available Online", "content": "Winning Short Films on Green Design Available Online\nIn 2016, the EPA launched the first Cradle to Cradle Multimedia Production Contest to promote the cradle to cradle design concept to the general public, and an award ceremony for the winners was held on 28 October. A panel of judges selected 12 short films from the submissions. After a rigorous process, three winning films, four outstanding works and five finalists were announced. \nThe top winning film is “A Letter to My Child,” which relates the angst of a workforce novice who feels angry and frustrated about the dirty and disorderly Earth that human beings are leaving to posterity. He therefore writes a letter to his child expounding the concept of cradle to cradle design, hoping that a clean Earth could be preserved for the next generation. Information on other winning films and the cradle to cradle design concept can be found on the Taiwan Cradle to Cradle Platform at www.c2cplatform.tw.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Winning Short Films on Green Design Available Online", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-11" }, { "no": "3504", "title": "EPA Promotes Green Tourism at Taipei Travel Fair", "preview": "International Cooperation\nUS EPA Praises Taiwan’s Efforts in Promoting Global Environmental Education", "content": "EPA Promotes Green Tourism at Taipei Travel Fair \nTo promote the eco-friendly and energy-saving ways of green tourism, the EPA set up a “Green Tourism Shop” pavilion at the 2016 Taipei International Travel Fair, held from 4~7 November 2016. Aiming to encourage members of the public to participate in green tourism and to adopt green living, the EPA invited green service providers to jointly participate in the exhibition. Aside from discount vouchers and shopping certificates provided by green hotels and star-rated restaurants, there were also daily raffle draws with big prizes, such as free semi-self-guided tour packages or free hotel accommodation vouchers, jointly provided by green industry members.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Ecolabeling", "titlename": "EPA Promotes Green Tourism at Taipei Travel Fair", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-11" }, { "no": "3503", "title": "US EPA Praises Taiwan’s Efforts in Promoting Global Environmental Education", "preview": "International Cooperation\nUS EPA Praises Taiwan’s Efforts in Promoting Global Environmental Education", "content": "US EPA Praises Taiwan’s Efforts in Promoting Global Environmental Education\nJane Nishida, Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator of the USEPA, attended the opening ceremony of the annual congress of the 45th North American Environmental Education Association held in Madison, Wisconsin in October 2016. In her speech, she particularly praised Taiwan’s efforts and achievements in promoting the International Environmental Partnership and the Global Environmental Education Program (GEEP). A video clip, made by the office of USEPA Administrator Gina McCarthy, was broadcasted in the opening ceremony. Aside from expressing the USEPA’s support and affirmation of environmental education, in the video Administrator McCarthy mentioned the joint efforts with the Taiwan EPA in 2014 that launched the global environmental education partnership program. She thanked Taiwan for its commitment and support of such a program, and praised Taiwan’s progress and achievements in promoting global environmental education over the last two years.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "International Cooperation", "titlename": "US EPA Praises Taiwan’s Efforts in Promoting Global Environmental Education", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-11" }, { "no": "3502", "title": "Twenty-six Enterprises Win Enterprise Environmental Protection Awards", "preview": "Control & Evaluation\nTwenty-six Enterprises Win Enterprise Environmental Protection Awards\nTo recognize the dedication of private enterprises to environmental protection work, the EPA established the Enterprise Environmental Protection Awards 25 years ago. This year the awards presentation ceremony was held on 2 November 2016, with a total of 26 enterprises receiving awards. Among them, the Dah-Tam Power Plant of Taiwan Power Company and the Aspire Resort of Aspire Park Development Company won the Honorable Enterprise Environmental Protection Award for receiving the enterprise environmental award three years in a row.", "content": "Twenty-six Enterprises Win Enterprise Environmental Protection Awards", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Control & Evaluation", "titlename": "Twenty-six Enterprises Win Enterprise Environmental Protection Awards", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-11" }, { "no": "3501", "title": "Environmental Bonus Points Available for Green Consumers", "preview": "Ecolabeling\nEnvironmental Bonus Points Available for Green Consumers\nTo promote green lifestyles, the EPA has rolled out its 10,000 Bonus Points for Green Shopping events through its green points apps. Whenever members of the public take the metro or buy eco-friendly products anywhere that accepts EPA environmental bonus points, their accumulated bonus points can be used to offset the cost of their purchase. The EPA also holds related events with local environmental groups at which bonus points will be given away to participating members of the public.", "content": "Environmental Bonus Points Available for Green Consumers\nTo promote green lifestyles, the EPA has rolled out its 10,000 Bonus Points for Green Shopping events through its green points apps. Whenever members of the public take the metro or buy eco-friendly products anywhere that accepts EPA environmental bonus points, their accumulated bonus points can be used to offset the cost of their purchase. The EPA also holds related events with local environmental groups at which bonus points will be given away to participating members of the public. \nMembers of the public who download the EPA’s green points app and open a bonus points account can immediately begin to participate in the Bonus Points for Green Shopping scheme using their EasyCard, iPass card, other accepted membership cards or account numbers, or their cellphone’s barcode scanner to build up points in their accounts. Also, anyone who takes the metro or buys certified eco-friendly products can also win bonus points. \nAs of now, accumulated green points can be used to offset part or all of the cost of buying toilet paper, cleaning detergents, thermo mugs, food containers, cooking oil or other Green Mark or carbon footprint labeled products at RT Mart, A-Mart, Taisuco, and Hi-Life convenience stores as well as online through the ET Mall and HCT Mall websites. One hundred bonus points will be the equivalent of NT$1 worth of green shopping. In addition, the points can also be used to offset the cost of staying in or visiting 12 other certified green enterprises in Taiwan, including eco-friendly hotels, eco-tourist sites, and environmental education venues. \nThe EPA is keen to encourage the public to take part in the green point scheme and the 10,000 Bonus Points for Green Shopping events will continue until 31 December 2016. Members of the public who have green point accounts can get 10,000 green points (the equivalent of NT$100) if they buy products at any of the aforementioned retail outlets (but just one time per customer). More details on the events can be found on the EPA website at http:\/\/www.greenpoint.org.tw\/.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Ecolabeling", "titlename": "Environmental Bonus Points Available for Green Consumers", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-11" }, { "no": "3500", "title": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations Announced", "preview": "Water\nAmendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations Announced\nOn 28 October 2016 the EPA announced amendments to the Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations. The revisions aim to facilitate the full disclosure of real-time data from automated wastewater quality\/quantity monitoring instruments, improve the benefits of recycling livestock waste, and simplify related management and review procedures.", "content": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations Announced\nOn 28 October 2016 the EPA announced amendments to the Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations. The revisions aim to facilitate the full disclosure of real-time data from automated wastewater quality\/quantity monitoring instruments, improve the benefits of recycling livestock waste, and simplify related management and review procedures. \nThe main points of the changes to the Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations are as follows:\n1) Expanding the scope of suitable users of livestock waste fermentation liquid and sediment as agricultural fertilizer: It was added that after anaerobic fermentation and aeration treatment, livestock waste fermentation liquid and sediments can be used as fertilizer for agricultural land. In addition, agricultural land is clearly defined as land registered under a general or specific agricultural zone and classified as agricultural land.\n2) Adjusting the groundwater background values and soil quality test items for agricultural land on which livestock waste fermentation liquid and sediment is used as fertilizer: Testing for NH4+-N in fermentation liquid and sediment; pH, nitrate nitrogen, total phosphorus, copper, and zinc in groundwater; and pH and total phosphorus in soil are no longer required.\n3) It was added that enterprises that have permission to discharge wastewater amounting to 1,500-5,000 m3\/day must submit all their wastewater quality\/quantity monitoring data online. \n4) The administrative process for having automated wastewater quality\/quantity monitoring instruments installed has been simplified by removing the requirement to modify the permit. Monitoring data and online data verification reports are also now fully governed by regulations. Written explanations of measures that enterprises adopt and the approval documents will have to be submitted online by the date set by the central competent authority.\n5) The administrative management of dialysis clinics has been simplified: Clinics that have wastewater management plans approved by the local competent authority before operating will no longer need to submit further test reports. \nThe installation of automated wastewater quality\/quantity monitoring instruments means that the public now has access to fully transparent real-time wastewater quality data. The simplification of the regulations for using livestock waste fermentation liquid and sediment as agricultural fertilizer will reduce the workload of livestock enterprises and thus increase the willingness to use them, which will help keep Taiwan's waterbodies cleaner.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations Announced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-11" }, { "no": "3499", "title": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Application Review Regulations Announced", "preview": "Water\nAmendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Application Review Regulations Announced\nThe EPA has announced amendments to the Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Application Review Management Regulations. The amendments aim to streamline the procedures for trial operations and functionality testing in order to improve wastewater treatment capability and to tighten permit criteria so as to prevent wastewater being stored and later discharged through bypass channels.", "content": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Application Review Regulations Announced\nThe EPA has announced amendments to the Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Application Review Management Regulations. The amendments aim to streamline the procedures for trial operations and functionality testing in order to improve wastewater treatment capability and to tighten permit criteria so as to prevent wastewater being stored and later discharged through bypass channels.\nThe amended Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Application Review Management Regulations came into force on 28 October 2016. The main points of the amendments are as follows: \n1) The procedure for trial operation modifications have been simplified: A trial operation modification application will no longer be required if the trial run does not interfere with the frequency and location of sampling, water quality measurement items, manufacturing operation conditions, effluent discharge volumes, pollutant composition, or permitted maximum pollutant concentrations. However, explanations of any changes made must be submitted with a functionality test report. \n2) The principles for approving operating parameters for wastewater treatment facilities have been clarified, allowing for more flexible operations management. Operating parameters should be determined according to functionality test results and the parameters stated on the permit will be allowed a +\/-10% margin of error. \n3) To simplify the conditions for functionality tests, the requirement for such tests in the following situations will be waived: the replacement of old equipment; changing of accessory equipment at wastewater treatment facilities; and changing of livestock waste biogas collection bags. In addition, the requirement will be waived when additional treatment equipment is installed at wastewater treatment facilities. Also, the requirement will be waived when increasing the wastewater treatment capacity, but the daily maximum volume of treated wastewater is not increased, the quality of the wastewater to be treated is not changed, or the modification is not made in response to tighter environmental standards.\n4) Procedures have also been simplified for construction improvements, and modifications in the middle of the functionality test. Application for alteration and approval will only be required for alterations that affect water consumption volumes, volume of wastewater produced from manufacturing equipment, the scale of production or service, or manufacturing condition alterations that affect the volume of wastewater produced.\n5. To encourage enterprises to employ measures or technologies to improve their wastewater treatment facilities, a new regulation governing technology testing has been added. Enterprises must submit a technology testing plan to their local competent authority for future reference and carry out the tests within the period stated in the plan. The tested items must include the approved collection and treatment equipment, operation procedures, and discharge outlet stated in the enterprise’s Water Pollution Control Measures or effluent discharge permit. \n6. To encourage enterprises to recycle more of their wastewater, only those that recycle and reuse all their wastewater need to be reviewed and undergo onsite inspections by outside experts. \n7. The amendments added notification procedures for the approval authority to notify enterprises and sewage system operators to claim permits and approval documents for water pollution control measures. The amendments also stipulated the procedures to deal with enterprises and sewage operators that fail to claim their permits. The amendments also stipulated the procedures to deal with enterprises and sewage operators that fail to claim their permits. Within 14 days after the approval authority gives notice, enterprises and sewage operators must claim their water pollution control measure approval documents and permits, publish the contents of these on the EPA’s designated website, and pay their license fee.\n8. The following enterprises will henceforth not be required to submit a Water Pollution Control Measure Plan nor apply for a permit:\nLivestock enterprises whose livestock waste is completely used as fertilizer for agricultural land after anaerobic fermentation and aeration treatment \nOperators of livestock waste treatment and recycling centers\nClinics that provide dialysis treatments for patients with kidney diseases\n9. The information to be provided for permit alteration has been simplified: Photos showing completed automated water quality\/quantity monitoring instruments and online transmission equipment are no longer required. \n10. To prevent factory operators applying for wastewater storage permits to hide their intentions to illegally discharge wastewater via bypass, enterprises or sewage system operators that have obtained a storage permit will have to apply for a wastewater discharge permit if they are found to have discharged wastewater illegally twice and the effluent pollutants concentration is five times higher than the limits, or the pH is below two or over 11.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Application Review Regulations Announced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-11" }, { "no": "3498", "title": "Taiwan-US Eco-Campus Partnership Celebrates Third Anniversary", "preview": "Environmental Education\nTaiwan-US Eco-Campus Partnership Celebrates Third Anniversary \nOn 14 October 2016 the Taiwan-USA Eco-Campus Partnership Program 3rd Anniversary Event took place at Rock Creek Forest Elementary School in Maryland, USA. An eco-campus delegation from Taiwan, and representatives of the US EPA and the US National Wildlife Federation (NWF) were among the attendees. Jane Nishida, Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator for the US EPA’s Office of International and Tribal Affairs, Ambassador James Kuang-jang Lee, head of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States, and Tsung Yung Liu, Director of the EPA's Bureau of Comprehensive Planning, all gave speeches and praised the many achievements of three years of eco-campus cooperation between the two nations.", "content": "Taiwan-US Eco-Campus Partnership Celebrates Third Anniversary \nOn 14 October 2016 the Taiwan-USA Eco-Campus Partnership Program 3rd Anniversary Event took place at Rock Creek Forest Elementary School in Maryland, USA. An eco-campus delegation from Taiwan, and representatives of the US EPA and the US National Wildlife Federation (NWF) were among the attendees. Jane Nishida, Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator for the US EPA’s Office of International and Tribal Affairs, Ambassador James Kuang-jang Lee, head of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States, and Tsung Yung Liu, Director of the EPA's Bureau of Comprehensive Planning, all gave speeches and praised the many achievements of three years of eco-campus cooperation between the two nations. \nPrincipal Deputy Assistant Administrator Jane Nishida first congratulated Rock Creek Forest Elementary School for being awarded the Greenflag certification and went on to encourage the students present to go out and teach what they had learned about ecosystem preservation to others. Under the Eco-campus Partnership Program, Rock Creek Forest Elementary School is twinned with Long-Chi Elementary School in Tainan City, whose principal, Mr. Hsin-Chang Chen, was one of Taiwan’s eco-school representatives at the event. Both principals expressed the hope that their eco-school partnership would be long and mutually beneficial.\nThe Taiwan-USA Eco-Campus Partnership Program aims to use the existing US eco-school program to establish Taiwan-USA eco-school partnerships that are in line with international practice and introduce the international eco-campus accreditation system to Taiwan. Since the beginning of the plan in 2014, 85 of Taiwan’s eco-schools have formed partnerships with eco-schools in the USA. The EPA will ensure that exchanges of knowledge and experience will continue through the implementation of the Taiwan-USA Eco-Campus Partnership Program. \nTo make the exchanges easier and more meaningful, every year groups from each school visit their sister school, giving students and teachers opportunities to learn from each other face-to-face and gain a greater understanding of the specifics of the Taiwan-USA eco-school partnership. Taiwan’s delegation to the USA this year included not just EPA representatives but also seven representatives of Taiwan’s eco-schools and two officials from local government environmental protection bureaus. The delegation visited eco-schools in New York City, New Jersey, Maryland and Washington, District of Columbia. \nThe American schools put on displays of the achievements of the past three years of cooperation, including the individual projects that the 85 sister schools had worked on and visual records and mementos of their visits to each other’s schools.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Taiwan-US Eco-Campus Partnership Celebrates Third Anniversary", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-11" }, { "no": "3497", "title": "Taiwan and US EPAs Jointly Hold 2016 GEEP Conference in USA", "preview": "Environmental Education", "content": "Taiwan and US EPAs Jointly Hold 2016 GEEP Conference in USA\nIn conjunction with the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE), on 17 October 2016 the Taiwan and US EPAs held the Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP) 2016 Conference in Madison, Wisconsin. Four days later, on 21 October, a ceremony marking the start of the GEEP plan for North America was also held. A total of 39 governmental and non-governmental environmental education experts from 19 nations attended the conference to formulate a strategic plan to launch long-term promotion of and cooperation on environmental education. \nAt the conference, held by the Taiwan and US EPAs along with the NAAEE, a strategic plan for GEEP was discussed. The delegates also explored the best developmental projects for GEEP and watched a GEEP promotional film. The conference was a chance for delegates to enhance future efforts by reflecting upon the achievements of recent years and to review them from the perspectives of government policy, professional development, evaluation, and the best way of implementation. \nThe delegates came from 19 nations: Taiwan, Australia, Botswana, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Denmark, India, Indonesia, Japan, Mexico, Nepal, the Netherlands, the Philippines, Russia, South Korea, Uganda, the UK, and the US. They were also invited to attend the NAAEE’s 45th annual conference. Both events offered delegates the opportunity to discuss relevant topics with academics, experts, and government officials involved with environmental education to get up to speed with current trends and knowledge in other nations. \nIn his speech at the GEEP conference, Tsung Yung Liu, Director of the EPA's Department of Comprehensive Planning, said that with the help of the US EPA and the NAAEE, the third year of the GEEP plan would see the initiation of GEEP environmental education platforms in North America, Kenya, India and the UK. He expressed hope that the ceremony would highlight the importance of environmental education and stimulate the participating nations to put more resources into advancing it.\nGEEP is one of the most important International Environmental Partnership projects that the Taiwan and US EPAs are working on together. The aim is to create an open international platform that environmental education specialists can use to exchange ideas and learn from each other. GEEP is strengthening the environmental education partnership between Taiwan and the USA – and other similar partnerships around the world – through pragmatic cooperation.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Taiwan and US EPAs Jointly Hold 2016 GEEP Conference in USA", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-11" }, { "no": "3496", "title": "Expanded Control Targets on Plastic Shopping Bags Preannounced", "preview": "Waste\nExpanded Control Targets on Plastic Shopping Bags Preannounced\nTo encourage the reuse of plastic shopping bags, and thus reduce the volumes of single-use bags being thrown away, on 28 October 2016 the EPA preannounced an expansion of the list of businesses that are not permitted to offer free plastic shopping bags. Seven major new categories have been added, while bag thickness limits for the total 14 control categories that provide the bags have been lifted.", "content": "Expanded Control Targets on Plastic Shopping Bags Preannounced\nTo encourage the reuse of plastic shopping bags, and thus reduce the volumes of single-use bags being thrown away, on 28 October 2016 the EPA preannounced an expansion of the list of businesses that are not permitted to offer free plastic shopping bags. Seven major new categories have been added, while bag thickness limits for the total 14 control categories that provide the bags have been lifted. \nThe EPA has been rolling out plastic shopping bag reduction measures since 2002. There are currently seven main categories for the measures, where consumers must pay for plastic shopping bags or provide their own shopping bags: government offices, public and private schools, department stores and shopping centers, wholesalers, supermarkets, convenience store chains, fast food chains. The seven new categories in the pre-announcement are pharmacies, medical equipment stores, electrical appliance stores, book and stationery stores, laundries, beverage retailers, and bakeries. \nThe new regime is expected to come into force on 1 January 2018, thus giving the affected enterprises plenty of time to make the necessary adjustments, such as notifying their customers. As for the topic of plastic shopping bag thickness – which has been of some public concern recently – the EPA has decided to scrap proposed limits on thickness aimed at reducing the amount of plastic being used. The price of the bags will continue to be decided on the principle of reducing consumption through price mechanisms, and for the time being it will thus be left for each enterprise to decide what to charge. The EPA is also urging all enterprises that provide plastic shopping bags to put signs up in their premises or place labeling on their bags that encourage the reuse or proper recycling of the bags. \nThe EPA also intends to hold public hearings and discussion meetings to hear the opinions of all stakeholders, and suggests that enterprises that are members of business associations or are affiliated with unions to give their opinions through such organizations. Enterprises not belonging to business associations or other organizations can register their contact details on the EPA’s Household Waste Management Service website to receive notification of public hearings.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Expanded Control Targets on Plastic Shopping Bags Preannounced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-11" }, { "no": "3495", "title": "EPA Shifts Up a Gear as Paris Agreement Takes Effect", "preview": "Climate Change\nEPA Shifts Up a Gear as Paris Agreement Takes Effect \nOn 4 November 2016, the Paris Agreement entered into force. Taiwan has already been implementing some related measures, and the EPA will be shifting up a gear or two to ensure that Taiwan remains up to speed. In addition to completing the inventory of the first batch of greenhouse gas emission sources at the end of August 2016, and formulating or amending the relevant regulations, the EPA is also drawing up incentives for voluntary reduction. In addition, the EPA has asked all ministries to confirm their responsibilities in terms of greenhouse gas emissions reduction and climate change adaptation measures, and has begun working on a draft of the National Climate Change Action Framework.", "content": "EPA Shifts Up a Gear as Paris Agreement Takes Effect \nOn 4 November 2016, the Paris Agreement entered into force. Taiwan has already been implementing some related measures, and the EPA will be shifting up a gear or two to ensure that Taiwan remains up to speed. In addition to completing the inventory of the first batch of greenhouse gas emission sources at the end of August 2016, and formulating or amending the relevant regulations, the EPA is also drawing up incentives for voluntary reduction. In addition, the EPA has asked all ministries to confirm their responsibilities in terms of greenhouse gas emissions reduction and climate change adaptation measures, and has begun working on a draft of the National Climate Change Action Framework. \nAhead of the Paris Agreement entering into force on 4 November 2016, and as part of the global effort to combat climate change, Taiwan promulgated the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act on 1 July 2015. The EPA has prioritized the inventory of industrial emissions. By the end of August 2016 the EPA had audited the first batch of 277 major emission sources and recorded their greenhouse gas emissions to establish the baseline of industrial emissions. The EPA has also formulated six related bylaws, one announcement, and three sets of administrative rules relating to auditing management and carbon offsets. The EPA will soon begin the task of combining the various incentives and subsidies offered by various ministries to formulate energy efficiency standards for emission sources as well as incentives for voluntary emission reduction, in order to further encourage enterprises to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.\nOn 24 June 2016, the Executive Yuan convened an inter-ministerial meeting at which the responsible ministries for the 17 greenhouse gas reduction and climate change adaptation tasks laid out in Article 8 Paragraph 2 of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act were confirmed. Each ministry was also asked to submit its implementation proposals by the end of October 2016. At present, the EPA has collected almost 200 adaptation proposals put forward by related ministries and will submit them to the Executive Yuan for approval. \nIn addition, with regard to the regulatory scope of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act, the EPA has examined the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals set out by the United Nations to draw up a draft of the National Climate Change Adaptation Action Framework. The draft will later be published for public comment, and once approved by the Executive Yuan the framework will serve as the guidelines for Taiwan’s greenhouse gas reduction measures and the administration thereof. \nIn addition to stating Taiwan’s long-term reduction targets and related adaptation mechanisms, the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act also requests 5-year phased control targets. The EPA is currently formulating short-term reduction targets and has established the Greenhouse Gas Phased Control Targets Advisory Committee to assist in formulating the Greenhouse Gas Phased Control Targets and Operation Guidelines. The draft of the regulations was put together after four meetings of the committee at which the details were discussed. The draft clearly stated the target and timeline for each phase, the factors to be considered, target determination procedures and follow-up control measures. The regulations will be announced once all the required legislation procedures are completed.\nDespite the fact that Taiwan is not a party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), it is doing its best to shoulder its responsibility as a member of the global community. Taiwan has implemented many concrete measures and carried out activities in response to UNFCCC calls to action. Taiwan will keep a close watch over developments in the Paris Agreement in order to formulate appropriate subsidiary laws and measures as well as to implement the tasks related to climate change response. Taiwan will keep improving its legal framework for climate change response and review its greenhouse reduction targets on a regular basis to create a low-carbon sustainable homeland.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "EPA Shifts Up a Gear as Paris Agreement Takes Effect", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-11" }, { "no": "3494", "title": "Environmental Big Data Applications in Taiwan", "preview": "Environmental Information\nEnvironmental Big Data Applications in Taiwan \nSince 2010, the EPA has been building an environmental data exchange platform that integrates data from multiple government ministries and agencies to meet the demands for environmental information. To expand the application of environmental data, the EPA has incorporated the concept of big data and also established cloud computing capacity, as well as creating a real-time app service. Related technologies will continue to be updated to allow for increasingly advanced analyses of environmental data and to create new value-added applications for it.", "content": "Environmental Big Data Applications in Taiwan \nSince 2010, the EPA has been building an environmental data exchange platform that integrates data from multiple government ministries and agencies to meet the demands for environmental information. To expand the application of environmental data, the EPA has incorporated the concept of big data and also established cloud computing capacity, as well as creating a real-time app service. Related technologies will continue to be updated to allow for increasingly advanced analyses of environmental data and to create new value-added applications for it. \nStart of the Plan\nThe purpose behind the Environmental Resources Database Integration Plan (or, the Environmental Cloud Plan) is to integrate data on the atmosphere, water, land, forests, and ecosystem from multiple ministries and government agencies in order to conduct internal analyses that are made available to government agencies, academic institutions, and the general public. This is part of a general drive to strengthen inter-ministerial exchanges and integration of data. \nThe structure of environmental data is generally complex, involving many different categories. However, combining large volumes of data is very beneficial for enhancing data mining, uncovering relationships between sets of data, supporting environmental policymaking, and strengthening data analysis technology. \nThe Environmental Cloud Plan originally began as the Environmental Resources Central Data Exchange (ERCDX or CDX), which was a unified platform for exchanges of environmental data. In 2010 and 2011 the EPA began interdepartmental exchanges of data on water quality monitoring and rainfall volumes. Since then the scope of environmental data exchanges has been continually expanded. Building on the CDX, the Environmental Resources Database was created, and with the introduction of cloud computing in 2013 the EPA established the Environmental Resources Database (ERDB) and the Environmental Open Data Platform. Both of these platforms continue to integrate data from the government agencies involved as well as providing data on land, disaster preparedness and response for the public, and value-added data for enterprises. \nAs shown in the diagram, the next step in the evolution of the EPA’s Environmental Cloud Plan is the i-Environment network that aims to provide the public with data – real-time and historical – on their local and other environments so as to facilitate improved quality of life. The i-Environment will be an interactive system that encourages public participation and concern for the environment. For example, the information on listed pollution sources will be tailored to meet differing demands from the public. The system will also incorporate the concept and application of big data. \nOperation Process\nThe applications for big data are extremely wide-ranging. Taking a model website designed to incorporate big data and environmental governance as an example, in terms of work flow and necessary resources, the model needs to include five main parts: \n1. Collection: Combining data collected by central and local governments and expanding its depth and range. Such data would include automated monitoring data from effluent discharge outlets, smokestacks and air quality monitoring stations in special industrial parks, etc.\n2. Storage: Digitizing the data for easier storage and facilitating machine-to-machine (M2M) reading of it. \n3. Retrieval: Government agencies would be able to use CDX to share the stored data. \n4. Analysis: Data analysis would continue to be advanced by technological improvement and capacity building. \n5. Application: Providing data to aid decision-making and facilitating data-driven thinking. \nIn this operation process, the EPA has been conducting lateral data integration in terms of compilation and unification, performing case analysis, and using software for vertical analysis according to the differing needs of each government agency. The EPA will continue to incorporate different categories of software – such as big data database platforms, statistics software and data visualization tools – for case analyses to provide suitable operational models. \nAchievements to Date\n1. Establishing an Environmental Open Data Platform\nAs a part of the government’s Open Data policy the EPA has disclosed information on 626 categories. The information has been viewed or downloaded at a rate of over 1.8 million hits per hour, and reused by more than 600,000 users. The platform successfully boosted information accessibility and the application of cloud computing to improve information services. Statistics show that from 2013 to October 2016 the information exchange system for central and local government agencies made available over seven million entries of information, in 2,000 categories. \n2. An Advanced Real-time Environmental Information App\nThe EPA’s free Real-time Environmental Information app is an example of open data in practice. Using dials and diagrams on their mobile device screens, members of the public can browse real-time and historical monitoring data and forecasts. The app also provides air quality data and an active warning service. It has been downloaded over 230,000 times, and the monthly hits it receives exceeds 1 million, making it a handy daily source of environmental information for users. The app’s innovative level of service has also won the Geospatial World Excellence Awards-2016 for Breathe Easy & Live Better Environmental Info Push App, given by the Geospatial World Forum (GWF) in Rotterdam, Holland.\n3. Innovative Service from the Environmental Cloud\nThe Environmental Cloud stores data on the atmosphere, water, forests, land, and other ecological data that has many value-added applications and greatly enhances Taiwan’s environmental governance capabilities. The app also won an “outstanding” award in the government services category at the 2016 Cloud Computing and Internet of Things Innovation Awards held by the Cloud Computing Association in Taiwan. The app was praised for its innovative way of integrating and sharing multidisciplinary data. At the awards ceremony on 4 November 2016, the award was presented to the EPA by Taiwan’s Vice President, Chen Chien-jen.\nLooking to the Future\nBy making big data available to the public and creating new value-added applications, the EPA will continue to strive toward the following in the future:\n1. Internal and external information integration and application\n2. Information disclosure and sharing\n3. Encouraging innovations in operations, management and infrastructure models, and gradually expanding the scope of environmental big data applications \n4. Establishing an environmental big data management mechanism and a standardized system\n5. Improving accuracy, consistency, and veracity of information \n6. Strengthening operations management and information security\nThe potential applications of big data in terms of the environment are both broad and deep. Big data could mean much more transparent information being disclosed to the public and will be even more important to the EPA for its internal policy and decision making. The EPA intends to make full use of big data technologies to conduct deep analyses of environmental data, and to continue creating value-added applications for it", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Information", "titlename": "Environmental Big Data Applications in Taiwan", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-11" }, { "no": "3493", "title": "Revocation of Quota on New Motorcycle Exhaust Testing Stations Preannounced", "preview": "Air\nRevocation of Quota on New Motorcycle Exhaust Testing Stations Preannounced", "content": "Revocation of Quota on New Motorcycle Exhaust Testing Stations Preannounced\nOn 23 September 2016, the EPA preannounced amendments to the In-use Motorcycle Exhaust Emission Testing Station Establishment and Management Regulation.. The main idea of the amendments was to do away with the restrictions on the number of testing stations to be installed. In the future, the location and service scope of testing stations will be expanded to enhance the convenience for the public, while information on the channels for submitting applications will be made more transparent. EPA statistics showed that the growth of the number of testing stations has slowed down in the last five years, but the demand remains strong, especially for owners who reside in remote areas. Owners in remote areas often have difficulty finding a testing station, thus their willingness to take their motorcycle in for a test is greatly diminished. In view of this, the EPA is considering the abolishment of quotas on the number of new testing stations under the Exhaust Emission Testing Station In-use Motorcycle Exhaust Emission Testing Stations, which was announced in 2004. In the future, any motorcycle shop which has the intention to conduct motorcycle exhaust emission testing can file an application to do so. Once approved by the local competent authorities, it can carry out the test in accordance with regulations.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Revocation of Quota on New Motorcycle Exhaust Testing Stations Preannounced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-10" }, { "no": "3492", "title": "Amendments to Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards Preannounced", "preview": "Air\nAmendments to Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards Preannounced", "content": "Amendments to Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards Preannounced\nAs per the EPA, the preannounced amendments to the Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards were mainly to comply with the incidental resolutions that the Legislative Yuan made when the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act was adopted. That is to say, after the implementation of this Act, the reduction and management of greenhouse gases will be enforced in accordance with the provisions of the Act and will no longer be controlled by the Air Pollution Control Act..\nTo effectively control greenhouse gases, on 13 December 2013 the EPA announced the amended Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards, to which standards for CO2 emitted from vehicles were added in Article 9. The first phase control target was passenger cars. EPA statistics compiled in 2016 showed that the average CO2 emission level for a passenger car was 162.48 g\/km, which was 15% lower than the standard of 191 g\/km set by the 2009 Framework of Taiwan’s Sustainable Energy Policy. It proves that Taiwan has achieved the period target. Since vehicular CO2 emissions are no longer controlled by the Air Pollution Control Act, the EPA decided to delete the provisions of Article 9 of the Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards, which was formulated in accordance with the Air Pollution Control Act.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Amendments to Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards Preannounced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-10" }, { "no": "3491", "title": "Achievements of Recycling Technology Development Showcased", "preview": "Recycling\nAchievements of Recycling Technology Development Showcased", "content": "Achievements of Recycling Technology Development Showcased \nOn 13 September 2016, the EPA held a conference on the achievements of R&D for recyclable waste. The conference was anchored around the theme of environmental design and resource regeneration. In the conference, the EPA published the results of its 2015 R&D projects, ranging from basic R&D to product commercialization. The purpose of the conference was to promote the reuse of waste resources. Altogether 16 papers were presented on that day and 8 patent applications were filed. The EPA hoped that by holding such a conference, academia and industry can be encouraged to cooperate while more products can be commercialized and enter the marketplace. \nThe products on display included: rare earth metals with high purity that were recovered and purified from waste electrical appliances; automobile catalytic converters; light-emitting diode (LED) lighting sources; liquid crystal displays and spent dry batteries; porous absorbing material produced through modified and improved manufacturing processes; environmentally friendly catalysts; tiles made of regenerated materials; green polymer films; and more. In addition, a Tetra Pak and aluminum plastic bag gasification technology was developed to recover aluminum and combustible gases, which included the development of facilities that can enhance the pulping efficiency of paper containers and aluminum plastic bags. Other achievements included the establishment of parameters for the safe storage of used environmentally friendly refrigerants, and the enhancement of effluent reduction from spent lead-acid battery treatment plants. \nThe EPA hopes that these achievements will contribute to the development of a circular economy, reduce the exploitation of raw materials, and become a driving force for promoting the sustainable use of resources.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Achievements of Recycling Technology Development Showcased", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-10" }, { "no": "3490", "title": "Incineration Plant Evaluation Results Made Public", "preview": "Environmental Inspection\nIncineration Plant Evaluation Results Made Public \nThe 2015 incineration plant evaluation results have been made public, for which an award ceremony was held on 21 September 2016. Minister Ying-Yuan Lee of the EPA personally conferred the awards upon the winners, including two Excellence Awards, six Outstanding Awards, and three Special Awards.", "content": "Incineration Plant Evaluation Results Made Public", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Inspection", "titlename": "Incineration Plant Evaluation Results Made Public", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-10" }, { "no": "3489", "title": "Taiwan, US and Malaysia Jointly Hold International E-waste Management Network Conference", "preview": "Waste\nTaiwan, US and Malaysia Jointly Hold International E-waste Management Network Conference\nThe environmental protection agencies of Taiwan, Malaysia and the US recently hosted the 6th International E-waste Management Network Conference in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The conference, which concluded on 7 October 2016, was an opportunity for 48 government and non-governmental organization representatives from 17 nations in Asia, Africa, the Americas, Europe, and the Pacific Ocean to share their experiences in managing e-waste.", "content": "Taiwan, US and Malaysia Jointly Hold International E-waste Management Network Conference", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Taiwan, US and Malaysia Jointly Hold International E-waste Management Network Conference", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-10" }, { "no": "3488", "title": "Illegal Gains Confiscation Continues for Environmental Justice", "preview": "Environmental Inspection\nIllegal Gains Confiscation Continues for Environmental Justice\nSince 2011, the EPA has been actively pursuing enterprises that have made illegal gains through violating environmental regulations. As of the end of August 2016, the EPA has issued penalties in 84 such cases and fines totaling NT$836.637 million have been levied. The EPA will continue to track down and confiscate illegal gains made through violating the law, and is urging all enterprises to fully abide by environmental regulations to avoid being punished.", "content": "Illegal Gains Confiscation Continues for Environmental Justice", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Inspection", "titlename": "Illegal Gains Confiscation Continues for Environmental Justice", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-10" }, { "no": "3487", "title": "Oil Spill Cleanups Proceed in Kinmen and Kaohsiung", "preview": "Water\nOil Spill Cleanups Proceed in Kinmen and Kaohsiung\nTyphoon Meranti recently passed over Taiwan, causing ships to run aground in Taiwan’s maritime territory: One on the southwest coast of Kinmen Island and two at Xiziwan, Kaohsiung City. The EPA diligently monitoried the emergency response efforts and was in close contact with other relevant ministries and the local governments involved, collaborating and providing assistance as necessary in order to eliminate marine pollution and potential marine pollution as soon as possible. On 18 September 2016, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee visited Kinmen County and inspected the affected coastal area along with Magistrate Fu-Hai Chen and Members of the Legislative Yuan.", "content": "Oil Spill Cleanups Proceed in Kinmen and Kaohsiung\nTyphoon Meranti recently passed over Taiwan, causing ships to run aground in Taiwan’s maritime territory: One on the southwest coast of Kinmen Island and two at Xiziwan, Kaohsiung City. The EPA diligently monitoried the emergency response efforts and was in close contact with other relevant ministries and the local governments involved, collaborating and providing assistance as necessary in order to eliminate marine pollution and potential marine pollution as soon as possible. On 18 September 2016, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee visited Kinmen County and inspected the affected coastal area along with Magistrate Fu-Hai Chen and Members of the Legislative Yuan. \nDuring his visit to Kinmen, Minister Lee promised the EPA’s full assistance to the Kinmen County Government to clean up the spilled oil and eliminate the threat of further marine pollution from the China-registered ship, the Gang Tai Tai Zhou, that ran aground along the southwest coast of Kinmen Island. To minimize the chance of oil from the ship causing environmental damage, the Coast Guard Administration maintained a ring of oil booms on the sea around it. Oil booms were also attached to the ship’s hull as wind and tide conditions dictated. \nThe EPA continued to supervise the oil spill cleanup operation for the Gang Tai Tai Zhou. The Xiamen City Maritime Affairs Bureau dispatched two workships to remove remaining oil from the ship itself, and three high-pressure cleaning machines were brought in to clean the nearby reefs. According to updates from the Kinmen Emergency Response Center, the Chinese crew pumped 25 tonnes of diesel and 2.5 tonnes of lubricant from the ship. The next stage is to remove any remaining oily water and clean up the coastal area before restoring the reef environment to its original condition. \nThe EPA also employed unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology to conduct aerial monitoring of the area, and the most recent images confirmed that there is no new spillage of oil. On 23 September, the Coast Guard Administration held the 7th Gang Tai Tai Zhou Grounding Response Meeting, during which the Kinmen County Government urged the ship’s owner to quickly implement pollution control measures and explain how they would deal with the oily waste. In addition, the EPA promised to continue giving its full assistance to the Kinmen County Government to clean up the oil spill as soon as possible. \nAt Xiziwan, two fishing vessels, the Shuntian 606 and the Yongxingfa 168, spilled oil after running aground. The Port of Kaohsiung, under the Taiwan International Ports Corporation, already removed some oil from the sea, coast, concrete breakwaters, and reefs in the harbor and restored the area to its original condition. Residual oil from the two vessels had been removed and the cleanup verified. The task of hauling the vessels out of the area will soon be undertaken by the owners under the supervision of the Port of Kaohsiung. The owners have submitted a vessel removal plan, also being reviewed by the Port of Kaohsiung, and once approved, the vessels will be removed, allowing the Xiziwan coast to be restored to its original state. \nThe EPA is keen to stress that all agencies involved in the cleanup and emergency response efforts should put personnel safety first. With close cooperation and concerted efforts between central and local governments in dealing with these grounding incidents, the EPA hopes that the cleanup will be successful in protecting the marine ecosystems of the two areas.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Oil Spill Cleanups Proceed in Kinmen and Kaohsiung", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-10" }, { "no": "3486", "title": "Stricter Petrol Vehicle Emission Standards Preannounced", "preview": "Air", "content": "Stricter Petrol Vehicle Emission Standards Preannounced\nOn 9 September 2016, the EPA preannounced the Sixth Phase of Petrol Vehicle Emission Standards, another step along the road to tackle vehicular air pollution. The sixth phase will begin on 1 September 2019, and existing vehicle models will be given a grace period of one year to allow owners to adjust to the new regime. \nTo improve air quality, the EPA continues to tighten the Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards and preannounced the Sixth Phase of Petrol Vehicle Emission Standards. The tightening of standards is important for managing vehicle emissions and keeping Taiwan’s regulations in line with international environmental protection trends, while also stimulating domestic enterprises to develop, manufacture, or import eco-friendly vehicles that use the latest pollution control technologies. The EPA examined the EU Euro 6 emission controls before drafting the amendments to Article 3 of the Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards. \nThe main points of the amendments involve tightening of pollutant controls and stricter regulations for importing in-use vehicles, as outlined below: \n‧Adding new regul ations, the Vehicular Exhaust Air Pollutant Emission Standards for Petrol and Cleaner Alternative Fuel Engine Vehicles will take effect on 1 September 2019. Parallel systems will be maintained whereby Euro 6 vehicular emission standards and testing procedures will be applied, along with the worldwide harmonized light vehicles test procedures (WLTP) as well as recognizing US car emission standards and their Tier 2 Bin 5 testing procedures.\n‧The unit of measurement for pollutant amounts has been changed from grams (g) to milligrams (mg). \n‧The particulate matter (PM) limit has been tightened from 5.0 mg\/km to 4.5 mg\/km.\n‧Particle number (PN) controls have been added, at 6 x 1011 #\/km. \n‧Imported in-use vehicles, regardless of the year of manufacture, should meet driving cycle test standards and idel test standards used for new vehicles. A grace period of three months from the date of announcement will be given to importers.\n‧The amendments will take effect on 1 September 2019, and existing vehicle models will be granted a one-year grace period.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Stricter Petrol Vehicle Emission Standards Preannounced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-10" }, { "no": "3485", "title": "New EIA Measures Announced for Implementation of Geology Act", "preview": "EIA\nNew EIA Measures Announced for Implementation of Geology Act \nThe Geology Act has now been in force for nearly five years, and on 21 September the EPA announced new environmental impact assessment (EIA) measures for development projects located in geologically sensitive areas announced by the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA). In addition to the EIA review committee composed of members specializing in topography and geology, the MOEA’s Central Geological Survey will be invited to assist with reviews. The EPA will also commission professional organizations with professional engineers to provide expert opinions as references for the EIA review committee.", "content": "New EIA Measures Announced for Implementation of Geology Act \nThe Geology Act has now been in force for nearly five years, and on 21 September the EPA announced new environmental impact assessment (EIA) measures for development projects located in geologically sensitive areas announced by the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA). In addition to the EIA review committee composed of members specializing in topography and geology, the MOEA’s Central Geological Survey will be invited to assist with reviews. The EPA will also commission professional organizations with professional engineers to provide expert opinions as references for the EIA review committee. \nLocated on the junction of the Eurasian Plate and the Philippine Sea Plate, Taiwan is subject to the frequent tectonic activity in its region of the Pacific Ocean. A major earthquake in central Taiwan on 21 September 1999, registering 7.3 on the Richter scale, reminded the public of the need for natural disaster preparedness, which includes policies for pre-disaster risk prevention and post-disaster response. \nAccording to the Geology Act that has been in force since 1 December 2011, a land development activity site that is in whole or in part within a geologically sensitive area, shall first undergo a geological site investigation and geological safety assessment before an application for land development is filed. The regulations also stipulate that the documents and diagrams sent for review should contain survey and assessment results. Development activity will thus henceforth be governed through a combination of relevant regulations such as those concerning environmental impact assessments; land use and rezoning; soil and groundwater conservation plans; and the Building Act. \nTo comply with the Geology Act, environmental impact assessments (EIA) for development projects proposed in geologically sensitive areas announced by the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) will be reviewed by an EIA review committee that includes specialists in topography and geology, and the MOEA’s Central Geological Survey will also be invited to assist. Also, in accordance with the Geology Act, professional organizations that have members who have duly obtained certification as professional engineers in the corresponding disciplines shall be commissioned to provide expert opinions for the reference of the EIA review committee. The professional organization’s report shall be included as an appendix to the EIA statements. \nWhile using this opportunity to explain the connection between the Geology Act and the environmental risk assessment review, the EPA also reminds developers to take great care when selecting sites for development. Development in geologically sensitive areas should be avoided to prevent major disasters. The EPA also urges all government agencies to fully implement regulations under their jurisdiction and shoulder their responsibilities for natural disaster prevention and environmental protection.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "EIA", "titlename": "New EIA Measures Announced for Implementation of Geology Act", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-10" }, { "no": "3484", "title": "Amendments to Subsidy Regulations for Scrapping Two-stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Two-wheeled Electric Vehicles Preannounced", "preview": "Air\nAmendments to Subsidy Regulations for Scrapping Two-stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Two-wheeled Electric Vehicles Preannounced\nTo understand the distribution of carbon dioxide and atmospheric pollutants in the Asia-Pacific region, in 2012 the EPA began working with the EU and National Central University using Evergreen Line container ships to monitor greenhouse gases around the Pacific Ocean. Later in 2012, China Airlines was invited to join the observation effort. On 6 September 2016, the EPA, National Central University, and China Airlines jointly held a ceremony to launch the participation of a second China Airlines aircraft in international atmospheric CO2 monitoring.", "content": "Amendments to Subsidy Regulations for Scrapping Two-stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Two-wheeled Electric Vehicles Preannounced\nTo understand the distribution of carbon dioxide and atmospheric pollutants in the Asia-Pacific region, in 2012 the EPA began working with the EU and National Central University using Evergreen Line container ships to monitor greenhouse gases around the Pacific Ocean. Later in 2012, China Airlines was invited to join the observation effort. On 6 September 2016, the EPA, National Central University, and China Airlines jointly held a ceremony to launch the participation of a second China Airlines aircraft in international atmospheric CO2 monitoring. \nThe EPA has drawn up a draft of amendments to the Regulations Governing Subsidies for Scrapping Two-stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Two-wheeled Electric Vehicles The changes include extending the period of subsidies for three more years until the end of 2019; reducing the subsidy amounts year-on-year; ending the subsidies for buying electric two-wheeled vehicles that have lead-acid batteries in 2017; and ending the subsidies for scrapping two-stroke motorcycles in 2020. \nThe EPA points out two-stroke motorcycles are highly polluting, producing 18 times the amount of hydrocarbon emissions and two times the carbon monoxide (CO) emissions that of 4-stroke motorcycles. To encourage the public to scrap their two-stroke motorcycles, the EPA will continue to offer subsidies for the scrapping of two-stroke motorcycles and the purchase of new electric two-wheeled vehicles. \nTo reduce pollution caused by two-stroke motorcycles, the EPA has been gradually tightening emissions standards by putting an end in 2004 to the manufacture and sale of new two-stroke motorcycles. Two-stroke motorcycles currently on the roads fall under a subsidy regime implemented by the EPA in 2008. Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) vehicle registration statistics indicate that as of the end of July 2016 there were still 1.305 million scooters more than 13 years old registered, of which most are two-stroke. The EPA has thus decided to continue offering financial incentives to encourage members of the public to scrap their old two-stroke motorcycles. Considering that electric two-wheeled vehicles are eco-friendly – producing no emissions and less noise than conventional combustion engine motorcycles – and thus worthy of being promoted, the EPA has decided to continue to provide a subsidy to encourage the public to buy them. \nThe main points of the amendments are to extend the subsidy period to 31 December 2019, and to make some adjustments according to feedback received from stakeholders. In addition, as of 2017, electric two-wheeled vehicles (scooters and bicycles) with lead-acid batteries will not be eligible for subsidies. The regulation governing the advance payment of subsidies by electric two-wheeled vehicle makers and retailers has been removed, and from 2020 the subsidy for scrapping two-stroke motorcycles will also be dropped.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Amendments to Subsidy Regulations for Scrapping Two-stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Two-wheeled Electric Vehicles Preannounced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-10" }, { "no": "3483", "title": "Ten Years of Pollution Investigations at Unused Factories", "preview": "Soil and Groundwater\nTen Years of Pollution Investigations at Unused Factories \nTo protect soil and groundwater, thorough investigations of unused factories and assessments of in-situ pollution – followed by site remediation – are necessary. To this end, since 2004 the EPA has surveyed 120,000 unused factories, of which 740 were deemed to be potentially highly polluting. To date, the EPA has conducted in-depth investigation on 175 factories with high polluting potential and has found pollution in 102 of them. The EPA plans to carry out the in-depth investigation on another 500 high polluting potential factories. To improve the efficiency of screening for pollution potential, the EPA has established an environmental risk screening mechanism and a management platform. Combined with a geological information system, the investigation results can be instantly uploaded on the management platform. In the future, to bring about sustainable land use the EPA will accelerate remediation of contaminated sites, strengthen self-regulation of enterprises, and enhance pollution control at source.", "content": "Ten Years of Pollution Investigations at Unused Factories \nTo protect soil and groundwater, thorough investigations of unused factories and assessments of in-situ pollution – followed by site remediation – are necessary. To this end, since 2004 the EPA has surveyed 120,000 unused factories, of which 740 were deemed to be potentially highly polluting. To date, the EPA has conducted in-depth investigation on 175 factories with high polluting potential and has found pollution in 102 of them. The EPA plans to carry out the in-depth investigation on another 500 high polluting potential factories. To improve the efficiency of screening for pollution potential, the EPA has established an environmental risk screening mechanism and a management platform. Combined with a geological information system, the investigation results can be instantly uploaded on the management platform. In the future, to bring about sustainable land use the EPA will accelerate remediation of contaminated sites, strengthen self-regulation of enterprises, and enhance pollution control at source. \nAs a part of the task of managing pollution at unused factories, since 2004 the EPA has been conducting surveys and assessments on all of Taiwan’s 120,000 or so unused factories and has selected 740 that are potentially highly polluting. From 2004 to August 2016, the EPA completed pollution investigations at 175 factories and found serious pollution at 102 of them, a discovery rate of 58%. The EPA expects to complete surveys of another 500 of the 740 factories that have been found with high polluting potential within the next three years.\nSurveys of High Pollution Potential Factories Expected to Complete within Three Years\nFor the surveys, the EPA first screened approximately 42,000 potentially polluting factories from the industry categories that have known pollution problems. Using standardized survey procedures and technical manuals, EPA inspectors gathered basic data that was used to facilitate investigation of actual pollution conditions at unused factories, including data on original facilities and the impacts on sensitive receptors in the surrounding environment. The investigation allowed the EPA to select 3,500 factories and assign a color code to each one according to severity of pollution. \nFor the 2,200 factories deemed to be in the high- or medium-risk categories, the EPA conducted environmental assessments that included on-site surveys, collection of information on the factories, and interviews of staff and local residents. The assessments have allowed the EPA to gain a clear picture of potential pollution sources, types of pollution, and pollution distribution at the sites. After screening, 175 sites were selected for in-depth investigation, of which 102 were found to have soil or groundwater pollution, a discovery rate of 58%. \nAnalysis of the pollution survey statistics showed that of these 102 polluted factory sites, 88 have soil contamination, six have groundwater contamination, and eight have both soil and groundwater pollution. The soil contamination was mainly due to the presence of heavy metals, with total petroleum hydrocarbons playing a secondary role. The groundwater pollution was mainly due to volatile organic chemicals followed by heavy metals. \nFollowing the EPA’s active surveying of unused factories, there remain around 500 factories deemed to be in the high- or medium-risk categories. The EPA will compile information and classify the factories according to risk level before handing the cases over to local competent authorities for further investigation. The EPA expects to complete investigation of the 500 factories within the next three years.\nFollowing assessment and screening, the owners of factories where pollution was discovered will be notified to carry out remediation. Under the supervision of environmental agencies, 71 such polluted sites have already been removed from the control list after completing remediation, which also prevents pollution from spreading into the wider environment. Of the 31 polluted sites still under remediation, the supervising environmental agencies will continue to do remediation work, and all said sites are expected to be removed from the control list within five years. \nFrom January to August of 2016, the EPA carried out investigations at the potentially highly polluting factories, of which 15 have been penalized by their local environmental protection bureaus. The EPA will continue to monitor the pollution status of manufacturing operations at all potentially high- or medium-risk factories. The EPA will also speed up its program of contaminated site remediation, as well as demand more pollution self-regulation from Taiwan’s enterprises.\nPollution Control and Risk Screening for Soil and Groundwater Protection\nThe many years of inspections and surveys have led to the formation of a comprehensive environmental risk screening and management platform which works in tandem with pollution control measures. Industrial activity is the main cause of soil and groundwater pollution and the form that such activity takes can change quickly. Factories can be moved to other locations, or may suspend or halt operations, and thus leave waste untreated and premises unmanaged. Sites may also be released for redevelopment, all of which can cause pollution to be spread. \nTo effectively manage unused factories, Articles 8 and 9 of the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act stipulate that from 2005, announced enterprises that wish to move premises must undergo soil and groundwater pollution assessment investigation and testing before closing the original factory and applying for a new license. To ensure the quality of investigation and pollution prevention at industrial sites, the procedures must include on-site inspections by qualified inspectors, testing results produced by a certified environmental laboratory, and certification by a professional environmental engineer.\nTo date, the system of soil and groundwater pollution assessment investigation and testing for industrial sites has resulted in over 5,000 cases being reported. Of these, the main polluted sites have involved metal plating, petrol stations, and the printed circuit board industry (51%), the premises of which cover a total land area of over 47.88 million square meters. Of these 5,000 cases, 68 involved instances of testing values exceeding stated maximums, some involved operators protecting their rights, and some involved future business operations testing for pollution before renting out premises so as to protect themselves from liabilities stemming from the pollution. This shows that the system also has an early alert function that helps protect soil and groundwater.\nThe environmental risk screening and management platform for unused factories produces pollution potential risk assessments based on parameters such as the registered area of the original premises, the number of years of operation, the nature of the business, transmission routes for on-site pollution, and risk level for pollution receptors. It produces a pollution potential map to which data from on-site surveys can be added. The platform has been awarded two patents by the Intellectual Property Office of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), titled: “Factory Environment Risk Screening Method,” and “Unused Factory Environment Risk Screening System.”\nUnused factories are spread across Taiwan. To improve administrative efficiency and quality, the EPA has successfully developed a supplementary system that allows inspectors to upload field data instantly from the sites. This system also has a patent titled “Spatial Information Processing and Output System, Computer Program Product and Methodology for Environmental Site Assessments” issued by the Intellectual Property Office of the MOEA. Using the above tools, the EPA has reached its management goals for contaminated factory sites as “pilot demonstrations in the short-term, full control of pollution statuses in the medium-term, and efficient management for the long-term.” \nFuture Outlook\nThe EPA’s survey program of unused factories has now been running for over ten years. The continued cooperation between central and local governments has yielded many achievements and much useful experience. The first stages of the program have been completed, and the EPA will be building upon them to expand the program to all polluted factory sites around Taiwan. The EPA will seek to strengthen self-regulation among the enterprises concerned and promote the use of environmental liability insurance. The system of self-surveys for enterprises listed under Articles 8 and 9 of the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act has proven to be effective. \nThe EPA will conduct preventative supervision and management in regions to ensure that survey resources are used efficiently and that pollution control is implemented thoroughly, so as to reach the goal of sustainable land management.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil and Groundwater", "titlename": "Ten Years of Pollution Investigations at Unused Factories", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-10" }, { "no": "3328", "title": "Recycling Cash for Recycling End-of-Life Vehicles", "preview": "Recycling Cash for Recycling End-of-Life Vehicles", "content": "Recycling Cash for Recycling End-of-Life Vehicles", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Cash for Recycling End-of-Life Vehicles", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-08" }, { "no": "3326", "title": "Ecolabeling Over 2 Million Eco-Labeled Thermo Mugs Sold in Taiwan", "preview": "Ecolabeling Over 2 Million Eco-Labeled Thermo Mugs Sold in Taiwan", "content": "Over 2 Million Eco-Labeled Thermo Mugs Sold in Taiwan", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "ecolabeling", "titlename": "Over 2 Million Eco-Labeled Thermo Mugs Sold in Taiwan", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-08" }, { "no": "", "title": "President Ma's Environmental Policy Sees Three Years of Good Results", "preview": "Feature Article", "content": "Feature Article", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "", "titlename": "President Ma s Environmental Policy Sees Three Years of Good Results", "position": "" }, { "no": "2705", "title": "President Ma's Environmental Policy Sees Three Years of Good Results", "preview": "General Policy", "content": "General Policy", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "President Ma s Environmental Policy Sees Three Years of Good Results", "position": "print\/V14\/V14-06" }, { "no": "2433", "title": "Computer Energy Saver Free Download to Help Save Electricity", "preview": "Climate Change", "content": "Climate Change", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Computer Energy Saver Free Download to Help Save Electricity", "position": "print\/V12\/V12-11" }, { "no": "2418", "title": "Let Earth Breathe Carbon Label Logo Contest", "preview": "Ecolabeling", "content": "Ecolabeling", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Eco-labeling", "titlename": "Let Earth Breathe Carbon Label Logo Contest", "position": "print\/V12\/V12-10" }, { "no": "2345", "title": "2008 Incinerator Audits Hsindian and Tainan City Plants Rate the Best", "preview": "General Policy 2008 Incinerator Audits: Hsindian and Tainan City Plants Rate the Best", "content": "General Policy 2008 Incinerator Audits: Hsindian and Tainan City Plants Rate the Best", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "2008 Incinerator Audits Hsindian and Tainan City Plants Rate the Best", "position": "print\/V12\/V12-05" }, { "no": "2186", "title": "Korean Recycling Association Draws on Taiwan’s Experience", "preview": "Recycling Korean Recycling Association Draws on Taiwan’s Experience", "content": "Recycling Korean Recycling Association Draws on Taiwan’s Experience", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Korean Recycling Association Draws on Taiwan s Experience", "position": "print\/V11\/V11-06" }, { "no": "", "title": "EPA Holds International Forum on Environment and Transportation Management", "preview": "", "content": "", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "", "titlename": "EPA Holds International Forum on Environment and Transportation Management", "position": "" }, { "no": "2127", "title": "EPA Holds International Forum on Environment and Transportation Management", "preview": "Air Quality", "content": "Air Quality", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "EPA Holds International Forum on Environment and Transportation Management", "position": "print\/V11\/V11-03" }, { "no": "1550", "title": "EPA’s Sustainability Plans Affirmed", "preview": "The Community Environmental Reform Plan promoted by the EPA Department of Planning has received the first place Sustainable Development Action Plan Implementation Award in the second annual National Sustainable Development Awards presented by the National Council for Sustainable Development Executive Yuan (NCSD). This award winning plan, which implements a pilot “community alliance” strategy, promotes community based environmental initiatives and has already provided assistance to over 800 communities with excellent results. EPA Acting Minister Tsay Ting-kuei expressed that the community environmental reform plan is a product of cooperation between the EPA and NGOs to promote overall reconstruction of communities. The EPA is the only government agency that has so much interaction and involvement at the community level, most intimately and most substantial example of interaction with community members. Among the three winners of this year’s Sustainable Development Action Plan Implementation Award includes the Bureau of Environmental Inspection’s food waste recycling and reuse plan. Many other sustainable development plans have also received high approval.", "content": "The Community Environmental Reform Plan promoted by the EPA Department of Planning has received the first place Sustainable Development Action Plan Implementation Award in the second annual National Sustainable Development Awards presented by the National Council for Sustainable Development Executive Yuan (NCSD). This award winning plan, which implements a pilot “community alliance” strategy, promotes community based environmental initiatives and has already provided assistance to over 800 communities with excellent results. EPA Acting Minister Tsay Ting-kuei expressed that the community environmental reform plan is a product of cooperation between the EPA and NGOs to promote overall reconstruction of communities. The EPA is the only government agency that has so much interaction and involvement at the community level, most intimately and most substantial example of interaction with community members. Among the three winners of this year’s Sustainable Development Action Plan Implementation Award includes the Bureau of Environmental Inspection’s food waste recycling and reuse plan. Many other sustainable development plans have also received high approval.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Sustainable Development", "titlename": "EPA s sustainability Plans Affirmed", "position": "print\/V8\/V8-06" }, { "no": "", "title": "Complete Sorting\/Zero Waste Policy Gains High Public Support", "preview": "", "content": "To better understand citizens’ and students’ awareness of environmental knowledge, policy and education channels, the EPA launched the “Citizen and Student Environmental Awareness Survey” covering 30 topics including “Compulsory garbage sorting,” “Penalty for drippy air conditioners,” and “Regular cleaning and maintenance of household water purifiers.” Collecting such information on peoples’ environmental attitudes and actions will facilitate future planning of environmental education.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "", "titlename": "", "position": "" }, { "no": "1513", "title": "Complete Sorting\/Zero Waste Policy Gains High Public Support", "preview": "The EPA has announced the latest survey results of citizens’ and students’ environmental knowledge showing that over 90% of respondents comply with measures calling for compulsory garbage sorting, and garbage and food waste sorting and recycling at fast food chains. Already 92% of citizens say they bring a shopping bag with them when going out shopping, and over 90% of elementary and junior high school students say they are doing so as well.", "content": "The EPA has announced the latest survey results of citizens’ and students’ environmental knowledge showing that over 90% of respondents comply with measures calling for compulsory garbage sorting, and garbage and food waste sorting and recycling at fast food chains. Already 92% of citizens say they bring a shopping bag with them when going out shopping, and over 90% of elementary and junior high school students say they are doing so as well.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Complete Sorting\/Zero Waste Policy Gains High Public Support", "position": "print\/V8\/V8-04" }, { "no": "1458", "title": "Motorbike Testing Stations’ Performance Awarded", "preview": "The EPA held a national awarding ceremony on November 11 to commend the outstanding service performance of motorbike exhaust testing stations in 2003. Ninety-eight testing stations were chosen from a total of 1883 stations nationwide. Each local government submitted the top 5% motorbike testing stations of their county or city, from which the EPA made further selection based on testing quality assurance and quality management. Special commendation was given to Mr. Liu Mu-chuan of Kaohsiung County, who showed devotion to protecting the environment through five years of enthusiastic service attitude toward customers despite a physical handicap. Liu expressed appreciation to EPA Minister Chang for implementing policies to reduce air pollution. Liu also offered advice to associates in the testing industry based on his own successful experience: “Our job is not just to make money, but to protect the environment.”", "content": "The EPA held a national awarding ceremony on November 11 to commend the outstanding service performance of motorbike exhaust testing stations in 2003. Ninety-eight testing stations were chosen from a total of 1883 stations nationwide. Each local government submitted the top 5% motorbike testing stations of their county or city, from which the EPA made further selection based on testing quality assurance and quality management. Special commendation was given to Mr. Liu Mu-chuan of Kaohsiung County, who showed devotion to protecting the environment through five years of enthusiastic service attitude toward customers despite a physical handicap. Liu expressed appreciation to EPA Minister Chang for implementing policies to reduce air pollution. Liu also offered advice to associates in the testing industry based on his own successful experience: “Our job is not just to make money, but to protect the environment.”", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Motorbike Testing stations Performance Awarded", "position": "print\/V7\/V7-12" }, { "no": "1457", "title": "Managing the Nation’s Drinking Water Quality", "preview": "The EPA seeks to directly improve the daily lives of citizens by providing safe high quality drinking water. This involves regular monitoring and testing to make sure drinking water and water quality management are up to standard. Recently, it has become necessary to develop certain reform measures to integrate related regulations and jurisdiction. In coordination with government reorganization plans, the next task of water quality management involves integrating related water quality management regulations and division of authority.", "content": "The EPA seeks to directly improve the daily lives of citizens by providing safe high quality drinking water. This involves regular monitoring and testing to make sure drinking water and water quality management are up to standard. Recently, it has become necessary to develop certain reform measures to integrate related regulations and jurisdiction. In coordination with government reorganization plans, the next task of water quality management involves integrating related water quality management regulations and division of authority.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Managing the Nation s Drinking Water Quality", "position": "print\/V7\/V7-12" }, { "no": "1394", "title": "Penghu to Launch “Complete Sorting Zero Waste” Demonstration Project", "preview": "The EPA has assisted Penghu County with the formulation of the “Complete Sorting for Zero Waste Demonstration Plan” which has already been approved by the Executive Yuan. The plan calls for replacing plans for an incinerator with source reduction and resource recycling strategies. Penghu County will soon become a model for other counties to follow in terms of garbage reduction, resource recycling and creating a sustainable environment. The “Complete Sorting for Zero Waste” plan initiated by Penghu County includes education regarding reducing garbage at its source, sorting and recycling of all resources, food waste recycling and basic environmental knowledge. Waste treatment facilities include storage and sorting of garbage, volume reduction by drying out garbage, and processing waste into fuel pellets. As for the daily garbage generated in Penghu County, all trash should first pass through the garbage collection system before entering the sorting facilities of resource recycling plants. All garbage that enters such plants will be separated into the three main categories of “resource waste,” “non-resource combustibles” and “non-resource non-combustibles.” Items sorted out as “resource waste” will enter the existing resource recycling system.", "content": "The EPA has assisted Penghu County with the formulation of the “Complete Sorting for Zero Waste Demonstration Plan” which has already been approved by the Executive Yuan. The plan calls for replacing plans for an incinerator with source reduction and resource recycling strategies. Penghu County will soon become a model for other counties to follow in terms of garbage reduction, resource recycling and creating a sustainable environment. The “Complete Sorting for Zero Waste” plan initiated by Penghu County includes education regarding reducing garbage at its source, sorting and recycling of all resources, food waste recycling and basic environmental knowledge. Waste treatment facilities include storage and sorting of garbage, volume reduction by drying out garbage, and processing waste into fuel pellets. As for the daily garbage generated in Penghu County, all trash should first pass through the garbage collection system before entering the sorting facilities of resource recycling plants. All garbage that enters such plants will be separated into the three main categories of “resource waste,” “non-resource combustibles” and “non-resource non-combustibles.” Items sorted out as “resource waste” will enter the existing resource recycling system.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Penghu to Launch Complete Sorting Zero Waste Demonstration Project", "position": "print\/V7\/V7-09" }, { "no": "", "title": "Expanded Opportunities for International Exchange in Environmental Protection", "preview": "", "content": "", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "", "titlename": "", "position": "" }, { "no": "1220", "title": "Expanded Opportunities for International Exchange in Environmental Protection", "preview": "The EPA enjoyed frequent exchanges with the international community this September. First EPA Administrator Hau Lung-bin visited Singapore and Germany and invited foreign firms to set up in Taiwan’s new Environmental Science and Technology Parks. Then the EPA welcomed US EPA delegates to Taiwan to renew a Taiwan-US environmental protection technology cooperation agreement for five more years. This agreement fosters friendly relations between Taiwan and the US through environmental technology exchanges.", "content": "The EPA enjoyed frequent exchanges with the international community this September. First EPA Administrator Hau Lung-bin visited Singapore and Germany and invited foreign firms to set up in Taiwan’s new Environmental Science and Technology Parks. Then the EPA welcomed US EPA delegates to Taiwan to renew a Taiwan-US environmental protection technology cooperation agreement for five more years. This agreement fosters friendly relations between Taiwan and the US through environmental technology exchanges.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Expanded Opportunities for International Exchange in Environmental Protection", "position": "print\/V6\/V6-10" }, { "no": "1102", "title": "National Cleanup Week: Take to the Streets and Cleanup for the New Yeary", "preview": "The EPA is promoting the ‘National Cleanup Week’ from January 24~30 to get ready for the Chinese New Year. The EPA is appealing to the public to work together to clean up both in and around their homes. The focus of the cleanup should begin in your home by cleaning up areas that mosquitoes may find suitable for breeding. Any unused containers should be turned over or taken to the garbage truck to be collected and basements with standing water should be drained. These measures will help to eradicate mosquitoes and prevent outbreaks of Dengue fever. In addition, residents should cleanup the four square meters of public space surrounding their homes, including lanes and alleys, streets, and drainage trenches, and the work can be divided up among neighbors if this space is shared. Enforcement of Article 11 of the Waste Disposal Act (廢棄物清理法) will be administered on anyone who is found in violation of these stipulations.", "content": "The EPA is promoting the ‘National Cleanup Week’ from January 24~30 to get ready for the Chinese New Year. The EPA is appealing to the public to work together to clean up both in and around their homes. The focus of the cleanup should begin in your home by cleaning up areas that mosquitoes may find suitable for breeding. Any unused containers should be turned over or taken to the garbage truck to be collected and basements with standing water should be drained. These measures will help to eradicate mosquitoes and prevent outbreaks of Dengue fever. In addition, residents should cleanup the four square meters of public space surrounding their homes, including lanes and alleys, streets, and drainage trenches, and the work can be divided up among neighbors if this space is shared. Enforcement of Article 11 of the Waste Disposal Act (廢棄物清理法) will be administered on anyone who is found in violation of these stipulations.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Sanitation", "titlename": "National Cleanup Week: Take to the Streets and Cleanup for the New Yeary", "position": "print\/V6\/V6-02" }, { "no": "", "title": "Subsidies for Incinerator Ash Reuse and Disposal", "preview": "", "content": "", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "", "titlename": "Subsidies for Incinerator Ash Reuse and Disposal", "position": "" }, { "no": "1034", "title": "Subsidies for Incinerator Ash Reuse and Disposal", "preview": "The EPA will provide local governments with subsidies to be used to encourage private enterprises to establish final disposal sites for incinerator ash using BOO and BOT investment methods and to acquire ash reuse technology. These measures are aimed at ensuring incinerator ash is treated properly and at reducing the burden on Taiwan’s final waste disposal sites.", "content": "The EPA will provide local governments with subsidies to be used to encourage private enterprises to establish final disposal sites for incinerator ash using BOO and BOT investment methods and to acquire ash reuse technology. These measures are aimed at ensuring incinerator ash is treated properly and at reducing the burden on Taiwan’s final waste disposal sites.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Subsidies for Incinerator Ash Reuse and Disposal", "position": "print\/V5\/V5-10" }, { "no": "", "title": "Administrator Visits Hong Kong’s Waste Management Facilities", "preview": "", "content": "", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "", "titlename": "", "position": "" }, { "no": "778", "title": "Administrator Visits Hong Kong’s Waste Management Facilities", "preview": "Administrator Lung-Bin Hau visited Hong Kong from June 25 to June 27 to inspect local waste transshipment and treatment facilities. Following the inspection the EPA is even more convinced that cross-area waste treatment is the direction that future waste treatment must take.", "content": "Administrator Lung-Bin Hau visited Hong Kong from June 25 to June 27 to inspect local waste transshipment and treatment facilities. Following the inspection the EPA is even more convinced that cross-area waste treatment is the direction that future waste treatment must take.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Administrator Visits Hong Kong s Waste Management Facilities", "position": "print\/V4\/V4-08" }, { "no": "751", "title": "Feature Article: At Source Controls on Oil Product Quality Delivers Results", "preview": "With the number of vehicles in Taiwan rapidly increasing the quality of oil products has a direct impact on air quality in municipal areas. In the spirit of managing pollution by targeting the source, the EPA initiated a long-term program in 1987 to phase out lead gasoline, culminating in a complete ban in 2000. In addition, the sulfur content of diesel fuel has decreased from 0.5% to 0.05% over the last ten years. In 2000, the EPA promulgated standards for the composition and properties of gasoline and diesel fuels, thereby completing the establishment of a comprehensive set of regulatory measures to manage the quality of oil products.", "content": "With the number of vehicles in Taiwan rapidly increasing the quality of oil products has a direct impact on air quality in municipal areas. In the spirit of managing pollution by targeting the source, the EPA initiated a long-term program in 1987 to phase out lead gasoline, culminating in a complete ban in 2000. In addition, the sulfur content of diesel fuel has decreased from 0.5% to 0.05% over the last ten years. In 2000, the EPA promulgated standards for the composition and properties of gasoline and diesel fuels, thereby completing the establishment of a comprehensive set of regulatory measures to manage the quality of oil products.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "At Source Controls on Oil Product Quality Delivers Results", "position": "print\/V4\/V4-06" }, { "no": "715", "title": "Feature: Newly Appointed Administrator Dr. Lung-Bin Hau, Emphasizes Results and Enforcement", "preview": "Dr. Lung-Bin Hau has been appointed to the post of EPA Administrator. Working from his personal beliefs as an environmentalist and with his respect for professionalism Dr. Hau hopes that in the short-term he can dissipate the public's current dissatisfaction with environmental protection. In the long run Dr. Hau aims to ensure that Taiwan will always have green mountains and clear water.", "content": "Dr. Lung-Bin Hau has been appointed to the post of EPA Administrator. Working from his personal beliefs as an environmentalist and with his respect for professionalism Dr. Hau hopes that in the short-term he can dissipate the public's current dissatisfaction with environmental protection. In the long run Dr. Hau aims to ensure that Taiwan will always have green mountains and clear water.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Others", "titlename": "Newly Appointed Administrator Dr. Lung-Bin Hau Emphasizes Results and Enforcement", "position": "print\/V4\/V4-04" }, { "no": "702", "title": "Feature Article: Sustainable Development of Green Silicon Island Main Theme of Premier Chang's Administrative Report", "preview": "Executive Yuan Premier Chang Chun-hsiung's administrative report of June 20 contained the heading ”Taiwan's transformational direction-a Green Silicon Island.” Chang emphasized that ”green” implies that sustainable development and environmental protection must take precedence while ”silicon” highlights the need for entrepreneurial spirit, especially the quality of ”innovation.” The blueprint for a Green Silicon Island calls for harmonious, coordinated progress in economic development, social development, and ecological development.", "content": "Executive Yuan Premier Chang Chun-hsiung's administrative report of June 20 contained the heading ”Taiwan's transformational direction-a Green Silicon Island.” Chang emphasized that ”green” implies that sustainable development and environmental protection must take precedence while ”silicon” highlights the need for entrepreneurial spirit, especially the quality of ”innovation.” The blueprint for a Green Silicon Island calls for harmonious, coordinated progress in economic development, social development, and ecological development.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Feature Article: sustainable Development of Green Silicon Island Main Theme of Premier Chang s Administrative Report", "position": "print\/V4\/V4-03" }, { "no": "693", "title": "Resource Reuse: Taiwan's Roads are Beginning to Sparkle with Waste Glass", "preview": "Taiwan’s first colored-glass asphalt surface was laid in a Chiayi City park in late December 2000. Construction of this 105-square meter recreational area laid in the form of a music staff, follows the laying of Taiwan’s first glass asphalt test road, which was laid in the Tungshih Township of Yunlin County in September 2000. Not only has this colored-glass area beautified Chia Hsing Park, it also highlights the new availability of an additional channel for the use of the approximately 500,000-600,000 kilotons of waste glass generated in Taiwan each year.", "content": "Taiwan’s first colored-glass asphalt surface was laid in a Chiayi City park in late December 2000. Construction of this 105-square meter recreational area laid in the form of a music staff, follows the laying of Taiwan’s first glass asphalt test road, which was laid in the Tungshih Township of Yunlin County in September 2000. Not only has this colored-glass area beautified Chia Hsing Park, it also highlights the new availability of an additional channel for the use of the approximately 500,000-600,000 kilotons of waste glass generated in Taiwan each year.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Resource Reuse: Taiwan s Roads are Beginning to Sparkle with Waste Glass", "position": "print\/V4\/V4-02" }, { "no": "686", "title": "Feature Article: EPA Aims to Inspire a Green Consumer Trend Through Government Procurement", "preview": "Green consumer behavior is a major trend in modern society. With the goal of promoting this trend the EPA has presented to the Executive Yuan the draft of its Program for the Promotion of Green Procurement by Government Organizations. This program aims to use the power of government procurement in order to promote the production of environmentally friendly goods. It also hopes to encourage consumers to purchase these green products. The first stages of this program will focus on the procurement of office supplies, paper and office equipment. The program sets the target for green procurement at 30% of total procurements for 2001 and then raises this target to 50% for 2002.", "content": "Green consumer behavior is a major trend in modern society. With the goal of promoting this trend the EPA has presented to the Executive Yuan the draft of its Program for the Promotion of Green Procurement by Government Organizations. This program aims to use the power of government procurement in order to promote the production of environmentally friendly goods. It also hopes to encourage consumers to purchase these green products. The first stages of this program will focus on the procurement of office supplies, paper and office equipment. The program sets the target for green procurement at 30% of total procurements for 2001 and then raises this target to 50% for 2002.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Eco-labeling", "titlename": "Feature Article: EPA Aims to Inspire a Green Consumer Trend Through Government Procurement", "position": "print\/V4\/V4-02" }, { "no": "673", "title": "Feature: National Economic Development Conference Calls for Simplification of EIA Procedures", "preview": "On January 6 the Executive Yuan convened the National Economic Development Conference to discuss means of stimulating economic growth. A portion of conference discussions were directed at environmental issues such as environmental impact assessments. In regard to EIAs, final suggestions were formulated to provide direction for future administrative work: (1) simplify environmental permitting procedures, (2) raise EIA efficiency, and (3) create a ”one stop” government window for handling environmental permits. The suggestions are intended to increase government efficiency, maintain protection for the environment and help economic development.", "content": "On January 6 the Executive Yuan convened the National Economic Development Conference to discuss means of stimulating economic growth. A portion of conference discussions were directed at environmental issues such as environmental impact assessments. In regard to EIAs, final suggestions were formulated to provide direction for future administrative work: (1) simplify environmental permitting procedures, (2) raise EIA efficiency, and (3) create a ”one stop” government window for handling environmental permits. The suggestions are intended to increase government efficiency, maintain protection for the environment and help economic development.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Genearal Policy", "titlename": "National Economic Development Conference Calls for Simplification of EIA Procedures", "position": "print\/V4\/V4-01" }, { "no": "659", "title": "Feature: Executive Yuan Approves Expansion of EPA Industrial Waste Control Center", "preview": "On October 21 the Executive Yuan gave it's seal of approval to the Industrial Waste Control Center. The EPA announced dedication of 16 full time staff and the organization of information management data analysis and inspection groups to begin formal operations. EPA Administrator Edgar Lin noted that the Center's work on at-source waste management, waste tracking, and industry reporting will all be easily available with one look at the computer. Once discovered any problems will be immediately referred to the North, Central, and South Environmental Police brigades for handling.", "content": "On October 21 the Executive Yuan gave it's seal of approval to the Industrial Waste Control Center. The EPA announced dedication of 16 full time staff and the organization of information management data analysis and inspection groups to begin formal operations. EPA Administrator Edgar Lin noted that the Center's work on at-source waste management, waste tracking, and industry reporting will all be easily available with one look at the computer. Once discovered any problems will be immediately referred to the North, Central, and South Environmental Police brigades for handling.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Feature: Executive Yuan Approves Expansion of EPA Industrial Waste Control Center", "position": "print\/V1\/V3-18" }, { "no": "643", "title": "Feature: Executive Yuan Calls for Halt to Construction of the 4th Nuclear Power Plant", "preview": "The Executive Yuan has officially called for a halt to construction of the Fourth Nuclear Power Plant. Edgar Lin who began his anti-nuclear struggles 20 years ago and has been crowned the ”father” of the anti-nuclear movement, expressed his reaction to the announcement as both ”surprised” and ”moved”. As the EPA Administrator, Lin has clearly expressed his opposition to the Fourth Nuclear Power Plant and feels the recent decision creates an opportunity to recast Taiwan's industry and energy policies.", "content": "The Executive Yuan has officially called for a halt to construction of the Fourth Nuclear Power Plant. Edgar Lin who began his anti-nuclear struggles 20 years ago and has been crowned the ”father” of the anti-nuclear movement, expressed his reaction to the announcement as both ”surprised” and ”moved”. As the EPA Administrator, Lin has clearly expressed his opposition to the Fourth Nuclear Power Plant and feels the recent decision creates an opportunity to recast Taiwan's industry and energy policies.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Executive Yuan Calls for Halt to Construction of the 4th Nuclear Power Plant", "position": "print\/V1\/V3-17" }, { "no": "637", "title": "Eco-Diplomacy: NGOs Participate in Taiwan-US Bilateral Conference", "preview": "On October 22 EPA Administrator Edgar Lin led a group to Hawaii to participate in a bilateral Taiwan-US meeting entitled ”Sustainable Development and Public Participation — A Vision of the 21st Century”. The trip received much attention as this was the Administrators first opportunity to personally promote environmental diplomacy abroad since assuming office. Aside from government environmental officials representatives from NGO environmental groups in Taiwan were also invited to attend with the Administrator.", "content": "On October 22 EPA Administrator Edgar Lin led a group to Hawaii to participate in a bilateral Taiwan-US meeting entitled ”Sustainable Development and Public Participation — A Vision of the 21st Century”. The trip received much attention as this was the Administrators first opportunity to personally promote environmental diplomacy abroad since assuming office. Aside from government environmental officials representatives from NGO environmental groups in Taiwan were also invited to attend with the Administrator.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "international cooperation", "titlename": "Eco-Diplomacy: NGOs Participate in Taiwan-US Bilateral Conference", "position": "print\/V1\/V3-17" }, { "no": "636", "title": "Alternative Energy: Concept of ”Virtual Power Plant” Proposed", "preview": "Whether or not construction of Taiwan's Fourth Nuclear Power Plant will continue has become an international focus of attention. Some believe that insufficient diversification during development of Taiwan's energy structure has created part of the need for reliance on the fourth nuclear power plant. To address this concern Edgar Lin recently called an energy and environment conference to discuss the future of electricity development in Taiwan. Lin stated ”Energy problems are actually environmental problems, because if you are wasting energy you can't possibly be doing good on the environment. So, solving energy problems can also solve environmental problems.”", "content": "Whether or not construction of Taiwan's Fourth Nuclear Power Plant will continue has become an international focus of attention. Some believe that insufficient diversification during development of Taiwan's energy structure has created part of the need for reliance on the fourth nuclear power plant. To address this concern Edgar Lin recently called an energy and environment conference to discuss the future of electricity development in Taiwan. Lin stated ”Energy problems are actually environmental problems, because if you are wasting energy you can't possibly be doing good on the environment. So, solving energy problems can also solve environmental problems.”", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Alternative Energy: Concept of Virtual Power Plant Proposed", "position": "print\/V1\/V3-17" }, { "no": "620", "title": "Feature Article: EPA Calls for Reducing Gas Consumption by Government Vehicles", "preview": "To help reduce motor vehicle pollution the EPA recently proposed a plan to lower gasoline consumption by government owned vehicles. The plan which could go into effect as early as 2001, will replace ”gas coupons” with ”gas accounts” and favors rental over purchase of government vehicles. It is estimated that the plan could save an annual NT$2.3 billion from government budgets.", "content": "To help reduce motor vehicle pollution the EPA recently proposed a plan to lower gasoline consumption by government owned vehicles. The plan which could go into effect as early as 2001, will replace ”gas coupons” with ”gas accounts” and favors rental over purchase of government vehicles. It is estimated that the plan could save an annual NT$2.3 billion from government budgets.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "EPA Calls for Reducing Gas Consumption by Government Vehicles", "position": "print\/V1\/V3-16" }, { "no": "610", "title": "Feature Article: Dual Approach Alleviates the Effects of Acid Rain", "preview": "Collection of the air pollution control fee began in 1995. In conjunction with low sulfur fuel policies aimed at controlling pollution at the source this dual approach has reduced industrial sulfur oxide emissions and gradually lowered airborne concentrations of sulfur dioxide in the Taiwan region. From the 1994 average of 8.1 ppb, sulfur oxide concentration dropped to 4.7 ppb in 1999, a 42% improvement. Average SO2 concentrations in the first half of 2000 further dropped to 4.3 ppb, lower by 22% than the average value for the past three years at the same time.", "content": "Collection of the air pollution control fee began in 1995. In conjunction with low sulfur fuel policies aimed at controlling pollution at the source this dual approach has reduced industrial sulfur oxide emissions and gradually lowered airborne concentrations of sulfur dioxide in the Taiwan region. From the 1994 average of 8.1 ppb, sulfur oxide concentration dropped to 4.7 ppb in 1999, a 42% improvement. Average SO2 concentrations in the first half of 2000 further dropped to 4.3 ppb, lower by 22% than the average value for the past three years at the same time.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Dual Approach Alleviates the Effects of Acid Rain", "position": "print\/V1\/V3-15" }, { "no": "593", "title": "Feature Article: Draft Industrial Waste Treatment Plan In the Works", "preview": "The EPA and Industrial Development Bureau completed a draft Industrial Waste Treatment Promotion Plan. The plan aims to reduce the growth rate of industrial waste to zero by 2004 through the encouragement of waste recycling and reuse. At the present excess incinerator capacity will be used to treat general industrial wastes while the Industrial Development Bureau promotes construction of treatment facilities in industry parks. The plan should soon be sent to the Executive Yuan for approval.", "content": "The EPA and Industrial Development Bureau completed a draft Industrial Waste Treatment Promotion Plan. The plan aims to reduce the growth rate of industrial waste to zero by 2004 through the encouragement of waste recycling and reuse. At the present excess incinerator capacity will be used to treat general industrial wastes while the Industrial Development Bureau promotes construction of treatment facilities in industry parks. The plan should soon be sent to the Executive Yuan for approval.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Draft Industrial Waste Treatment Plan In the Works", "position": "print\/V1\/V3-14" }, { "no": "579", "title": "Feature Article: EPA Promotes Cross District Waste Treatment at Large Scale Incinerators", "preview": "Construction of Taiwan's large-scale incinerators is gradually nearing completion. By the end of the year 17 plants will be under operation bringing the island's incineration rate close to 60%. In conjunction with the pace of incinerator construction, the EPA will readjust waste service districts to more fully utilize any excess capacity. In the future, waste treatment will be carried out on the principle of integrating district operations, lowered capital and improved efficiency.", "content": "Construction of Taiwan's large-scale incinerators is gradually nearing completion. By the end of the year 17 plants will be under operation bringing the island's incineration rate close to 60%. In conjunction with the pace of incinerator construction, the EPA will readjust waste service districts to more fully utilize any excess capacity. In the future, waste treatment will be carried out on the principle of integrating district operations, lowered capital and improved efficiency.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Feature Article: EPA Promotes Cross District Waste Treatment at Large Scale Incinerators", "position": "print\/V1\/V3-13" }, { "no": "573", "title": "Environmental Protection Fundamentals Law Reviewed Administrator Proposes 12 New Policies", "preview": "On June 1st the Legislative Yuan began a review of the draft Environmental Protection Fundamentals Law. During the review EPA Administrator Edgar Lin proposed 12 new policy directions. Due to the large scope of change, Legislators felt adjustments were required to the original draft. While the draft Law will not be recalled, only after a consensus on the changes is reached among the respective Executive Yuan agencies will the Legislative Yuan continue further review.", "content": "On June 1st the Legislative Yuan began a review of the draft Environmental Protection Fundamentals Law. During the review EPA Administrator Edgar Lin proposed 12 new policy directions. Due to the large scope of change, Legislators felt adjustments were required to the original draft. While the draft Law will not be recalled, only after a consensus on the changes is reached among the respective Executive Yuan agencies will the Legislative Yuan continue further review.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Environmental Protection Fundamentals Law Reviewed Administrator Proposes 12 New Policies", "position": "print\/V1\/V3-13" }, { "no": "569", "title": "Administrator Lin Attends First EIA Review Committee Meeting: Tainan Golf Course Plan Rejected", "preview": "On June 3 EPA Administrator Edgar Lin chaired his first full review meeting of the EPA's Environmental Impact Review Assessment Committee. At the meeting environmental impact assessments were passed for United Microelectronics Fab 8E and three other wafer foundries. In addition a golf course development plant in Tainan was rejected due to lack of sufficient precautionary measures and concrete plans. The case will be further reviewed by an experts committee.", "content": "On June 3 EPA Administrator Edgar Lin chaired his first full review meeting of the EPA's Environmental Impact Review Assessment Committee. At the meeting environmental impact assessments were passed for United Microelectronics Fab 8E and three other wafer foundries. In addition a golf course development plant in Tainan was rejected due to lack of sufficient precautionary measures and concrete plans. The case will be further reviewed by an experts committee.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Impact Assessment", "titlename": "Administrator Lin Attends First EIA Review Committee Meeting: Tainan Golf Course Plan Rejected", "position": "print\/V1\/V3-13" }, { "no": "509", "title": "Predicting the Future: A Brief Introduction to Air Quality Forecasting", "preview": "In order to raise the general public’s environmental awareness and get a better handle on air quality the EPA began daily air quality forecasting in 1992. By 1996, an island-wide forecasting network had been established. After many years of implementation, the quality of air quality forecasting is moving towards maturity. In the future, the EPA will raise forecasting accuracy through gradually developing a more objective forecasting system based on the special characteristics of various regions.", "content": "In order to raise the general public’s environmental awareness and get a better handle on air quality the EPA began daily air quality forecasting in 1992. By 1996, an island-wide forecasting network had been established. After many years of implementation, the quality of air quality forecasting is moving towards maturity. In the future, the EPA will raise forecasting accuracy through gradually developing a more objective forecasting system based on the special characteristics of various regions.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Predicting the Future: A Brief Introduction to Air Quality Forecasting", "position": "print\/V3\/V3-09" }, { "no": "493", "title": "Feature Article: Toxic Chemical Management: Past Achievements and Future Policy", "preview": "The EPA has already listed 199 types of toxic chemicals to guard against the many dangers posed by these substances. Future policies will focus on the management of toxic substance use hazard prevention and disaster prevention and response.", "content": "The EPA has already listed 199 types of toxic chemicals to guard against the many dangers posed by these substances. Future policies will focus on the management of toxic substance use hazard prevention and disaster prevention and response.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance Management", "titlename": "Feature Article: Toxic Chemical Management: Past Achievements and Future Policy", "position": "print\/V3\/V3-08" }, { "no": "221", "title": "A Look Inside the EPA: The Bureau of Solid Waste Management", "preview": "According to the Environmental Protection Administration Organization Statutes the EPA’s Bureau of Solid Waste Management is primarily responsible for managing waste and drafting soil contamination control policies and regulations; plotting, guiding and overseeing industrial waste and soil contamination controls; and other items related to waste management and soil contamination control.", "content": "According to the Environmental Protection Administration Organization Statutes the EPA’s Bureau of Solid Waste Management is primarily responsible for managing waste and drafting soil contamination control policies and regulations; plotting, guiding and overseeing industrial waste and soil contamination controls; and other items related to waste management and soil contamination control.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "A Look Inside the EPA: The Bureau of Solid Waste Management", "position": "print\/V2\/V2-04" }, { "no": "39", "title": "A Word from the Bureau of Air Quality p and Noise Control: Air Pollution Control Fees for Fixed Source Emissions", "preview": "Air Quality　　Beginning July 1 1995, the EPA began collecting fees for fixed source emissions generated from the burning of fuels. This policy was enacted as a means to improve Taiwan’s air quality by providing industry an economic incentive to reduce air", "content": "Air Quality　　Beginning July 1 1995, the EPA began collecting fees for fixed source emissions generated from the burning of fuels. This policy was enacted as a means to improve Taiwan’s air quality by providing industry an economic incentive to reduce air emissions.In the two years since implementation, this policy has achieved the expected results for controlling pollution both at source and at end-of-pipe. Because the air pollution control fee is based on the sulfur content of fuel, firms have sought to reduce their fee burden by using fuels with a lower sulfur content. Statistics show that from 1994 to 1996, the average sulfur content in imported coal decreased from 0.73% to 0.58% respectively. This has resulted in a combined reduction of 20,000 tons of sulfur oxides (Sox) for the years 1995 and 1996. For gasoline, which has a relative high sulfur content of 6% to 8%, the fee rate has been relatively high (NT$1000 per ton). With this incentive to use cleaner fuels, firms have reduced the amount of gasoline burned from 100,000 tons in 1996 to 7,800 tons in 1997. This has resulted in an estimated reduction of 11,000 tons of Sox emissions.Pollution reduction at end-of-pipe has also been achieved. Since fee collection began, factories have installed air pollution equipment with better Sox removal capabilities. In two years, the average range of Sox removal has increased from 60% ~ 90% to 90% ~ 99%. This has brought about an estimated reduction of more than 30,000 tons of Sox emissions. Following the implementation of fee collection, the average concentration of carbon dioxide emissions has also decreased, from 8.18 ppb in 1995 to 6.21 ppb in 1997. This 24% reduction is a clear indication of the improvements being made.To further advance the polluter pays principle and to fully promote air pollution control efforts, the EPA recently amended the draft regulations governing air pollution control fee collection. This second stage of air pollution control fee collection will begin on July 1, 1998. In addition to fee rates set according to sulfur content of fuel, the amended regulations will also focus on nitrogen oxide (Nox) emissions, and fee rates will be set according to the actual amount of pollutants emitted. Fee collection will be changed from monthly to quarterly, and the collecting organization will be the central governing authority.When setting fee rates, the EPA will consider the pollution situation of different geographic regions within Taiwan. Level Two and Level Three air pollution control areas will have different fee rates. In Level Three areas, which have sub-standard air quality, rates will be set higher as a means to encourage firms operating within these areas to reduce air emissions.To encourage the adoption of the most effective air pollution control strategies and measures, the central governing authority will grant fee reductions for firms that effectively reduce emissions, either through installing pollution control equipment or improving the production process. Firms can receive as much as a 75% in fee reduction.For some industries, the newly amended regulations will have a significant financial impact. Cost ratios for the power generation industry will be the highest, an estimated 61%. The cement and asphalt industries will have the second highest cost ratios. The per production unit cost will increase the most in the cement industry. Cement producers will likely incur an increase of NT$12.7 per unit of product.Due to the inclusion of Nox based fees, second stage air pollution control fee collection will be bring in significantly more money. The EPA initially estimates that NT$5 billion per year will be collected – NT$1.6 billion more than during stage one collection. As for use of these funds, 60% will be provided directly to county and city governments in order to assist local governments implement air pollution control and improvement plans. The other 30% will be allocated by the EPA to assist with local governments who collect smaller portions of the fee or who are in areas down wind from serious pollution sources. Funds from this portion will also be used to assist cross-boundary pollution control efforts.In developing the draft, the EPA on several different occasions invited representatives from firms and industrial associations to offer opinions on this round of amendments. Meetings held on June 12, August 7, August, 20, and September 17 offered opportunities for discussion on the new amendments’ key points, such as fee rates and collection processes. These discussions should not only help Taiwan meet air quality targets, but also to make the fee collection process as fair, reasonable, and with as little red tape as possible.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "A Word from the Bureau of Air Quality p and Noise Control: Air Pollution Control Fees for Fixed Source Emissions", "position": "print\/V1\/V1-04" }, { "no": "", "title": "Recycling Rate Reaches Record High of 50%", "preview": "Recycling Recycling Rate Reaches Record High of 50%", "content": "Recycling Rate Reaches Record High of 50%", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Recycling Rate Reaches Record High of 50%", "position": "" }, { "no": "", "title": "EPA, Police and Prosecutors Jointly Crack Down on Illegal Dumping and Excavation Refill", "preview": "Environmental InspectionEPA, Police and Prosecutors Jointly Crack Down on Illegal Dumping and Excavation Refill Several enterprises in Kaohsiung City, Hsinchu County, Taoyuan City and Miaoli County disposed of sludge and waste solvents through illegal waste clearance companies for a low price. The wastes were later found illegally dumped in six warehouses and illegal landfills located in Taoyuan City and Hsinchu County. On 17 March 2017, after a year of investigation, the Taoyuan District Prosecutors Office prosecuted all the violating enterprises involved in the cases in accordance with the Waste Disposal Act. The violators will face sentences of up to five years in prison, a maximum fine of NT$15 million, and a requirement to pay for cleaning and recovery of the dumping sites. In addition, an enterprise in Yunlin County that was found to be refilling sites illegally was fined, and its illegal gains were confiscated.", "content": "EPA, Police and Prosecutors Jointly Crack Down on Illegal Dumping and Excavation Refill", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Inspection", "titlename": "EPA, Police and Prosecutors Jointly Crack Down on Illegal Dumping and Excavation Refill", "position": "" }, { "no": "", "title": "Promoting Natural Gas Power Generation during Poor Air Quality Season", "preview": "AirPromoting Natural Gas Power Generation during Poor Air Quality Season To improve air quality, the EPA advocates a policy of expanding the use of natural gas for power generation. During the time of year most prone to poor air quality, it is necessary to adjust the means of power generation, and thus power plants are required to increase the use of natural gas for power generation, or, natural gas receiving stations are required to increase their supply to power generation plants. To facilitate this, the EPA waives the restrictions on power plants regarding emission volumes and total quantity control, as specified in the plants’ business certificates.", "content": "Promoting Natural Gas Power Generation during Poor Air Quality Season To improve air quality, the EPA advocates a policy of expanding the use of natural gas for power generation. During the time of year most prone to poor air quality, it is necessary to adjust the means of power generation, and thus power plants are required to increase the use of natural gas for power generation, or, natural gas receiving stations are required to increase their supply to power generation plants. To facilitate this, the EPA waives the restrictions on power plants regarding emission volumes and total quantity control, as specified in the plants’ business certificates. To cope with seasonal poor air quality, the EPA announced on 31 October 2016 that public or private premises that adopt low-polluting fuel power generation facilities or supply low-polluting gas fuel to power generation facilities shall be exempt from punishment under the Air Pollution Control Act once their proposed actions have been reviewed and approved beforehand. This is done to enhance the flexibility of using natural gas for power generation. Qualifying enterprises, however, must file their applications with the local competent authority before they can conduct their operations. Once their applications are approved, they should still comply with regulations governing standards for air pollutant emissions. In the event that weather conditions are not conducive to the diffusion of air pollutants, or when air quality shows clear signs of deterioration, or when enterprises fail to conduct their operations in accordance with regulations, the relevant competent authorities shall have the power to order suspension or stoppage of such enterprises’ operations. The EPA emphasized that Taiwan’s poor air quality season occurs from October to March. Academics and people from all sectors of society have called attention to the fact that many lower-polluting natural gas power generation plants have not been put to full use in this period. They maintain that during fall and winter, the operation of coal-fired power plants should be reduced, and principally replaced by natural gas power plants to greatly reduce air pollution. Natural gas power plants also produce air pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, however they produce much less air pollution compared to coal-fired power plants. The EPA has thus specifically revised its restrictions on natural gas power generation, allowing Taipower and ten other private power companies to reduce their impacts on air pollution during the poor air quality season, and improve the air quality during fall and winter. \tAccording to the EPA, the low nitrogen oxide burner (LNB) has been developed to the point where source control of nitrogen oxide emission concentrations can be below 10 ppm, and selective catalyst reduction equipment (SCR) nitrogen oxide tube end treatment efficiency has been raised up at least 80%. In the future, the EPA will request existing power generation plants to phase out old LNBs so as to reduce the production of nitrogen oxides, while at the same time increasing the number of preventive facilities such as (SCRs). In addition, the EPA will supervise local governments to control the emission volumes from natural gas power generation plants through continuous automated monitoring and strengthen the control measures during fall and winter. In this way, the emission of pollutants can be greatly reduced, and domestic air quality can be greatly improved.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Promoting Natural Gas Power Generation during Poor Air Quality Season", "position": "" }, { "no": "", "title": "2017 Green Car Models Announced", "preview": "Air2017 Green Car Models Announced", "content": "2017 Green Car Models Announced", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "2017 Green Car Models Announced", "position": "" }, { "no": "", "title": "Amendments to Prohibitions on Activities Causing Water Pollution Preannounced", "preview": "Water Amendments to Prohibitions on Activities Causing Water Pollution Preannounced", "content": "Amendments to Prohibitions on Activities Causing Water Pollution Preannounced \nOn 16 February 2017, the EPA preannounced amendments to the Prohibitions on Activities Causing Water Pollution. The EPA discovered recently that there are some unscrupulous industrial operators who discharged colored wastewaters, seriously affecting the quality of water bodies. Yet, due to the fact that these enterprises are either not on the control list of the Water Pollution Control Act or because the scales do not reach the scale for control, these operators cannot be brought to justice. The EPA is therefore adding new control targets in the amendments to cover industries involved in processes that produce colored wastewater, as well as chemical substance preparation, barrel and trough cleansers, or other specified targets whose business scale do not reach the scale for control. If the pollutant concentration in the effluent of these enterprises exceeds imposed limits, this will be considered as activity sufficient to cause water pollution. Offenders will be subject to a fine of NT$30,000 to 3 million. \nThe major amendments are as follows:\n1. Enterprises involved in incense-making, dyeing, or other processes which produce colored wastewater shall be considered as engaged in activity sufficient to cause water pollution if the color of effluent reaches 550 ADMI rating or higher. \n2. Enterprises involved in chemical substance preparation, barrel or trough cleansing, food production, fermentation or livestock slaughtering that do not reach the scale for control should be considered as engaged in activity sufficient to cause water pollution if their effluent does not meet the standards for eight control items (such as biochemical oxygen demand of 80 mg\/L, chemical oxygen demand of 250 mg\/L, suspended solids of 80 mg\/L, color of water at 550 ADMI, and copper content of 3 mg\/L). \n3. The river section of a work in progress refers to a construction project that is actually being implemented. The water sampling points are to be determined by the upstream and downstream engineering work. The appropriate points are 10 meters upstream and 10 meters downstream of the construction site.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Amendments to Prohibitions on Activities Causing Water Pollution Preannounced", "position": "" }, { "no": "", "title": "Waste Flow Report to Be Extended to Supermarkets and Megamarkets", "preview": "Waste Waste Flow Report to Be Extended to Supermarkets and Megamarkets", "content": "Waste Flow Report to Be Extended to Supermarkets and Megamarkets\nOn 16 February 2017 the EPA preannounced the draft amendments to the Type, Scope and Scale of Businesses Required to Submit Water Pollution Control Measures. The purpose of the current amendments is to align with the draft amendments to the Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Application Review Management Regulations, which divide applicants into three categories─ namely, special permit, general permit, and simple permit ─to substantiate the implementation of appropriate practice management. The threshold for a general permit has been simplified, and businesses that are serious offenders are added as subjects required to submit their water pollution control measures. \nThe major amendments are as follows:\n1. In accordance with Article 14-1 Paragraph 1 of the Water Pollution Control Act, businesses which have been designated and announced by the central competent authorities to disclose information on effluent discharge volumes and concentrations of pollutants should submit water pollution control measures ahead of other businesses. \n2. Businesses that are required to submit water pollution control measures include: those whose daily output of wastewater exceeds 10,000 m3, or whose daily output of wastewater exceeds 100 m3 but contains hazardous substances. In addition, businesses which have violated the Water Pollution Control Act and have been ordered to cease operations or businesses, have committed serious offenses, or have previously falsified report records also fall into this category. \n3. Subjects listed on items 5-9 and 11-12 will be exempt from the need to submit water pollution control measures due to the simple nature of their wastewater and their need for a simple permit. \n4. Hospitals and medical institutions are classified as businesses that require the general permit. Hence, whether water pollution control measures are required should be decided by the quantity and content of their wastewater.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Waste Flow Report to Be Extended to Supermarkets and Megamarkets", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-03" }, { "no": "", "title": "English Version of Environmental Info Push App Available for Free Download", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring\nEnglish Version of Environmental Info Push App Available for Free Download", "content": "English Version of Environmental Info Push App Available for Free Download \nThe EPA continues to provide the public with detailed information through real-time air quality information disclosure and warning forecasts. Awarded by the Geospatial Media and Communications Group with the Geospatial World Excellence Awards in 2016, the EPA’s Environmental Info Push App has been downloaded more than 280,000 times, with daily peak usage reaching 20,000 devices and the monthly average number of clicks hitting a million. These statistics show that the app has become part of the populace’s daily lives, with even more use during weekends. \nAccording to the EPA's 2016 statistics, the users of the Environmental Info Push App are distributed widely around the world, including east Asia, southeast Asia, North America, western Europe, and Oceania. Around 1.5% of the users used an English mobile OS. In detail, there were more than 3,000 English language users with over 170,000 sessions. This shows that environmental protection transcends national boundaries. \nTo enhance service quality and expand targets, the app is available in English for Android-enabled and iOS-enabled cellphones to provide environmental information service to English language users. Users can monitor the quality of the air in their surrounding area anytime via the Environmental Info Push App. With the air quality index shown in different colors, it is easy to learn about air quality statuses and follow suggestions in the app for corresponding actions and prevention measures. \nThe EPA has also noticed that the public’s demand for environmental information has greatly increased, so the administration continuously works to improve environmental quality and develop more value-added applications. For the next step, not only will the EPA widely set up environmental sensors but will also include micro-level real-time air quality information from the private sector to let users know more details about their local environmental conditions. In the future, the EPA will continue to focus on the public’s needs and offer richer environmental information to boost public participation and take care of our environment anytime and anywhere.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "English Version of Environmental Info Push App Available for Free Download", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-03" }, { "no": "", "title": "EPA Holds Forum to Enhance International Participation to Deal with Climate Change", "preview": "Climate Change\nEPA Holds Forum to Enhance International Participation to Deal with Climate Change\nOn 20 February 2017, the EPA held the Forum on Participation in International Environmental Conventions. Representatives from all sectors of Taiwan society who have long been concerned with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) were invited in order to discuss ways in which non-governmental organizations (NGOs) can participate in UNFCCC activities. Also invited were representatives of various communities to discuss how they can deepen their participation in the issues. After a series of discussions, the forum arrived at a consensus on direction and a new outlook for future cooperation.", "content": "EPA Holds Forum to Enhance International Participation to Deal with Climate Change\nOn 20 February 2017, the EPA held the Forum on Participation in International Environmental Conventions. Representatives from all sectors of Taiwan society who have long been concerned with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) were invited in order to discuss ways in which non-governmental organizations (NGOs) can participate in UNFCCC activities. Also invited were representatives of various communities to discuss how they can deepen their participation in the issues. After a series of discussions, the forum arrived at a consensus on direction and a new outlook for future cooperation. \nEPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee opened the forum with a speech on Taiwan’s current status in dealing with the UNFCCC. He pointed out that President Tsai Ing-wen had clearly indicated in her May 2016 inauguration speech that Taiwan would not be absent from dealing with issues of global warming and climate change. Yet, due to international political obstacles, Taiwan is not allowed to participate in UNFCCC activities, but must participate under the status of an NGO observer. For the time being, eight civic groups from Taiwan have successfully applied to become UNFCCC observers and have actively participated in related activities. In this way, the strength of Taiwan’s NGOs is fully demonstrated. \nTwo special themes were included in the forum. The first was the sharing of success stories and highlights of past participation in international conventions by civic groups. This was done to encourage more potential and interested civic groups to participate in activities related to international conventions in the future. The other theme was the participation of local governments and the participation of women, youth, and indigenous people in international conventions. This shall prove to be a pluralistic method whereby the vitality of different communities as well as indigenous tribes can be included in international activities. All the delegates who attended the forum, including representatives from relevant ministries, local governments, civic groups, scholars and experts, industry, and so on, freely exchanged their views under the abovementioned consensus.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-03" }, { "no": "", "title": "Amendments to Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards Preannounced", "preview": "Air Amendments to Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards Preannounced\nThe EPA formulated the draft of the amendments to the Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards regarding railway emissions to continually ameliorate the air pollution caused by transportation, and to stay aligned with international regulations concerning rail management. The main points of the amendments are as follows: setting air pollutant emission standards for railcars or locomotives with a net power greater than 130 kilowatts; and, adding control values for carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides and particulate matters.", "content": "", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Amendments to Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-03" }, { "no": "", "title": "Environmental Protection Units Mobilized to Patrol Areas Affected by Bird Flu", "preview": "Environmental Inspection\nEnvironmental Protection Units Mobilized to Patrol Areas Affected by Bird Flu\nIn response to the recent outbreak of avian influenza, the EPA has deployed emergency response units to control the affected areas and prevent further spread of the disease. Local environmental protection bureaus are to strengthen patrols in local poultry farms to prevent illegal dumping of carcasses and to assist agricultural agencies in disease control. To contain the disease and safeguard public health, the EPA has formulated the 2016 Avian Influenza Prevention and Patrol Plan, which was announced by local environmental protection bureaus in cooperation with the Central Emergency Response Center for Avian Influenza. According to the plan, poultry deliveries in the nation were banned for seven days starting 17 February 2017, during which patrols were reinforced.", "content": "Environmental Protection Units Mobilized to Patrol Areas Affected by Bird Flu\nIn response to the recent outbreak of avian influenza, the EPA has deployed emergency response units to control the affected areas and prevent further spread of the disease. Local environmental protection bureaus are to strengthen patrols in local poultry farms to prevent illegal dumping of carcasses and to assist agricultural agencies in disease control. To contain the disease and safeguard public health, the EPA has formulated the 2016 Avian Influenza Prevention and Patrol Plan, which was announced by local environmental protection bureaus in cooperation with the Central Emergency Response Center for Avian Influenza. According to the plan, poultry deliveries in the nation were banned for seven days starting 17 February 2017, during which patrols were reinforced. \nAfter the recent avian flu breakout, the EPA’s Bureau of Environmental Inspection has been cooperating with the Seventh Special Police Corps and local environmental protection bureaus to conduct inspections in the vicinity of poultry farms for carcasses dumped illegally. Also, unmanned aerial vehicles have been deployed to conduct surveillance, collect evidence and prevent any further environmental problems that may arise. To better control the disease, the EPA has sent investigation personnel to conduct inspections in person. If a large amount of carcasses are found, inspectors are to immediately contact animal health inspection authorities. The animal health inspection authorities will provide assistance in burning poultry carcasses and disinfecting the environment. The EPA expects to prevent the disease from further spreading by combining forces with other government agencies. \nThe EPA indicates that it will continue to work closely with agricultural agencies to carry out lateral communications and disease control. The northern, central, and southern branches of the Bureau of Environmental Inspection have been working in collaboration with local environmental protection bureaus to reinforce patrols around affected areas and sites with high potential for the occurrence of illegal dumping. This method can not only prevent illegal dumping of carcasses, but can also speed up emergency response if any illegal activity is discovered. \nIllegal dumping of carcasses can set back disease control and contribute to propagation of the virus. Therefore, the EPA points out that illegal dumping of poultry carcasses is in violation of the storage, clearance, and disposal regulations stipulated in Article 36 of the Waste Disposal Act and can incur fines between NT$6,000 and NT$30,00,000 in accordance with Article 52.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Inspection", "titlename": "Environmental Protection Units Mobilized to Patrol Areas Affected by Bird Flu", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-03" }, { "no": "3485", "title": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Application Review Management Regulations Preannounced", "preview": "Water Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Application Review Management Regulations Preannounced\nTo combat illegal practices while encouraging law-abiding enterprises, the EPA plans to simplify permit applications for wastewater discharge. According to the draft amendments to the Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations, permit management will be categorized based on the type of industry. Also, permits will not be issued to enterprises with multiple serious violations.", "content": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Application Review Management Regulations Preannounced\nTo combat illegal practices while encouraging law-abiding enterprises, the EPA plans to simplify permit applications for wastewater discharge. According to the draft amendments to the Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations, permit management will be categorized based on the type of industry. Also, permits will not be issued to enterprises with multiple serious violations.\nThe EPA preannounced draft amendments to the Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Review Regulations on 24 February 2017. The purpose of the amendments is to encourage compliance with the law by simplifying wastewater permit application procedures and reinforcing review and management of applications. The main points of the amendments are as follows: \n1. Water pollution control plans or permit documents differ according to the type of the industry. There are 3 types of permit: specific, general and simplified. The industries that will need a specific permit are those required to disclose the pollutant content of discharges and information in accordance with Article 14-1 of the Water Pollution Control Act. Because of the high potential (pollution) risks raised by those industries, they will not only need to perform system function tests but also acquire the signature of a qualified engineer for the permit application documents. Moreover, the EPA also tightened the regulation that requires an expert’s review of the pollutant information that enterprises are to disclose. \nIndustries that fall under the general permit category are those with complicated wastewater characteristics such as industrial parks, the dyeing and finishing industry, the leather manufacturing industry, the gold watch manufacturing industry, electroplating industry, and others. Among the enterprises mentioned above, only those with wastewater exceeding 10,000 cubic meters per day (CMD) or with original wastewater that contains more than 100 CMD of toxic substances will be required to conduct system function tests with the signature of a qualified engineer. \nThe simplified permit is for enterprises with simple wastewater characteristics such as the gravel manufacturing industry, livestock industry and service industry. For the abovementioned industries, trial runs, function tests and an engineer’s signature are not required. Even though the EPA has made the standards concerning an engineer’s signature and function tests easier for enterprises in the general and simplified permit category, serious violators will still be tested for system functionality and require a signature from a qualified engineer.\n2. Water pollution control plans or permit documents will be suspended if any of the following situations occur: committing multiple violations within 3 years; being suspended by the competent authority at least twice; committing serious violations more than twice; or, being penalized for serious pollution. Once a suspension is issued, an enterprise will not be able to apply for three years starting from the date of the suspension. Also, to prevent enterprises from evading their punishment, the address where any of the abovementioned circumstances take place cannot be used for control plan or permit application.\n3. The EPA has simplified the conditions for the modifications to be made before receiving a permit and for the required function tests, such as the following circumstances: the replacement of old wastewater treatment facilities; improvement of accessory equipment at wastewater treatment facilities as well as livestock waste bio-gas collection bags and storage tanks; and, for facilities that reduce water consumption and wastewater production but are unrelated to wastewater treatment, modifications of operating parameters and other registered data can be done after the permits are issued. Although reduction of maximum water consumption and wastewater production levels or improvement of wastewater quality can change operating parameters and other related information of the wastewater treatment facility, functionality tests will not be required since the above circumstances do not reduce the functionality of the wastewater facility.\n4. To increase review efficiency, the competent authority should provide guidance and one-time review counselling if application documents are incomplete.\n5. To encourage enterprises and operators of sewage systems to comply with the law, procedures are simplified for the application, modification, and extension of water pollution plans and permit documents for those who have never received a penalty from the competent authority under the Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations, in the year prior to the application date. For instance, enterprises with general permits are qualified to apply for simplified permits and are required to only disclose control plans and permit documents issued by the competent authority.\n6. To encourage enterprises and operators of sewage systems to comply with the law, enterprises conducting operations outside the permitted parameters may be granted a relief or reduction of the penalty based on the judgment of the competent authority for each individual case within 6 months after the draft amendment is announced, only if they have never been previously reported or found for their violations by the competent authority, and have not caused any actual pollution.\nWith the amendments, about 4,500 enterprises will be eligible for applying for the simplified permit. The competent authorities can focus resources on the investigation and management of illegal enterprises and increase review efficiency. The EPA also points out that law-abiding enterprises can enjoy simpler and cheaper application procedures.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Application Review Management Regulations Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-03" }, { "no": "", "title": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations Preannounced", "preview": "Water Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations Preannounced The Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations have been revised five times since they were first promulgated on 16 October 2006. The revisions have led to the establishment of a management system for a variety of water pollution control measures. In addition, they have also led to the utilization of livestock waste, thus reducing pollution from source and improving river water bodies.", "content": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations Preannounced\nThe Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations have been revised five times since they were first promulgated on 16 October 2006. The revisions have led to the establishment of a management system for a variety of water pollution control measures. In addition, they have also led to the utilization of livestock waste, thus reducing pollution from source and improving river water bodies.\nTo boost the utilization efficiency of livestock waste and promote a circular economy in the livestock industry, it is necessary to make changes to the current management regulations for livestock wastewater discharge, leakage, overflow, recycling and treatment. The EPA is also taking practical measures to avoid disputes upon the execution of the law. For example, the EPA is: formulating more reduction measures for livestock wastewater effluent; removing reutilization restrictions for livestock waste on farmland; integrating the management of livestock waste leakage and overflow; reinforcing wastewater recycling; and, strengthening the management of the supplementary water sources involved. The main points of the amendments are as follows:\n1. Integrating control and emergency measures in case of leakage and overflow\n2. Livestock enterprises that keep their animals outdoors shall take reduction measures for wastewater run-off\n3. Clarifying that the usage of livestock waste fermentation liquid and sediment as farmland fertilizer, and the transportation of wastewater, complies with the Effluent Standards for watering plants that are not subject to the regulations set forth in Chapter 5.\n4. Livestock enterprises that adopt waste reutilization methods on farmland will no longer be required to establish wastewater pretreatment facilities, and the rules on waste disposal into the soil will also be suspended.\n5. Strengthening the management of wastewater recycling and reuse by restricting enterprises that do not comply with the wastewater treatment standards, and establishment of treatment facilities from reusing the wastewater in facilities not involved in the production process. Additionally, if supplementary water is to be used, enterprises should submit reasonable explanations and records of the water sources and amounts. Any dilution of effluent is strongly prohibited. The amendments also clarify the situations under which wastewater is not allowed as well as the wastewater purification criteria for the wastewater recycling system.\n6. The livestock industry shall take wastewater effluent reduction measures. Newly established farms are forbidden from discharging wastewater into surface water bodies. As for existing farms, wastewater discharge should be reduced to at least half, or lower, of the currently permitted total effluent within five years, and to a quarter within ten years. \n7. Pig farms that have less than 200 pigs are required to submit a wastewater management plan.\n8. Coal-fired power plants shall report mercury levels contained in their coal, along with other related information. Also, power plants are required to submit a management plan for mercury control when the mercury value of the coal exceeds a certain level.\n9. The following industries are to collect and treat their wastewater based on the pollutant characteristics: the wafer fabrication industry, the semiconductor manufacturing industry, the optoelectronic materials and components manufacturing industry, the printed circuit board manufacturing industry, electroplating industries and the metal finishing industry.\n10. The documents required for wastewater reports have been simplified to encourage enterprises to submit their reports in accordance with the law.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-03" }, { "no": "", "title": "Amendments to Effluent Standards Preannounced", "preview": "Water Amendments to Effluent Standards Preannounced On 10 February 2017, the EPA preannounced amendments to the Effluent Standards, aimed at strengthening risk management and achieving higher water quality in water bodies. They include merging control standards with existing standards for specified industries, and added or tightened controls on heavy metals, ammonia nitrogen, and harmful substances.", "content": "Amendments to Effluent Standards Preannounced On 10 February 2017, the EPA preannounced amendments to the Effluent Standards, aimed at strengthening risk management and achieving higher water quality in water bodies. They include merging control standards with existing standards for specified industries, and added or tightened controls on heavy metals, ammonia nitrogen, and harmful substances.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Amendments to Effluent Standards Preannounced", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-03" }, { "no": "", "title": "Environmental, Police, and Mobile Vehicle Agencies Jointly Crack Down on Noisy Modified Vehicles", "preview": "Noise Control Environmental, Police, and Mobile Vehicle Agencies Jointly Crack Down on Noisy Modified Vehicles \nIn 2016, the EPA combined the forces of environmental, police, and motor vehicle agencies to jointly conduct roadside inspections in a crackdown on noisy modified vehicles. A total of 744 inspection sessions were carried out to check 26,963 vehicles. Noise tests were done on 4,274 vehicles, of which 2718 were found to be deficient in noise control and whose owners were reported for a violation. This comprises a violation reporting rate of 63.6%, a 12% growth over that of 2015, indicating that experience and improved skills had been accumulated through the joint operation to pick out violating vehicles more effectively.", "content": "Environmental, Police, and Mobile Vehicle Agencies Jointly Crack Down on Noisy Modified Vehicles \nIn 2016, the EPA combined the forces of environmental, police, and motor vehicle agencies to jointly conduct roadside inspections in a crackdown on noisy modified vehicles. A total of 744 inspection sessions were carried out to check 26,963 vehicles. Noise tests were done on 4,274 vehicles, of which 2718 were found to be deficient in noise control and whose owners were reported for a violation. This comprises a violation reporting rate of 63.6%, a 12% growth over that of 2015, indicating that experience and improved skills had been accumulated through the joint operation to pick out violating vehicles more effectively.\nAccording to the EPA’s statistics, in 2016 Taoyuan City reported the most noise violation cases, at 1,286 vehicles. Among all the noisy vehicles reported in Taiwan in 2016, 110 decibels was the loudest noise recorded. Considering the high number of violations and noise level, it is important to continuously crack down on inappropriately modified vehicles to prevent excessive noise.\nThe EPA stated that, according to Article 26 of the Noise Control Act, vehicle owners or users are to be penalized with fines of NT$1,800-3,600 for not complying with the Motor Vehicle Noise Control Standards. Violators failing to improve before the given deadline will be subject to further penalties for each occurrence. Also, the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act specifies that vehicle owners or drivers are to be fined NT$6,000-24,000 if found to be producing noise by dismantling mufflers or other means, and can be banned on the spot from driving the vehicle. During joint operations of environmental, police, and motor vehicle agencies, law enforcement officers issued penalties based on the most serious offenses found on-site.\nIn 2017, the EPA will coordinate a trial run with several counties and cities aimed at preventing reported vehicles from reinstalling modified exhaust pipes. Violations will be reported and penalties will be issued during roadside inspections. The EPA urges owners not to test their luck. Since inappropriately modified vehicles greatly disturb the peace, violators will surely receive punishment in accordance with relevant regulations.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Noise Control", "titlename": "Environmental, Police, and Mobile Vehicle Agencies Jointly Crack Down on Noisy Modified Vehicles", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-03" }, { "no": "3483", "title": "Mobile Source Pollution Control in Taiwan", "preview": "Air Mobile Source Pollution Control in Taiwan Mobile pollution source control is one of the EPA’s major air pollution control targets. To control pollution from motor vehicle emissions, the central government is currently taking measures in the following five directions: controls on new vehicles, controls on in-use vehicles, promotion of clean fuels, promotion of low-polluting vehicles and traffic control measures. The measures add up to comprehensive controls for motorcycle pollution emissions from the design and production stages all the way to end-use, for effectively reducing the air pollution from mobile sources and improving air quality. To control vehicle exhaust pollution, the Taiwan government has continued to push for the use of clean vehicles and clean fuels, and also works on the planning and utilization of mass transportation as a medium-term goal. In the long term, the EPA seeks to pursue sustainable development and reduce the use of private motor vehicles.", "content": "Mobile Source Pollution Control in Taiwan \nMobile pollution source control is one of the EPA’s major air pollution control targets. To control pollution from motor vehicle emissions, the central government is currently taking measures in the following five directions: controls on new vehicles, controls on in-use vehicles, promotion of clean fuels, promotion of low-polluting vehicles and traffic control measures. The measures add up to comprehensive controls for motorcycle pollution emissions from the design and production stages all the way to end-use, for effectively reducing the air pollution from mobile sources and improving air quality. To control vehicle exhaust pollution, the Taiwan government has continued to push for the use of clean vehicles and clean fuels, and also works on the planning and utilization of mass transportation as a medium-term goal. In the long term, the EPA seeks to pursue sustainable development and reduce the use of private motor vehicles. \nAs the economy developed and gross domestic product (GDP) grew, the public’s consumer demands have also grown, leading to the rapid growth of motor vehicle ownership. In Taiwan, air pollution in densely populated urban areas largely stem from motor vehicle emissions, which not only severely affect urban air quality but also harm the public’s health. Mobile pollution source control has thus become a major air pollution control project.\nCurrently, Taiwan’s mobile pollution source control is promoted in the following five major directions:\n1. New vehicle controls: tightening emission standards in phases; inspections of new vehicle models; random inspections of new vehicles\n2. In-use vehicle controls: includes regular motorcycle emission inspections; random inspections on motorcycles and diesel vehicles; encouraging reporting of vehicles with visible exhaust smoke; speeding up the phasing-out of two-stroke motorcycles; and, promoting in-use diesel vehicle maintenance systems\n3. Promoting the use of clean fuels: formulating control standards for gasoline and diesel; collecting air pollution fees for vehicle fuels; subsidizing liquefied petroleum gas; and, bans on illegal fuels\n4. Promoting low-polluting vehicles: promoting the use of electric bikes, electric cars, and electric buses; promoting the establishment of battery swap systems; and providing subsidies for the purchase of electricity-assisted bicycles and electric bikes\n5. Traffic control measures: encouraging the use of mass transportation systems; promoting environmentally-friendly driving habits, idling stop systems, and switching off of engines when parked\nMotorcycle control measures\nThe number of motor vehicles in Taiwan started growing year by year since 2003 and reached a peak of 22.34 million in 2012. Despite a slight decrease after 2013, statistics show there were still 21.51 million motor vehicles at the end of December 2016, about 1.16 times that at the end of 2003 (18.5 million). The majority of these motor vehicles are motorcycles, which reached approximately 13.66 million by the end of December 2016, comprising 63.5% of the total number of motor vehicles. The ownership ratio has increased from 81.8 motor vehicles per 100 people in 2003, to 91.4 per 100 people at the end of December 2016.\nMotorcycles are the most common private vehicle in Taiwan and have become the largest and densest mobile pollution source. Therefore, the EPA hopes to reduce pollution emissions from motorcycles by implementing the following control measures:\n1. Strengthening emission standards\nThe Sixth Phase of Motorcycle Emission Standards was announced on 28 October 2013, and took effect on 1 January 2017. Also announced on the same day, the Seventh Phase standards will take effect on 1 January 2021. Major control measures include inspections for in-use motorcycles and random testing for new ones. Inspections for new models are separated into inspections for prototypes and mass production models. Standards for carbon dioxide (CO), hydrocarbon (HC), and nitrogen oxide (NOX) from motorcycle exhaust pipes are tested both when vehicles are running and idling. Standards for particulate matters are tested both visually and with instruments. \n2. Regular inspections, audits, and roadside random inspections\nA. Regular inspections: Local environmental bureaus mail out notices to motorcycle owners to go to bureau-certified stations for inspections. Vehicles that fail regular inspections are to improve on their shortcomings and pass a re-inspection within a month.\nB. Audits and random roadside inspections: Flexible inspections during roadside pull-overs are done on only a select few in-use motorcycles. However, this remains the most effective way to immediately reduce pollution emissions. Only by expanding regular motorcycle maintenance and inspection systems, which place all in-use vehicles under strict controls, can it be ensured that in-use motorcycles that have been in use for some time are in compliance with emission standards. \nIn addition to regular inspections, roadside pull-overs, and encouraging the phasing-out of old motorcycles, it is also necessary to reinforce emission standards for new vehicles in different phases. As all new motorcycles since 2017 come with on-board diagnostics (OBD) that give reminders for maintenance, the EPA will examine the possibility of replacing regular inspections with OBD. \n3. Inspections for new vehicles and random testing and controls\nManagement of new vehicles includes inspection of new models, random testing of new vehicles, and inspections for polluting components. Whether vehicles are made domestically or imported, enterprises must apply for the Compliance Certification for Gasoline Vehicle Emissions Inspections from the EPA, with all documents for the new models and test reports showing compliance with emission and endurance standards. Only when reviews are complete and the certification is granted can sales of new models commence. \nFor motorcycle manufacturers and importers, inspections for new vehicles are carried out every year by randomly picking out vehicles for pollution emission testing at designated inspection institutes, in order to verify that all new motorcycles on sale comply with emission standards. If a new vehicle fails random testing, the EPA will withdraw the model’s compliance certification and order enterprises to recall potentially unqualified motorcycles that have been sold to undergo modifications within a given period of time. \nIn addition, every year, in-use motorcycles within their warrant periods are recalled for pollution emission testing to make sure vehicles are compliant with emission standards throughout their warrant periods. Should any vehicles fail the testing, manufacturers or importers will be mandated to recall potentially unqualified motorcycles that have been sold to undergo modifications within a given period of time. \nThrough the above measures, comprehensive controls at all stages for motorcycle pollution emissions – from design and production to in-use – are implemented. \nFuture Outlook \nPromoting the use of mass transportation systems and reducing the use of private vehicles can effectively reduce pollution from motor vehicles. For future motor vehicle emission control, the EPA will keep pushing for the use of clean vehicles and clean fuels, with planning and utilization of mass transportation systems as the medium-term goal. Moreover, it will seek to reduce the use of private vehicles as the long-term sustainable development goal, in order to diminish pollution from traffic and move toward a truly clean planet.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Mobile Source Pollution Control in Taiwan", "position": "print\/V20\/V20-03" }, { "no": "3482", "title": "Several Specialty and Festivity Gifts Acquire Carbon Labels", "preview": "Ecolabeling Several Specialty and Festivity Gifts Acquire Carbon Labels", "content": "Several Specialty and Festivity Gifts Acquire Carbon Labels\nStarting from May 2010, the EPA allowed manufacturers to apply for product carbon labels. To date, 95 manufacturers have applied for and 422 products have been granted the right to use carbon labels, including products carrying local characteristics such as: cr?me caramels, Kinmen noodles, milkfish cakes, soy sauce, pineapple cakes, Kinmen kaoliang liquor made from sorghum, and cheese cakes. The EPA urges the public to prioritize purchasing products carrying carbon labels during the festival season in order to support environmentally conscious production. \nTo promote the carbon labeling system and provide incentives for manufacturers, the EPA collaborated with local environmental protection bureaus to assist manufacturers in applying for carbon labels for products with unique Taiwan or local characteristics. In addition, gift packages of these products have been made available to gain the favor of tourists and to be attractive as gifts during holiday seasons as well.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "ecolabeling", "titlename": "Ecolabeling Several Specialty and Festivity Gifts Acquire Carbon Labels", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-09" }, { "no": "3481", "title": "Subsidies for Dual-fuel Vehicles Extended to the End of 2018", "preview": "Air Subsidies for Dual-fuel Vehicles Extended to the End of 2018", "content": "Subsidies for Dual-fuel Vehicles Extended to the End of 2018\nThe liquid petroleum gas (LPG)\/petrol dual-fuel vehicles promotion plan, approved by the Executive Yuan, was scheduled to be carried out from 2008 to 2015. However, to protect the interest of vehicle owners who made the conversion to dual-fuel, and to uphold a stable difference between oil and gas prices, the EPA decided to continue the floating subsidy on LPG. Thus the EPA preannounced amendments to the Regulations Governing Subsidies for Liquefied Petroleum Gas for Motor Vehicles in which the subsidy period was extended by two years to 31 December 2018. \nThe EPA quickly points out that the main idea behind the amendments was to extend the subsidy period by two years to 31 December 2018, while the amount and method of subsidization remain unchanged. After the amendments, the subsidy amount would still be adjusted on a floating basis according to the price difference between unleaded 95 octane petrol and vehicular LPG (subsidies from the EPA included) which was set at NT$12.7 per liter. The maximum subsidy per liter will be NT$2.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Subsidies for Dual-fuel Vehicles Extended to the End of 2018", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-09" }, { "no": "3480", "title": "Amendments to Waste Lighting Source Recycling Methods and Facility Standards Preannounced", "preview": "waste Amendments to Waste Lighting Source Recycling Methods and Facility Standards Preannounced", "content": "Amendments to Waste Lighting Source Recycling Methods and Facility Standards Preannounced\nThe Recycling, Storage, Treatment and Facility Standards for Waste Lighting Sources has not been amended since being announced by the EPA on 11 September 2012. In response to the inclusion of straight tube, ring tube, compact, and ballast built-in light-emitting diode (LED) lighting sources on the list of items that should be recycled starting from January 2017, and to avoid the cross-contamination between mercury-free LED and mercury-containing LED waste lighting sources, the EPA has formulated and preannounced amendments to the said regulations. The main points of the amendments are as follows:\n1) Adding that mercury-free LED waste lighting sources and mercury-containing LED waste lighting sources shall not share the same treatment facilities (Article 8 of the Amendment) \n2) Adding that mercury-free LED waste lighting sources and mercury-containing waste lighting sources and their recycled materials should be handled and stored separately (Article 9 of the Amendment) \n3) Deletion of grace period provisions", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Amendments to Waste Lighting Source Recycling Methods and Facility Standards Preannounced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-09" }, { "no": "3479", "title": "Amendments to Dedicated Indoor Air Quality Personnel Announced", "preview": "Air Amendments to Dedicated Indoor Air Quality Personnel Announced\nOn 11 August 2016, the EPA announced amendments to the Regulations Governing the Installation and Management of Dedicated Indoor Air Quality Maintenance Personnel.", "content": "Amendments to Dedicated Indoor Air Quality Personnel Announced\nOn 11 August 2016, the EPA announced amendments to the Regulations Governing the Installation and Management of Dedicated Indoor Air Quality Maintenance Personnel. \nTo effectively implement the Indoor Air Quality Act and the system of dedicated personnel for indoor air quality control, on 23 November 2012, the EPA announced the Regulations Governing the Installation and Management of Personnel Dedicated to Indoor Air Quality Maintenance in accordance with Article 9 Paragraph 3 of the Indoor Air Quality Act. \nThe main point of the amendments announced on 11 August 2016 is to improve the installation mechanism and enhance the functions of dedicated personnel. The amendments stipulated that dedicated agents must meet the criteria for receiving dedicated personnel training courses and conduct indoor air quality management tasks on a regular basis. In addition, in accordance with the requirements of the Training and Management Regulations for Dedicated Environmental Protection Personnel and Professionals, stipulations of the orientation training for new personnel have also been added.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Amendments to Dedicated Indoor Air Quality Personnel Announced\nAmendments to Dedicated Indoor Air Quality Personnel Announced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-09" }, { "no": "3478", "title": "Guidelines for Formulating Greenhouse Gas Phased Control Targets and Measures Preannounced", "preview": "Climate Change Guidelines for Formulating Greenhouse Gas Phased Control Targets and Measures Preannounced", "content": "Guidelines for Formulating Greenhouse Gas Phased Control Targets and Measures Preannounced\nTo implement greenhouse gas reduction and set phased control targets, on 30 August 2016 the EPA preannounced the draft of Guidelines for Formulating Greenhouse Gas Phased Control Targets and Control Measures.\nTo set phased targets for greenhouse gas emission control so as to meet the cap on emissions within every five year period, the EPA, in accordance with Article 11 Paragraph 1 of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act on 24 March 2016 convened central competent authorities, experts, scholars, and civilian groups to establish the Greenhouse Gas Phased Control Targets Consultation Committee. This committee will be engaged in discussions on the formulation of the control targets for each phase and the procedural regulations related to the control measures. \n1) The timetable for each control phase and the consideration factors thereof\n2) The major contents of and references for national and sector control targets \n3) The basis for formulating sector greenhouse gas emission control targets under the Greenhouse Gas Emission Control Action Plan\n4) The evaluation indicators to be incorporated into the Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Program and each sector’s Greenhouse Gas Emission Control Action Plan\n5) The procedures for formulating the phased control targets\n6) The procedures for public hearings for control target formulation and related information disclosure\n7) Review of the implementation and achievement of the control targets\n8) Mechanisms for adjusting the control targets\nThis draft is to be jointly reviewed by the EPA, the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications, the Ministry of Economic Affairs, and the Council of Agriculture. Afterwards, the EPA will consult with the central competent authorities and hold a public hearing to formulate the control targets for the first phase of control (2016-2020). After the public hearing, the draft will be submitted to the Executive Yuan for final approval.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "climate change", "titlename": "Guidelines for Formulating Greenhouse Gas Phased Control Targets and Measures Preannounced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-09" }, { "no": "3477", "title": "Ban on Manufacture or Sale of Plastic Microbead-Containing Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Preannounced", "preview": "Waste Ban on Manufacture or Sale of Plastic Microbead-Containing Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Preannounced", "content": "Ban on Manufacture or Sale of Plastic Microbead-Containing Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Preannounced\nWith the increasing public concern over the damage that plastic microbeads cause to the ecosystem and the environment, the EPA has decided to ban the manufacture, importation and sale of cosmetics and personal care products that contain such microbeads. The ban will take effect from 1 July 2018 at the earliest.\nDue to growing international concern about the damage that plastic microbeads cause to the ecosystem and the environment, the EPA has examined international trends and has decided to control the use of microbeads in personal care products in Taiwan. To this end, on 23 August 2016 the EPA preannounced a draft of the Restrictions on the Manufacture, Import and Sale of Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Including Toothpaste that Contain Plastic Microbeads Affected enterprises will be given a suitable grace period to adapt to the new regime. \nThe characteristics of being non-biodegradable and on the scale of micrometers make plastic microbeads difficult to remove once they enter inland waterbodies or the ocean. Examination of international microbead management measures showed that control-at-source, such as limiting the microbead content of such products, is the major focus. The US, for instance, will begin phased controls from 1 July 2017. \nReferring to the US control measures and taking into account the time needed for affected local enterprises to adapt, the ban on the manufacture and import of cosmetics and personal care products that contain plastic microbeads will come into effect on 1 July 2018. Since some of these products will have been legally manufactured before the ban and need time to be sold, the affected enterprises are granted a 12-18 month grace period to adapt. The second phase of controls – a total ban on the sale of these products – will take effect on 1 January 2020. \nIn addition, since many cosmetics and personal care products sold in Taiwan are imported and Taiwan is a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Taiwan will fulfill its obligations regarding legislative transparency and preannounce the ban to allow 60 days for WTO members to comment. The EPA will hold public hearings and discussion meetings to gather public opinion as well.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Ban on Manufacture or Sale of Plastic Microbead-Containing Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Preannounced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-09" }, { "no": "3476", "title": "Taiwan-Korea Soil and Groundwater Remediation Cooperation Extended", "preview": "Soil & Groundwater Taiwan-Korea Soil and Groundwater Remediation Cooperation Extended", "content": "Taiwan-Korea Soil and Groundwater Remediation Cooperation Extended\nOn 29 August 2016, the EPA led a delegation of Taiwan’s soil and groundwater remediation experts to Korea as part of the drive to share Taiwan’s successful experiences in the field while also gaining knowledge from neighboring nations. The delegation spent five days in Korea sharing their experience with soil and groundwater remediation systems and technology. In addition, the delegation witnessed the signing of the extension of a memorandum of cooperation on soil and groundwater remediation between the two nations. The delegation also reached consensus with the Korea Ministry of Environment on specific projects to work on together over the next two years.\nTaiwan's delegation was composed of representatives from government, industry and academia. On 30 August they witnessed the signing in Seoul of an extension of the Memorandum of Understanding on Technical Cooperation in Soil and Groundwater Protection between the Taipei Mission in Korea and the Korean Mission in Taipei by the representatives of the two nations. The two nations agreed to continue building on the solid foundations of previous agreements on sharing research and experience related to technology and the legal infrastructure used to prevent or remediate soil and groundwater pollution. Taiwan’s delegation also took the opportunity of the annual meeting of the Bilateral Guidance Committee to hold discussions with the Korean Ministry of Environment on cooperation programs and possible cooperation between industry and academia over the next two years. \nThe EPA pointed out that in the year 2000, the EPA set up the Asia-Pacific Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Task Force, and since then has been actively seeking cooperative exchanges with other nations while striving to improve Taiwan’s remediation capacity. The Taiwan-Korea memorandum was the first such official agreement that Taiwan has signed with another Asia-Pacific nation. In recent years, the two nations have shared knowledge and experience regarding preventing toxic substance leaks from gas stations, groundwater quality monitoring, and formulation and implementation of related regulations. Mutual cooperation has also been fostered by scientific forums, the publishing of research articles, cooperative projects between industry and academia, and the sharing of pollution-prevention technologies.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil & Groundwater", "titlename": "Taiwan-Korea Soil and Groundwater Remediation Cooperation Extended", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-09" }, { "no": "3475", "title": "EPA Personnel Posted to Mailiao Industrial Park to Trace Vinyl Chloride Leak", "preview": "Environmental Inspection", "content": "EPA Personnel Posted to Mailiao Industrial Park to Trace Vinyl Chloride Leak", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Inspection", "titlename": "EPA Personnel Posted to Mailiao Industrial Park to Trace Vinyl Chloride Leak", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-09" }, { "no": "3474", "title": "Plastic Bag Reduction to Be Expanded", "preview": "Waste Plastic Bag Reduction to Be Expanded", "content": "Plastic Bag Reduction to Be Expanded\nThe EPA is currently examining improved measures to reduce the consumption of plastic bags and expand restrictions on more enterprises. The entities targeted for the new controls are still being assessed. Once the draft of regulations is preannounced, the EPA will hold public hearings and discussion meetings with all concerned stakeholders. The EPA expects that the new regulations will be ready by the end of 2016 at the earliest, and targeted entities will be given an adequate grace period to make the necessary adjustments. \nThe public is generally aware that plastic products are not biodegradable and thus can harmfully impact the environment, including marine organisms and fish which further affect human health indirectly. To reduce the public’s reliance on plastic bags, the EPA is concentrating on persuading consumers to get into the habit of taking their own bags when out shopping. \nThe volume of waste can be reduced if fewer products are thrown away after a single use. To encourage the uptake of reusable shopping bags, in 2002 the EPA began rolling out plastic bag reduction measures, such as requesting seven major sources – including hypermarkets and supermarkets – to start charging customers for plastic bags. Following implementation of the measures, the major sources reported a drop in plastic bag use of 58%, from 3.435 billion to 1.43 billion annually. \nOn 27 July 2016, the EPA invited Taiwan’s environmental groups to a meeting to discuss how to further reduce the use of plastic bags. The consensus was that all enterprises should be forbidden from offering free plastic bags, and the charge for each bag should be decided by each enterprise for itself. Other issues, such as the next batch of entities to be targeted and the thickness for the paid plastic bags are still being evaluated. The EPA expects to have a draft of relevant regulations ready by the end of 2016 at the earliest.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Plastic Bag Reduction to Be Expanded", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-09" }, { "no": "3473", "title": "Tighter Drinking Water Quality Standards Preannounced", "preview": "Environmental Sanitation Tighter Drinking Water Quality Standards Preannounced", "content": "Tighter Drinking Water Quality Standards Preannounced\nTo further strengthen water quality management and improve drinking water quality, the EPA has preannounced revisions to the Drinking Water Quality Standards. The standards to be tightened are for nickel, mercury, chlorite, vinyl chloride, toluene, and xylene. After taking into account the public’s growing demand for higher-quality drinking water, the EPA has also amended the standards for turbidity and bromate levels in post-disaster drinking water. \nThe Drinking Water Quality Standards were originally promulgated in 1998 and have been amended five times since then. At present, there are 68 items controlled under the standards. Over the years, the EPA has taken into account environmental changes, technological development, international trends and restrictions adopted by other nations when reviewing the Drinking Water Quality Standards. The EPA took the following factors into account when drafting the latest amendments:\n‧Current environmental situation in Taiwan.\n‧Drinking water standards adopted by Australia, Canada, the EU, Japan, New Zealand, the UK, the US, and the WHO\n‧Toxicity data and other relevant regulations\n‧Risk assessment information of each of the drinking water standards used by the countries above\nThe amendments were preannounced on 18 August 2016, and the main points are as follows: \n1. Changes have been made to the control limits for six chemical substances listed in Article 3, namely nickel, mercury, chlorite, vinyl chloride, toluene and xylene.\n1) From 1 July 2018, the maximum limit for nickel will be 0.07 mg\/L, and from 1 July 2019, the maximum limit will further fall to 0.02 mg\/L.\n2) From 1 July 2018, the maximum limit for mercury will be 0.001 mg\/L.\n3) The maximum limit for chlorite will henceforth be 0.7 mg\/L.\n4) From 1 July 2018, the maximum limit for vinyl chloride will be 0.0003 mg\/L.\n5) The maximum limit value for toluene will henceforth be 0.7 mg\/L.\n6) The maximum limit for xylene will henceforth be 0.5 mg\/L.\n2. Deletion of the stipulation that the bromate standard is not applicable in the event of typhoons and other natural disasters.\n3. Turbidity standards, applied when drinking water sources become turbid after heavy rains or other natural disasters, have been revised. The conditions for applying the free available residual chlorine standards have also been revised accordingly.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Sanitation", "titlename": "Tighter Drinking Water Quality Standards Preannounced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-09" }, { "no": "3472", "title": "Another Aircraft Joins International Greenhouse Gas Monitoring Efforts", "preview": "Climate Change Another Aircraft Joins International Greenhouse Gas Monitoring Efforts", "content": "Another Aircraft Joins International Greenhouse Gas Monitoring Efforts", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Another Aircraft Joins International Greenhouse Gas Monitoring Efforts", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-09" }, { "no": "3471", "title": "Flow of Unwanted Food from Hyper- and Supermarkets to Be Regulated", "preview": "Waste Flow of Unwanted Food from Hyper- and Supermarkets to Be Regulated", "content": "Flow of Unwanted Food from Hyper- and Supermarkets to Be Regulated\nThe EPA is currently reviewing the regulations governing the disposal of unwanted food from its major sources, such as hypermarkets and supermarkets. The EPA plans to have a draft of amendments ready by the end of 2016 that will require the aforementioned enterprises to submit online reports on their disposal of unwanted food. The amendments are expected to help the government to ensure that unwanted food is being disposed of properly. Controls on the disposal of household and restaurant food waste are also being formulated.\nTo gain a clearer picture of the types and volumes of industrial waste being produced and how it is being disposed of, on 11 July 2002 the EPA announced – in accordance with the Waste Disposal Act – the types of enterprises that would be required to submit online reports governing the production, storage, clearance, disposal, reuse, import and export of their waste. To date, 38,000 enterprises have been added to the list. \nFollowing a number of cases in recent years of unwanted food products being illegally resold, the EPA has decided to strengthen controls over the production and disposal of such products and is currently reviewing the relevant regulations. The EPA is looking to expand online unwanted food reporting for the following designated enterprises: \n‧Supermarkets whose parent company has more than NT$25 million in capital, that retail household goods and food products as separate departments, and whose sales comprise mostly fresh produce and combined food packages. \n‧Retail hypermarkets whose parent company has more than NT$25 million in capital and that generate unwanted food.\nThrough the legal management mechanism, the EPA expects to minimize the health and environmental risks related to unwanted food products. \nIn addition, to strengthen controls over the disposal of food waste, the EPA plans to re-classify it as one of the categories of waste for which online disposal reporting is required so that the EPA can keep close track of its disposal. The waiver for online reporting for the production, storage, clearance, disposal, reuse, export and import of food waste will be removed in the draft of amendments being drawn up, and will take effect on 1 December 2016. \nThe EPA would once again like to emphasize that the expansion of controls over sources of unwanted food will involve requiring the affected enterprises to report waste food disposal in accordance with the regulations, and will also involve the EPA supervising local government environmental protection bureaus in the task of strengthening audits and inspections to ensure the controls are adhered to. The EPA is also calling on the newly-listed hypermarkets and supermarkets to submit online reports of their unwanted food disposal as required by law, thus working with the authorities to protect public health and the environment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Flow of Unwanted Food from Hyper- and Supermarkets to Be Regulated", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-09" }, { "no": "3470", "title": "Dengue Fever Vector Control in Taiwan", "preview": "Environmental Sanitation Dengue Fever V ector Control in Taiwan \nIn 2015, an outbreak of dengue fever in Tainan turned into a public health emergency, resulting in a large-scale mobilization of personnel by the EPA and local governments. In addition, the Dengue Fever Central Epidemic Command Center was established by the Executive Yuan to coordinate a nationwide response. This year, the spread of dengue fever has been less severe. However, as typhoons are common in autumn, the EPA is still guiding local governments of high-risk areas in the elimination of mosquito breeding grounds. Experience has shown that concerted efforts by governments and local residents are the best way to control dengue fever vectors.", "content": "Dengue Fever Vector Control in Taiwan \nIn 2015, an outbreak of dengue fever in Tainan turned into a public health emergency, resulting in a large-scale mobilization of personnel by the EPA and local governments. In addition, the Dengue Fever Central Epidemic Command Center was established by the Executive Yuan to coordinate a nationwide response. This year, the spread of dengue fever has been less severe. However, as typhoons are common in autumn, the EPA is still guiding local governments of high-risk areas in the elimination of mosquito breeding grounds. Experience has shown that concerted efforts by governments and local residents are the best way to control dengue fever vectors. \nOf all the mosquito-borne viral diseases, dengue fever spreads most rapidly. It is estimated that 390 million people worldwide contract the disease annually, and over 20,000 of them lose their lives to it. Therefore, dengue prevention and control is drawing more and more attention. \nIn recent years, there has been a trend toward central and southern Taiwan seeing more cases of dengue fever during summer months. Mobilizing personnel for dengue control has thus become an important task for central and local governments. The main measures being adopted by the EPA are as follows: \nEstablishing a Legal Basis\nIn accordance with the Communicable Disease Control Act and the Dengue Fever\/Chikungunya Control Guidelines, the EPA has formulated the Dengue Fever Vector Mosquito Breeding Grounds Elimination Plan. The plan involves the EPA supervising and advising local government environmental protection bureaus on working with health and sanitation agencies, assisting in the elimination of mosquito breeding grounds in outdoor public spaces, and helping with emergency chemical control. Public facilities that are found to have not suitably dealt with empty containers that accumulate water, and thus may become mosquito breeding grounds, will be penalized under the Waste Disposal Act.\nIntegrating Central and Local Government Resources to Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Grounds and Conduct Inspections\n? The EPA is implementing its National Multi-tier Dengue Fever Breeding Ground Inspections and Evaluation Plan, and is requesting local government environmental protection bureaus to enhance multi-tier personnel mobilization in their jurisdictions to eliminate breeding grounds. Local governments are also encouraged to take advantage of the existing environmental cleanup days to conduct inspections and eliminate breeding grounds in villages and districts. The EPA is supervising these operations by dispatching personnel to conduct unannounced random follow-up inspections. \n? The EPA requests all local government environmental protection bureaus to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds as soon as possible after a heavy rain and to urge residents to do the same. The EPA’s Northern, Central and Southern Branch of the Bureau of Environmental Inspection also continue to conduct unannounced supervision and inspections. \n? The EPA held an interministerial meeting to discuss information management for vacant land and buildings under their jurisdictions. After the meeting, the EPA sent each ministry a copy of the Standard Operating Procedures for the Cleanup of Vacant Land and Buildings under Government Control. The EPA asked related ministries to log on to the EPA’s EcoLife website and key in the information of the properties under their jurisdictions. This measure aims to ensure that each ministry thoroughly eliminates all dengue vector breeding grounds on the premises in question. \n? The EPA also convened a meeting to discuss the timetable for the implementation of the Mosquito Breeding Grounds Elimination Plan for Vacant Land, Buildings and Central Government Construction Sites. At the meeting, local government environmental protection bureaus were asked to enhance their inspections, follow-up inspections, reporting, and penalty issuance for the central government’s vacant land and buildings in their administrative areas so as to thoroughly eliminate all dengue vector breeding grounds.\nThe EPA has begun enforcing its Random Environmental Inspection and Alert Standards. The Bureau of Environmental Inspection will start to conduct random inspections in districts where the annual total of reported and locally transmitted dengue fever cases exceeds 51. From January 2016 to 14 September 2016, a total of 25,550 sites were inspected, including 830 schools. The inspections reported a total of 122 sites where mosquito larvae were found. Twenty-three of these were among the 830 schools inspected.\nEducation on and Promotion of Dengue Fever Control \nIn 2016, the EPA held two training events on eliminating mosquito breeding grounds where 132 people, including village chiefs, local officials, sanitation squads, and community volunteers, learned about potential dengue fever hotspots. The EPA also invited a team of mosquito breeding ground elimination experts to assist in holding 16 hands-on clean-up demonstrations (attended by 1,037 local residents) and 11 educational events on mosquito breeding ground elimination (attended by 4,595 people). \nEnvironmental protection bureaus of local governments have also been actively involved with education on and promotion of dengue fever control. Thus far in 2016, a total of 4,082 educational lectures around Taiwan have been held, with over 52,700 participants attending. In the dengue fever hotspots of southern Taiwan, 86 events were held in Tainan City, 285 in Kaohsiung City, and 254 in Pingtung County, counting a total of 43,000 participants. The EPA also held four training events in Pingtung County and in north, central, and southern Taiwan to enhance the efficacy of chemical control and improve the self-protection skills of sanitation teams.\nEducation on and Promotion of Dengue EPA to Continue Promoting Environmental Sanitation and Elimination of Mosquito Breeding Grounds to Control Dengue Fever \nThe dengue epidemic spread suddenly in July 2015, pushing the number of diagnosed dengue fever cases for the year to over 43,000. The first case of 2016 was reported on 19 July in Kaohsiung City, showing that the disease is still a cause for concern. Considering that every time a typhoon hits Taiwan, large volumes of rainwater accumulate and provide ideal breeding grounds for dengue vectors, the EPA has brought together 10 experts to form the Dengue Fever Breeding Ground Elimination Consulting Team. This team will educate and guide local authorities in high-risk areas on how to eliminate vector breeding grounds and improve management of local environments. \nAnother measure that the EPA has adopted in the fight against dengue fever is the Dengue Vector Mosquito Breeding Grounds Elimination Self Checklist, which members of the public can now download from the EPA’s EcoLife website. Moreover, if members of the public discover untidy outdoor areas that could become mosquito breeding grounds, they can be reported through the EcoLife website. In addition, an app can be downloaded that allows immediate reporting to the EPA, which in turn will quickly dispatch personnel to deal with the problem. \nThe EPA has also established the Safe Use of Environmental Agents website (http:\/\/mdc.epa.gov.tw\/EVagents\/EVSecurity\/EVIndex.aspx) to provide information on common household pests and to give some principles for buying and safely using pesticides against such pests. The EPA is keen to stress that successful control of dengue fever mosquitoes requires the combined efforts of both the government and the public. The risk of dengue fever can only be minimized by improving environmental sanitation and tidiness, with the use of pesticides as a supplementary measure to thoroughly eliminate mosquito breeding grounds.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Saitation", "titlename": "Dengue Fever Vector Control in Taiwan", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-09" }, { "no": "3469", "title": "Amendments to Classes of Air Pollution Control Zones Take Effect in 2017", "preview": "air Amendments to Classes of Air Pollution Control Zones Take Effect in 2017", "content": "Amendments to Classes of Air Pollution Control Zones Take Effect in 2017\nPursuant to Article 5 of the Air Pollution Control Act, on 3 August 2016 the EPA revised the Classes of Air Pollution Control Zones for Special Municipalities, Counties, and Cities which will take effect on 1 January 2017. The new classes of air pollution control zones stipulated by the revisions are indicated in the following table.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Amendments to Classes of Air Pollution Control Zones Take Effect in 2017", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-08" }, { "no": "3468", "title": "Amendments to Pest Control Operators Management Regulations Preannounced", "preview": "Amendments to Pest Control Operators Management Regulations Preannounced", "content": "Amendments to Pest Control Operators Management Regulations Preannounced\nThe EPA has preannounced draft amendments to the Pest Control Operators Management Regulations. The amendments aim to: enhance the training of personnel who apply environmental agents in the pest control industry; make the quality of service more professional; and, ensure the safe application of environmental agents. \nTo further improve the professionalism of pest control operators and personnel who apply environmental agents, and to enhance the safe use of environmental agents as well as strengthen the safety management of pest control operators, the EPA transferred responsibility for the refreshment training of environmental agent application personnel to the central competent authority, so as to ease public concerns about the spraying of environmental agents. Other amendments stipulate that: the training records of environmental agent application personnel shall be transmitted online; operation plans shall be reported to local competent authorities for future reference; operation records shall be reported every month; and, personnel at the pest control site shall wear identification cards.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Sanitation", "titlename": "Amendments to Pest Control Operators Management Regulations Preannounced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-08" }, { "no": "3467", "title": "Waste Glass Bottle Recycling Improves Continuously", "preview": "recycling Waste Glass Bottle Recycling Improves Continuously", "content": "Waste Glass Bottle Recycling Improves Continuously \nWith the EPA’s promotion of resource recycling over the last decade, waste glass bottles have been put to much broader reuse, for example as a component in tiles for paving roads, or being reprocessed into brightly colored glaze as a building material. Moreover, some artists use waste glass bottles as materials for their artwork. Some of them integrate local culture to make decorative products, paperweights or wall lamps. In addition, through the skillful hands of professional craftsmen, paintings can be replicated and installed on walls for permanent preservation by the use of colored glass, thus making the reuse of waste glass bottles practical, artistic, and full of innovative value. \nEPA statistics show that waste glass bottle recycling has improved year by year. Over the last two years the amount of recycled glass bottles reached 227,000 tons, which is 4.2 times the 54,000 tons recycled in 1999. The EPA points out that – after sorting by types and colors, removal of non-glass materials, crushing and washing – waste glass bottles can be made into a resource material for continued use. Therefore, waste glass bottle recycling not only decreases the need for raw materials, it also creates a green circular economy characterized by a more sustainable consumption of environmental resources.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "recycling", "titlename": "Waste Glass Bottle Recycling Improves Continuously", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-08" }, { "no": "3466", "title": "Regulations on the Employment and Management of Toxic Chemical Substances Professional Technical Management Personnel Announced", "preview": "Toxic Substance Regulations on the Employment and Management of Toxic Chemical Substances Professional Technical Management Personnel Announced", "content": "Regulations on the Employment and Management of Toxic Chemical Substances Professional Technical Management Personnel Announced", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Regulations on the Employment and Management of Toxic Chemical Substances Professional Technical Management Personnel Announced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-08" }, { "no": "3465", "title": "Finding New Value of Plastics with New Ways of Thinking", "preview": "Waste Finding New Value of Plastics with New Ways of Thinking", "content": "Finding New Value of Plastics with New Ways of Thinking \nOn 14 July 2016, the EPA held a press conference to explain how the EPA is working with enterprises to reduce plastic waste and improve recycling and reuse so that new value of plastics may be discovered through new ways of thinking. The EPA also discussed the concept of cradle-to-cradle (C2C) horizontal alliances among different industries.\nAccording to a report published in 2016 by the World Economic Forum and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, global production of plastic packaging reached 78 million tonnes in 2016, while the recycling rate was only 14%. The report also pointed out that global production of all plastics reached 300 million tonnes in 2014, a mass equivalent to a fifth of the estimated total tonnage of fish stock in the world’s ocea ns. It is also estimated that by 2050, plastic production will reach 1.1 billion tonnes, exceeding the mass of total fish stock. There is clearly a need for new circular economic strategies for plastics. \nThe EPA is actively promoting C2C design concepts as the circular economy trend grows around the world. Taking plastic as an example, the EPA would like to see planning for the continuous recycling of plastics from the very beginning of manufacturing processes. The EPA is encouraging manufacturers to change their ways of thinking, redesign their products, and join the Taiwan Cradle to Cradle Strategic Alliance. Forming horizontal alliances with different industries will lower the cost of raw materials and reduce overall waste, thus moving Taiwan along the path of sustainability through recycling. \nTwo of the strategic alliance’s members – O’right and Da Fon Environmental Technology – are jointly producing 100% renewable plastic bottles for hair care products. They use technology that is more demanding than the conventional mixing of recycled plastic with new plastic, thus raising the technological bar for plastic recycling and reuse in Taiwan. They have also established dedicated recycling stations so that the containers can be sorted for recycling. Another Taiwan company – DA.AI Technology – has been granted a patent on its waste textile recycling technique that uses offcuts and recycled PET bottles to manufacture eco-friendly blankets, scarves and fleece vests.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Finding New Value of Plastics with New Ways of Thinking", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-08" }, { "no": "3464", "title": "Recycling Fee Rates for E-Waste Adjusted", "preview": "Recycling Recycling Fee Rates for E-Waste Adjusted", "content": "Recycling Fee Rates for E-Waste Adjusted\nThe EPA announced amendments to the Recycling Fee Rates for Recyclables. Fee rates for five recyclable items, including waste computers and liquid-crystal displays (LCD) will be lowered, while the fee rate for waste keyboards will be raised. The changes will take effect on 1 January 2017. \nTo better reflect the operating costs of e-waste recycling and to maintain the stability of the Resource Recycling Fund, the EPA has conducted a thorough review of the operating costs for recycling and also examined the fund’s finances, the status of recycling practices, and the market values of renewable materials. Consequently, the EPA decided to adjust the fee rates for LCD televisions and some other e-waste items. The adjustments will take effect on 1 January 2017, and more details of the amendments can be viewed on the EPA recycling website at http:\/\/recycle.epa.gov.tw. \nThe formulation of the amendments to the fee rates is in accordance with Article 5 Paragraph 1 of the Regulations Governing the Review of Resource Recycling Fee Rates for Recyclables. The draft of the amendments has been reviewed by the Resource Recycling Fee Rate Review Committee, comprising recycling experts along with representatives from manufacturers, environmental groups, and consumer protection groups. \nThe main points of the amendments that take effect on 1 January 2017 are: \n1) Lower recycling fee rates for waste computers, monitors, printers, portable and tablet computers, and liquid crystals from LCD televisions.\n2) Higher recycling fee-rates for waste computer keyboards.\nThe EPA would like to once again remind all organizations that receive subsidies that from 1 January 2017, the fee rates for e-waste will be as stated in the above draft of revisions. More information on resource recycling in general can be obtained by calling 0800-085717 or by visiting the EPA’s resource recycling website at http:\/\/recycle.epa.gov.tw.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling\nRecycling", "titlename": "Recycling Fee Rates for E-Waste Adjusted", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-08" }, { "no": "3463", "title": "Fifteen Towns and Cities Receive Subsidies to Create Eco-friendly Living Environments", "preview": "Environmental Sanitation\nFifteen Towns and Cities Receive Subsidies to Create Eco-friendly Living Environments", "content": "Fifteen Towns and Cities Receive Subsidies to Create Eco-friendly Living Environments\nThe EPA has a four-year plan spanning 2015-2018 to provide subsidies to 60 town and city districts around Taiwan, in order to assist them in creating eco-friendly living environments. The selections for 2017 were announced on 3 August 2016, with 15 town and city districts selected for subsidies of NT$4~20 million to create high-quality eco-friendly living environments with local characteristics. \nOf the 15 districts selected, five of them were graded as “Outstanding”: Tamshui District in New Taipei City; Wufeng District in Taichung City; Douliu City in Yunlin County; Beimen District in Tainan City; and Chihshang Township in Taitung County. Another ten districts were graded as “Excellent.” All of the selected districts have local characteristics incorporated in their proposals. For example, the aesthetic combination of environmentalism, arts, cultural heritage and tourism resources of Tamshui District, and the infrastructure building in Beimen District that connects five major tourism sites by electric bicycles both received high scores. In addition, all of the selected districts for the 2017 subsidies came up with creative ways of integrating local features into their neighborhood improvement plans and also demonstrated superior volunteer mobilizing capacities. \nWith the urging of the EPA, 19 cities\/counties and 31 townships\/districts submitted proposals for the subsidies. The competition was fierce, with all contestants trying their utmost to gain a favorable assessment from the selection committee. The detailed and well-planned proposals and the mobilization of local resources showed that the applicants took the bidding very seriously. The final winners were chosen for their capability to mobilize local volunteers, their themes for infrastructure construction, and their visions.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Sanitation", "titlename": "Fifteen Towns and Cities Receive Subsidies to Create Eco-friendly Living Environments", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-08" }, { "no": "3462", "title": "International Workshop Held to Build Regional Carbon Market Capacity", "preview": "Climate change International Workshop Held to Build Regional Carbon Market Capacity", "content": "International Workshop Held to Build Regional Carbon Market Capacity \nOn 13 July 2016, the EPA and the European Economic and Trade Office (EETO) jointly held the 2016 International Workshop on Climate Change – Regional Carbon Market Capacity Building. The workshop invited experts from the EU, Germany, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, and major international organizations to share their knowledge and experience regarding climate change response and promotion of carbon markets. EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee stressed in his opening remarks that the price to pay for climate change will be even higher if the world does not take action now. He also pointed out that in 2015 Taiwan passed the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act which sets out targets and a timetable for carbon reduction, and requires the development of the National Climate Change Action Guidelines and the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Action Program. In the future, Taiwan will focus on the participation of the private sector and strengthen its regional alliance for international carbon trading, so as to cooperatively create a low-carbon society. \nTo build regional carbon market capacity, on 13 July 2016 the EPA and the European Economic and Trade Office (EETO) jointly held the 2016 International Workshop on Climate Change – Regional Carbon Market Capacity Building. The workshop brought together climate change experts, carbon market think tank directors, and policymaking officials from the EU, Germany, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, and major international organizations, who shared their knowledge and experience regarding climate change response and promotion of carbon markets. The workshop attracted more than 200 participants.\nEPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee pointed out in his opening remarks that Taipei was unusually hot this June – an impact of climate change on Taiwan. He stressed that the price to pay for climate change will be even higher if the world does not take action now. Minister Lee also indicated that both Taiwan and international society made major breakthroughs on climate change mitigation last year. At the end of 2015, the 21st Session of the Convention to the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP21) adopted the Paris Agreement, which proposes targets for global carbon reduction to limit the rise of global temperatures. In 2015, Taiwan also passed the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act（溫室氣體減量及管理法）which not only sets out targets and a timetable for carbon reduction, but also requires the development of the National Climate Change Action Guidelines and the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Action Program. In the future, Taiwan will focus on the participation of the private sector and strengthen the regional alliance around international carbon trading to collaboratively create a low-carbon society.\nDeputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Javier Ching-shan Hou, also spoke at the workshop, pointing out that UNFCCC data indicates that carbon emissions are set to increase in the future. As Taiwan is situated in the Pacific Ocean, it will have to face the threats of stronger typhoons, increased flooding, and rising sea levels. He called for more cooperation over climate change issues between the public and private sectors, and between Taiwan, other nations and major international NGOs. \nIn her speech, Viktoria Lovenberg, Deputy Head of Office of EETO, said that the EU emissions trading system (EU ETS) that has already been operating for many years encourages private sector participation. The possibility of profits to be made stimulate the development of innovative new technologies and lead to increased flexibility, accelerated investment, and a continuing drive in manufacturing industries to develop low-carbon products. Even more importantly, carbon markets also bring down the cost of technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Deputy Head Lovenberg also said that the EU is glad to see Taiwan’s promulgation of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act, which will bring about greenhouse gas controls and provide a legal foundation for enforcement efforts, while also stimulating capacity building. \nDirector General of the German Institute in Taipei, Martin Eberts, pointed out in his speech that Taiwan and Germany have a long history of cooperation. He said that Germany has been leading the way in promoting nuclear-free energy generation and the large-scale use of renewable energy sources in order to ensure that Germany fulfills its carbon reduction pledges. Germany considers the EU ETS to be a crucial carbon reduction tool, and is currently formulating regulations to encourage more participation of the private sector. Personnel from the Emissions Trading Authority of the German Environment Agency attended the workshop to exchange ideas and opinions and foster greater cooperation.\nAll presentations from the workshop, including those on carbon trading mechanisms and carbon market capacity building, can be viewed at the website http:\/\/2016carbonmarket.wix.com\/csite.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate change", "titlename": "International Workshop Held to Build Regional Carbon Market Capacity", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-08" }, { "no": "3461", "title": "Government and Volunteers Join Forces to Reduce Water Pollution and Protect Algal Reefs", "preview": "Water Government and Volunteers Join Forces to Reduce Water Pollution and Protect Algal Reefs", "content": "Government and Volunteers Join Forces to Reduce Water Pollution and Protect Algal Reefs", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Government and Volunteers Join Forces to Reduce Water Pollution and Protect Algal Reefs", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-08" }, { "no": "3460", "title": "In-depth Inspection of Incinerator Bottom Ash Reuse Organizations Slated for September 2016", "preview": "Waste In-depth Inspection of Incinerator Bottom Ash Reuse Organizations Slated for September 2016", "content": "In-depth Inspection of Incinerator Bottom Ash Reuse Organizations Slated for September 2016\nTo better understand and track the reuse of refuse incinerator bottom ash, the EPA has established a website for local governments to report the flow of incinerator bottom ash. In addition to ensuring that each local government carries out the required audits, from September 2016 the EPA will also begin in-depth inspections of all organizations that reuse incinerator bottom ash. \nThere have recently been reports on incinerator bottom ash pollution at a fish farm in Tainan City, with effusions of purple alkaline liquid. Personnel were immediately dispatched to conduct an on-site inspection and carry out water sample analysis. Various types of waste were discovered at the site, but the water analysis did not reveal contaminants usually associated with incinerator bottom ash. The case is now being investigated by prosecutors.\nThe EPA also pointed out that it had established a bottom ash reporting website to serve as a platform for local governments to upload information on the reuse of bottom ash. The website also provides related information for data inspection and statistical analysis involving bottom ash reuse. \nAfter being produced by incinerators, bottom ash is sent in one-tonne loads either to landfills or for direct reuse. Local governments pay licensed operators to handle the reuse, and the flow of each one-tonne load of bottom ash must be confirmed. Bottom ash reuse must meet the requirements of related regulations such that the reuse can be verified and paid for by a local government. Thus, illegally dumped bottom ash will result in fees that cannot be paid to reuse organizations. Therefore, local governments should consider how they can employ the EPA’s mechanisms to keep track of the flow of bottom ash, and also how to incorporate their own verification procedures in order to close any loopholes that might be exploited. \nThe EPA is keen to stress that local governments must inspect and verify the reuse of bottom ash as soon as the reuse is reported by the reuse organization, and that fees are paid only when the reuse passes inspection. If the final reuse location is found to be falsified, not only will the reutilization fee not be paid, the parties responsible will be reported to the Taoyuan District Prosecutors Office for fraudulent documents. \nThe central government will continue to urge local governments to keep tracking the flow of bottom ash. In addition, from September 2016 the EPA will start in-depth inspections done by impartial experts of all bottom ash reuse organizations, with the aim of establishing a comprehensive bottom ash reuse management mechanism.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "In-depth Inspection of Incinerator Bottom Ash Reuse Organizations Slated for September 2016", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-08" }, { "no": "3459", "title": "Rooftop Farms Help Reduce Carbon Emissions", "preview": "climate change", "content": "Rooftop Farms Help Reduce Carbon Emissions\nFor the last six years, the EPA has been promoting the Low-carbon Sustainable Homeland, for which the results have been remarkable. In addition to working with local governments to help establish 114 low-carbon sustainable model communities, in 2015 the EPA also helped the New Taipei City government roll out its Public Participation in Rooftop Farming and Greening Project. This project involved helping 13 low-carbon communities establish 46 rooftop farms. These farms have turned urban communities into green, ecological stepping stones in urban areas, and can reduce carbon emissions by an estimated 260 tonnes per year.\nThe EPA has been promoting the Low-carbon Sustainable Homeland Program since 2010. The program has integrated the manpower and resources of central and local governments as well as private enterprises to lay solid foundations for building low-carbon sustainable communities. Together, they have been introducing six major types of measures: ecosystem greening; green energy and power saving; green transportation; resource recycling; low-carbon lifestyles; and sustainable business operations. \nIn 2015 the EPA worked with local governments and provided guidance to facilitate the establishment of 114 low-carbon sustainable communities, along with disseminating successful methods and ideas into neighboring villages. Neighboring communities have been encouraged to turn concepts and measures for energy saving and carbon reduction into actions in everyday life. \nThe EPA points out that greening local communities is relatively easy regardless of whether they are in urban or rural areas, and ways that best fit local conditions can be successfully adopted accordingly. To extend the project, in 2015 the EPA subsidized the New Taipei City government to roll out its Public Participation in Rooftop Farming and Greening Project. This project aims to help turn communities into green ecological stepping stones in the urban environment, using easily replicable rooftop farm modules. \nThe plan advises the local communities on establishing greening teams according to the locations and needs of the communities. Team members receive training and take over farm management and maintenance after professionals set up farm modules. Not only does vegetation coverage increase in urban areas, but residents can also have healthy, toxin-free vegetables grown in the community. Community identity and unity are raised through residents’ participation, and energy conservation is achieved as well by lowering indoor temperatures, reducing use of air conditioning and decreasing urban heat island effects.\nNew Taipei City helped 13 low-carbon communities establish 46 rooftop farms, using 3 modular designs for residents to choose for themselves: thin-layer extensive greening, aquatic plants, and climbing frames. Each module comes with varieties of plants native to New Taipei City for eco-landscaping effects in addition to the farming functions. These green ecological stepping stones have also become habitats for a variety of birds and insects and have reduced carbon emissions by an estimated 260 tonnes annually. Many communities have also incorporated their care services for senior residents by using the fruit and vegetables produced in communal dining, thus reducing the food carbon footprint as well as providing healthy, fresh food for the elderly. \nThe 43 low-carbon sustainable model communities have on average greened 1,121 m2 of vacant space, according to information posted on the EPA’s Low-carbon Sustainable Homeland website (https:\/\/lcss.epa.gov.tw) by the 460 communities that have chosen to incorporate vacant space greening in their practices. If a future target of 10 times this figure is achieved, then 4,600 communities will benefit from this program, leading to an annual reduction of 2,500 tonnes of carbon emissions. \nThe EPA hopes that the establishment of low-carbon sustainable communities will increase public awareness of environmental sustainability and bring the vision of a low-carbon sustainable homeland a step closer to being realized.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate change", "titlename": "Rooftop Farms Help Reduce Carbon Emissions", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-08" }, { "no": "3458", "title": "EPA Celebrates Its 29th Anniversary", "preview": "General policy\nEPA Celebrates Its 29th Anniversary", "content": "EPA Celebrates Its 29th Anniversary \nThe EPA celebrated the 29th anniversary of its founding on 22 August 2016. To commemorate the event, the EPA held a tea party along with a forum on the Clean Air Action Plan. In addition, the EPA put on a week-long exhibition to highlight Taiwan’s environmental work and achievements. Visitors to the exhibition gained an understanding of the major environmental policies and shared in what the EPA has achieved in its nearly 30 years of hard work. \nEPA Minister Lee Stresses Continuity in Environmental Policy and Praises Orchid Island for Its Eco-fee \nOn 22 August 2016, the EPA held a tea party to commemorate its 29th anniversary. More than 100 guests attended the event, including former ministers and deputy ministers of the EPA and persons of note from industry, government and academia. \nThe party began with a 10-minute documentary film that included archive footage of former ministers guiding and supervising environmental personnel at work. It also showed the EPA’s firm belief in its work and the dedication of its staff. \nSpeaking at the event, Minister Lee thanked the former ministers for their leadership throughout the years, which was instrumental in developing the high-quality, well-trained staff that the administration enjoys today. Minister Lee stressed that environmental policy and work should incorporate both sustainability and continuity, and all major environmental issues – such as air pollution, water quality or soil remediation – are always on the EPA’s agenda, year in and year out. The two main goals of environmental protection, he said, can be summed up as protecting public health and returning the environment to as natural a state as possible. \nMinister Lee also talked about the future establishment of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, saying that since the new ministry will have a much broader range of tasks, there will be a structural reorganization and manpower adjustment of related ministries. He pointed out that much time has been spent in discussions and negotiations with other ministries, which will continue into the foreseeable future and require much more hard work. The minister stressed that the elevation of the EPA to ministry status would be a significant and major stride forward for Taiwan’s environmental protection work. \nMinister Lee then went on to talk about Lanyu Township (Orchid Island) in Taitung County, pointing out that the increasing number of tourists in recent years has taken a heavy toll on the local environment. The annual cost for shipping refuse from Orchid Island to Taitung for disposal has reached NT$200,000. Minister Lee therefore highly commended the Lanyu government for its decision to collect an eco-fee for each tourist who visits Orchid Island. Minister Lee praised the Lanyu Township authorities and local residents for their efforts to keep the island clean and to preserve the local ecosystems. The collection of the eco-fee demonstrates that environmental awareness is on the rise. Although local governments are responsible for environmental sanitation, Minister Lee said that the EPA would not shy away from its duty and promised that it would always be ready to lend assistance when necessary.\nMinister Lee further stressed that if the proposed NT$200 fee per visitor in the first year was deemed too high, the EPA would consider sharing half of the cost to ensure that the number of visitors will not drop to the point of affecting the local economy. He concluded by expressing the belief that if every local government head were willing to work towards ecological conservation, it would help mitigate global warming. \nForum is Held to Gain Experts’ Comments on Implementing Clean Air Action Plan\nOn 22 August, the EPA also held a forum on the Clean Air Action Plan, to which local experts and academics were invited to give comments concerning the implementation of the Clean Air Action Plan. The EPA explained how the plan has been and will be carried out from 2015 to 2020, along with the ten priority measures adopted to reduce the concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5). The attendees put forward a number of suggestions that the EPA will be referring to for its future implementation of the Clean Air Action Plan. \nThe ten measures to reduce PM2.5 aim to reduce the percentage of air quality red alert days (when the daily average concentration of PM2.5 is 54 ?g\/m? or above) by 20% within two years and 50% within four years, thus reducing the public’s exposure to harmful fine particulate matter. In the next two years, the EPA will request all local governments to submit innovative air quality improvement plans based on their environmental status and other factors. Two-thirds of the implementation cost will be subsidized by the EPA, and one-third covered by local governments. The air quality improvement plans will be another example of central and local governments working together to improve air quality and protect public health. \nThe ten major measures for reducing PM2.5 are as follows:\n1. Enhancing the implementation of the Regulations Governing Emergency Measures for Serious Air Quality Deterioration, including formulating emergency measures for each grade of the air quality alerts.\n2. Using cleaner fuel: Replace heavy fuel oil for boilers with diesel or natural gas. \n3. Changing customs and conventions: Cultural activities that involve burning “spirit money” and incense sticks and letting off firecrackers will be discouraged.\n4. Controlling fugitive dust from riverbanks.\n5. Controlling fugitive dust from barren land and paved roads.\n6. Controlling fugitive dust from construction and stacking sites.\n7. Controlling cooking oil fume from restaurants.\n8. Controlling black smoke from the exhaust of large passenger vehicles and trucks.\n9. Controlling smoke generated from the burning of agricultural waste.\n10. Controlling white and blue smoke from motorcycle exhaust. \nFrom 2016 to 2019, the EPA expects to spend NT$30 billion, of which NT$4 billion will be given to local governments to help finance their own improvement tasks, thus also strengthening the common commitment between central and local governments to improve Taiwan’s environment. \nExhibition Highlights the Achievements and Future Strategies of the EPA\nTo celebrate its 29th anniversary, the EPA put on a special exhibition to demonstrate its work and achievements in the fields that draw more public attention. \nIn his written foreword to the exhibition, Minister Lee pointed out that Taiwan has evolved beyond the home-factory model of previous generations. The work of environmental protection should thus always begin with public health as its primary concern, and should particularly focus on providing clean air for people to breathe safely. The EPA will rigorously implement air pollution control and the air quality alert systems. The EPA will work with citizen groups, law-enforcement agencies, and other government bodies to create an iron triangle of environmental protection. The EPA will also continue to seek international cooperation and alliances to better control air pollution, so that the public can breathe easily, and to build a sustainable, beautiful and healthy Taiwan.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General policy", "titlename": "EPA Celebrates Its 29th Anniversary", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-08" }, { "no": "3457", "title": "Minister Lee Promotes Ban on Open-Air Straw Burning and Inspects Coal Stacking Fugitive Dust Control", "preview": "air Minister Lee Promotes Ban on Open-Air Straw Burning and Inspects Coal Stacking Fugitive Dust Control", "content": "Minister Lee Promotes Ban on Open-Air Straw Burning and Inspects Coal Stacking Fugitive Dust Control\nTo improve the air quality in Central Taiwan, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee made a trip on 6 July 2016 to inspect open-air burning of rice straw and the control of fugitive dust from coal stacking sites. Considering that the rice crop of this year’s first cultivation is being harvested and that farmers are prone to burn the cut straw and ground stubble in open air, Minister Lee participated in the “Using Decomposing Bacteria for On-site Straw Reuse” demonstration event organized by the Environmental Protection Bureau of Changhua County. The event was aimed at showing farmers how they could expedite the decomposition of rice straw to fertilize their soil. The EPA has subsidized Changhua County to promote the use of decomposing bacteria since 2012, which has received high approval from farmers. Minister Lee urged farmers to make greater use of such bacteria instead of burning rice straw in open-air.\nTo better understand fugitive dust control at the Taichung Coal-fired Power Plant and Dragon Steel’s open-air coal stacking sites, Minister Lee inspected these sites in person. Minister Lee was content upon learning that Dragon Steel was in the process of building an indoor stacking site. He also instructed that before the indoor stacking site was completed, proper measures must be taken to control fugitive dust.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Minister Lee Promotes Ban on Open-Air Straw Burning and Inspects Coal Stacking Fugitive Dust Control\nMinister Lee Promotes Ban on Open-Air Straw Burning and Inspects Coal Stacking Fugitive Dust Control", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-07" }, { "no": "3456", "title": "Taiwan and US EPAs Jointly Hold International Symposium and Workshop on Atmospheric Mercury Monitoring", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring \nTaiwan and US EPAs Jointly Hold International Symposium and Workshop on Atmospheric Mercury Monitoring", "content": "Taiwan and US EPAs Jointly Hold International Symposium and Workshop on Atmospheric Mercury Monitoring \nIn June 2016, the Taiwan and US EPAs jointly held the International Symposium on Atmospheric Observation and Advanced Measuring Techniques in Remote Areas as well as the 2016 Atmospheric Mercury Monitoring Workshop at National Central University in Taiwan. Delegates from academia and the governments of eleven countries, namely Taiwan, Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Japan, Korea, Mongolia, Switzerland, Thailand, the US, and Vietnam, attended the symposium and workshop. In the events, Taiwan showcased the monitoring data accumulated by its Lulin Mountain Monitoring Station. It is hoped that through the Taiwan-developed mercury monitoring technology and data-sharing platform, multilateral regional cooperation on environmental monitoring could be expanded and technological exchanges could be enhanced. \nThe EPA established the Lulin Mountain Atmospheric Background Monitoring Station in 2006 to conduct long-term observation of the long-range transmission of air pollutants. In 2012, Taiwan signed a cooperation agreement with the US to join the Atmospheric Mercury Monitoring Network (AMnet) and the National Atmospheric Deposit Program (NADP). In 2014, Taiwan further collaborated with the US to establish the Mercury Wet Deposition Monitoring Network through the International Environmental Partnership. A pilot study is being conducted in which the Taiwan EPA is assisting Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam to develop mercury wet deposition sampling systems. In addition, Taiwan has established the Environmental Monitoring Technology Center to help Asia-Pacific partner nations develop mercury monitoring and sampling techniques. In sum, from the technological platform developed by Taiwan, mercury monitoring data collected by Southeast Asian countries can be shared and the changes and special characteristics of mercury can be grasped.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "Taiwan and US EPAs Jointly Hold International Symposium and Workshop on Atmospheric Mercury Monitoring", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-07" }, { "no": "3455", "title": "Four Types of LED Lights to be Recycled from January 2017", "preview": "Recycling\nFour Types of LED Lights to be Recycled from January 2017", "content": "Four Types of LED Lights to be Recycled from January 2017 \nTo prevent environmental pollution and ensure fair competition among responsible enterprises, the EPA announced that starting from January 2017 it will recollect straight tube, ring tube, compact, and built-in ballast type light emitting diode (LED) lighting sources. The manufacturers and importers shall bear the responsibility for the recycling of these lighting sources.\nIn recent years, due to the promotion of environmental protection and energy-saving, the use of LED lighting sources has greatly increased, to the point that it has gradually replaced traditional lighting sources. The LED lighting sources contain batteries, wires, circuit boards, glass, plastic, aluminum, etc. with recycling value. If not announced as recyclable items needing to undergo proper recycling and reuse processes, their existence might very well lead to subsequent environmental pollution. \nAt present, most lighting sources are announced as recyclable and should be recycled. Yet, in consideration of the treatment relating to various lighting sources, and the fair competition of responsible enterprises, the EPA amended the Scope of Enterprises Responsible for Recycling Commodities and their Containers. The amendments add the straight tube, ring tube, compact and built-in ballast LED lighting sources as recyclable items whose recycling related responsibilities lie with the manufacturers and importers of these products. The amendments will become effective from January 2017. \nThe amendments effectively expand the scope of lighting sources that should be recycled. When members of the general public have straight tube, ring tube, compact or built-in ballast type LED lighting sources that need to be recycled, they can simply hand these items to recycling trucks or recycling operators. In this way, these discarded items will enter the recycling system and thus prevent environmental pollution and contribute to the reuse of resources.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "recycling", "titlename": "Four Types of LED Lights to be Recycled from January 2017", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-07" }, { "no": "3454", "title": "Ban of Microbeads in Personal Care Products Considered", "preview": "Toxic Substance\nBan of Microbeads in Personal Care Products Considered", "content": "Ban of Microbeads in Personal Care Products Considered\nIn response to appeals by environmental organizations to expedite the banning of microbeads in cosmetics, the EPA has indicated that it will soon announce that microbeads are not allowed to be added in cosmetic and personal care products. The EPA has invited cosmetic enterprises, the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Ministry of Economic Affairs to discuss the issue. The EPA estimates that controls will be announced in 2017. \nThe issue of plastic microbeads has been a hot one internationally in recent years, with attention focusing on restricting the amounts of microbeads in cosmetic and personal care products. The EPA has examined international trends and has come up with a methodology and timetable for controlling microbeads in cosmetics sold in Taiwan. During a meeting with representatives from cosmetic and personal care product enterprises on 20 June, the EPA promised to give the enterprises an adequate grace period to adjust to the new regime. \nThe EPA will continue to examine the issue along with all stakeholders and ask related enterprises to come into line with government policy. On 29 June 2016, the EPA invited officials from the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Ministry of Economic Affairs to discuss the control measures. The EPA aims to hasten the lawmaking process and expects that related controls will be announced in 2017. \nSince a large proportion of personal care products consumed in Taiwan are imported, any controls on them will touch upon international trade agreements. Being a member of the World Trade Organization, Taiwan is obliged to be clear and transparent about regulatory changes and give the WTO at least 60-day notice. The EPA will carefully take into account the opinions of stakeholders at home – through public hearings and discussion meetings – and also of other WTO members. \nThe EPA is again urging all enterprises to begin reducing the amounts of microbeads in their products, such as by substituting more eco-friendly substances for them. The EPA is also calling on members of the public to consume less microbead-containing products to protect the environment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Ban of Microbeads in Personal Care Products Considered", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-07" }, { "no": "3453", "title": "Taiwan and US hold International Air Quality Monitoring Camp for Youth in Thailand", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring\nTaiwan and US hold International Air Quality Monitoring Camp for Youth in Thailand", "content": "Taiwan and US hold International Air Quality Monitoring Camp for Youth in Thailand\nFrom 21-24 June 2016 in Thailand, the Taiwan and the US EPAs held a school students’ air quality monitoring camp called Kids Making Sense International. The camp is one of the events being run as part of the International Environmental Partnership (IEP). School students from Taiwan and the USA were on hand to help their Thai counterparts gain experience using simple air quality monitoring techniques. The aim was to nurture care for the environment and to help young students gain a deeper understanding of pollution sources and how to improve air quality. \nIn 2014 the Taiwan and the US EPAs launched the IEP based upon the concept of a simple partnership to promote a variety of cooperative environmental endeavors. The IEP aims to establish a network of regional and international platforms for experts to share their ideas and knowledge about common – and often challenging – environmental issues. These platforms will hopefully then also develop into a source of accumulated successful methods for improving the environment, both regionally and globally. One of the projects under the IEP umbrella is Kids Making Sense International. \nSince 2014, the Taiwan and the US EPAs have been actively promoting the Kids Making Sense International camp, which aims to raise awareness about air quality among students. By learning simple monitoring techniques students will further their knowledge about environmental issues and increase their desire to protect the environment.\nThe 2016 Kids Making Sense International event, jointly held by the Taiwan and the US EPAs, ran from 21-24 June in Bangkok and Chiangmai, Thailand. The students of Stella Matutina Girls' High School from Taiwan and Mark Keppel High School from the US, as well as some staff from Thailand’s National Science Museum also helped out. The students from Taiwan and the US acted as demonstrators to help their Thai counterparts gain experience with simple air quality monitoring techniques. Ambassador Kelly Hsieh, Representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Thailand, and the representatives of the Taiwan, American, and Thai teams all gave speeches at the opening ceremony on June 22. \nThe 2016 Kids Making Sense International event included a training day for teachers on 21 June, a workshop for students on 22 June, and a training session for students on 24 June conducted by the Doi Suthep Nature Study Center of Chiang Mai University. In addition to the demonstrations by the Taiwan and American students, experts from Sonoma Technology from the US also provided teacher training on the use of simple, hand-held air quality monitoring devices that combine analysis functions with easy application to give quick readouts on air quality. Knowing how to use such devices should nurture care for the environment in students, and help them gain a deeper understanding of pollution sources and how to improve air quality.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "Taiwan and US hold International Air Quality Monitoring Camp for Youth in Thailand", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-07" }, { "no": "3452", "title": "Phase-out Dates for Asbestos in Brake Pads May Be Advanced", "preview": "Toxic Substance", "content": "Phase-out Dates for Asbestos in Brake Pads May Be Advanced\nAsbestos is a Group 1 carcinogenic substance listed by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). To reduce the risk of exposure, on 24 June the EPA pointed out that it will soon begin planning for an early ban on the use of asbestos in vehicle brake pads. The EPA expects to announce amendments to the relevant regulations by the end of 2016, which will represent another step on the road to the complete banning of asbestos use in Taiwan, thus safeguarding public health. \nAs early as May 1989, the EPA announced asbestos to be a Category 2 toxic chemical substance in accordance with the Toxic Substances Control Act. Over the years, the use of asbestos has become more restricted, and a timetable for a complete phase-out on asbestos has been formulated. The EPA is already enforcing the bans on the production, importation, or sale of crocidolite and amosite; asbestos in new drinking water piping and peripheral components; and the manufacturing of asbestos panels, asbestos piping, fiber cement board containing asbestos, asbestos waterproof adhesives, asbestos-containing heat insulation materials, calcium silicate boards, asbestos ropes, asbestos paddings, asbestos shingles, etc. There is now a blanket ban on the use of asbestos except for use in brake pads which was originally scheduled to be banned from 1 July 2018. However, given the risk to public health from exposure to asbestos the EPA is considering an earlier ban on asbestos in brake pads. The EPA will follow the regulation amendment procedures to revise the asbestos control regulations. It is estimated that the revised ban on asbestos use will be announced at the end of 2016.\nThere has been some concern among the public about asbestos in construction materials, and the EPA would like to remind anyone who has asbestos materials in need of removal should hire a licensed construction or demolition firm to do the job so as to prevent the inhalation of fugitive toxic asbestos dust. According to the Ministry of the Interior’s Regulations Governing Building Demolition, demolition firms must adopt the dust control measures laid out in the regulations and follow the regulations concerning protective gear for workers, pre-demolition inspection, asbestos removal best practices, and waste disposal. \nSince a ban on asbestos in new drinking water pipes came into effect as early as 1 May 1989, all drinking water operators have complied with the regulations. The EPA is confident that none of Taiwan’s drinking water pipes contain asbestos.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Phase-out Dates for Asbestos in Brake Pads May Be Advanced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-07" }, { "no": "3451", "title": "Changes to EIA Rules and Administration Procedures in the Works", "preview": "EIA\nChanges to EIA Rules and Administration Procedures in the Works", "content": "Changes to EIA Rules and Administration Procedures in the Works\nThe EPA aims to reduce the excessive time it spends on evaluating environmental impact assessments (EIA), to increase efficiency and accountability in the EIA system, and moreover also wishes to allow opinions of all stakeholders to be heard. To these ends, the EPA is drafting amendments to modify EIA review procedures, revise specific items of the strategic environmental assessment, and modify EIA enforcement rules and standards for determining specific items and the scope of EIAs for developmental activities. \nPremier Chuan Lin recently indicated that the current environmental assessment system needs to be reexamined to make it more effective in screening development activities and to be more efficient in its review processes. On 28 June the EPA announced that it would be pushing ahead with amendments to EIA-related regulations so as to enhance EIA functioning and efficiency. The amendments will also strengthen environmental assessment policies and the implementation of EIA review decisions in response to the promulgation of the Spatial Planning Act. \nThe timetable for the amendments to EIA administration includes: within two months, EIA review procedures will be adjusted; within six months, amendments to specific items of the strategic environmental assessment, guidelines for EIA review, as well as standards for determining the specific items and scope for EIAs will be formulated; within nine months a draft of amendments to the Environmental Impact Assessment Act will be put forward; within 18 months a draft of regulations governing social impact assessment techniques will be forged. \nThe EPA will start with adjustments to EIA review procedures. In the future, before the special task force meets, the EPA will hold a meeting where a development is proposed, and collect opinions of the public and relevant organizations. The special task force will meet no more than three times for each EIA review case, and no changes to EIA statements will be allowed after the final special task force meeting. However, the current document review procedure will be maintained so that the EPA can keep track of previous suggestions. Both these measures should help to maintain review efficiency. \nIn response to the promulgation of the Spatial Planning Act, the EPA will discuss with relevant ministries the addition of new specific items for the strategic environmental assessment regarding land-use plans governed by the said Act, and submit draft amendments to the Executive Yuan for approval within six months from now. Other specific items for the strategic environmental assessment, such as tourism development, are in consideration as well. \nThe EPA is also considering amendments to the Working Standards for Developmental Activity Environmental Impact Assessments and the Standards for Determining Specific Items and Scope of Environmental Impact Assessments for Development Activities. The main focus of amendments to the working standards will be to include the concept of regional planning and regional control as a part of national land use planning in the future, and also to amend the Table of Restriction Surveys for Environmentally Sensitive Areas and Special Purpose Areas. Amendments to the determining standards will be focused on review of the necessity of specific items, such as pilot plans for mining or other activities involving land use. \nThe main points of the amendments to the Environmental Impact Assessment Act are as follows: The industry competent authority must henceforth play a more active role in eliminating the symbiotic relationship between developers and consultancies and in harmonizing the implementation of national land use plans. \nIn keeping with the spirit of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic Social and Cultural Rights, within eighteen months the EPA will produce a draft of regulations governing social impact assessment techniques. The draft will include new factors to be considered in the future such as indigenous peoples’ rights and the impact of forced relocations. This falls under “social environment” impact assessment, as defined in Article 4 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act, and represents a step on the road towards transitional justice for Taiwan’s indigenous peoples and the full safeguarding of land justice and housing justice for everyone.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "EIA", "titlename": "Changes to EIA Rules and Administration Procedures in the Works", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-07" }, { "no": "3450", "title": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations Preannounced", "preview": "Water", "content": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations Preannounced\nIn order to disclose real-time automated water quality monitoring data, raise the utilization efficiency of livestock waste, and simplify management and review procedures, on 6 July 2016 the EPA preannounced amendments to the Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations. The regulations being amended cover management of the utilization of livestock waste fermentation liquid and sediment, automated monitoring facilities, and other items. \nThe Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations were first promulgated on 16 October 2006, and have been revised four times. The regulations have led to the establishment of a wide-ranging set of water pollution prevention measures along with the use of automated water quality monitoring facilities that provide real-time data on effluent water quality. The regulations have also led to the utilization of livestock waste, thus reducing pollution from source. \nTo further reduce water pollution, the EPA has produced draft amendments to 19 of the existing articles, has added one article and deleted another. The main points of the amendments are as follows:\n1) The addition of operators of livestock slurry oxidation treatment facilities and slurry recycling centers as users of livestock waste fermentation liquid and sediment – for use as fertilizer for agricultural land.\n2) Kidney dialysis centers will henceforth be required to submit a wastewater management plan to their local competent authority for approval before commencing operations. However, they will be exempt from submitting the water test reports required by the regulations. \n3) All water pollution prevention facilities and piping should henceforth be correctly labelled with details consistent with those on the relevant permits. Violators will first be given advice on – and a deadline for – correcting the labelling. If the labelling has not been improved by the given deadline, fines will be levied. \n4) The stipulations on the automated monitoring facilities, electricity meters, display systems that serious violators are required to install, installation rules and the reporting procedures for display screen breakdowns have been integrated and simplified. \n5) The agricultural competent authority has been authorized to determine the minimum number of days for the anaerobic fermentation of livestock waste slurry based on case-by-case review results of utilization plans. On-site inspections for fermentation liquid and sediment utilization plans will be conducted on a flexible basis. \n6) The items required to be tested for fermentation liquid and sediment, as well as surrounding soil and groundwater, have been simplified. Owners of irrigated agricultural land where the direction of groundwater flow is not clear will need to submit monitoring data conducted by the relevant government agencies. \n7) In tandem with the addition of a list of suitable users for using fermentation liquid and sediment as fertilizer for agricultural land, the provisions governing accompanying documents for, items to be recorded in, changes to, and suspension and revocation of utilization plans have been amended. \n8) When two or more sources of wastewaters containing harmful substances are mixed and discharged, the sampling locations for the wastewaters before the mixing occurs have been clarified. \n9) Regarding the effluent volume calculation methodology for enterprises that should install automated monitoring facilities, greywater, non-contact cooling water and run-off wastewater will be calculated as workstation wastewater. \n10) For facilities that should install automated monitoring equipment, regulations governing installation and completion deadlines have been clarified. To respond to information disclosure and calls from environmental organizations for online transmission of real-time monitoring data, enterprises that have a daily effluent discharge permit for 1,500 m3-5,000 m3 must transmit their monitoring data online to the local competent authority. \n11) The application procedure for the installation of automated monitoring equipment has been simplified. \n12) The application procedure for changing or replacing automated monitoring equipment has been simplified. Only the replacement of monitoring apparatus, as well as data collation and processing systems and the correspondingly changed operational manual need to be approved before the change. After the change, the confirmation report has to be approved by the competent authority as well. \nChanges in the location of monitoring equipment only require submission of a confirmation report within 30 days after the location change. \n13) People who deliver or receive sludge to be used as fertilizer must inform their local competent authority 24 hours before the delivery or receiving take place. Livestock enterprises that have approval from the agricultural competent authority to use fermentation liquid and sediment, and operators of livestock waste recycling centers, must transport or pipe the fermentation liquid and sediment according to the relevant utilization plans. \n14) In response to actual conditions, operating regulations for facilities with automated monitoring equipment have been revised, covering the operation of effluent water quality monitoring facilities, storage of monitoring data and measurements taken, and the installation of automated water quality monitoring equipment and video cameras. Regulations governing related variation testing and verification of automated water quality monitoring facilities have also been revised.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations Preannounced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-07" }, { "no": "3449", "title": "Regulations Governing the Collection of Water Pollution Control Fees Amended", "preview": "Water\nRegulations Governing the Collection of Water Pollution Control Fees Amended", "content": "Regulations Governing the Collection of Water Pollution Control Fees Amended\nThe collection of water pollution control fees started on 1 May 2015, but a number of problems in administering online reporting, evaluations and auditing have arisen. Thus on 23 June 2016, the EPA announced amendments to the Water Pollution Control Fee Collection Regulations which should result in a clearer, more comprehensive system of water pollution control fee collection.\nIn order to solve the problems in online reporting, evaluations and auditing that have arisen when collecting water pollution control fees, the EPA reviewed and revised the regulations. The regulations covering coal-fired power stations that use the seawater flue gas desulfurization process in their air pollution control facilities have also been amended to improve the fee calculation methodology. \nThe amendments to water pollution control fees for coal-fired power stations that use the seawater flue gas desulfurization process for air pollution control took effect on 1 July 2016. The special water pollution fee rate for enterprises operating effluent pipes discharging into the ocean will take effect on 1 January 2017. All of the other amendments took effect on the date of announcement. All affected enterprises should use the revised water pollution fee rates when submitting their fees for the first half of 2016. \nThe main points of the amendments are as follows:\n1) For coal-fired power stations that use the seawater flue gas desulfurization process in their air pollution control facilities, the sulfur oxides in the effluent discharged into the ocean will be subject to water pollution control fee collection. The fee rate calculation method for desulfurized effluent, fee reductions, volume calculation methods, fee rates, and information\/documents to be submitted to the central competent authority have been added.\n2) Enterprises that have water pollution control permits only for trivalent chromium or hexavalent chromium should submit their fees according to the total chromium. \n3) Enterprises that use ocean outfall to discharge effluent directly into the ocean will be granted preferential fee rates.\n4) Any enterprise that intentionally misreports or under-reports their water pollution control fees will not be eligible for discounted fee rates. \n5) If during the fee payment period the competent authority has two or more sets of inspection\/test numerical values, an average value must be calculated for comparisons and calculating fees. Also, for substances harmful to health, the percentage difference between submitted test values and the competent authority’s inspection values allowed have been adjusted to reduce the chances of disputes. \n6) Enterprises that do not have water pollution control permits must submit sufficient accompanying evidence when submitting data on discharged effluent volumes. Enterprises that calculate fees according to the daily permitted volume on their water pollution control permits may calculate and submit effluent volumes according to the exact number of days that wastewater was discharged during the period for which payment is due. \n7) The reporting and payment procedures have been simplified by removing the requirement that reports and payment invoices must be submitted online. \n8) The water pollution fee calculation methods for enterprises that operate both land and marine wastewater discharge systems have been clarified. \n9) Enterprises and operators of sewer systems that are unable to submit the required information within the stated deadline will be allowed to apply for extensions. \n10) The central competent authority is authorized to determine the fees due for enterprises that did not pay the water pollution control fees as the regulations stipulate. \n11) Water pollution control fees will be waived for waste bathing water from hotels, etc. where the wastewater has been kept separate from other effluent and filtered. The fees will also be waived for wastewater from new enterprises during their initial trial operation approved by the competent authority.\n12) For enterprises that use unscrupulous means to avoid paying their water pollution control fees, the central competent authority will be entitled to recalculate the fees and collect the previously unpaid amount.\nInformation on regulations governing the collection of water pollution control fees – including collection methods and the latest updates – can be found on the online reporting and queries system on the EPA’s Water Pollution Control Fees Website: http:\/\/wpcf.epa.gov.tw\/.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Regulations Governing the Collection of Water Pollution Control Fees Amended", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-07" }, { "no": "3448", "title": "First Year Implementation of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act", "preview": "Climate Change First Year Implementation of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act", "content": "First Year Implementation of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act \nTaiwan’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act, promulgated on 1 July 2015, has now been in effect for one year. During this time, the EPA formulated sets of subsidiary regulations to bring about greenhouse gas reduction and improved management. The EPA will continue to ensure that Taiwan comply with the Paris Agreement and the international efforts to slow global warming by pushing forward the implementation of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act. \nIn response to climate change, the Taiwan government has pledged to the international community that it will fulfill its share of responsibility to protect the planet by lowering Taiwan’s greenhouse gas emissions. Locally, the government has created interministerial mechanisms and designed reduction models and tools that will foster greater cooperation on greenhouse gas reduction efforts, and give greenhouse gas reduction efforts a solid foundation in law. From 2006 onwards, the government formulated a number of drafts of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act, and after years of debate in the Legislative Yuan, the bill was finally passed as the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act on 15 June 2015. The Act came into effect on 1 July 2015. \n\nSubsidiary Regulations Announced\n1) On 25 December 2015, the EPA announced the Regulations Governing Incentives for Landfill Sites to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions, while on 30 December 2015, the Regulations Governing Incentives for Landfill Sites to Use Methane for Electricity Generation were annulled.\n2) On 31 December 2015, the Regulations Governing Greenhouse Gases Offset Program Management were announced. \n3) On 5 January 2016, the EPA announced the Management Regulations Governing Greenhouse Gas Emission Inventories and Registration, and at the same time annulled the Management Regulations Governing the Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions. \n4) On 6 January 2016, the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Enforcement Rules were announced. \n5) On 7 January 2016, the Greenhouse Gas Accreditation Organizations and Verification Organizations Management Regulations and the Regulations Governing Greenhouse Gases Testing and Verification Organizations were simultaneously annulled. \n6) On 7 January 2016, the First Batch of Emission Sources Required to Report Greenhouse Gas Emission Inventory and Registration was announced, and the Public and Private Premises Required to Report Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Stationary Pollution Sources was concurrently annulled. \n7) On 30 January 2016, the Greenhouse Gas Management Fund Revenues and Expenditures, Safekeeping, and Utilization Regulations were announced. In addition, the EPA is putting together a Greenhouse Gas Management Fund Management Committee to watch over the revenue\/expenditure, safekeeping and utilization, annual budget, and fund utilization evaluation.\n8) On 28 January 2016, the EPA formulated the Establishment Rules for the Greenhouse Gas Phased Control Targets Advisory Committee in preparation for the formation of a committee to advise on the formulation, and any later amendments, of the Working Standards for Greenhouse Gas Phased Control Targets and Control Measures. \n\nLong-Term and Phased Reduction Targets\nThe Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act is the cornerstone of Taiwan’s legal infrastructure for climate change response. The Act clearly sets out a long-term greenhouse gas reduction target of a 50% reduction from 2005 levels by the year 2050. A mechanism is also included in the Act so that the reduction targets can be adjusted according to future decisions of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), other international conventions as well as changes in the situation in Taiwan. In addition, the Act also includes five-year phased control targets – accompanied by economic incentives – to gradually establish the cap-and-trade system aimed at enhancing both climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts. \n\nActions to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions\n1. Compiling and Assessing the Interministerial Action Programs\nThe EPA has compiled and analyzed the planned tasks that each ministry will undertake as part of the 2016 National Green Energy Low-carbon Action Plans, and has asked related ministries to re-verify their work plans and the estimated achievements. The EPA has also published the 2015 National Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report in accordance with the guidelines laid out by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in 2006. \n2. Promoting the Greenhouse Gas Emission Reporting System\nSince 1 January 2012, the EPA has been, in batches, requesting major enterprises to submit annual emission reports. As of the end of 2015, the EPA had added 269 firms to the list, and the reporting rate has been 100%. These enterprises account for approximately 80% of CO2 emissions from industry and fossil-fuel energy generation in Taiwan, thus they provide very useful emissions data. \n3. Promoting the Greenhouse Gas Emission Accreditation and Verification Organization Management System\nSince 17 February 2014, the EPA has evaluated and approved eight verification organizations to conduct a total of 63 types of verifications. Since 2009, the EPA has also been providing greenhouse gas auditing training and conducting onsite auditing work done by accreditation and verification organizations, so as to improve the capabilities of greenhouse gas inspectors and safeguard the quality of verifications.\n4. Establishing the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Accreditation System\nSince the end of February 2016, the EPA has received the applications of 200 early action programs, 39 offset registration programs, one carbon credit certification, and 30 new reduction methods. Of these, the EPA has approved 174 early response programs, 10 offset program registrations, one carbon credit certification, and 16 new reduction methods. Through such accreditations, the EPA is establishing a sound foundation for the introduction of carbon trading in the future. \n5. Promoting Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)\nThe EPA has been strengthening the operation of CCS strategic alliances, and has set up a CCS communication platform. Five strategic alliance conferences have been held, as have two international symposiums to enhance international cooperation and exchanges. The EPA has also produced a short film featuring experts who attended the symposiums summing up their ideas on carbon reduction. \n\nTaiwan’s Future Greenhouse Gas Reduction Strategies to Match International Practices\nSince the promulgation of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act, one of the main tasks of the central competent authority has been to keep track of the major emission sources through registration and verification. The EPA has also promoted various incentives and subsidies offered by government departments in order to encourage large enterprises to voluntarily reduce emissions. The EPA has also been working with related ministries to formulate energy efficiency standards for emission sources and incentives for voluntary reductions in order to encourage enterprises to take early actions. With the twin aims of complying with international climate change agreements and maintaining the competitiveness of Taiwan’s industries, the EPA has been conducting research into the timetable for establishing the cap-and-trade system. The EPA has also been announcing, in phases, the pollution sources to be controlled and has been formulating phased emission control targets. It is hoped that the reduction targets will be met through flexible tools such as emissions trading and offset.\nTo mitigate global warming and climate change along with the international community, the EPA will aim to implement the Paris Agreement through formulating and enforcing greenhouse gas reduction regulations. The EPA has already created the National Climate Change Response Framework, the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Promotion Program, and the Sector Greenhouse Gas Emission Control Action Programs. A number of other Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act subsidiary regulations and accompanying measures have also been formulated in preparation for the rolling out of the cap-and-trade system.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "climate change", "titlename": "First Year Implementation of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-07" }, { "no": "3447", "title": "Second Batch of Premises Subject to Indoor Air Quality Act Preannounced", "preview": "Air\nSecond Batch of Premises Subject to Indoor Air Quality Act Preannounced", "content": "Second Batch of Premises Subject to Indoor Air Quality Act Preannounced\nEmpowered by Article 6 of the Indoor Air Quality Act, and after comprehensive consideration of crowd capacity, entry and exit capacity, risks posed by indoor air pollutants and other special needs of private and public premises, the central competent authority announced batch by batch the premises that should comply with the Indoor Air Quality Act. The first batch of such premises was announced by the EPA on 23 January 2014 and went into effect starting from 1 July 2014 in accordance with legislative authorization. The second batch of the premises that should comply with the Indoor Air Quality Act was preannounced on 10 May 2016 for public comments.\nThe second batch of premises listed in the draft includes: colleges and universities, libraries, museums and art museums, medical institutions, social welfare institutions, government institution offices, railway and transportation stations, civilian airports, mass transit system terminals, business operation sites for financial institutions, performance halls, exhibition rooms and conference halls, cinemas, KTV\/MTV premises and shopping malls. Altogether about 500 premises in 15 categories are listed.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Second Batch of Premises Subject to Indoor Air Quality Act Preannounced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-06" }, { "no": "3446", "title": "Bottom Sediment Assessment Review and Pollution Improvement Plan Approval Rules Announced", "preview": "Soil and Groundwater\nBottom Sediment Assessment Review and Pollution Improvement Plan Approval Rules Announced\n\nSecond Batch of Premises Subject to Indoor Air Quality Act Preannounced", "content": "Bottom Sediment Assessment Review and Pollution Improvement Plan Approval Rules Announced\nIn 19 May 2016, the EPA announced the Rules for Bottom Sediment Assessment Review and Pollution Improvement Plan Approval comprising eight articles. In accordance with the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act, the central competent authority should review the environmental impact, health risks, available technology and economic benefits assessed by the manager of the surface water body. If the assessment results find remediation efforts necessary and feasible, the surface water body management personnel should then propose a pollution improvement plan, which would be implemented upon approval by the central competent authority. In the announced rules, stipulations are made regarding the procedures for the review of assessment results and evaluation of pollution improvement plans, as well as the operation period and the correction period thereof. Once approved, all the information will be made public.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil and Groundwater", "titlename": "Bottom Sediment Assessment Review and Pollution Improvement Plan Approval Rules Announced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-06" }, { "no": "3445", "title": "Training and Management Regulations for Dedicated Environmental Personnel and Technicians Announced", "preview": "General Policy\nTraining and Management Regulations for Dedicated Environmental Personnel and Technicians Announced\n\nBottom Sediment Assessment Review and Pollution Improvement Plan Approval Rules Announced", "content": "Training and Management Regulations for Dedicated Environmental Personnel and Technicians Announced\nTo integrate and make the relevant regulations for the training of environmental protection personnel and professional technicians consistent, the EPA coordinated with the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Council of Agriculture, the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Ministry of Science and Technology to jointly announce the Training and Management Regulations for Dedicated Environmental Protection Personnel and Professional Technicians. The new regulations contain 30 articles. Common matters pertaining to training, qualification, as well as issuance, revocation and cancellation of certificates have been converged. \nPrior to the joint announcement, there were five different sets of establishment and management regulations pertaining to dedicated environment protection units or personnel, dedicated indoor air quality management personnel, waste clearance and disposal professional technicians, environmental agents, professional technicians, and soil contamination assessment and survey specialists. As these five sets of regulations were formulated at different times and under different backgrounds, and many common matters, such as the training methods and the issuing or cancellation of certificates also vary. Through interministerial coordination, the newly announced regulations reconcile the differences in the previous ones and revise or add part of their contents in accordance with practical needs. In addition to clarifying legal terms, the new regulations concern trainee requirements, time for review of qualifications, revocation of certificates, uniformity of the time span for the re-application of certificates, and orientation trainings. From now on, the training of dedicated environmental protection personnel and professional technicians shall be simplified and more unified.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Training and Management Regulations for Dedicated Environmental Personnel and Technicians Announced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-06" }, { "no": "3444", "title": "Amendments to Ceramic Industry Air Pollutant Emission Standards Preannounced", "preview": "Air\nAmendments to Ceramic Industry Air Pollutant Emission Standards Preannounced\n\nTraining and Management Regulations for Dedicated Environmental Personnel and Technicians Announced", "content": "Amendments to Ceramic Industry Air Pollutant Emission Standards Preannounced\nThe EPA formulated and promulgated the Particulate Pollutant Emission Standards for Spray Dryers in the Ceramic Industry in 1993. The standards have remained largely unchanged since then, with the exception of amendments made in 1999 to have emission standards conform to the Air Pollution Control Act. The EPA reviewed and revised the standards in view of the fact that in recent years the technology for waste gas treatment in the ceramics industry has greatly improved in other countries, and that over 70% of particulate pollutants from the ceramics industry consist of PM2.5 pollution, which can be easily inhaled and pose health risks. After taking into account international control standards, the current state of emissions in Taiwan, feasible technologies and cost-benefit analyses, the EPA preannounced the draft amendments to the Ceramic Industry Air Pollutant Emission Standards on 24 May 2016. The amendments aim at reducing the emission of fine particulate matters and fluorine compounds. \nAs per the EPA, the main points of the amendments include:\n(1) In accordance with the characteristics of ceramics manufacturing processes, drying equipment and the firing kilns are also included in the scope of control, in addition to the original spray dryers; \n(2) The threshold for production scale is established to exclude industries whose annual production design or actual production is less than 100 tons. In this way, small personal studios are not subject to the revised standards. \n(3) Particulate pollutant emission standards are tightened. The emission limit for new sources of pollution are tightened from 100 mg\/Nm3 to 30 mg\/Nm3, whereas the limit for existing pollution sources are tightened to 50 mg\/Nm3. \n(4) The emission standards for fluorides are to be set at 5 mg\/Nm3.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Amendments to Ceramic Industry Air Pollutant Emission Standards Preannounced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-06" }, { "no": "3443", "title": "Phase 1 Existing Chemical Substances Registration Completed", "preview": "Toxic Substance\nPhase 1 Existing Chemical Substances Registration Completed", "content": "Phase 1 Existing Chemical Substances Registration Completed\nFrom 1 September 2015 to 31 March 2016, the EPA conducted Phase 1 registration of existing chemical substances as required by the Regulations Governing New and Existing Chemical Substances Registration. Every enterprise that has on average over the past three years imported or manufactured over 100 kg of existing chemical substances annually has had to submit reports within the stated deadline. Over 25,000 types of existing chemical substances are now registered with the EPA. \nThe registration of existing chemical substances is crucial for building up a complete database on these chemicals. The register will be used as a reference for evaluating which substances will be announced by the end of 2017 as part of the first batch of chemicals that should be registered through standard registration, and also for the later work of determining toxic chemical substances that need to be controlled. \nThe EPA launched the chemical substance registration system on 11 December 2014. A common registration platform was co-established by the EPA and the Ministry of Labor (MOL). On 8 September 2015 the MOL announced a list of 101,089 existing chemical substances. In accordance with legal requirements, the EPA asked all enterprises that imported or manufactured over 100 kg of existing chemical substances annually to abide by Phase 1 chemical substance registration from 1 September 2015 to 31 March 2016. During this period the EPA received over 10,000 submissions and checked more than 156,000 separate items of information. Analysis showed that over 25,000 substances were registered, of which the top use was for purposes at industrial sites (37.27%), followed by usage for formulation (32.48%). \nThe EPA is evaluating which substances will be announced by the end of 2017 to be the first batch of chemicals that should be registered through standard registration. Details of these chemicals need to be submitted according to volumes and tonnages stated in the regulations. The information to be submitted includes hazard category and labeling, physical and chemical properties, and safety information. Those chemicals that are evaluated to be toxic will be announced as toxic chemical substances and subject to be controlled.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Phase 1 Existing Chemical Substances Registration Completed", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-06" }, { "no": "3442", "title": "Two EIA Operating Rules Amended to Encourage Public Participation", "preview": "EIA\nTwo EIA Operating Rules Amended to Encourage Public Participation", "content": "Two EIA Operating Rules Amended to Encourage Public Participation\nTo implement the requirements of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act, the EPA has announced amendments to the Operating Rules for Environmental Impact Assessment Public Hearings and the Operating Rules for Environmental Impact Assessment Public Explanatory Meetings. The protocols cover procedures for the industry competent authority and developers to follow when holding public hearings and explanatory meetings; the amendments are designed to bring more clarity to the procedures and make them more consistent with existing regulations regarding information disclosure and public participation.\nOn 12 May 2016, the EPA announced amendments to two sets of environmental assessment operating rules. One of them is the Operating Rules for Environmental Impact Assessment Public Hearings, as required by Article 12 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act, and also in response to amendments announced on 3 July 2015 to Articles 20 and 26 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act Enforcement Rules. The other is the Operating Rules for Environmental Impact Assessment Public Explanatory Meetings, as required by Article 7 Paragraph 3 and Article 8 Paragraph 2 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act and also in response to amendments announced on 3 July 2015 to Articles 20 and 22 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act Enforcement Rules. \nThe amendments to the two sets of operating rules cover who is to be informed about the public hearings and explanatory meetings, what locations can be considered suitable, and how the meetings should be convened.\nThe main points of the amendments are as follows:\n1. Who is to be informed about public hearing\/explanatory meetings and what locations can be considered suitable have been clarified: The amendments clearly stipulate the government agencies, experts, scholars, and civic groups that should be invited. Further explanation of suitable locations for meetings, as approved by the competent authority, has been added.\n2. To safeguard full public participation, all public hearings must allow written suggestions to be submitted by stakeholders who are unable to attend in person. Such suggestions should be replied to by the industry competent authority or developer and recorded in the minutes of the meeting. \n3. The role of the chairperson of the public hearing\/explanatory meeting has been clarified. \n4. “Conclusions” has been added as a necessary session of the agenda for a public hearing\/explanatory meeting. \n5. Methods of dealing with raised objections and the minutes of the public hearing\/explanatory meeting have been added: The comments given by participants and any suggestions concerning the minutes of the meeting must be replied to by the industry competent authority or developer. The restriction stating that a participant or industry competent authority has to give comments within a set period of time has been removed so as not to restrict the public’s freedom of expression.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "EIA", "titlename": "Two EIA Operating Rules Amended to Encourage Public Participation", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-06" }, { "no": "3441", "title": "Science Park Factories Implement EIA Decisions by Recycling Wastewater", "preview": "Environmental Inspection\nScience Park Factories Implement EIA Decisions by Recycling Wastewater", "content": "Science Park Factories Implement EIA Decisions by Recycling Wastewater\nThe EPA is constantly supervising and auditing large factories in science parks to ensure that they are living up to their environmental assessment pledges, such as recycling wastewater. From April 2015 to the present, there have been noticeable improvements. EPA statistics show that the amount of wastewater recycled by large factories in science parks has reached 429,780,187 tonnes annually, a volume large enough to supply the whole country with 2 months of household water. The EPA will continue to refine its auditing and inspection techniques to ensure that all enterprises fulfill each of their environmental assessment pledges. Needless to say, violators will be penalized according to the law. \nThe results from the 65 enterprises in the three science parks show that all of them are keeping to the pledges laid out in their environmental assessment pledges. The minimum total amount of wastewater pledged to be recycled is 395,954,285 tonnes annually. The actual recycled volume was 429,780,187 tonnes annually, more than the EPA had expected. \nLooking at this in terms of its contribution to society, the water saved is equivalent to 171,912 Olympic-size swimming pools, enough to irrigate 2,978 hectares of rice paddies or provide water to all of Taiwan’s households for 73 days. \nThere have been frequent serious droughts in different parts of the world in recent years and Taiwan’s natural water resources are also under pressure. In addition, legal requirements for water recycling and reuse are still insufficient and the best methodology for inspecting and auditing water recycling efforts has yet to be determined. All these factors combined means that Taiwan is facing a water crisis. To overcome these three major issues, the EPA is seeking out the best administrative tools, of which environmental impact assessment (EIA) is one. Knowing that each case is different, the EPA is asking enterprises to recycle a certain percentage of wastewater to promote effluent reduction at source as well as water conservation. The EPA also established an auditing program that was administered throughout 2015 in all science parks to determine wastewater recycling rates. Revolutionary EIA decision enforcement methods also helped improve the management of water resources. \nTo find out how developers comply with their EIA pledges on wastewater recycling, the EPA has developed its own auditing and inspection methods. Before planning the auditing regimen the EPA invited experts in related fields to teach courses and give specialist training on water recycling and reuse to EPA inspectors. Meetings between the experts and government agencies were also held to research and discuss the content of a handy reference manual for use in the field. The compiled manual includes information on inspection site selecting, parameters, and calculation and inspection methods.\nConstant supervision and auditing of large factories will thus allow for more of Taiwan’s precious water to remain in reservoirs and be allocated effectively, leaving more for agricultural and household use.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Inspection", "titlename": "Science Park Factories Implement EIA Decisions by Recycling Wastewater", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-06" }, { "no": "3440", "title": "Water Quality Standards for Groundwater Injection Amended", "preview": "Water\nWater Quality Standards for Groundwater Injection Amended", "content": "Water Quality Standards for Groundwater Injection Amended\nOn 12 May 2016, the EPA announced the amendments to the Water Quality Standards for Injection Treated Wastewater into Groundwater Bodies as a part of overall controls on substances harmful to human health. The amendments were made in accordance with Article 36 of the Water Pollution Control Act regarding criminal penalties for violators. The amendments also added substances that are harmful to health to be controlled to prevent unscrupulous operators from injecting wastewater that contains harmful substances in concentrations exceeding water quality standards for water injected into a groundwater body. \nThe Water Pollution Control Act was amended on 4 February 2015. Article 32 Paragraph 1 states that wastewater or sewage may not be injected into a groundwater body or discharged into soil. Article 36 also states that any person held responsible for injecting wastewater that contains harmful substances in concentrations exceeding any limits covered in the Water Pollution Control Act into groundwater shall face punishment up to a maximum of three years imprisonment. To make enterprises that illegally inject wastewater subject to criminal penalties, the regulations have been amended and retitled as Water Quality Standards for Groundwater Body Injection and Types and Limits of Harmful Substances.\nThe main points of the amendments are as follows:\n1. Details of controls on 21 harmful substances and their maximum limits have been added in order to strengthen the requirement under Article 32 of the Water Pollution Control Act that wastewater must be treated to designated standards in accordance with the environmental risk assessment results and does not contain harmful substances. The newly added items and their limits are shown in the table below. 2. As a general risk management principle the following substances should not be present in wastewater:\n‧Group 1, Group 2A and 2B carcinogenic substances as listed by the International Agency for Research on Cancer\n‧Group 1 carcinogenic, mutagenic and toxic for reproduction substances as stated in the Ministry of Labor’s list of priority control substances\nThe amendments are designed to prevent illegal behavior and heavily penalize unscrupulous operators that inject wastewater into a groundwater body. Anyone caught polluting soil or groundwater may be prosecuted and could be sentenced up to five years in prison.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Water Quality Standards for Groundwater Injection Amended", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-06" }, { "no": "3439", "title": "Amendments to Marine Dumping Fees Collection Regulations Announced", "preview": "Water\nAmendments to Marine Dumping Fees Collection Regulations Announced", "content": "Amendments to Marine Dumping Fees Collection Regulations Announced\nTo help maintain oceanic environments by upholding the polluter pays principle, on 19 May 2016 the EPA announced amendments to the Marine Dumping Fees Collection Regulations. Made after examining current international practices, the amendments clearly delineate fee-paying obligations for dumpers of waste at sea.\nIn order to maintain safe passage in Taiwan’s ports, port areas and the routes in and out of them must be regularly dredged. The silt and mud removed by dredging, however, is dumped out at sea. The EPA firmly believes that polluters should pay for using the ocean as a final disposal site, and has thus developed regulations to require the collection of fees for marine dumping. The EPA hopes that this economic incentive will encourage operators to look for other means of waste disposal that have a lower impact on the environment. \nTo ensure the feasibility of collecting fees and to adhere to rules on simplifying government administration and making life easier for the public, the EPA has amended the Marine Dumping Fees Collection Regulations in accordance with Article 12 Paragraph 1 of the Marine Pollution Control Act.\nThe amendments involve: definitions of terms in the fee rates and volumes of dumped materials (Article 2); fee calculation methods (Article 4); fee rates for every type of dumped substance (Article 6); and fee payment methods and auditing by the competent authority (Article 7). The date for fee collection to begin has been set as 1 July 2016 (Article 8).\nAll the marine dumping fees collected will in the future be automatically paid into the Water Pollution Control Fund, a special fund administered by the central competent authority. Money from this fund will be used for the control, monitoring and treatment of marine pollution, and other marine environmental protection related research and training.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Amendments to Marine Dumping Fees Collection Regulations Announced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-06" }, { "no": "3438", "title": "EPA Allocates NT$4 Billion for Local Government Air Quality Measures", "preview": "Air\nEPA Allocates NT$4 Billion for Local Government Air Quality Measures", "content": "EPA Allocates NT$4 Billion for Local Government Air Quality Measures \nThe public is becoming increasingly concerned about the problem of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the air. EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee has stated that all air quality control work should take public health as its starting point. With this in mind, the EPA will allocate NT$4 billion over the next two years toward assisting local governments bring about large improvements in air quality. Specifically, the EPA is aiming for a 20% reduction over the next two years in the number of red alert days (PM2.5 concentrations of over 54 μg\/m?) recorded by air quality monitoring stations in every city and county, and a 50% reduction within four years. \nAddressing public concerns over PM2.5 pollution, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee has stated that all work being done on air quality control should take public health as its starting point. The EPA is now working hard to make this happen. The time period for implementing the already-approved Clean Air Action Plan will be shortened from six years to four years. In addition, targets for air quality improvement will be established. Cooperation between central and local governments will be strengthened and the necessary amount of money will be allocated to ensure that the air quality targets are achieved. \nMinister Lee has set two targets for air quality improvement:\n1. Reducing the number of air quality red alert days\nOver the next two years the number of red alert days (PM2.5 > 54 μg\/m?) recorded by air quality monitoring stations in every city and county must be reduced by 20% – and by 50% within four years – to significantly reduce the chances of residents being exposed to the dangers of PM2.5. Performance in meeting these targets will be a major factor in the evaluation of air quality improvement achievements, particularly in areas that have not reached air quality standards, and for deciding the amount of subsidies local governments are eligible for.\n2. Increasing the allocation of funds to strengthen cooperation between central and local governments\nThe EPA is encouraging local governments to get involved in the work of improving air quality by putting forward air pollutant emission reduction plans that are tailored to meet local needs and conditions. If the plans are approved after evaluation then the EPA will subsidize two-thirds of the cost of implementation, and the subsidy can also be adjusted according to changing demands. The EPA will spend NT$4 billion over the next two years to assist local governments with improving air quality.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "EPA Allocates NT$4 Billion for Local Government Air Quality Measures", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-06" }, { "no": "3437", "title": "EPA Marks World Environment Day with Call for more Protection of Environment and Wildlife", "preview": "Environmental Education\nEPA Marks World Environment Day with Call for more Protection of Environment and Wildlife", "content": "EPA Marks World Environment Day with Call for more Protection of Environment and Wildlife \nThe 5th of June is World Environment Day, the biggest day of the year in terms of global environmental events. Taiwan is a responsible member of the global community, and so on 5 June the EPA and the Taoyuan City Government, with assistance from the Council of Agriculture and the Water Resources Agency of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), jointly held a 2016 World Environment Day Event at Shimen Reservoir. EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee, Taoyuan City Mayor Wen-Tsan Chang, Director General Tao-Sheng Lee, of the Council of Agriculture’s Forestry Bureau, and Director General Ruey-Der Wang of the Water Resources Agency, declared their commitment to environmental protection and urged the public to do the same. They also called for more attention to environmental and ecosystem protection, as well as increased awareness and action to protect wildlife.\nThe theme of this year’s World Environment Day was “The Fight Against Illegal Trade in Wildlife.” However, the illegal trade of wild animals and plants in Taiwan is quite rare. A bigger problem is the disruption to, or destruction of, ecologies and food chains in Taiwan. Due to economic activity, the natural ecosystem and food chains have been changed or damaged. The EPA thus chose the theme of “Protect Ecosystems and Wildlife” for the event, which was jointly held with the Taoyuan City Government and with assistance from the Council of Agriculture and the MOEA’s Water Resources Agency. The EPA hopes that bringing in other ministries and local governments will spread the message more effectively and help to build a safe and prosperous low-carbon, sustainable future for Taiwan. \nWorld Environment Day is also the anniversary of the promulgation of Taiwan’s Environmental Education Act. As a result of the implementation of this Act, Taiwan currently has 134 accredited environmental education premises that provide a wide variety of environmental learning opportunities to the general public. One such EPA-certified location is Shimen Reservoir, which is why the EPA and Taoyuan City Government chose it as the site for kicking off a series of events under the title Fun Summer – Taoyuan Environmental Education Season. These events will be held at ten locations in Taoyuan, and will offer a wide variety of hands-on experiences and special deals to encourage the public to go outdoors and get a feel for the natural environment. In addition to the hands-on activities, classes will also be available that will disseminate knowledge and skills for protecting the environment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "EPA Marks World Environment Day with Call for more Protection of Environment and Wildlife", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-06" }, { "no": "3436", "title": "EPA Co-convenes Global Environmental Education Partnership Executive Committee Meeting in UK", "preview": "Environmental Education\nEPA Co-convenes Global Environmental Education Partnership Executive Committee Meeting in UK", "content": "EPA Co-convenes Global Environmental Education Partnership Executive Committee Meeting in UK\nIn recent years the Taiwan and the US EPAs have been jointly promoting the Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP), and this year’s GEEP executive committee meeting was held from May 30-31 in Bristol, UK. The meeting was attended by 16 environmental education experts – from both governments and NGOs – representing 10 nations. They convened to discuss how to administer GEEP and models for cooperative exchanges between participants. The delegates hope to build a network of environmental education exchanges that will help to stimulate the development of environmental education worldwide. The UK partnership plan that is a part of GEEP was also formally unveiled at a ceremony held on 31 May in Bristol. Director of the Taipei Representative Office in the UK, Envoy Shyang-Yun Cheng, and the Director of the EPA's Department of Comprehensive Planning, Tsung Yung Liu, gave speeches at the ceremony.\nThe Global Environmental Education Partnership Executive Committee Meeting was held from 30-31 May 2016 in Bristol, UK. The 16 government officials and NGO experts came from 10 nations: Taiwan, Australia, Botswana, Japan, Kenya, Netherlands, New Zealand, the United Arab Emirates, the UK, and the USA. One of the experts was an official from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), nine were from various NGOs, and the other six were government officials. The experts came together to discuss how to administer GEEP and models for cooperative exchanges between participants, and are striving to build a network of environmental education exchanges that will help to stimulate the development of environmental education worldwide.\nThe UK partnership plan that is a part of GEEP was also formally initiated at a ceremony held on 31 May in Bristol. Envoy Cheng remarked on the significance of the initiation ceremony being held in the UK, which has always been keen on protecting the environment and has been home to many of the world’s renowned environmentalists, including Prince Charles, Prime Minister David Cameron, and Charles Darwin, the author of “the Origin of Species.” \nAs Director Tsung Yung Liu pointed out in his speech, the launch of the UK partnership and the holding of the Global Environmental Education Partnership Executive Committee Meeting demonstrated the close cooperative relationship among Taiwan, the US and other partner nations. Director Liu also expressed the common hope that environmental education concepts will spread to other nations around the world, and went on to describe Taiwan’s experiences and achievements in promoting environmental education. US EPA environmental education expert Ginger Potter praised Taiwan’s successes in environmental protection and education. Judy Braus, executive director of the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE) adopted a dynamic approach to explain how environmental education goes beyond national boundaries, and expressed the hope that having the UK partnership on board would help stimulate and amalgamate environmental education capacity worldwide, move environmental education up the agenda in all nations, and raise environmental consciousness among people everywhere.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "EPA Co-convenes Global Environmental Education Partnership Executive Committee Meeting in UK", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-06" }, { "no": "3435", "title": "Minister Lee’s Vision of Taiwan’s Environmental Work", "preview": "General Policy\nMinister Lee’s Vision of Taiwan’s Environmental Work", "content": "Minister Lee’s Vision of Taiwan’s Environmental Work \nOn 25 May 2016, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee held a press conference where he stressed that environmental work should take public health as guiding principle. Attention will focus on prevention and alert mechanisms to build a sustainable, beautiful and healthy Taiwan. Minister Lee outlined ten main areas for future work and spoke on principles the EPA will follow to deal with environmental issues of the greatest public concern, namely fine particulate matters (PM2.5) pollution, environmental law enforcement and international cooperation. \nPresident Tsai: Safeguard the Environment and Move toward a Circular Economy\nOn 25 May, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee held a press conference at which he explained his perspective for EPA policies and priorities. At the press conference Minister Lee pointed out that President Tsai Ing-wen placed much emphasis on environmental protection during her inauguration speech. President Tsai called for tighter controls on pollution of every type, and to turn waste into renewable resources and take Taiwan into an era of a circular economy. She also called upon the public to pay serious attention to climate change. The EPA will do its utmost to put President Tsai’s environmental policies into action. \nMinister Lee: Ten Main Areas to Improve Sustainability with Prevention a Priority\nIn line with President Tsai’s environmental policies, Minister Lee emphasized that safeguarding public health will be the guiding light for environmental work, placing a focus on prevention and alert mechanisms to build a sustainable, beautiful and healthy Taiwan. Minister Lee outlined ten main areas that the EPA will focus on:\n1. Creating circular manufacturing and lifestyles based on better integration of energy and resources by recycling and reuse to build a zero waste, low energy consumption, and environmentally friendly society.\n2. Implementing waste reduction at source and strengthening the management and tracking of waste clearance and disposal systems: This will be done by strengthening cooperation with law enforcement agencies and heavy penalties on illegal dumping. Management of waste cooking oils and expired food products will also be enhanced, such as by advising food enterprises on how to legally reuse food waste. The EPA will make every effort to prevent such waste or expired products from being consumed. \n3. Encouraging and supervising regional cooperation between local governments to deal with household waste disposal problems: To make the general waste disposal resources able to be used more efficiently, the EPA is considering amending current regulations to give the central competent authority the power to allocate waste disposal equipment and facilities such as incinerators to local competent authorities or agencies as required.\n4. Promoting a cap mechanism for air pollutant emissions to improve air quality: The EPA will continue to work closely with the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications, and the Council of Agriculture to find ways to effectively reduce fine particulate matter pollution. Specific measures will include requiring power plants and factories to switch to cleaner fuels for their furnaces, getting particulate filters fitted onto trucks, and stopping farmers from open-air burning of agricultural waste.\n5. Enhancing industrial wastewater management and reuse: The EPA will continue to promote the collection of water pollution control fees and assist livestock enterprises in turning animal wastes into an energy source. In addition, the clean-up and restoration operation following the T.S. Taipei container ship oil spill will be accelerated, and compensation will be sought from the owners.\n6. Enhancing toxic substances management: The remediation of contaminated sites will be sped up; the management of toxic chemicals and environmental agents will be tightened to gain a clearer picture of how they are used and disposed of. The tidiness of residential areas will also be further improved to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds and prevent outbreaks of dengue fever. \n7. Implementing the Paris Agreement: The EPA will intensify its efforts to formulate related regulations on greenhouse gas reductions to comply with the Paris Agreement. The EPA will also raise the visibilities of product carbon labelling and the Green Mark to promote green procurement and consumption. \n8. Improving environmental impact assessment (EIA) mechanisms: The EPA will request developers to consider EIA factors and communicate with stakeholders during the investment evaluation stage rather than afterwards. The EPA will be requesting developers and the industry competent authority to fulfill their obligations conscientiously so as to improve the effectiveness of EIA reviews.\n9. Enhancing environmental education and international cooperation: The EPA will enhance environmental education and establish more channels and mechanisms for public participation to facilitate the efforts of civil society to protect the environment. In addition, the EPA will put more effort into international cooperation and share with other nations Taiwan’s environmental technologies and experiences, as part of Taiwan’s responsibility as a member of the global village.\n10. Preparing for the establishment of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources: The EPA will continue to strive toward the establishment of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources that will bring together environmental protection, natural resources conservation and ecosystem preservation tasks under one roof and enhance the efficiency of environmental work. \nResponses to Issues of Public Concern \nMinister Lee made statements on the environmental issues of greatest public concern:\n1. Lowering PM2.5 to protect public health \nThe public is very concerned about PM2.5 air pollutants and Minister Lee indicated that having clean air for people to breathe would be the most urgent issue. Since the PM2.5 problem is particularly evident in central Taiwan, partly due to large amounts of coal burned by thermal power plants, the EPA will continue to work with the Ministry of Economic Affairs to reduce electricity generation from coal and to effect a transition to using cleaner natural gas. The EPA estimates that one coal-fired generator will be replaced every 2 years, with priority being given to the Taichung area to reduce sulfur and soot emissions. Minister Lee also called upon experts to assist in developing low-sulfur, high-energy coal so that PM2.5 concentrations can drop to 15 μg\/m? or less compared to the 22 μg\/m? at present. \n2. Creating a strong triangle for environmental protection composed of environmental groups, judicial agencies, and government agencies\nTaiwan has a fair number of environmental groups that contribute much to, and are often at the forefront of, environmental protection efforts. The EPA will work to strengthen cooperation among environmental groups, judicial agencies, and government departments to create a strong triangle of environmental protection, and so that complaints or reports filed by environmental groups lead to quicker action. \n3. Work with other nations to protect the global environment together\nAs Minister Lee pointed out, many environmental problems – such as the smuggling of electronic waste and long-range transboundary air pollution – need international cooperation to be solved. The EPA will continue looking for opportunities to cooperate with other nations on protecting the global environment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Minister Lee’s Vision of Taiwan’s Environmental Work", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-05" }, { "no": "3434", "title": "Maximum NT$300,000 Fine for Selling Environmental Agents Online without Permit", "preview": "Environmental sanitation\nMaximum NT$300,000 Fine for Selling Environmental Agents Online without Permit", "content": "Maximum NT$300,000 Fine for Selling Environmental Agents Online without Permit\nWith the popularity of the internet growing, more people are going online to purchase environmental agents. In view of this increasing phenomenon, the EPA has done work with local environmental protection bureaus to enhance the inspection of illegal online advertisements and the selling of environmental agents. In 2015, a total of 8,126 cases of online advertisements of environmental agents were found, of which 13 turned out to be illegal. The competent authorities have, in accordance with the Environmental Agents Control Act, fined the illegal advertisers and instructed them to recall their products within a given period of time. The EPA reminds the general public that they are not allowed to place ads on the internet to sell any environmental agent for which a permit has not been issued. The maximum fine for offenders is NT$300,000.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental sanitation", "titlename": "Maximum NT$300,000 Fine for Selling Environmental Agents Online without Permit", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-05" }, { "no": "3433", "title": "National Environmental Education Awards Open for Application", "preview": "Environmental Education\nNational Environmental Education Awards Open for Application", "content": "National Environmental Education Awards Open for Application\nThe selection process for the highest honor for domestic environmental education – the 5th National Environmental Education Awards – has been up and running since 1 May 2016. All groups or individuals who meet entry criteria may apply for the awards before 30 June. The application forms and related information can be found on the dedicated webpage on the EPA’s website (http:\/\/eeis.epa.gov.tw\/eeaward).\nThe purpose of the National Environmental Education Awards is to recognize meritorious environmental education personnel and organizations as well as to increase the influence of environmental education and the pursuit of sustainable development. The awards are divided into six categories: private enterprises, schools, governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, communities and individuals. Within each of the six categories there will be six winners selected for an award. For communities and non-governmental organizations, the top winners will receive a cash prize of NT$ one million in addition to a trophy; whereas for the individuals, the top winners will receive cash prizes of up to NT$100,000. For those interested, applications must be sent by 30 June 2016 to the local environmental protection bureau where the household or entity is registered.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "National Environmental Education Awards Open for Application", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-05" }, { "no": "3432", "title": "Over 99% of Environmental Agents Pass EPA Tests", "preview": "Environmental Sanitation\nOver 99% of Environmental Agents Pass EPA Tests", "content": "Over 99% of Environmental Agents Pass EPA Tests \nThe EPA has published the results of tests on environmental agents on the market in 2015: the pass rate was 99.04%. The EPA tested the active ingredients of 112 environmental agents and found that 99.11% of them contained active ingredients as labeled. The EPA also discovered 24 counterfeit environmental agents sold without permits. The EPA has ordered all of these 24 products to be removed from shelves, and vendors have been penalized according to the law. \nTo ensure that consumers buy safe, legal and effective environmental agents rather than those of dubious origin – thus safeguarding public health and reducing the environmental load – every year the EPA formulates an Environmental Agent Inspection Plan. The plan is sent to local environmental protection bureaus for implementation. The plan stipulates that the bureaus should conduct random checks of advertisements and labeling for environmental agents, test for fake or banned products, and undertake random sampling content tests. The bureaus are also advised to pay special attention to dollar stores, flower markets, traditional wet markets, pesticide retailers, grocery stores and night markets. \nThe results of the EPA inspection of environmental agents available on the market in 2015 have been published. The labeling of 29,265 individual items was examined, with 281 items failing to meet EPA requirements. The EPA also tested the active ingredients of 112 products, of which 99.11% contained active ingredients as labeled. The EPA also discovered 24 products being sold without permits. Among the 24 unregistered products, seven of them were found to contain mirex, a chemical compound banned by the EPA and listed as a persistent organic pollutant under the Stockholm Convention. The EPA has ordered that all of these unregistered products be removed from store shelves, and their vendors have been punished according to the law. \nAt present, there are 754 environmental agents that have been granted approval for sale by the EPA. These products have been rigorously tested and screened by the government, so there is no need for members of the public to buy dubious products online that often come with exaggerated claims about their efficacy. Consumers can recognize approved products by the EPA codes on the labels: Either “EPA Manufacturing No.OOOO” or “EPA Export No.OOOO”. \nThe EPA has established an environmental agent permit inquiring system (http:\/\/mdc.epa.gov.tw\/MDC\/search\/search_License.aspx) that allows consumers to check whether or not a product is legally registered by simply entering the product’s name or permit number. The website also gives information on insect repellents that contain natural ingredients, and details of vendors of registered environmental agents and pest control enterprises. The EPA also has a website (http:\/\/mdc.epa.gov.tw\/EVagents\/EVSecurity\/EVIndex.aspx) dedicated to the safe use of environmental agents, which also provides information on legally registered environmental agents and those that failed the EPA’s inspections or tests.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Sanitation", "titlename": "Over 99% of Environmental Agents Pass EPA Tests", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-05" }, { "no": "3431", "title": "Local Governments Promoting Low-carbon Sustainable Homeland Awarded", "preview": "General Policy\nLocal Governments Promoting Low-carbon Sustainable Homeland Awarded", "content": "Local Governments Promoting Low-carbon Sustainable Homeland Awarded\nOn 23 April 2016, the EPA awarded silver and bronze medals to local governments at various levels which actively promoted the low-carbon sustainable homeland program, leading to good outcomes. The awarded governments not only performed well in energy saving and carbon reduction, the residents of their jurisdictions are also turning the concept of a low-carbon sustainable homeland into actual actions. They are certainly the best models for practicing a low-carbon lifestyle. \nThe EPA believes that creating social infrastructure for a low-carbon sustainable homeland requires the participation of all residents. The concepts of energy saving and carbon reduction have to be transformed into actual actions in every area of daily life, such as food, clothing, accommodation, transportation, education, and entertainment. In July 2014, the EPA started the pilot plan for the Low-carbon Sustainable Homeland Certification and Rating that was formally rolled out on 1 January 2015. The EPA hopes that the plan will encourage local governments to sign up in the spirit of “competition with oneself.” \nTo be accepted by the EPA into the certification and grading system, participating units must implement plans that suit local needs and environments and include concepts such as landscape greening, using green energy and saving electricity, green transportation, resource recycling, low-carbon lifestyles, and sustainable business models. The EPA has adopted a layer-by-layer cumulative approach to rolling out the system, in which implementation is bottom-up while guidance is top-down. Therefore, for a local government to achieve the threshold of a given grade for the low-carbon homeland, it must have the participation of a certain number of villages and townships\/cities that have also obtained certification of the same grade.\nWith the active participation of all levels of the local governments, all government levels were involved and the achievements were very outstanding. As of 20 April 2016, a total of 2,269 units had completed surveys for their districts, organized implementation teams, formulated their low-carbon sustainability pledge, and signed up for building a low-carbon homeland. Among these, 502 units had implemented their low-carbon sustainable actions. After being reviewed by a committee composed of scholars and experts, 18 units rated as silver and 484 as bronze. On 23 April 2016 the EPA awarded silver medals to 18 participating units and bronze medals to eight city\/county governments.\nThe ceremony was held in Sanchong, District, New Taipei City, as two boroughs of the district were given a silver grade, a rare and noteworthy achievement for other communities to learn from. In addition, New Taipei City itself was also the first county\/city that received the silver certification. Chengde and Shunde were awarded for the low-carbon measures of rooftop solar panel installation, construction of rooftop vegetable plots, eco-ponds, wall plantations and rainwater collecting and recycling systems. The Chengde and Shunde borough offices also trained volunteers to maintain and manage their communities in a more sustainable way.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Local Governments Promoting Low-carbon Sustainable Homeland Awarded", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-05" }, { "no": "3430", "title": "Tax Subsidies Available for Replacement of Old Vehicles", "preview": "Recycling\nTax Subsidies Available for Replacement of Old Vehicles", "content": "Tax Subsidies Available for Replacement of Old Vehicles\nTaiwan’s vehicle recyclers now offer a home collection service, which along with the tax rebates and subsidies available is another reason for residents to replace their old vehicles. In fact, when adding up the EPA’s vehicle recycling subsidy, the commodity tax reduction for replacing an old vehicle with a new one, the taxes saved by recycling the old vehicle, and the salvage value of the old vehicle, replacing an old vehicle with a new one may save owners over NT$66,000. \nVehicle owners should give their old vehicle to a licensed recycler and obtain the end-of-life vehicle recycling manifest issued by the EPA. If the owners buy and register a new vehicle within six months before or after recycling their old ones, they will be eligible for a commodity tax deduction for the new vehicle and the recycling subsidy for the old one. The tax reductions are NT$50,000 and NT$4,000 for cars and motorcycles, respectively. The vehicle recycling subsidies are NT$1,000 for cars over 10 years old and NT$300 for motorcycles over seven years old. To receive the tax rebate and recycling subsidy, the owners simply need to collect the copies of the vehicle recycling manifest and the vehicle title transfer form and file the applications with the Ministry of Finance for the tax rebate and with the EPA for the recycling subsidy. \nThere is also an extra NT$1,500 available for the recycling of 2-stroke motorcycles. The EPA and local environmental protection bureaus also provide subsidies for purchasing new electric motorcycles and electric bicycles. In addition, recyclers often pay the owners a few thousand New Taiwan Dollars depending on the vehicle’s condition. \nThe EPA pointed out that abandoning or keeping but not using an old vehicle can cost owners nearly NT$16,000 annually in vehicle registration fees, fuel tax, and fines for not taking it to regular vehicle tests. If the vehicle is reported for occupying road space, it may be towed away and its owner served a notice and instructed to claim it in accordance with the Definition and Regulations for Handling Road-Occupying Abandoned Vehicles. If the vehicle is not claimed then it will be disposed of, and the owner will not be able to claim the commodity tax rebate or any subsidies, which is clearly not to the owner’s advantage. The EPA is urging all owners of old cars to replace them with new ones and save at least NT$66,000. \nRecycling old vehicles consists of two steps:\nStep 1 – Finding a recycler: The EPA provides information on registered recyclers over the toll-free resource recycling hotline 0800-085-717 and on the resource recycling website http:\/\/recycle.epa.gov.tw\/Recycle\/. Vehicle owners can make an arrangement with the recycler for the time and place to collect the old vehicle. The owner’s ID card number or company’s VAT number, and a copy of the vehicle license or the vehicle title transfer certificate should be given to the recycler to verify the ownership. \nStep 2 – Collecting the subsidy: The recycler will give the vehicle owner a copy of the vehicle recycling manifest, which the owner can use to apply for the EPA subsidy. \nAs for the regulations governing the reduction in new vehicle commodity tax for recycling or exporting old automobiles and buying new vehicles, consumers can find them on the websites of the MOF (http:\/\/www.mof.gov.tw\/) or the MOF’s Taxation Administration (http:\/\/www.dot.gov.tw\/dot\/index.jsp). Enquiries are dealt with through the National Taxation Bureau’s toll-free hotline 0800-000-321. Owners of old 2-stroke motorcycles can visit the EPA’s Low Pollution Vehicle Subsidy Information website (http:\/\/mobile.epa.gov.tw\/lowpoll\/index.aspx) for details.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Tax Subsidies Available for Replacement of Old Vehicles", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-05" }, { "no": "3429", "title": "Air Quality Monitoring Results of Pilgrimage Published Online", "preview": "Air\nAir Quality Monitoring Results of Pilgrimage Published Online", "content": "Air Quality Monitoring Results of Pilgrimage Published Online\nThe air quality around a nine-day pilgrimage to a coastal town in central Taiwan was monitored throughout the whole event for the first time to gain a better understanding of how local air quality is affected by the activity. The air quality readings showed that fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels were highest when the pilgrimage palanquin of the entered local temples (4,188 μg\/m3) compared to the highest reading of 1,550 μg\/m3 around the palanquin while it was on roads. The monitoring results are published online for public perusal. \nThe two main tools employed by the EPA to monitor air quality during the pilgrimage were an E-motor vehicle and hand-held PM2.5 micro-sensors. The hand-held sensors were carried by EPA staff following pilgrims to obtain real-time PM2.5 values. The E-motor, by contrast, was parked beside temples visited by pilgrims to monitor changes in air quality as the palanquin passed by. The highest reading taken by the E-motor was 4,188 μg\/m3; the three highest readings taken by the hand-held PM2.5 micro-sensors were 1,550 μg\/m3 and 1,476 μg\/m3 in Changhua City and 1,494 μg\/m3 in Siluo Township. The cause of the high air pollution in all cases was people setting off firecrackers and fireworks to celebrate the arrival of the palanquin. \nThe readings taken by the EPA personnel with the hand-held devices indicated that PM2.5 concentrations within 5 m of places where firecrackers and fireworks were set off always exceeded 1,000 μg\/m3. PM2.5 levels within 10 m of the palanquin and the pilgrims immediately behind it were still several hundred μg\/m3, or even higher if the devices were in a downwind position, due to the concentration of firecracker smoke. However, the high PM2.5 concentrations were momentary and quickly fell once the smoke dispersed. \nDuring the nine days of the pilgrimage the EPA was publishing real-time monitoring data on its dedicated webpage (http:\/\/ienv.epa.gov.tw\/IoT). The EPA has also made available all raw data gathered at the event for public perusal and downloading on its Environmental Resource Open Data Platform (http:\/\/opendata.epa.gov.tw\/). \nIn the future, the EPA will provide the relevant monitoring data to all temples and temple event organizers. The EPA also urges temples and temple event organizers to find ways to protect the environment while still achieving the event’s aims. The EPA suggests reducing the use of traditional firecrackers (or using eco-friendly firecrackers) and collecting and burning the joss paper offerings together to reduce emissions of air pollutants and reduce noise pollution.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Air Quality Monitoring Results of Pilgrimage Published Online", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-05" }, { "no": "3428", "title": "Electroplating Firm Charged for Illegally Discharging Nickel in Wastewater", "preview": "Environmental Inspection\nElectroplating Firm Charged for Illegally Discharging Nickel in Wastewater", "content": "Electroplating Firm Charged for Illegally Discharging Nickel in Wastewater \nThe EPA recently took joint command along with the Changhua District Prosecutors Office and the police to crack down on an environmental violation that led to the contamination of irrigation channels and two hectares of farmland in Puxin Township, Changhua County. Following nearly a year of investigations, the operators of an electroplating enterprise that was illegally discharging wastewater containing nickel – a heavy metal harmful to human health – were charged with violating environmental regulations and the Criminal Code.\nThe raid on the polluting electroplating premises took place on 21 April 2016 and involved personnel from the EPA, the Changhua District Prosecutors Office, the police, the Changhua County Environmental Protection Bureau, and Chang Hua Irrigation Associations. The enterprise operators were found to be failing in their responsibilities by discharging untreated electroplating wastewater through rainwater drainage pipes into irrigation channels in front of its premises. This was not only in violation of environmental regulations by polluting nearby farmland but also in violation of Article 190-1 of the Criminal Code. The operators are being investigated by the Changhua District Prosecutors Office. \nFollowing an announcement in early 2015 by the Changhua County Government that listed a plot of farmland in Puxin Township as a contaminated remediation site, the EPA began investigations into the source of the pollution. Surveys of water channels and the local environment pointed to an electroplating factory situated by the mid-section of one of the irrigation channels in Puxin Township as the likely culprit. More in-depth investigations followed, but solid evidence was hard to collect as the enterprise was discharging its wastewater in an unusual way. \nAt the end of 2015, the EPA ascertained that the contaminated wastewater was still being discharged. After employing a number of high-tech devices to monitor water quality and gather evidence for four months, the EPA discovered that the electroplating firm was discharging small volumes of highly-polluted wastewater at irregular intervals. Once the location of the discharge outlet was discovered, EPA inspectors took wastewater samples for analysis. The samples were shown to have amounts of the toxic heavy metal nickel far above the maximum value for effluent standards. In one sample the concentration of nickel was 48.5 times the stated maximum, thus seriously impacting downstream water quality.\nThe EPA reiterated that for enterprises that pollute local waterbodies with wastewater containing levels of harmful substances above the maximums permitted by the Effluent Standards, the enterprise operators are in violation of not only environmental regulations but also in violation of Article 190-1 of the Criminal Code, and thus could face a fine of NT$60,000-20 million and up to seven years in prison. If it is discovered that the enterprises profited from not treating the wastewater properly, any illegal gains accrued will also be confiscated. As farmland was polluted in this case, the enterprise will have to pay the cost for remediation in accordance with the stipulations of the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Inspection", "titlename": "Electroplating Firm Charged for Illegally Discharging Nickel in Wastewater", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-05" }, { "no": "3427", "title": "Amendments to Motorcycle Exhaust Emission Testing Station Regulations Announced", "preview": "Air\nAmendments to Motorcycle Exhaust Emission Testing Station Regulations Announced", "content": "Amendments to Motorcycle Exhaust Emission Testing Station Regulations Announced\nTo effectively address the problem of air pollutant emissions from motorcycles, and also to improve the quality and management of motorcycle emission testing stations, on 8 April 2016 the EPA announced amendments to the Regulations Governing the Establishment and Management of Motorcycle Air Pollutant Emissions Testing Stations. \nTo effectively address the problem of motorcycle pollutant emissions, since 1998 the EPA has been enforcing regular emissions testing for motorcycles in use. In accordance with the stipulations of the Air Pollution Control Act, on 21 May 2003 the EPA promulgated the Regulations Governing the Establishment and Management of Motorcycle Air Pollutant Emissions Testing Stations. \nAs of the end of December 2015, 2,791 motorcycle emission testing stations had been established and subsidies had been handed out for testing 7.2 million motorcycles. On average, each station tests 2,581 motorcycles annually, indicating that the system is well-established and running well. \nAfter reviewing the administration of the testing system – such as certification procedures for testing station equipment, quality control mechanisms for testing instruments, and penalty regulations – and taking into account advances in emission testing technology, the EPA decided that there was room for more efficiency and precision. Thus, in order to improve overall testing quality, the revisions were formulated. The name of the regulations was also changed to Regulations for the Establishment and Management of In-use Motorcycle Air Pollutant Emissions Testing Stations in accordance with the amendments made to the wording of the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act. The main points of the amendments are as follows:\n1. The specifications for the computer system used by the motorcycle exhaust emission testing stations have been added. \n2. The regulations governing the documents required for standard gas accreditation application have been revised.\n3. Provisions have been added stipulating that information for motorcycle emission testing station certification as well as the person responsible for the station cannot be changed without prior permission from the relevant local government competent authority. \n4. Lengths of time for which certifications can be extended have been adjusted. Requirements for additional documents for extension applications have been added as well.\n5. The times and places emission tests can be conducted have been revised. It has also been added that operators of mobile testing stations will henceforth need approval of testing times and locations from their local competent authorities.\n6. Regulations have been added authorizing relevant competent authorities to enforce testing, repeat testing, and payment of expenses related to testing station emission analysis instruments that are consistently below standard or that produce abnormal readings. \n7. Two new reasons for revoking the certification of testing stations have been added. One is changing the person responsible without approval from the relevant competent authority. The other is accumulating more than one year of approved temporary suspensions of testing services within the period that the certification is valid. \n8. Fines have been added for testing premises that are not tidy. In addition, if the testing station mistypes information on tested motorcycles but does not report errors to the competent authority more than five times (instead of the original ten times) in a single fiscal year, it will be fined NT$15,000.\n9. The period for which documents for the motorcycle emission testing fee appropriation application must be kept has been adjusted to two years. Meanwhile, procedures for recovering over-issued subsidies have been added.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Amendments to Motorcycle Exhaust Emission Testing Station Regulations Announced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-05" }, { "no": "3426", "title": "Carbon Reduction Targets Achieved for First Year Enforcement of Passenger Car CO2 Emission Standards", "preview": "Air\nCarbon Reduction Targets Achieved for First Year Enforcement of Passenger Car CO2 Emission Standards", "content": "Carbon Reduction Targets Achieved for First Year Enforcement of Passenger Car CO2 Emission Standards\nThe Passenger Car CO2 Emission Standards were brought into force in 2015 and CO2 emission reporting for 2015 was completed by the end of March 2016. Statistics show that the average passenger car CO2 emission for 2015 was 162.48 g\/km, a 15% reduction of the baseline emission of 191 g\/km in 2009.\nSince 2010, the government has been pushing vehicle manufacturers to sign voluntary CO2 emission reduction agreements. The voluntary emission reduction scheme also allowed the EPA to estimate CO2 emissions for new vehicles. The enforcement of the Automobile CO2 Emission Standards began on 1 January 2015, and is Taiwan’s first ever set of controls on total CO2 emissions for new automobiles. Passenger cars have been chosen as the target for the first phase, and the controls will be introduced in three stages: 65% of total vehicles are to meet the emission standards for 2015, 80% for 2016, and 100% for 2017. Manufacturers will also be given extra credits for vehicles whose carbon emissions are under 120 g\/km so as to encourage them to import or manufacture low-carbon vehicles. \nStatistics showed that 285,982 new cars were sold in 2015, of which 278,986, or 97.6%, met the new emissions standards. Of the 36 reporting entities, 19 met the minimum standards, of which 17 sold cars that were all up to standard. The number of models of vehicles achieving carbon emissions under 120 g\/km has also increased from four in 2009 to 34 in 2015, and the number of models of full electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles have risen from nine to 30. These figures indicate that the automobile CO2 emissions standards are encouraging vehicle manufacturers to make or import low-carbon vehicles. \nThe emission standards also stipulate that the vehicle’s CO2 emission value must be shown on the vehicle sticker or in the owner’s manual. Since the enforcement of the emission standards, the number of models of low-carbon vehicles available in Taiwan have increased. The vehicle models with carbon emissions under 120 g\/km are published on the Vehicle CO2 Reporting and Management System Website (https:\/\/car.epa.gov.tw\/carco2\/accountmt\/index.aspx).\nAs part of the effort to mitigate climate change and global warming, the EPA continues to urge all vehicle manufacturers to fulfill their social responsibilities by producing more low-carbon vehicles. Members of the public are also encouraged to make every effort on energy saving and carbon reduction, as part of living a low-carbon lifestyle.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Carbon Reduction Targets Achieved for First Year Enforcement of Passenger Car CO2 Emission Standards", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-05" }, { "no": "3425", "title": "Dr. Ying-Yuan Lee Takes Office as EPA Minister", "preview": "General Policy\nDr. Ying-Yuan Lee Takes Office as EPA Minister", "content": "Dr. Ying-Yuan Lee Takes Office as EPA Minister On 20 May 2016, Dr. Tsai Ing-wen took office as the President of the Republic of China (Taiwan). On the same day, legislator Dr. Ying-Yuan Lee took office as the new EPA Minister, while lawyer Thomas S. K. Chan was named the new Deputy Minister. On accepting his new post, Minister Lee said “This is an important responsibility and mission.” He also stressed the importance of preventing environmental pollution and using resources sustainably, and said that both issues would require enormous efforts to solve. The EPA will put prevention first, while communications and negotiations will be strengthened to achieve consensus over environmental issues to better protect public health and Taiwan’s beautiful natural environment. The EPA will also actively reach out to the world to seek international cooperation on climate change mitigation and pollution prevention so as to improve environmental quality and ensure generational justice. \nProfessionally Trained with Much Public Sector Experience \nPrior to being invited by Premier Chuan Lin to take the post of EPA Minister, Dr. Lee was a legislator in the Legislative Yuan. Minister Lee holds a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from National Taiwan University’s Department of Public Health. He went on the US to earn a master’s degree in Health Care Management from Harvard University, followed by a doctorate degree in Health Economics from the University of North Carolina. Minister Lee also brings many years of experience working in government agencies. He has previously served in the positions of Deputy Representative to the US, Secretary-General of the Executive Yuan, Minister of the Council of Labor Affairs, and Deputy Magistrate of Yunlin County. In addition to these executive experiences, he has been an elected legislator for more than 12 years. \nTasked to Establish the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources\nThe new government is keen to press ahead with ministerial reorganizations that will also affect the EPA. Reorganization on such a scale, however, is always a tricky matter, particularly for the EPA as its operations are wide in scope and often sensitive in nature. Minister Lee specializes in public health and is well known for his communication and coordination capabilities. He is also one of very few professionals who have ample administrative experience both in central and local governments and is familiar with multiple fields including foreign affairs, public health and labor affairs as well as environmental protection. Minister Lee is expected not only to actively lead in carrying out environmental protection duties but is also tasked with speeding up the establishment of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources. This will integrate relevant authorities and improve the effectiveness of environmental work. \nPrevention First while Tackling Land-, Air- and Water-Originated Pollution Simultaneously \nBeing an expert in public health, Minister Lee sees prevention as the first priority for environmental protection and says that land-, air- and water-originated pollution have to be addressed at the same time. He points out that solving the two big problems of environmental pollution and the sustainable use of resources will require great effort, and by becoming EPA Minister he takes on an important responsibility and mission. To improve environmental quality and ensure generational justice, the EPA will enhance communications and negotiations to achieve consensus on environmental issues, so as to better protect public health and safeguard Taiwan’s beautiful natural environment.\nSeeking International Support to Work Together on Climate Change and Environmental Pollution \nOn Earth Day 2016, representatives of 171 nations gathered at the United Nations headquarters in New York City and signed the Paris Agreement to mitigate climate change and global warming. Minister Lee considers this a major achievement for humankind. However, he regrets that Taiwan was not invited to sign the agreement and believes this omission was a loss for the planet. Minister Lee pointed out that climate change and atmospheric pollution are problems that cross international boundaries. We all breathe the same air and the least we can do is keep the atmosphere clean for future generations. Climate change mitigation and pollution control, he said, is like communicable diseases control in that it requires cooperation from all nations, hence there is no good reason for sidelining Taiwan. Taiwan will continue to make its voice heard and achieve greater participation in global environmental affairs in order to jointly protect the global environment and pursue sustainable development for humankind.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Dr. Ying-Yuan Lee Takes Office as EPA Minister", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-05" }, { "no": "3424", "title": "Free App Available for Finding Shops Selling Green Mark Products", "preview": "Ecolabeling\nFree App Available for Finding Shops Selling Green Mark Products", "content": "Free App Available for Finding Shops Selling Green Mark Products\nStarting in 1992, the EPA has promoted Green Mark products to help citizens choose healthy and environmentally friendly products. Currently over 4,900 products have been awarded the Green Mark by the EPA. To facilitate the purchase of these products, the EPA has rolled out a free Green Shop app that smartphone users can use to locate green shops. The public can also log onto the Greenliving Information Platform (http:\/\/ greenliving.epa.gov.tw\/) to find green shops and see what products with the Green Mark or Carbon Label they are selling. Yet another option is to shop at the Green Products Online Procurement Network (http:\/\/www. buygreentw.net). To date the network has 464 products with the Green Mark available for online purchase. \nTo encourage green consumption, since 2008 the EPA has worked with the local environmental protection bureaus to assist industries in converting over 10,000 of their retail stores into green shops, which sell products with the Green Mark or Carbon Label. Consumers are thus provided with a convenient channel to purchase environmentally friendly products. EPA statistics show the revenue of environmentally friendly products from sales at green shops reached NT$37.1 billion in 2015.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Ecolabeling", "titlename": "Free App Available for Finding Shops Selling Green Mark Products", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-04" }, { "no": "3423", "title": "Amendments to Dioxin Emission Standards from Stationary Sources Preannounced", "preview": "Toxic substance\nAmendments to Dioxin Emission Standards from Stationary Sources Preannounced", "content": "Amendments to Dioxin Emission Standards from Stationary Sources Preannounced\nOn 11 March 2016, the EPA announced the draft of amendments to the Dioxin Emission Standards from Stationary Sources). The existing standards promulgated on 2 January 2006 state that the standard percentage value of oxygen that is contained in exhaust for dioxins is calculated based on undiluted dry exhaust volume. However, the provisions of the Stationary Pollution Source Air Pollutant Emissions Standards stipulate that, except for specified industries, the standard percentage value of oxygen that is contained in exhaust for particulate pollutants, sulfur oxides and nitrogen oxides is set at 6%. To make the calculations of air pollutant emissions more consistent, the EPA has drafted the amendments to set the standard percentage value of oxygen that is contained in exhaust for dioxins as 6%.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic substance", "titlename": "Amendments to Dioxin Emission Standards from Stationary Sources Preannounced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-04" }, { "no": "3422", "title": "Recusal Principle Added into EIA Review Committee Organic Regulations", "preview": "EIA\nRecusal Principle Added into EIA Review Committee Organic Regulations", "content": "Recusal Principle Added into EIA Review Committee Organic Regulations\nDue to organizational transformation and amendments to the Environmental Impact Assessment Enforcement Rules, the Organic Regulations of the Environmental Impact Assessment Review Committee was also amended, and the principle of recusal was added. \nPursuant to Article 3 Paragraph 3 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act, on 30 June 1995 the EPA promulgated the Organic Regulations of the Environmental Impact Assessment Review Committee. These regulations have been revised five times since then, in accordance with actual needs. \nOn 3 July 2015 the EPA amended the Environmental Impact Assessment Enforcement Rules by adding Article 5-1 which stipulates that the Environmental Impact Assessment Review Committee should adopt the principle of recusal not only according to the provisions of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act, but also according to those of the Administrative Procedural Act. In addition, when counting the number of committee members attending the EIA review meetings, those considered recused will not be counted as present.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "EIA", "titlename": "Recusal Principle Added into EIA Review Committee Organic Regulations", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-04" }, { "no": "3421", "title": "Mandatory GPS Now on 8888 Waste Clearance Vehicles", "preview": "Waste\nMandatory GPS Now on 8888 Waste Clearance Vehicles", "content": "Mandatory GPS Now on 8,888 Waste Clearance Vehicles\nTo monitor and effectively control the flow of industrial waste, the EPA has been requiring operators of vehicles that transport hazardous or large amounts of waste to install GPS devices linked to the EPA’s real-time tracking system. To date, vehicles carrying 267 listed types of industrial waste are required to have GPS installed. The number of vehicles with such devices has now exceeded the mark of 8,888. \nIn 2001, the EPA announced that vehicles used for transport of listed types of industrial waste should have GPS tracking devices installed in accordance with Article 31 Paragraph 1 Item 3 of the Waste Disposal Act so that industrial waste clearance could be monitored and controlled more effectively. To date, the Act has been amended seven times, and the EPA now requires all hazardous waste produced by listed enterprises to be transported in vehicles with GPS tracking devices.\nThe EPA’s tracking system has also been made available to enterprises and other environmental agencies to monitor the movements of listed clearance vehicles and keep track of industrial waste with the help of real-time and historical tracking data. The GPS system automatically flags unusual vehicle movements everyday and sends the data to local government environmental protection bureaus so that they can conduct checks and offer advice where necessary. The system allows local government environmental protection bureaus to set up their own “red alert zones” where illegal dumping could take place and automatically monitor any of the GPS vehicles that enter these zones. Knowing about the system’s “red alert zones” should dissuade unscrupulous operators from attempting to dump waste there. \nCurrently there are 8,888 vehicles equipped with GPS that transport 267 types of industrial waste. In terms of distribution of GPS waste clearance vehicles, Taiwan’s central region has the most with 29%, the southern region has 27% and the northern region has 20%. Statistics show that nationwide in 2015, approximately 14 million tonnes of industrial waste were transported by these vehicles. Members of the public who wish to learn more about the GPS tracking system can visit the EPA’s dedicated web page (http:\/\/gps.epa.gov.tw\/GPSZone\/index_Normal.asp), enquire at their local government environmental protection bureau, or call the EPA’s Industrial Waste Control Center hotline (0800-059-777).", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Mandatory GPS Now on 8888 Waste Clearance Vehicles", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-04" }, { "no": "3420", "title": "Workshop Held to Share Water Recycling Experiences for EIA Decision Enforcement", "preview": "Environmental Inspection\nWorkshop Held to Share Water Recycling Experiences for EIA Decision Enforcement", "content": "Workshop Held to Share Water Recycling Experiences for EIA Decision Enforcement\nOn 2 March 2016 the EPA held the Workshop on Water Recycling for EIA Decision Enforcement. The workshop was attended by more than 100 participants representing industry, government and academia. From their respective positions, the participants shared the outcome of their efforts in making good use of Taiwan’s precious water resources with a view toward improving water resources management. \nIn his opening speech, EPA Deputy Minister Tzi-Chin Chang pointed out that Taiwan faced three major challenges regarding water resource management: scarcity of water resources in the natural environment, lack of a legal basis for water recycling, and having no clear methodology for auditing water recycling rates. To break through the predicaments, the EPA is keen on finding the appropriate law enforcement measures and hopes that through environmental impact assessments geared toward the characteristics of each development project, a minimum water recycling rate can be reasonably required. Moreover, for the purpose of integrating the goals of saving water and reducing wastewater at source into EIAs, the EPA established a program in 2015 to audit the rate of wastewater production and recycling in the industrial parks. The EPA expects such regulatory reforms will improve water resources management. \nThis workshop had four major topics of discussion:\n1) New measures for enforcement of EIA decisions regarding water recycling at development projects \n2) Industrial park water recycling measures and management\n3) Industrial water recycling technology and application\n4) Academic views on water recycling technology and prospects\nThe EPA also invited professionals from relevant fields to attend the workshop, including: experts and scholars with backgrounds in water recycling; representatives from the Ministry of Science and Technology; representatives from the Industrial Development Bureau of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), who manage industrial parks or are in charge of various development projects in industrial areas; and, representatives from the Water Resources Agency of the MOEA, who are responsible for the allocation of national water resources. Other attendees of the workshop included personnel from local environmental protection bureaus and representatives of related industries.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Inspection", "titlename": "Workshop Held to Share Water Recycling Experiences for EIA Decision Enforcement", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-04" }, { "no": "3419", "title": "Amendments to Regulations for Wastewater Related Online Applications and Submissions Preannounced", "preview": "Water\nAmendments to Regulations for Wastewater Related Online Applications and Submissions Preannounced", "content": "Amendments to Regulations for Wastewater Related Online Applications and Submissions Preannounced\nIn response to the latest amendments to the Water Pollution Control Act that require all future water pollution control related applications to be submitted online, the EPA has preannounced amendments to the Regulations Governing Online Water Pollution Control Measures Submitting; Permits Applications, Modifications or Extensions; and Enterprises Required to Conduct Effluent Testing and Reporting and Related Procedures.\nOn 31 March 2016, the EPA preannounced amendments to the Regulations Governing Online Water Pollution Control Measures Submitting; Permits Applications, Modifications or Extensions; and Enterprises Required to Conduct Effluent Testing and Reporting and Related Procedures. The amendments were made in response to amendments to the Water Pollution Control Act requiring information disclosure and online-only submission of applications and reports starting from 1 January 2017. The amendments will also strengthen the management and auditing of pre-submissions to eliminate data falsification and improve the quality of reported data.\nThe main points of the amendments are as follows:\n1. All wastewater related reports or applications can only be submitted online, starting from 1 January 2017. \n2. The enterprises subjected to the regulations shall pre-submit 24 hours in advance to the central competent authority’s water pollution source information management system, before conducting water sampling and volume measurement. The name of the environmental inspection and testing institution that is commissioned to conduct the test, the items to be tested or measured, the name of the sampling and measuring technician, the date, and predicted sampling and measuring time for two-hour intervals should all be submitted online. The pre-submitted information should not be altered for the following 24 hours. Once sampling has been completed, the actual sampling\/measuring information should be submitted within 24 hours. \n3. Enterprises that do not conduct water sampling for quality tests or measure water volume in accordance with the pre-submission related provisions must redo the pre-submission, as well as conduct the water sampling and volume measurement procedures. \n4. Enterprises that change pre-submitted information more than twice a year, or that are suspected by the competent authority to be not collecting samples for water quality tests, will be subject to priority inspections. \n5. The online application or reporting form must be completed and submitted online. The digital or scanned files of all other required documentation or data must be submitted online as well. \nThe EPA is keen to take advantage of internet technology and, in the interest of information disclosure, will soon begin to publish online information on permit applications and periodic wastewater testing from enterprises and operators of sewage systems. The EPA hopes that provisions making some enterprises – such as ones that change pre-submitted information frequently, or ones suspected of not collecting water samples for water quality tests – subject to priority inspections will help prevent the falsification of water quality test data.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Amendments to Regulations for Wastewater Related Online Applications and Submissions Preannounced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-04" }, { "no": "3418", "title": "Amendments to Regulations for Remediation Fees Collection Preannounced", "preview": "Soil and Groundwater\nAmendments to Regulations for Remediation Fees Collection Preannounced", "content": "Amendments to Regulations for Remediation Fees Collection Preannounced\nThe EPA recently reviewed the status of remediation of contaminated sites, and examined the relationship between items listed for collection of remediation fees and their pollution potentials. The EPA concluded that current fees do not adequately reflect remediation costs. To correct this, the EPA has preannounced amendments to the Regulations Governing Collection of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Fees.\nAfter considering the government’s soil and groundwater pollution management targets, and referring to Article 28 Paragraph 2 of the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act and Article 3 Paragraph 3 of the Regulations Governing Collection of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Fees, the EPA drafted the amendments. The amendments will mainly affect the categories of substances subject to remediation fee collection, fee rates, industry categories, and some of the wording of the regulations. The main points of the amendments are as follows: \n1. The EPA amended the remediation fee rates after thoroughly examining: the pollutants discovered at the contaminated sites; listed soil and groundwater pollution control and monitoring items; and, chemicals with pollution potentials. The revised fee rates will not only better reflect the substances’ pollution potentials, they will also increase the ratio of fees collected from wastes to those collected from raw materials, products and byproducts, thus making the fees more reflective of the sources of contamination.\n2. As a result of the changes to the fee structure, the fee base has expanded with the addition of 22 substances that will be subject to remediation fees. New additions include chlorinated hydrocarbons, such as pentachlorophenol; heavy metals and their compounds, such as molybdenum and indium; and 13 pesticides, such as chlordane. \n3. The remediation fees for waste are currently collected according to industry categories which gives rise to a number of problems. The amended fees will be collected on the basis of volumes of 66 categories of industrial waste, each having a code according to a system that the EPA has created to reflect the amount recorded on the manifest, to make the system fair for the enterprises concerned. \n4. Fee rates have been adjusted to correspond to the changes in industry categories, collection ratios, and total amount of fees collected. \n5. The method of interest calculation on late payments has been clarified. The EPA will also enforce the online-only fee-payment report to simplify procedures, make it easier for the public to pay fees and make fee collection more effective. \n6. The requirement that the remediation fees collection system should be reviewed and adjusted every four years is replaced by rolling reviews of fee rates and of items subject to fees.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil and Groundwater", "titlename": "Amendments to Regulations for Remediation Fees Collection Preannounced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-04" }, { "no": "3417", "title": "Cleanup of TS Taipei Oil Spill", "preview": "Water\nCleanup of TS Taipei Oil Spill", "content": "Cleanup of TS Taipei Oil Spill\nOn 10 March 2016, the Taiwan-registered container ship, the TS Taipei ran aground just 0.3 nautical miles from the coast of Shimen, New Taipei City after its engines lost power. The ship was carrying 407 tonnes of fuel and 40 tonnes of diesel. The EPA set in motion its response mechanism with three major goals: personnel safety first; making every effort to remove the oil; and preventing secondary pollution from occurring. The EPA also requested the ship owner to remove all the oily wastes collected each day and have them transported by licensed waste clearance organizations. As of 7 April, a total of 1,950 kg of waste, 2,380 liters of oily water and 38 containers had been removed. The three containers left will be lifted off when the tide is low. The remaining oil is being removed by the ship owner under the supervision of the emergency response center. The emergency response center will continue with dispatching fishing boats to carry out oil removal in the open sea and with supervising the ship owner to deploy oil booms and oil absorbent booms. Premier Chang San-Cheng also asked the Fisheries Agency of the Council of Agriculture to urge the ship owner to clarify how damages will be determined with its insurance company as soon as possible to ensure that the losses of fishermen will be properly compensated.\nThe Taiwan registered container ship TS Taipei ran aground just 0.3 nautical miles from the coast of Shimen, New Taipei City at 9:30 am on 10 March 2016 after its engines lost power. The ship’s crew reported that they had laid anchor as the hull was punctured and the engine room was taking in water. The ship weighed 15,487 tonnes and was carrying 407 tonnes of fuel and 40 tonnes of diesel. Since the fuel and goods on the ship posed an immediate pollution threat to the local marine environment, the EPA set in motion its response mechanism in accordance with the Major Marine Oil Spill Emergency Response Plan and asked the New Taipei City Environmental Protection Bureau to immediately deploy emergency response resources to the affected area. \nThe EPA inputted data on weather and sea conditions into its oil dispersal simulation modeling system to predict the impact of the oil slick on the surrounding area for the following 24 hours. The EPA also requested that one of Taiwan’s satellites, FORMOSAT-2, begin monitoring the seas to provide the response teams with real-time data on changes in sea conditions in the vicinity of the incident. \nOn 10 March, the EPA convened an emergency response meeting at the Shimen District Office, New Taipei City, attended by representatives from the Maritime and Port Bureau of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications, the Maritime and Port Bureau’s North Maritime Affairs Center, the Coast Guard Administration, the Maritime Patrol Directorate General, the Council of Agriculture, the Ministry of Health and Welfare, Jinshan Nuclear Power Plant, the Ministry of Defense, the New Taipei City Bureau of Environmental Protection, Taiwan International Ports Corp. (Port of Keelung), and T.S. Lines Co. During the meeting the EPA asked each organization present to fulfill their tasks as laid out in the Major Marine Oil Spill Emergency Response Plan and endeavor to preserve all relevant evidence. The EPA further asked the Maritime and Port Bureau to take charge of removing remaining oil and oil products from the ship as authorized by Article 53 of the Commercial Port Law. \nOn 7 April the central emergency response center convened another oil pollution response meeting that was chaired by EPA Deputy Minister Fu Shu-Chiang at the Shimen District Office. The EPA is continuing to monitor the marine pollution using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and land-based radar vehicles. The collected data showed that there was no oil spill on the sea surface of the rear starboard side of the ship, around a nearby fishing harbor and the water inlet for Jinshan Nuclear Power Plant, confirming that the booms initially deployed seemed to be doing their job. \nAs for the remaining oil in No. 3 cargo hold on the TS Taipei, the emergency response center will continue to supervise the ship owners to remove the oil as quickly as possible, and will also supervise the addition of more oil booms and oil absorbent booms at the side of the ship. Fishing boats have also been dispatched to cleaning up the oil spilled into the sea to prevent it from spreading out. By 7 April, 258 person-days had been spent on cleaning up the shore, with 1,950 kg of wastes and 2,380 kg of oily water removed. The EPA requested the ship owner to employ a licensed waste clearance organization to remove all of the wastes and oily water collected each day. \nAccording to the Maritime and Port Bureau, as of 7 April, 38 containers have been lifted off the rear deck of the TS Taipei with three remaining containers to be removed at low tide. Premier Chang San-Cheng has been very concerned about the progress being made in removing the remaining oil and containers from the wreck of the TS Taipei. On 6 April 2016, he made his fourth inspection visit to the emergency response center at the scene and listened to reports from the ministries involved. Officials from the Maritime and Port Bureau said that they would continue to push the ship company to submit full-fledged plans detailing how they plan to remove the remaining oil and haul the hull to a suitable location afterwards, knowing that these tasks must be completed before the typhoon season begins. \nPremier Chang also asked the Fisheries Agency of the Council of Agriculture to urge the ship owner to work with its insurance company as soon as possible to clarify how damages will be determined and ensure that losses of fishermen loss will be properly compensated.\nThe EPA made it clear that although the personnel involved in the clean-up are making every effort to remove the oil and prevent secondary pollution from occurring, they still have to put safety first. All government agencies involved will continue to work hard on their respective emergency response tasks and ensure that Taiwan’s marine environment is protected as well as possible.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Cleanup of TS Taipei Oil Spill", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-04" }, { "no": "3416", "title": "Amendments to Regulations for Water Pollution Control Fees Collection Preannounced", "preview": "Water\nAmendments to Regulations for Water Pollution Control Fees Collection Preannounced", "content": "Amendments to Regulations for Water Pollution Control Fees Collection Preannounced\nIt has been almost a year since the EPA began collecting water pollution control fees, and the intervening period has seen a number of issues arise that have required discussion with the stakeholders involved. After weighing various suggestions, on 1 April 2016 the EPA preannounced revisions to the Regulations Governing the Collection of Water Pollution Control Fees. The amendments will take effect on 1 July 2016. \nThe Regulations Governing the Collection of Water Pollution Control Fees were last amended on 31 March 2015, and since 1 May 2015 the EPA has been collecting water pollution fees from operators of industrial park sewage systems and enterprises of all industries except livestock rearing. However, a number of issues appeared regarding the paying and reporting of fees, report reviews and auditing of payments. To tackle these issues and improve the fee calculation method for coal-fired power stations that employ seawater flue gas desulfurization for air pollution control, on 1 April 2016 the EPA preannounced amendments to the Regulations Governing the Collection of Water Pollution Control Fees. The amendments will take effect on 1 July 2016.\nThe main points of the amendments are as follows:\n1. The addition of the method of calculating water pollution fees for coal-fired power stations that employ the seawater flue gas desulfurization process in their air pollution control facilities, and clarification of documents needed for review. \n2. Considering that for a given industry the values of effluent standards are different from those of the marine discharge pipe effluent standards, the EPA has added a new calculation method to give preferential fee rates for effluent discharged directly into the sea. \n3. Effluent quality will henceforth be assessed using the maximum values tested by the competent authority. Amendments have also been made to the differential ratio of the reported harmful substance values to the tested ones to minimize disputes over test data. \n4. Provisions have been added so that actual discharged effluent volumes and the number of operation days can be used for fee calculation if adequate evidence is provided to support the claim, so as to make fee calculation more reflective of the situation on the ground. \n5. To simplify the fee paying procedure, the requirement that fee paying reports and payment invoices must be submitted online has been removed. Reimbursement of excess payments of over NT$2,000 will need to be applied for.\n6. Water pollution control fees will be waived for waste bathing water from hotels and restaurants where the wastewater has been kept separate from other effluent and filtered to remove hair and other suspended solids. The fees will also be waived for wastewater from newly established enterprises during their approved initial trial period.\n7. The central competent authority will be entitled to determine, calculate, and pursue unpaid water pollution control fees from enterprises that have tried to avoid paying or have failed to pay the fees due.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Amendments to Regulations for Water Pollution Control Fees Collection Preannounced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-04" }, { "no": "3415", "title": "Marine Pollution Control in Taiwan", "preview": "Water\nMarine Pollution Control in Taiwan", "content": "Marine Pollution Control in Taiwan \nWith regard to marine pollution control, Taiwan is limited both in emergency response manpower and resources. To enhance capacities in this area, the EPA has been effectively employing high-tech tools such as computer simulation models and remote monitoring that can quickly provide a more accurate picture of the scope and movement of oil spills. The EPA is also working diligently on improving emergency response strategies, employing advanced technology and equipment, following relevant international regulations, and building greater international cooperation, including the sharing of experiences on pollution removal. \nTaiwan is surrounded by seas rich in marine resources and biodiversity. However, Taiwan also sits amid important Asia-Pacific shipping lanes used by many large vessels. Every day approximately 200 ships enter or leave Taiwan’s international ports and around 2,500 ships of all types travel close to Taiwan. During the typhoon season or when the seasonal northeast winds are blowing strongly, it is not uncommon for ships to hit coral reefs, get grounded on shoals, or even spill pollutants into the sea. Such incidents are a major threat to Taiwan’s marine ecosystems and resources. \nLegal Basis for Marine Pollution Control \nAccording to International Maritime Organization (IMO) analysis, about 44% of marine pollution originates on land, 33% originates as atmospheric pollution, 12% come from ships, 10% from ocean dumping, and 1% from marine construction projects. The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) outlines the international obligations of signatory nations and their responsibilities to cooperate at regional and global levels to protect the marine environment.\nAs the body responsible for formulating, guiding, supervising and conducting marine pollution control strategies as necessary, the EPA referred to the UNCLOS and formulated a draft of the Marine Pollution Control Act, which was then passed by the Legislative Yuan and promulgated on 1 November 2000. This was a monumental step in Taiwan’s efforts to prevent marine pollution, protect the marine environment and use marine resources in a sustainable manner. \nMarine Pollution Control Measures\nThe EPA began training personnel in marine pollution emergency response after the Plan was approved. Through experience exchanges with marine pollution emergency response organizations and experts from developed nations, the EPA has improved the management and decision-making capabilities of government personnel at all levels. Every year the EPA holds training sessions for marine pollution emergency response personnel, including courses accredited by the IMO on responding to spills of oil and other hazardous or noxious substances.\nTaiwan’s Marine Pollution Control Act covers both pollution control and pollution management, including marine pollution prevention management and emergency response. The Act includes measures to prevent pollution incidents from transport of oil, marine construction projects, and land-based sources. To these ends, the EPA has adopted a number of advanced tools to strengthen cooperation between public and private sector entities that conduct aerial and marine patrols. Other technologies employed include the use of satellite remote sensing and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to facilitate inspections of pollution sources suspected of illegal discharges. \nUsing Simulation Software and Remote Sensing for Marine Pollution Control\nConditions in the marine environment can change very quickly. A successful cleanup operation depends upon the capability of response personnel to rapidly decide on optimal response measures after determining, in the immediate hours and days after an incident, the likely scope and dispersal patterns of an oil slick. \nThe EPA relies on OILMAP simulation software to predict oil slick dispersal patterns as quickly as possible. Data for a spill, such as type of oil, volume, and so on, is entered along with background environmental data such as the location of the spill, wind factors, direction and strength of ocean currents, and so on. The software can simulate changes in dispersal at different times of day to better predict the movement of a slick. It also helps with predicting the impact of a spill, including: areas likely to be affected and probable volumes of oil; amounts of oil that could spread along shores and into waterbodies; and impacts on the air of a given area. \nOILMAP simulation software has been used to assist with the responses to all recent major marine pollution incidents near Taiwan, including: an oil spill from the Tzini, that ran aground near Yilan in 2006; an oil spill from the Jui Hsing, near Keelung in 2011; an oil spill from the Oberon, that ran aground near Penghu in 2012; the sinking of the research vessel RV OR5, near Penghu in 2014; and, the running aground of two container ships this year, the Yun Hai and the TS Taipei. Knowledge of likely pollutant dispersal patterns allowed emergency response personnel to rapidly execute measures appropriate to the locations and conditions of the incidents, thus better protecting the marine environment. \nSatellite remote sensing has also become more frequently employed for many types of environmental monitoring in recent years. To enhance marine pollution monitoring and emergency response capability, the EPA now employs satellite monitoring and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to evaluate and approve marine pollution prevention measures, monitor illegal discharges, and provide emergency response assistance. Conventional surface inspections of marine pollution incidents are invariably limited spatially and thus cannot give a full picture of the pollution. Remote monitoring from above allows for a clear view of the scale of the pollution, facilitating a shorter response time. The three types of remote monitoring technology currently employed in Taiwan are satellite imagery, UAS, and aerial photography. \nSharing Knowledge and Experience through International Exchanges\nEvery year Taiwan holds the International Symposium on Marine Pollution Response, convening experts from around the world. The EPA also sends staff overseas every year for training courses on marine pollution emergency response. The training also helps trainees to establish connections with people who are also in charge of marine pollution control work in other ministries in order to improve interministerial communication. The EPA also maintains regular exchanges and seeks new contacts with related international organizations to build international partnerships, keep abreast of the latest developments in marine pollution control, and be able to call up help and material support, if necessary, in dealing with future pollution incidents. \nIn 2014, for example, EPA personnel went to France to take part in a marine oil and chemical spill response personnel training course held at the Centre of Documentation, Research and Experimentation on Accidental Water Pollution (Cedre), an IMO-accredited training organization. Cedre is one of the few centers in the world that offers specialized training facilities and equipment training to give trainees the hands-on experience necessary for developing the skills to respond to real-life emergencies. \nRecent Achievements in Marine Pollution Control\nThe EPA has been helping port management agencies to strengthen their oily water management, wastewater treatment and environmental monitoring capabilities in port areas. The EPA is also supervising the work of local environmental protection bureaus in improving pollution sources upstream of port areas. In 2015, the EPA completed 4,409 inspections of ship-based or port-based pollution sources, of which 39 were reported for causing marine oil pollution. In 2015, the EPA held five emergency response training courses to train personnel how to deal with spills of oil or chemicals at sea. The 174 trainees came from the Coast Guard Administration of the Ministry of the Interior (MOI), the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC), the MOTC’s Maritime and Port Bureau, the Fisheries Agency of the Council of Agriculture, and local environmental protection bureaus. On 27 October 2015, the EPA held the 2015 Marine Pollution Response and Practices International Workshop that was attended by 120 delegates, including experts from Taiwan, the EU, France, the US, and Australia, to share their knowledge and experience in marine pollution response.\nIn addition to oil and chemical spills, there is also the problem of alien species carried in the ballast water and sediment brought in by ships. Alien species may impact local marine and harbor ecosystems, and may also bring in pathogenic microorganisms. To address these concerns the EPA has been working with the MOTC to implement ballast water management. On 26 January 2016, the EPA announced the Regulations Governing Dischargeable Substances and their Management According to Article 3 Paragraph 6 of the Marine Pollution Control Act, and the Taiwan Territorial Waters as Maritime Control Zones in which Changing Ballast Water is Forbidden and Its Pollution Control Measures.\nFuture Task: Capacity Enhancement with Limited Manpower\nIn light of the limited manpower and resources available to deal with marine pollution incidents, how to effectively apply high-tech approaches to enhance overall marine pollution response capability is a problem that is taxing government agencies worldwide. Fortunately, technologies have developed rapidly – especially computer technology. Numerical simulation models drastically reduce the time needed to predict how oil spills or other pollutants will disperse on the ocean’s surface and allow decision makers to respond more effectively. \nIn addition, optical imaging and radar satellite remote sensing is now being used to provide highly accurate data for modeling analysis. Capable of monitoring large areas over long periods of time, these are now the best tools available for tracking illegal activities at sea that cause marine pollution. A major issue facing the government is how to prevent, eliminate, or reduce the impact that major marine pollution incidents can pose on human health, marine ecosystems, and physical assets. Choosing appropriate response strategies, techniques, and cleanup equipment, as well as closely following the development trends of international marine regulations and agreements, are particularly important and will be the focal points for Taiwan’s future marine pollution control capacity building.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Marine Pollution Control in Taiwan", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-04" }, { "no": "3414", "title": "Recycling Fee Rates for Five Types of Containers Starting March 2016", "preview": "recycling\nRecycling Fee Rates for Five Types of Containers Starting March 2016", "content": "Recycling Fee Rates for Five Types of Containers Starting March 2016 \nThe recycling fee rates for iron, aseptic pack, carton box, non-foam polystyrene and foam polystyrene containers will be adjusted in stages. Half of the scope of increases applied to Phase 1, which commenced from 1 March 2016; the other half of the scope of increases will commence from 1 March, 2018. The fee hikes had been promulgated on 19 August 2015. \nThe EPA reminds manufacturers and importers of these five types of containers that, the recycling fee rates had been raised since 1 March 2016. Hence, the relevant industries are required to file and pay the fees in accordance with the new fee rate. Should they run into any problems, they could call the dedicated hotline for resource recycling at 0800-085-717 or log onto the resource recycling website at: http:\/\/recycle.epa.gov.tw for inquiry.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "recycling", "titlename": "Recycling Fee Rates for Five Types of Containers Starting March 2016", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-03" }, { "no": "3413", "title": "Emergency Response Team Dispatched for Post-quake Cleanup", "preview": "environmental sanitation\nEmergency Response Team Dispatched for Post-quake Cleanup", "content": "Emergency Response Team Dispatched for Post-quake Cleanup \nAt 3:57 a.m. on 6 February, southern Taiwan was struck with a magnitude 6.4 earthquake. The earthquake led to the deaths of more than one hundred people and toppled many buildings in the Tainan area. In line with the actions taken by the Central Emergency Operation Center, the EPA simultaneously launched its Natural Disaster Emergency Response Team to help with the post-disaster cleanup while reminding citizens of southern Taiwan to pay attention to the safety of their drinking water. \nOn 6 February, Minister Kuo-Yen Wei convened an Emergency Response Team meeting and instructed the team to do their best to assist the local governments in post-disaster clean up. Minister Wei particularly asked the team to pay close attention to matters relating to environmental cleanup and disinfection, drinking water safety, waste clearance and disposal, and the safety of storage facilities for toxic chemicals. \nTo maintain the safety of drinking water, the EPA conducted random water quality tests of the water in water supply stations and restored water supply areas. As of 1 March, the water companies had completed 372 random tests while the environmental authorities had completed 139. All the samples tested met the drinking water standards.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "environmental sanitation", "titlename": "Emergency Response Team Dispatched for Post-quake Cleanup", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-03" }, { "no": "3412", "title": "EPA Responds to Grounded Ocean Liner Yun Hai", "preview": "Water\nEPA Responds to Grounded Ocean Liner Yun Hai", "content": "EPA Responds to Grounded Ocean Liner Yun Hai \nThe Niuean ocean liner Yun Hai was grounded off the coast of Siaobaisha Islet of Penghu County in the early morning of 25 February. On that same day, the EPA kicked off its disaster relief measures in accordance with the Major Marine Oil Pollution Emergency Response Plan and dispatched authorized personnel to Penghu. An inter-ministerial coordination meeting was convened in which the status of the ocean liner was grasped in detail and possible anti-spillage measures were discussed. By means of continuous monitoring and a thorough survey of the coastal conditions, so far no marine pollution resulting from any oil leak has been reported. \n\nThe EPA convened an inter-ministerial coordination meeting in the afternoon of 25 February. The meeting allowed the EPA to understand what equipment and capabilities each governmental unit has in dealing with the situation. The EPA, in turn, asked each unit to do what they are supposed to do, especially in regard to the removal of oil stocks on board the ship and the subsequent matter of hauling its hull. \nThe Maritime and Port Bureau of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications was asked to get hold of the ship owner and its insurance company immediately. In addition, pursuant to Article 53 of the Commercial Port Law（商港法）, before the residual oil is pumped away from the stranded ship, or before the doubts of an oil leak can be completely lifted, the ship owner should provide sufficient financial guarantee and be requested to remove the oil stocks on board as soon as possible. In an effort to acquire more information about the ship, the EPA personnel spoke with the salvaged crew members. It emerged from their conversation that the ocean liner used diesel, not heavy oil. The Maritime and Port Bureau requested the ship owner to come up with a plan for the removal of the oil stocks and the ship itself. \nOn 28 February, the relevant competent authorities did an on-site inspection of the wreckage. It was discovered that the hull of the ship was stranded on a reef area of Siaobaisha Islet. The body of the ship was still steady and showed no sign of significant tilt, while the ship was anchored on its port side. The waters surrounding the ship showed no signs of oil spill. The Maritime and Port Bureau requested the ship owner to commission a third party enterprise as soon as possible and, weather permitting to begin the work of the deployment of oil booms on 29 February.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "EPA Responds to Grounded Ocean Liner Yun Hai", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-03" }, { "no": "3411", "title": "Regulations for Wastewater Treatment Units and Personnel Preannounced", "preview": "Water\nRegulations for Wastewater Treatment Units and Personnel Preannounced", "content": "Regulations for Wastewater Treatment Units and Personnel Preannounced\nOn 22 February 2016, the EPA preannounced two sets of regulations regarding the responsibilities of dedicated wastewater treatment units and personnel: the Regulations Governing the Establishment and Management of Dedicated Wastewater and Sewage Treatment Units or Personnel and the Fine Determination Criteria for Dedicated Wastewater or Sewage Treatment Units or Personnel that Violate the Water Pollution Control Act.\n\nThe 18 articles of the Regulations Governing the Establishment and Management of Dedicated Wastewater or Sewage Treatment Units or Personnel have been drawn up in accordance with Article 21 Paragraph 2 of the Water Pollution Control Act. The drafted regulations primarily cover the conditions surrounding the use of dedicated wastewater treatment units or personnel by enterprises or operators of sewage systems. Such matters as the number of personnel needed, their qualifications, their responsibilities, and the requirements for substitute personnel if the original personnel fall ill, are transferred, or resign from their job are also covered. \nThe Water Pollution Control Act was last amended on 4 February 2015, and dedicated wastewater treatment agencies or personnel that violate Article 21 Paragraph 2 of the Act are now subject to fines of between NT$10,000~100,000, so that the fines that can be levied by the competent authorities of Taiwan’s counties, provincial cities, and special municipalities are proportionate. The EPA has drafted the six articles of the Principles Governing Penalties for Dedicated Wastewater or Sewage Treatment Units or Personnel that Violate Water Pollution Control Act. \nThe penalties stipulate that wastewater\/sewage treatment personnel who violate regulations should be fined according to the list of offences in the regulations and the corresponding fine. If the total fine calculated exceeds the NT$100,000 maximum stated in Article 48 Paragraph 4 of the Water Pollution Control Act, the fine shall be limited to NT$100,000; if the amount is under NT$10,000, the fine levied shall be NT$10,000. \nThe EPA believes that enforcing the above two sets of regulations will encourage dedicated units or personnel that treat industrial wastewater to perform their duties and operate wastewater treatment facilities as required by the Water Pollution Control Act. A more conscientious performance from them will help protect Taiwan’s waterbodies and improve the water quality.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Regulations for Wastewater Treatment Units and Personnel Preannounced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-03" }, { "no": "3410", "title": "Amendments to Regulations for Environmental Agent Technicians Preannounced", "preview": "Toxic substance\nAmendments to Regulations for Environmental Agent Technicians Preannounced", "content": "Amendments to Regulations for Environmental Agent Technicians Preannounced\nTo rigorously manage the environmental agent professional technicians and to strengthen their legally designated responsibilities, the EPA announced the draft of amendments to the Regulations Governing the Employment of Environmental Agent Professional Technicians.\nPursuant to the provisions of the Environmental Agents Control Act, the EPA formulated and announced the Regulations Governing the Establishment of Environmental Agent Professional Technicians on 15 April 1998. The regulations have been amended three times since then. To improve the management of the environmental agent professional technicians and strengthen the technicians’ legally designated responsibilities, the EPA moved the common clauses to the Regulations Governing the Training and Management of Dedicated Environmental Personnel and Professional Technicians for unified formulation, and came up with yet another draft amendment to the Regulations Governing the Employment of Environmental Agent Professional Technicians.\n\nThe gist of the latest draft amendments are:\n1. The position of professional technicians can only be fulfilled by people who have acquired the necessary certificates in related fields. \n2. Business owners need to hire at least one qualified professional technician. \n3. A provision was added to specify that the professional technicians of the manufacturing industry, sales industry and disease vector control industry are obliged to report any accidents caused by the use of environmental agents to the competent authorities within one hour after the incidents took place. \n4. If a professional technician fails to execute his duty or his position is left vacant, the business operator should appoint a qualified person with proper certificates as a substitute. \n5. The filing time for resignation of the professional technicians is extended to three months. \n6. The relevant professional technicians should be employed in a factory, company, or where a business is registered. All hired technicians cannot take on another part-time or full-time job in businesses that are unrelated to environmental protection laws. \n7. Under no circumstances can a professional technician refuse, dodge or interfere with the on-the-job trainings. In addition, any person who has not been dedicated as a professional technician within three years should complete the job training for new technicians within six months from the second day of reporting to duty.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic substance", "titlename": "Amendments to Regulations for Environmental Agent Technicians Preannounced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-03" }, { "no": "3409", "title": "Regulation Draft for Toxic Chemical Substances Management Specialists Preannounced", "preview": "Toxic substance\nRegulation Draft for Toxic Chemical Substances Management Specialists Preannounced", "content": "Regulation Draft for Toxic Chemical Substances Management Specialists Preannounced\nTo improve the training and management of toxic chemical substances professional technical management personnel and strengthen related regulations, on 15 February 2016, the EPA preannounced a draft of the Regulations Governing the Employment and Management of Toxic Chemical Substances Professional Technical Management Personnel.\nThe management of toxic chemical substances professional technical management personnel currently falls under the scope of the Toxic Chemical Substance Control Act. Matters related to their employment, qualifications, training, certification, and suspension or revocation of the certificates, among others are currently regulated by the Regulations Governing the Employment and Management of Dedicated Environmental Protection Units or Personnel.\nHowever, all matters in common to dedicated environmental personnel governing training, certificate issuing and revoking have been integrated into a new set of regulations currently being drafted: the Regulations Governing the Employment and Management of Dedicated Environmental Personnel or Professional Technicians. Once such personnel have obtained their certificates, however, their employment and management are subject to various environmental regulations based upon the pollution control characteristics and management needs. Therefore, the EPA has drafted the Regulations Governing the Employment and Management of Toxic Chemical Substances Professional Technical Management Personnel. The current Regulations Governing the Employment and Management of Dedicated Environmental Protection Units or Personnel will be annulled once the new regulations are announced. \nThe ten articles of the new regulations for toxic chemical substances professional technical management personnel cover personnel numbers and ranks, duties, qualifications for substitute personnel, changes in placement, resignation or transfer, full time residence and restrictions on holding other positions, pre-assignment and on-the-job training.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic substance", "titlename": "Regulation Draft for Toxic Chemical Substances Management Specialists Preannounced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-03" }, { "no": "3408", "title": "2015 Taiwan Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report Published", "preview": "Climate change\n2015 Taiwan Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report Published", "content": "2015 Taiwan Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report Published\nTo gain a clearer picture of greenhouse gas emissions in Taiwan, demonstrate commitment to the Kyoto Protocol, and give outside parties a better understanding of the data and statistical methods used to calculate Taiwan’s emissions, on 26 February the EPA published the 2015 Taiwan Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report on its website for free downloading.\n\nTaiwan is committed to abiding by the decisions of the Seventeenth session of the Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP17) and since 2015 has been compiling greenhouse gas statistics in accordance with the 2006 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories. The 2015 Taiwan Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report contains eight chapters covering the scope of the inventory and its structure. The data in the report has been updated regularly from 1990 to 2013 and includes emissions data for seven major greenhouse gases: CO2, CH4, N2O, HFCs, PFCs, SF6, and NF3. The greenhouse gas sources are classified as being from energy, industrial processes and product use, agriculture, forestry and change of land use, and waste. The report includes a full explanation of the statistical scope of Taiwan’s national greenhouse gas inventory, and outlines and explains emission trends. It also describes the different statistical methods, the types of data, results, and current emission trends for the different greenhouse gas sources and greenhouse gas sinks mentioned in the report. \nTaiwan's total greenhouse gas emissions increased from 136,178 kilotons of carbon dioxide equivalents (excluding carbon dioxide removal) in 1990 up to 284,514 kilotons of carbon dioxide equivalent (excluding carbon dioxide removal) in 2013, with emission increased by 108.93% at an average annual growth rate of 2.94%. The total emission in 2013 had increased by 0.89% compared to the previous year. Net greenhouse gas emission increased from 116,913 kilotons of carbon dioxide equivalents in 1990 up to 263,445 kilotons of carbon dioxide equivalents in 2013, with emissions increased by 125.33% and an average annual growth rate of 3.16%. The total emissions in 2013 had increased by 0.96% than the previous year. \nAmong all the emissions, the energy sector, industrial processes and product use sector, agriculture sector, and waste sector are the main emission sources of carbon dioxide in Taiwan. In 1990, Taiwan had carbon dioxide emission of 122,419 kilotons of carbon dioxide equivalents. In 2013, the figure was 269,627 kilotons of carbon dioxide equivalents, with an increase by 120.25% and an average annual growth rate of 3.16%. In 2013 alone, the energy sector accounted for 92.39%, the industrial processes and product use sector 7.59%, the agriculture sector 0.02%, and the waste sector 0.002%. The emission in 2013 compared with 2012 had increased by 0.88%, mainly because of the increase in emission by 0.19% in the energy sector and 10.56% in the industrial processes and product use sector and the decrease in emission by 17.45% in the agriculture sector and 92.67% in the waste sector.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate change", "titlename": "2015 Taiwan Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report Published", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-03" }, { "no": "3407", "title": "More Firms Adopt Voluntary Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction", "preview": "Climate Change \nMore Firms Adopt Voluntary Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction", "content": "More Firms Adopt Voluntary Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction\nBefore the passing of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act, the EPA was working by the Principles for Promoting the Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Early Action and Offset Program that were announced in 2010. Statistics show that as of the end of 2015, the EPA had received 239 applications for offset and had approved 175 of them, resulting in the greenhouse gas reduction of 69.179 million tonnes of CO2 equivalents. \n\nNatural disasters caused by extreme climate are occurring more frequently worldwide. This winter has seen snow falling in many parts of Taiwan and severe cold weather in other countries. Unusual weather naturally makes people more concerned about climate change issues. Taiwan promulgated its Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act on 1 July 2015. The EPA is currently working hard on formulating subsidiary regulations and policies to keep Taiwan in line with the new directions set in the Paris Agreement adopted by the Twenty-first Session of the Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP 21) \/ and the Eleventh Session of the Conference of the Parties of the Kyoto Protocol (CMP 11) on 13 December 2015. \nThe Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act stipulates that Taiwan’s greenhouse gas reduction strategy should be implemented in three stages. The first stage consists of audits, inspection and registration of greenhouse gas sources. The second stage involves the use of efficiency standards and incentives to encourage enterprises to voluntarily reduce their emissions. The final stage will see the introduction of the cap and trade scheme. The government has already formulated, and is implementing, regulations covering the first stage of audits, inspections and registration. As for voluntary emissions reduction, in 2010 a set of administrative rules - the Principles for Promoting the Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Early Action and Offset Program – were announced to encourage voluntary reductions. On 31 December 2015, the Regulations Governing Greenhouse Gas Emission Offset Program Management were announced in accordance with Article 22 of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act. The above measures have been designed to pave the way for the cap and trade system.\nStatistics show that as of the end of 2015, after nearly six years of implementation, the EPA had received 239 applications for offset programs and had approved 175 of them, which resulted in greenhouse gas reductions equivalent to 69.179 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent. Sixteen new methods of emission reduction were also approved that could prove useful to Taiwan’s enterprises when emission caps are enforced. More information can be found on the EPA’s National Greenhouse Gas Registration Platform website (http:\/\/ghgregistry.epa.gov.tw\/index.aspx) and the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Trading Network website (http:\/\/www.ghginfo.org.tw\/index.php). \nPromoting voluntary emissions reduction will not only reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases but will also bring about the twin benefits of stimulating investment in a green economy and lowering the cost that pollution causes to society as a whole. The applications that the EPA have approved to date represent an investment of NT$8.46 billion that could create an increase in Taiwan’s gross domestic product of NT$12.61 billion and an estimated – using the US government’s Social Cost of Carbon methodology – saving to society of NT$5.76 billion. \nThe incentives for the voluntary emission reduction are beneficial in three aspects: reducing carbon emissions, stimulating investment in a green economy, and lowering the cost that pollution causes to society as a whole. The EPA is now in consultation with other government agencies concerning the formulation of effective efficiency standards in accordance with Articles 17 and 22 of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "More Firms Adopt Voluntary Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-03" }, { "no": "3406", "title": "Public Nuisance Pollution Hotspot System Established", "preview": "Control an evaluation \nPublic Nuisance Pollution Hotspot System Established", "content": "Public Nuisance Pollution Hotspot System Established\nIn 2015, the EPA constructed a public nuisance pollution hotspot system based upon analysis of 20 years of public nuisance complaints data and the use of geographic information system (GIS). The pollution hotspot system will be available to local environmental protection bureaus so that they can identify pollution hotspots in their jurisdiction and thus take precautions before complaints arise. \n\nThe EPA’s national public nuisance hotline (0800-066-666) was first established in 1996. It is the first government agency hotline manned every day throughout the year in Taiwan outside the police and fire service lines. The EPA thus has 20 years’ experience of dealing with anonymous complaints. There has been a significant increase in recent years due to more channels of communication being available that are easy to use and guarantee anonymity (such as the EPA’s public nuisance app). The EPA now handles more than 200,000 public nuisance complaints annually. \nAccording to EPA statistics, the EPA received 277,393 public nuisance complaints in 2015, of which 217,424 (78.4%) originated from Taiwan’s six municipalities. Taipei City and New Taipei City alone accounted for 121,833 or 43.9% of them. The three major causes for complaint – 244,930 complaints or 88.3% - were noise, offensive odors, and poor environmental sanitation. Loud noise received most of the complaints, with 87,906 reports or 31.7% of the total. Of these, 37,986 complaints were due to construction work, road work or interior renovation, and 23,469 were because of KTV or karaoke businesses. Loud noises are clearly something the public considers to be a major nuisance.\nEPA analysis of the complaints received in Taipei City and New Taipei City shows that the most frequent complaints were due to the use of heavy machinery on construction sites in Banqiao. In Daan district – the most densely-populated part of Taipei City, and hence very commercially developed – a large number of complaints resulted from offensive odors emanating from restaurants. In Zhongshan district, the high concentration of restaurants, entertainment venues, and street venders make the district a hotspot for sanitation-related complaints. The analysis clearly shows that the main reason for public nuisance complaints is due to poor separation of residences from commercial premises or construction sites in densely-populated areas.\nIn addition to spatial hotspots, the EPA also introduced the element of time into the analysis. Taking the burning of rice paddy stubble as an example, the EPA discovered that the two main periods for smoke-related complaints were July-August and November. The areas with the highest numbers of complaints were all in central Taiwan, such as Caotun Township in Nantou County, Douliou City in Yunlin County, and Xizhou Township in Changhua County. \nNow that the public nuisance hotspot system is up and running, local government environmental protection bureaus can use it to identify hotspots and peak periods and thus be better prepared for dealing with complaints from the public when they arise. For example, in 2015 the local governments of Yilan County, Changhua County, Nantou County, Taichung City, and Chiayi City used it to provide advice to the public and conduct inspections of offending premises, which resulted in more official warnings being issued. In the future, local government environmental protection bureaus will be required to collect air pollution control fees and at the same time advise construction firms on how to prevent noise pollution before work starts on any construction site. This measure aims to reduce public nuisance, thus maintaining a better quality of life. \nThe EPA once again reminds operators of pollution sources to ensure that suitable pollution control measures are in place. The EPA also reminds the public to join in the effort to protect the environment and immediately report incidences of polluting activities by calling the public nuisance pollution hotline or reporting it online using a computer or the EPA’s public nuisance app for mobile devices.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Control an evaluation", "titlename": "Public Nuisance Pollution Hotspot System Established", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-03" }, { "no": "3405", "title": "Taiwan and US to Jointly Hold Air Quality Monitoring Camp", "preview": "Environmental monitoring\nTaiwan and US to Jointly Hold Air Quality Monitoring Camp", "content": "Taiwan and US to Jointly Hold Air Quality Monitoring Camp \nIn order to replicate the success of Taiwan and the US in promoting environmental education through the Kids Making Sense program, the EPAs of the two nations have decided to hold the 2016 Kids Making Sense International event in Thailand. On 19 February 2016, officials from the Taiwan and US EPAs, including Deputy Minister Shu-Chiang Fu, and US EPA Acting Assistant Administrator for International & Tribal Affairs Jane Nishida held a ceremony at Stella Matutina Girls' High School in Taichung City to inaugurate the event. The school will represent Taiwan at the event.\n\nClimate change, global warming and air pollution have become hot topics worldwide in recent years, and many nations are busy formulating related policies and environmental regulations. Environmental education has also moved up the agenda in the hope that educating and guiding the public will encourage them to make environmental protection an integral part of their daily lives. \nThe EPA has been running the Kids Making Sense program over the last two years with the help of the US EPA in order for Taiwan’s youths to gain a better understanding of the impact that air pollution has on their immediate environment. By giving them hands-on experience using simple air quality monitoring instruments in a real-life situation, the students learn much about air quality, pollution sources and pollutants, and the connection between air quality and health. Basic knowledge such as this then becomes the foundation for cultivating an eco-friendly outlook in daily life. \nIn 2015, the Taiwan and US EPAs jointly held a Kids Making Sense camp at Stella Matutina Girls' High School in Taichung City. The EPA officials were impressed with the school’s performance last year and thus decided – in conjunction with Taichung City Bureau of Environmental Protection - to hold a ceremony at the school to announce that it will represent Taiwan at the 2016 Kids Making Sense International event. \nUS EPA Acting Assistant Administrator Jane Nishida came especially to Taiwan to attend the ceremony. Deputy Minister Fu and Ms. Nishida also paid a visit to the school’s president, Sr. Agnes Chu to invite the staff and students who participated in the 2015 KMS to represent Taiwan in Thailand. The organization of the 2016 KMS reflects the successful environmental partnerships between Taiwan, US and other Asia- Pacific nations. The hope is that the successes achieved so far can be reproduced in other nations and further demonstrate Taiwan’s confidence and commitment to promoting air quality monitoring as a part of environmental education.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental monitoring", "titlename": "Taiwan and US to Jointly Hold Air Quality Monitoring Camp", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-03" }, { "no": "3404", "title": "International Environmental Partnership Promotes Multilateral Cooperation in Seven Fields", "preview": "Environmental education\nInternational Environmental Partnership Promotes Multilateral Cooperation in Seven Fields", "content": "International Environmental Partnership Promotes Multilateral Cooperation in Seven Fields \nIn April 2014, EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei launched the International Environmental Partnership (IEP) at a ceremony attended by President Ma Ying-jeou and USA EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy. The IEP is based upon close cooperation between Taiwan and the US and aims to promote multilateral and regional environmental partnerships with the goal of improving the effectiveness of environmental protection worldwide. To date, seven major projects have been drawn up, and over 50 events and activities have been held in which over 40 nations worldwide have participated.\n\nThe IEP was formally launched on 14 April 2014 by EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei at a ceremony attended by President Ma Ying-jeou and US EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy. The IEP is founded upon a close cooperation for more than two decades between Taiwan and the US in promoting multilateral and regional cooperation and aims to boost the effectiveness of environmental protection worldwide. \nThe seven main areas for cooperation outlined in the International Environmental Partnership include e-waste recycling and disposal; urban clean air; soil and groundwater pollution remediation; atmospheric mercury monitoring; environmental education; and environmental law enforcement. To date, over 50 events and activities have been held in which over 40 nations worldwide have participated, allowing them to share experiences and celebrate the many positive results from protecting the environment together.\n\n1. Cities Clean Air Partnership (CCAP)\nThe aim of this project is to strengthen the management of urban air quality and therefore reduce the harm that air-borne pollutants and climate change is having upon the health of urban residents in Asia, thus improving their quality of life. The project is supporting Clean Air Asia in promoting city partnering in the region, developing city certification on clean air, and establishing a knowledge platform to strengthen the management of urban air quality and reduce air pollution sources. \n\n2. Asia-Pacific Mercury Monitoring Network (APMMN)\nAPMMN is centered on a technology platform jointly set up by the Taiwan and US EPAs to assist Southeast Asian nations in establishing atmospheric mercury wet deposition sampling technology. Another platform – set up by the Taiwan EPA – allows mercury monitoring data, monitoring station information, standard operating procedure for sampling to be shared with other Southeast Asian nations to promote regional cooperation in the field of atmospheric mercury monitoring. In the Asia Pacific Mercury Monitoring Network Workshop held in June 2015 in Minamata, Japan, delegates from 16 nations in the Asia-Pacific region met to discuss how to establish a regional mercury monitoring network and further greater multilateral exchanges in the region. \n\n3. International E-waste Management Network (IEMN)\nSince 2011, the Taiwan and US EPAs have been jointly administering the International E-waste Management Network (IEMN) that is working to build management capabilities worldwide to recycle and dispose of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) so that it does not damage the environment. Current IEMN member states are from the Asia-Pacific region, the Americas, and Africa. By means of annual conferences and knowledge sharing online, member nations can update their WEEE management policies and share policy development and administrative experiences with each other. \nIn September 2015, the Taiwan EPA, the US EPA and the Colombia Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development jointly held the 5th International E-waste Management Network Conference. A total of 44 delegates of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) from 17 nations in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Oceania attended the conference to share their experiences in e-waste management. \n\n4. Environmental Education \nThe aim of the environmental education program is to establish guidelines for environmental education, as well as promote climate change education, teacher training and professional development, and legislation governing environmental education. The program also promotes exchanges between eco-campuses and environmental education events that draw on the experiences of other nations to increase mutual understanding of ways to protect the global environment. Some of the projects currently being implemented include the Global Environmental Education Partnership, the US-Taiwan Eco-Campus Partnership, and Kids Making Sense – an air quality monitoring experiencing event for students.\n\n1) Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP)\nThe aim of GEEP is to provide an open environmental education platform for environmental educators around the world to share knowledge and learn from each other. The first GEEP conference was convened in April 2014 in Taipei by EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei and US EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy. The second conference was held in October 2014 in Ottawa, Canada; the third in Taipei in April 2015; and the fourth in San Diego, USA in October 2015. The latest conference was attended by environmental education specialists from governments and NGOs in 18 nations. \n\n2) Kids Making Sense (KMS)\nThe KMS project is based on employing easy-to-use, mobile air quality monitoring instruments to give students the opportunity to test air quality for themselves. Deepening their understanding of the environment in this way should help stimulate the desire to make voluntary protection of the environment a part of their daily lives. KMS was first trialed in 2014 at Banqiao Senior High School in New Taipei City, and then at Stella Matutina Girls' High School in Taichung City in 2015. The event will be carried out in Thailand in 2016. In 2015, the Taiwan EPA also supported the North American Association for Environmental Education to hold a KMS workshop in Los Angeles, USA. \n\n3) Eco-Campus Partnership Program\nThe aim of the Eco-Campus Partnership Program is to facilitate partnerships between eco-schools in the US and in Taiwan through employing the same methodology and activities so that Taiwan’s eco-schools align with the international norms. Two workshops for the Eco-Campus Partnership Program were held in 2014 and 2015, respectively, and interested schools were invited to participate. Schools that gained accreditation through the program are now able to conduct exchanges with sister schools at home and abroad. To date, about 60 eco-schools in Taiwan have formed eco-campus partnerships with sister schools in the USA. \n\n5. Next Generation Compliance Conference\nThe Next Generation Compliance Conference aims to share with other nations the experiences of Taiwan and the US in administering environmental laws and regulations. The Taiwan and US EPAs and Asian Environmental Compliance and Enforcement Network (AECEN) jointly held the Asia region Next Generation Compliance Conference in Bangkok in September 2015. Some 50 experts from government agencies of 16 nations, the Asia Development Bank, as well as various research institutions and citizen groups attended the conference. \n\n6. Pan-Pacific Climate Adaptation Conference\nSince 2014, the Taiwan EPA has been keen to form partnerships – and share its technology and experience – to mitigate climate change with other nations through the Pan Pacific Adaptation on Climate Change (PPACC). In 2015, Taiwan hosted the Pan-Pacific Climate Adaptation Conference, attended by 28 delegates from government agencies and NGOs in ten nations and from four international organizations. The delegates were able to lay the groundwork for specific models and platforms for cooperative efforts to deal with climate change.\n\n7. Soil and Groundwater Remediation Service Program\nThis program came about after a request from the government of Indonesia for assistance in remediating polluted sites. It includes advice on regulatory frameworks, remediation technology, identifying polluters, information on successful remediation cases, and also specific advice on how to remediate some of Indonesia’s major polluted sites. \n\nEvents Planned for 2016\n\nEvents and activities in various environmental fields have been planned for 2016 under the IEP. In June, Taiwan will host an event to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Mt. Lulin Monitoring Station as well as the inauguration of Environmental Monitoring Center. In August, Taiwan will host the Asia Pacific Mercury Monitoring Network Workshop that will focus on technology and data exchanges for monitoring mercury content in rainfall. \nThe Taiwan EPA will also continue working with Clean Air Asia, the North American Association for Environmental Education, the US National Wildlife Federation, and Asian Environmental Compliance and Enforcement Network. Works to be promoted include city partnerships and certification for clean air, global environmental education, air quality monitoring camps, Eco-Campus Exchange, and the next generation of environmental law enforcement. Taiwan will also continue to hold related international conferences such as the Pan-Pacific Climate Adaptation Conference, the International E-waste Management Network Conference, and the International Conference on Sustainable Materials Management. The aim of these conferences is to exchange knowledge and experiences of environmental management to expand regional partnerships to work together to protect the regional and global environment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental education", "titlename": "International Environmental Partnership Promotes Multilateral Cooperation in Seven Fields", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-03" }, { "no": "3403", "title": "EPA’s Environmental Incidents Specialist Teams Acquire ISO Certification", "preview": "General Policy\nEPA’s Environmental Incidents Specialist Teams Acquire ISO Certification", "content": "EPA’s Environmental Incidents Specialist Teams Acquire ISO Certification\nTo standardize the preparation for, prevention of and response to toxic accidents, the EPA’s three Environmental Incidents Specialist Teams acquired ISO certification in 2015. Taiwan’s environmental incident response capacity is thus aligned with international standards. In so doing, standardization has been introduced to make systemic management more complete and response mechanisms and instrument maintenance more secure, thus enhancing the quality and operational safety of disaster prevention. \nAt present, the EPA has three Environmental Incidents Specialist Teams for northern, southern and central Taiwan, respectively. The northern team is managed by a group from Chung-Yuan Christian University, the central team is managed by a group from National Yunlin University of Science and Technology, and the southern team is managed by a group from the National Kaohsiung First University of Science and Technology. In 2015, all three teams acquired ISO 9001: 2008 Quality Management System Certification. \nAs Taiwan is a densely populated island with limited land space and numerous chemical factories run by small-and-medium sized enterprises, toxic incidents are prone to happen. Thus Taiwan needs to continually strengthen its incident prevention and response technology capacity and enhance the effectiveness of its incident response system. Attaining ISO certification shows that Taiwan is able to achieve the objectives of incident prevention, enhance the professional knowledge and skill of its specialists, and promote international exchanges. It is hoped that by virtue of the ISO certification, the skills and processes for responding to environmental incidents will be standardized, while ensuring the quality and safety of operations.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "EPA’s Environmental Incidents Specialist Teams Acquire ISO Certification", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-02" }, { "no": "3402", "title": "Volkswagen Taiwan to Recall Cars in Batches for Modifications", "preview": "Air\nVolkswagen Taiwan to Recall Cars in Batches for Modifications", "content": "Volkswagen Taiwan to Recall Cars in Batches for Modifications\nA review panel comprising experts, scholars, and the representative of the Consumer Protection Committee was convened by the EPA on 14 January 2016. The panel reviewed and approved the recall and rectification plan submitted by Volkswagen Taiwan. It was planned that from March 2016 onward, Volkswagen Taiwan will recall 18,798 affected vehicles in batches for modifications. As per the demands of the panel, Volkswagen Taiwan shall complete the recall and rectification of vehicles with 2.0 engines by October 2016 and recall\/rectify vehicles with 1.6 engines by June 2017. \nVolkswagen Taiwan plans to recall and rectify the affected vehicles in stages. The 2.0 engine applies to Audi, Skoda and Volkswagen passenger cars and commercial vehicles, totaling 10,454 vehicles needing software updates. The rectification period shall commence from March 2016 and end by October 2016. The 1.6 engine applies to Skoda vehicles, and Volkswagen passenger cars and commercial vehicles, totaling 8,343 vehicles needing software updates as well as the installation of super airflow switching devices. The rectification period shall commence in October 2016 and end by June 2017. The 1.2 engine applies only to one of Volkswagen passenger cars, which also requires a software update to be completed before June 2016. Car owners can expect the rectification work to take from 30 minutes (for software updates) to one hour (software updates and installation of airflow switching device).", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Volkswagen Taiwan to Recall Cars in Batches for Modifications", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-02" }, { "no": "3401", "title": "Amendments to Regulations on Ocean Dumping Fee Collection Preannounced", "preview": "waste\nAmendments to Regulations on Ocean Dumping Fee Collection Preannounced", "content": "waste\nAmendments to Regulations on Ocean Dumping Fee Collection Preannounced\nTo ensure port navigation safety, there is a practical need for ocean dumping of marine mud produced from dredging of ports and waterways. The EPA referred to prevailing international practices before preannouncing the amendments to the Regulations Governing Collection of Ocean Dumping Fees, which substantiate the polluter pays principle. \nThe Regulations were amended in compliance with relevant provisions of the Marine Pollution Control Act, taking into consideration the state of implementation of Taiwan’s ocean dumping permits. The amendments include: specifying fee rates and terms for the volume of ocean dumping, methods by which fees are calculated, fee rates for different kinds of dumping, payment of the fees, and relevant regulations pertaining to audits by competent authorities. The amendments also stipulated that fees will be collected from 1 July 2016. \nAs ocean dumping differs in content and volume, from a practical standpoint, the previous fee calculation methods were complicated and controversial. Thus the EPA amended the fee collecting regulations by taking stock of prevailing international practices, most of which were based on the weights or volumes of the dumping. The EPA also has simplified the administrative procedures for the collection and payment of the dumping fees. In addition, all the collected fees will be incorporated into the Water Pollution Control Fund, a special fund of the central competent authority dedicated exclusively to the control, monitoring and treatment of marine pollution, and to other items related to marine environmental protection research or training.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Amendments to Regulations on Ocean Dumping Fee Collection Preannounced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-02" }, { "no": "3400", "title": "Noise Control Guidelines for Large Scale Events Issued", "preview": "Noise control\nNoise Control Guidelines for Large Scale Events Issued", "content": "Noise Control Guidelines for Large Scale Events Issued\nThe EPA has formulated the Guidelines for Noise Control of Large Scale Events. Local governments, activity organizers and venue providers are required to fulfill their responsibilities for noise control and management before and during events so as to ensure a peaceful environment. In this regard, preventive measures such as noise reduction for the sound source, change of the sound transmission path, and the protection of the noise receiver, etc., should all be rigorously enforced. \nThe main points of the guidelines include: \n1. Before the event, the organizer should submit a noise control plan and make commitments to enforce noise control measures, such as banning the use of loudspeakers at night-time, and forbidding hand-clapping, jumping and other noise-generating behaviors.\n2. The venue provider should review the organizer’s noise control plan before the activity takes place. The venue provider also needs to take better noise reduction measures such as installing sound-absorbing materials.\n3. The local government should hold a meeting before the event with the organizer and the venue provider to incorporate the guidelines into the venue under management rules or the rental contract. During the event, the local government also needs to conduct inspection to ensure that noise control rules are complied with. \nOn 29 December 2015, the EPA sent notices to local governments requesting that all event-organizers and venue providers comply with the guidelines and fulfill their planning and management responsibilities. Anyone in violation of the noise control standards will be subject to a fine between NT$3,000~30,000. Currently, most local governments have notified event organizers and venue providers to comply with the guidelines. Some local governments have further incorporated these guidelines into their autonomous regulations on safety of large scale events. \nThe EPA maintains that the guidelines focus on taking preventive measures which are doubly effective in that they can reduce the workload on local environmental protection bureaus. It hopes that the event organizers and the venue providers can implement the noise control measures before events take place so as to reduce noise nuisances.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Noise control", "titlename": "Noise Control Guidelines for Large Scale Events Issued", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-02" }, { "no": "3399", "title": "Regular Inspections Effective in Phasing Out Two-stroke Motorcycles", "preview": "Air\nRegular Inspections Effective in Phasing Out Two-stroke Motorcycles", "content": "Regular Inspections Effective in Phasing Out Two-stroke Motorcycles\nGiven the nation’s high density of motorcycles, the EPA has adopted a range of measures to restrict pollution emissions: gradually tightening emission standards for new vehicles, requiring all motorcycles to undergo regular exhaust emission inspections, encouraging citizens to report heavy-polluting motorcycles, raising the quality of fuels for vehicles, stepping up the phase-out of old two-stroke motorcycles, and promoting the use of low-polluting vehicles. Thanks to regular reinforced inspection at the local level, a total of 770,000 two-stroke motorcycles have been phased out in the past seven years, effectively reducing air pollution.\nAs of the end of 2015, Taiwan had approximately 13.7 million motorcycles registered, 1.8 million of which were two-stroke. Motorcycles are mostly concentrated in Taiwan’s six major cities, with the most scooters being in New Taipei City, and the most two-stroke ones being in Kaohsiung City. In 2015, a total of 8,532 inspection operations were carried out resulting in the inspection of 4.77 million vehicles. These locally administered motorcycle inspections included patrols, roadside inspections, pulling over of suspect vehicles, and inspections based on vehicle registration plates. \nThe rate of motorcycles showing up for regular inspection reached 69.5%. This consisted of 73.69% of the total four-stroke motorcycles compared to 54.48% of the total two-stroke ones. A total of 265,000 two-stroke motorcycles were retired as a result of regular inspections.\nTwo-stroke motorcycles are heavy polluters, emitting 18 times the hydrocarbons and two times the carbon monoxide of four-stroke ones. To reduce the pollution emissions of two-stroke motorcycles, the EPA has been enforcing the fourth stage emission standards since 2004. Two-stroke motorcycles in Taiwan have already been taken off the production line as they are unable to comply with emission standards. For those still in use, the EPA has been offering subsidies since 2008 as an incentive to replace the old vehicles. More heavy-handed measures have been required in Kaohsiung City and Taipei City where air quality purification zones have been locally delineated based on the actual state of pollution. The riding of two-stroke motorcycles will be restricted or banned in designated areas after the set deadlines. \nFrom 2008, the EPA has been providing subsidies to phase out two-stroke motorcycles, and on 20 July 2015 promulgated the Regulations Governing Subsidies for Scrapping Two-stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Two-wheeled Electric Vehicles. The regulations increased subsidies and requested local governments to tack on additional subsidies to increase incentives for citizens to scrap their two-stroke motorcycles more quickly. As of the end of 2015, subsidies had been given to retire over 770,000 two-stroke motorcycles, with 120,000 being retired in 2015 alone. The number of registered light motorcycles, mostly two-stroke ones, has dropped from an all-time high of 4.6 million in 2003 to 1.88 million in 2015, a decrease of nearly 2.72 million vehicles in a period of 12 years.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Regular Inspections Effective in Phasing Out Two-stroke Motorcycles", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-02" }, { "no": "3398", "title": "Regulations on Greenhouse Gas Accreditation and Verification Organizations Announced", "preview": "Climate Change\nRegulations on Greenhouse Gas Accreditation and Verification Organizations Announced", "content": "Regulations on Greenhouse Gas Accreditation and Verification Organizations Announced\nTo ensure the accuracy of data on greenhouse gas emissions and reductions, the EPA has sought out third party inspection organizations to carry out greenhouse gas verification and accreditation work. To define this work, the EPA referred to the tasks originally implemented under the Air Pollution Control Act and drafted of the Greenhouse Gas Accreditation Organizations and Verification Organizations Management Regulations in accordance with Article 16 of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act.\nOn 7 January 2016, the EPA promulgated the Greenhouse Gas Accreditation Organizations and Verification Organizations Management Regulations (hereafter referred to as the Regulations) with a total of 23 articles. The Regulations are based on Article 16 Paragraph 2 of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act and serve as the guidelines for managing greenhouse gas accreditation organizations and verification organizations.\nThe Regulations derive their content from the guidelines of existing regulations, but more clearly specify: the conditions under which greenhouse gas accreditation organizations can be entrusted; the verification organization permit application and review process; details to be followed by the verification organizations when handling greenhouse gas verification and auditing work; central competent authority inspection procedures; and guidelines on handling verification organization violations as well as revoking the entrusting of services to the accreditation organizations. \nThe EPA states that verification organizations covered under the scope of the Regulations must be internationally accredited or a domestic subsidiary company of an accredited international company, and that they must obtain certification from the central competent authority or other entrusted certification organizations to apply for an verification organization permit under the Regulations. \nGreenhouse gas accreditation organizations should meet the following requirements:\n1. Comply with the ISO\/IEC 17011 requirements jointly issued by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and be a member of the International Accreditation Forum.\n2. They must have already signed the international greenhouse gas related multilateral recognition arrangements. Or, if such arrangements have not yet been established, they must have at least already signed the international management system and product verification multilateral recognition arrangement, and promise that they will sign all the necessary arrangements within two years. \nUpon the date of implementation of the Regulations, the EPA gives six months to apply for changes in qualifications for the one greenhouse gas accreditation organization and eight verification organizations that have already obtained operative status through the original regulations. This will make it easier for organizations to continue through with current accreditation and verification work and thus ensure the accuracy of Taiwan’s greenhouse gas emissions and reductions data.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Regulations on Greenhouse Gas Accreditation and Verification Organizations Announced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-02" }, { "no": "3397", "title": "Tracking Agents Shown Helpful for Waste Cooking Oil Flow Management", "preview": "Waste\nTracking Agents Shown Helpful for Waste Cooking Oil Flow Management", "content": "Tracking Agents Shown Helpful for Waste Cooking Oil Flow Management\nOn 11 January 2016, the EPA announced that the tracking agents developed by its Environmental Analysis Laboratory had been approved and can be added to waste cooking oil to facilitate the tracking of its flow without affecting the quality of other products when the oil is reused, or otherwise hampering the manufacturing processes of the reuse products. Furthermore, animal testing was done and the results showed that even if the oil were illegally added to food for animals, it would not cause health effects in the animals.\nIn the interest of confirming whether tracking agents can be effectively used in tracing the flow of waste cooking oil, the EPA found it necessary to test the actual procedures that would be used. Thus in 2015, the Taoyuan City Environmental Protection Bureau was invited to cooperate in trials of adding tracking agents to waste cooking oil. This cooperation between central and local governments has already produced results in each stage of operations, including the adding of agents, inspecting samples over time and analyzing test results. The results showed that the flow of waste cooking oil can be effectively tracked from its source (eg, restaurant or food stall), to legitimate collection channels – whether they are individual recyclers or clearance organizations – and then to the reuse organizations. The agent can be detected all along the waste flow, showing that adding tracking agents to waste cooking oil is a feasible measure that can facilitate the management of the flow of waste cooking oil. \nThe EPA stated that the trial was conducted in two parts. The first task was to analyze the effect of added tracking agents on the quality of recycled products. For this part, the EPA invited two reuse organizations to add the tracking agent into waste cooking oil before reusing the oil for manufacturing purposes. Care was taken to pilot operations or real manufacturing procedures in the reuse organizations. The products were then given to the Environmental Analysis Laboratory to monitor the tracking agents. The reuse organizations were also asked to simultaneously conduct their own quality control tests on the products and then evaluate the same sets of data taken from control tests of the same product to which the tracking agent had not been added. \nA number of tests also showed that there was no significant difference between products to which tracking agents had been added and products without tracking agents. Test data components included water content, acidity, iodine content, cold filter clogging point, free glycerol, viscosity, density, ester content, flash point, and pour point of the product as well as the oil wear test. \nTo find out whether waste cooking oil laced with tracking agents could have long term health effects on animals if the oil were illegally reconstituted into animal feed, the EPA commissioned the Department of Animal Science and Livestock at the National Pingtung University of Science and Technology to conduct tests on pigs. Analysis of results showed no significant differences on piglet development.\nAs there is flexibility for adjusting the composition of tracking agents, the EPA stated that if there is a need for further management measures in the future, the Environmental Analysis Laboratory can develop different tracking agents based on the recycling channels in different regions.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Tracking Agents Shown Helpful for Waste Cooking Oil Flow Management", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-02" }, { "no": "3396", "title": "Management Regulations on Chemicals Listed in Montreal Protocol Revised", "preview": "Toxic Substance \nManagement Regulations on Chemicals Listed in Montreal Protocol Revised", "content": "Management Regulations on Chemicals Listed in Montreal Protocol Revised \nMilitary and aviation industries still need to use halon agents in certain equipment, for example the halons in fire extinguishers used on aircrafts, which require permits that must be applied for. To simplify the process for aviation industry operators that need to import halon fire extinguishers, the EPA has revised certain articles in regulations governing the use of chemicals listed in the Montreal Protocol.\nTo comply with the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, on 4 May 2007, the EPA promulgated the Management Regulations Governing Chemical Substances Listed in the Montreal Protocol on 4 May 2007 in accordance with the Air Pollution Control Act. The regulations contain 23 articles. . \nAlthough nations that comply with the Montreal Protocol are prohibited from importing products containing chemicals that damage the ozone layer, certain exceptions have been made for products related to aviation or military use. In addition, the International Civil Aviation Organization has clearly stipulated regulations regarding where the halon fire extinguisher is to be installed as well as the schedule for phasing out in the use of halons on the aircraft.\nSince it is still deemed necessary for military and aviation operations to use halon fire extinguishers, and the users of halons in aircraft must first obtain a permit issued by the industry competent authority, the EPA has decided to simplify the required procedures for the import of halon fire extinguishers by aviation enterprises. Revisions have been made to the methods for listing halon fire extinguishers as controlled substances, and the industry competent authority that is responsible for conducting reviews.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Management Regulations on Chemicals Listed in Montreal Protocol Revised", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-02" }, { "no": "3395", "title": "Four Industries Required to Disclose Types and Amounts of Pollutants in Effluent", "preview": "Water\nFour Industries Required to Disclose Types and Amounts of Pollutants in Effluent", "content": "Four Industries Required to Disclose Types and Amounts of Pollutants in Effluent \nOn 4 February 2016, the EPA announced the Industries Required to Disclose Concentrations and Quantities of Pollutants that May Be Contained in Wastewater Effluent. This regulation stipulates which industries are required to disclose pollutants in their effluents, as well as the categories of pollutants to be disclosed. Benchmarks have been identified for pollutants suspected of harming the ecosystem or human health.\nThe EPA promulgated the amendments to the Water Pollution Control Act on 4 February 2016 to strengthen risk management and address substances not subject to the Effluent Standards. It has been added to Article 14-1 of the Act that industries must disclose which pollutants and the quantities thereof that may be contained in their effluents. To Article 14-2, it has been added that industries must submit a risk assessment report and management measures for pollutants that are suspected to be harmful to the ecosystem or human health. \nThe industries affected by the amendments include manufacturers and handlers of large quantities of chemical raw materials in the petrochemical and chemical industries, as well as three industries known for high turnover rates of raw materials: the optoelectronic materials and components manufacturing industry, the wafer fabrication industry, and the semiconductors manufacturing industry. The regulations apply to enterprises whose approved effluent discharge amount (or pipeline amount) as stated in their water pollution control measures and permit is 10,000 m3\/day or above.\nTo clarify guidelines on which items must be disclosed, the EPA has referred to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) Group 1 carcinogenic agents, as well as the Ministry of Labor’s Priority Management Chemicals including Category 1 Carcinogen, Category 1 Mutagen or Category 1 Reproductive Toxicant. Inapplicable substances have been deleted, leaving the list at 129 chemical substances. \nIn addition, to provide consistent benchmarks for identifying chemical substances suspected to be harmful to the ecosystem or human health, the EPA has announced the Water Pollution Control Act Risk Assessment and Management Report Working Guidelines. The Guidelines also ensure that enterprises and the competent authorities have a guide to follow when writing or reviewing risk assessment reports.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Four Industries Required to Disclose Types and Amounts of Pollutants in Effluent", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-02" }, { "no": "3394", "title": "First Effluent Total Quantity Control Zone Approved", "preview": "Water\nFirst Effluent Total Quantity Control Zone Approved", "content": "First Effluent Total Quantity Control Zone Approved \nThe EPA has approved the Taoyuan City government’s Shinjie River and Puhsin River Basin Wastewater Total Quantity Control Methods in accordance with Article 9 of the Water Pollution Control Act. Since the Act was promulgated in 1974, this is the first such case in the nation, which has become a milestone for the future of river remediation and industrial wastewater control.\nTo protect water bodies and the environment, the EPA has given priority to improving the quality of irrigation water sources for specified agricultural lands. From 2015 the EPA began assisting Taoyuan City, Changhua County and Taichung City in implementing waterbody heavy metal total quantity controls. Looking at the current status of waterbodies, the EPA and local governments drew up a map to zone areas for total quantity control measures, and formulated total quantity control methods. Revisions were made to the Effluent Standards and the Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Application Review Regulations, paving the way for enacting total quantity control regulations. These two regulations were amended and promulgated on 6 January and 19 January 2016, respectively. \nThe EPA’s approval of the Taoyuan City Government’s total quantity control methods was done in accordance with Article 9 of the Water Pollution Control Act. Both the Shinjie River and the Puhsin River require special protection measures, as the catchment areas for these rivers include rainwater runoff and industrial wastewater from the Huangchien River, an upstream tributary. The waterbodies are used to irrigate 950 hectares of farmland, and long-time irrigation has resulted in increasingly serious problems of heavy metal contamination. With 145 hectares of this land now listed as soil pollution control sites, there is an urgent need to improve the quality of these irrigation water sources. \nWith this ratification, the Taoyuan City Government will designate the Shinjie River and Puhsin River basins as total quantity control zones to be managed according to a classification system. Class 1 total quantity control zones are distributed in the Chungli and Luzhu Districts. Class 2 total quantity control zones include a total area of some 10,000 hectares. The Chungli Industrial Park and Advanced Semiconductor Engineering Company are both part of the industrial park sewer systems located within a Class 1 total quantity control zone. Printed circuit board manufacturers are the main industry located in the Class 2 total quantity control zone. A total of 27 industries will eventually be included in the total quantity control zone system and subject to stricter controls. \nAmong the pollutants targeted under the Taoyuan City total quantity control system are copper, zinc, nickel, total chromium, hexavalent chromium and cadmium. According to the EPA’s latest regulations for Class 1 total quantity control zones, industries that generate or discharge wastewater containing any one of these six heavy metals will not be issued permits for new applications, and will not be allowed to make changes or increase their heavy metal emissions or total quantities. If after five years the water quality of the waterbody in question is still not suitable for irrigation or if there are still serious pollution concerns, the responsible enterprise will not be granted a permit again after its existing permit expires. Once a permit has been revoked or canceled due to violations, a violating enterprise will never be granted a permit again. In addition, if an enterprise located in a Class 1 or Class 2 total quantity control zone plans to discharge wastewater into waterbodies of concern, the wastewater must be treated until it meets the tightened effluent standards before the enterprise may discharge it.\nThe EPA and local governments are working together closely to revise regulations so as to prevent heavy metals in industrial wastewater from affecting irrigation water quality. It is apparent that these efforts are bearing results. In the future, the EPA will continue to review the delineation of total quantity control zones proposed by the Taichung City and the Changhua County Governments.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "First Effluent Total Quantity Control Zone Approved", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-02" }, { "no": "3393", "title": "Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Review Regulations Revised and Renamed", "preview": "Water\nWater Pollution Control Measures and Permit Review Regulations Revised and Renamed", "content": "Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Review Regulations Revised and Renamed\nOn 19 January 2016, the EPA promulgated revisions to the Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Application Review Regulations, renaming it as the Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Application Review Management Regulations. Several changes have been made in response to the 2015 amendments to the Water Pollution Control Act and the collection of water pollution fees. \nThe revision came in response to the 4 February 2015 amendments to the Water Pollution Control Act in order to comply with the implementation of significant measures such as pollutant disclosure and risk assessment, information disclosure, total effluent quantity controls to protect farmland water bodies, the use of slurry from anaerobic livestock manure fermentation as fertilizer, and the strengthening of management for permit application procedures. The major amendments are outlined below:\n1. Announced industries applying for water pollution control measures or discharge permits should disclose pollutant types, concentrations and quantities. For categories of pollutants not covered under the Effluent Standards, but suspected by the competent authorities to be harmful to the ecosystem or human health, industries must submit a risk assessment or management report within 18 months.\nAn enterprise applying to resume work or operation shall submit its water pollution control measures and waste sludge treatment improvement plan, upon which the competent authority shall convene a review meeting with experts and scholars as well as stakeholders or public interest groups. The minutes and content of this review meeting shall be made available to the public. To protect specified farmland waterbodies by diminishing the risks of contaminating irrigation canals with wastewater, it was also added that permit issuance by the local competent authority must adhere to the total quantity control management measures for the announced effluent total quantity control zones. \n2. To simplify the permit application process, the submission of water pollution control measures and the application for a discharge permit are not necessary if all slurries from anaerobic fermentation of livestock manure are used as fertilizer. \n3. To make actual permit management more flexible and practical, details are now to be given in the water pollution control measures and permit application documents. This includes the scale of manufacturing equipment, production or services related to wastewater and sludge generated, data showing that original wastewater quality is improved or that original wastewater quantity is low, or descriptions of treatment procedures in special circumstances such as rainstorms or blackouts. \n4. It has been added that if any change made to the water pollution control measures or related permits or documents require enterprises to carry out improvement work or to test system functions, the period of validity of the water pollution control measures or permits shall be recalculated up to a maximum period of five years, after review and approval by the issuance agency.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Water Pollution Control Measures and Permit Review Regulations Revised and Renamed", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-02" }, { "no": "3392", "title": "Clean Air Action Plans", "preview": "Air\nClean Air Action Plans", "content": "Clean Air Action Plans \nOver the years, the EPA has launched several air pollution control measures. Air quality monitoring results show that not only has air quality greatly improved, but it has begun to stabilize in recent years. Since the Clean Air Action Plans began in 2015, air pollution controls have been extended by way of an inter-ministerial mechanism that integrates functions and engages each level of government with local Air Pollution Control Plans and a focus on reducing PM2.5 emissions. \nUnderstanding the close link between human health and air quality, the public has made increasing demands for higher quality air over the years. \nThe action plans are fortified with eight additional measures: promoting electric bikes (E-bikes), promoting electric buses (E-buses), promoting electric produce trailers, fitting diesel cars with soot filters, installing natural gas boilers in hotels, installing riverbed fugitive dust prevention mechanisms, promoting cooperation with mainland China in improving air quality, and conducting research on fine particulate matter (PM2.5) control.\nThe government is slated to invest over NT$39 billion throughout the course of the action plans from 2015 to 2020, during which local governments are tasked to carry out more than 300 air quality protection and improvement plans. Specific goals include: eliminating one million two-stroke motorcycles, promoting the purchase of 600,000 new electric motorbikes, replacing 2,858 diesel buses with electric ones, introducing 2,100 electric trailers to wholesale produce markets, installing soot filters on 38,000 diesel vehicles, requiring 100 hotels to install natural gas boilers, and installing fugitive dust control facilities along 3,000 hectares of riverbeds. It is expected that these measures combined will decrease annual particulate matters (PM10) emissions by 33,000 tonnes (22%), annual PM2.5 emissions by 17,000 tonnes (24%), annual SOX emissions by 33,000 tonnes (28%), annual NOX emissions by 174,000 tonnes (40%), and will lower national annual average PM2.5 emissions by 23.4%. \nProviding Guidance to Local Governments to Implement Air Pollution Control Plans\nTo ensure that local governments carry through with the air pollution control plans, the EPA has organized the Air Pollution Control Technology Advisory Taskforce, which visited each city and county to provide guidance and evaluate the status of implementation in 2015. \nThe Air Pollution Control Technology Advisory Taskforce is made up of 15 experts in the fields of air quality planning and management, stationary source pollution control, mobile source pollution control, and the establishment and protection of air quality purification zones. Apart from conducting reviews on the implementation reports of each county and city, the taskforce made onsite audits at six special municipalities in 2015. \nThe EPA explains that each local government has announced its own Air Pollution Control Plan, all of which fit under the umbrella of the central government’s Clean Air Action Plan. The Air Quality Protection and Improvement Plans are executed each year with a budget of NT$3.5 billion. A pragmatic approach is adopted to provide guidance to local governments in implementing pollution inspections and controls. The EPA is confident it will achieve the air quality improvement goals. \nFocus on Reducing PM2.5\nReinforcing the control of PM2.5 is a vital component of the Clean Air Action Plans, since the national PM2.5 average still falls short of the set standards. The plan will execute the following measures:\nI. Evaluate the implementation of the Clean Air Action Plans.\nII. Provide guidance to counties and cities to implement the controls that have been announced for years 2015 to 2020 in the Air Pollution Control Plans. \nIII. Reevaluate controls for factory pollution emission permits, relax restrictions on the use of clean fuels, and reevaluate the quarterly emission permits and the regulations on required responses to substandard air quality.\nIV. Control measures according to Article 6 Paragraph 3 of the Air Pollution Control Act:\n1. Once a city or county is classified as a grade III PM2.5 control zone, new or altered stationary pollution sources that emit pollutants such as particulate matters, SOX, NOX and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) above certain levels in the city or county’s jurisdiction must adopt the best available control technology. \n2. On 26 May 2015, the Best Available Control Technology for Stationary Pollution Sources was revised, requiring newly established stationary pollution sources in the grade III PM2.5 control zone to adopt better control measures.\n3. On 11 August 2015, the Regulations Governing Air Quality Models and Simulations were revised to include PM2.5 on the list of items to undergo model simulation as well as to lower the thresholds of other pollutants required to be included in simulations.\n4. On 30 December 2015, the Newly Established or Altered Stationary Pollution Source Air Pollutant Emission Guidelines were revised to state that new stationary pollution source emission limits have been greatly tightened from 15 tonnes to 10 tonnes for particulate pollutants, and from 60 tonnes to 10 tonnes for SOX.\nV. The EPA is considering making cities\/counties the unit for the air pollution cap scheme, which will require existing pollution sources to sharply reduce emissions, and newly established or altered stationary pollution sources to obtain enough offsets for increased emissions so as to have their applications approved.\nRoom for Improvement \nPreliminary air quality monitoring results of 2015 were released in January 2016. They showed that the nation’s air quality has improved significantly over the past eight years. PM2.5, one of the pollutants that many citizens are concerned about, has improved by 20% while PM10, SO2, NO2 and O3 have all seen improvements ranging from 11% to 29%. The results attest to the effectiveness of the air quality improvement measures. \nAlthough Taiwan’s air quality has been on a steady path of improvement, the EPA realizes that the public holds expectations for even better air quality. Based on the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development’s (OECD) recently announced Better Life Index, Taiwan still has room for improvement in terms of air quality compared to other nations on the OECD list of developed nations. \nThe stated goals of the Clean Air Action Plans are to reinforce the integration of ministerial powers, strengthen cooperation between central and local governments and promote all-citizen participation. Methods focus on practical results in the short term and tightened controls in the long term to ensure reduction of air pollution emissions. Meanwhile, to achieve air quality improvement objectives, the plan promotes cross-strait exchanges to address the long-range transport of air pollutants (LRTAP) that affect Taiwan’s air quality.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Clean Air Action Plans", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-02" }, { "no": "3391", "title": "List of PCNs Announced and Volume Limits for Five Toxic Chemical Substances Tightened", "preview": "Toxic Substance\nList of PCNs Announced and Volume Limits for Five Toxic Chemical Substances Tightened", "content": "List of PCNs Announced and Volume Limits for Five Toxic Chemical Substances Tightened\nIn response to global trends in restrictions on polychlorinated naphthalenes PCNs the EPA has strengthened the management of formaldehyde 1 2 dichloroethane acrylamide nonylphenol and nonylphenol ethoxylates. In addition because the Council of Agriculture of the Executive Yuan had announced that pentabromodiphenyl ether is now banned for manufacturing processing and importing and because the improvement deadline for arsenic pentoxide and four other toxic chemical substances has passed the EPA revised and announced the Guidelines on Regulated Toxic Chemical Substances and the Management of Their Handling on 31 December 2015. The decisions of the Seventh Conference of the Parties to the Stockholm Convention in May 2015 listed PCNs including dichloronaphthalene trichloronaphthalene tetrachloronaphthalene pentachloronaphthalene and heptachloronaphthalene in Annex A and Annex C as chemicals to be controlled. Since their bioconcentration characteristics also make them Class 1 toxic chemical substances under the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act the EPA has listed them as Class 1 Toxic Chemical Substances. After examining the scope of the Stockholm Convention Annex A the EPA has added the stipulation that dichloronaphthalene trichloronaphthalene tetrachloronaphthalene pentachloronaphthalene hexachloronaphthalene heptachloronaphthalene and octachloronaphthalene can only be used for research experiments education or for the manufacturing of fluoronaphthalene including the intermediate materials of octafluoronaphthalene.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "List of PCNs Announced and Volume Limits for Five Toxic Chemical Substances Tightened", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-01" }, { "no": "3390", "title": "Reward Payment for Landfill Greenhouse Gas Reduction Promulgated", "preview": "Climate Change\nReward Payment for Landfill Greenhouse Gas Reduction Promulgated", "content": "Reward Payment for Landfill Greenhouse Gas Reduction Promulgated \nIn accordance with the recently promulgated Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act which lists methane as a controlled greenhouse gas the EPA announced on 25 December 2015 the Regulations Governing Incentives for General Waste Landfills to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions. The regulations were promulgated on 1 January 2016.\nLandfill gas is produced by organic matter within the waste. The gas is composed of around 50% methane CH4 along with carbon dioxide CO2 and trace amounts of organic compounds. Methane and carbon dioxide are both on the list of controlled substances according to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change UNFCCC and the Kyoto Protocol. Of note the global warming potential of methane is 25 times higher than that of CO2. To reduce methane emissions from landfills encourage recycling and reusing and promote the development of renewable and other energy technology the EPA has been providing incentives for methane power generation since 1999. In accordance with the recently promulgated Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act which has already listed methane as a controlled greenhouse gas the EPA formulated the Regulations Governing Encouragements for Landfills to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions. The regulations entered into effect on 1 January 2016. \nThe EPA stresses that the new regulations focus on well performing industries which have a contract with the owner or the manager of a landfill to allow the said industries to install electricity generation equipment in the landfills and utilize the methane produced from the landfill. The regulations include eight articles covering legal basis requirements to receive rewards required documents and application time application review procedures amounts of rewards reward calculation methods and annual limit and punishment for false reports. The incentives will not be given to enterprises that have received any kind of incentives or subsidies from renewable energy development or other relevant regulations. Well performing industries are those that effectively reduce methane emissions from landfills.\nThe amount of reward payment is calculated as amount of reward payment NTD actual amount of electricity sold kilowatt-hours 0.5 NTD kilowatt hours . The maximum amount of the reward will be NTD 20 million and should not be higher than the operation cost. \nLandfill gas industries that are qualified to receive reward payments have to submit applications to the central competent authority including an application form proof of electricity sales in the previous season statement of electricity generated as well as financial and operational cost analysis reports on methane powered electricity generation equipment audited and signed by an accountant before the end of January April July and October of each year.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Reward Payment for Landfill Greenhouse Gas Reduction Promulgated", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-01" }, { "no": "3389", "title": "Chemical Substance Registration System Taking Shape in Taiwan", "preview": "Toxic Substance\nChemical Substance Registration System Taking Shape in Taiwan", "content": "Chemical Substance Registration System Taking Shape in Taiwan\nPursuant to the Regulations for New and Existing Chemical Substances Registration the EPA officially launched Taiwan s chemical substance registration system on 11 December 2014. The registration system has now been enforced for over a year. Working in close collaboration with the Ministry of Labor MOL the EPA has set up a one stop inter ministerial processing window and has completed the validation of more than 7000 existing chemical substances. In addition the EPA has asked the MOL to including these substances into its inventory of existing chemical substances whose number exceed 100000. \nOn 11 December 2013 the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act was amended and promulgated in which the system of source registration of chemical substances was introduced. Later the Registration Rules for New and Existing Chemical Substances were formulated to facilitate the enforcement of the Act. As the number of chemical related industries is large and the natures of their businesses are myriad the technical requirements for review registration and guidance of these industries are complex. As per Taiwan s governmental structure both the EPA and the MOL have the authority and obligation to control the use of toxic chemical substances. In this respect the two agencies functions are somewhat duplicated. A case in point is the Regulations on New Chemical Substances Registration under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of the Ministry of Labor. Thus to save the trouble of double registering and under the coordination and mediation of the National Development Council the EPA stepped up to set up a one stop inter ministerial processing window for chemical related industries to register information on the chemicals they use. In this way the burden of registration on chemical related industries is effectively alleviated.\nThe EPA stressed that before the end of March 2015 it had processed applications for the manufacturing or import of chemical substances filed before 11 December 2014. Over the last year the EPA held two technical review meetings jointly with the MOL and invited scholars experts and relevant competent authorities to participate in related discussions. So far the registration information of more than 7000 chemical substances have been reviewed and validated and the new additions were incorporated into the MOL s inventory of chemical substances originally announced in 2014. Altogether more than 530 cases of new chemical substances have been registered. \nLast year alone the EPA had established a chemical substance registration center and installed a dedicated website to facilitate industry registration. Either through documentation or through email the EPA conducted individual counseling for more than 4600 enterprises held 40 sessions for legal consultations and international conferences with a total of more than 6000 participants while taking steps to draw up a list of common Q & A for the registration of new chemical substances. All in all it can be said that the chemical registration system is taking shape nicely in Taiwan through genuine promotion and communication.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Chemical Substance Registration System Taking Shape in Taiwan", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-01" }, { "no": "3388", "title": "Regulations Governing Recordkeeping for the Handling and Release of Toxic Chemical Substances Amended", "preview": "Toxic Substance \nRegulations Governing Recordkeeping for the Handling and Release of Toxic Chemical Substances Amended", "content": "Regulations Governing Recordkeeping for the Handling and Release of Toxic Chemical Substances Amended \nTo improve the quality and accuracy of data on volumes of toxic chemical substances released the EPA has amended the Regulations Governing Recordkeeping for the Handling and Release of Toxic Chemical Substances. The amendments state that henceforth release volumes for announced toxic chemical substances should be calculated according to stated calculation guidelines. \nThe main points of the amendments are as follows \n1. To improve the quality and accuracy of toxic chemical substance data the deadline for reporting release volumes for the previous year has been changed from 10 January every year to 31 January.\n2. To ensure that the affected enterprises employ the same calculation methods so that reported release volumes of toxic chemical substances will be in line with the actual volumes released the amendments stipulate the calculation guidelines. All affected enterprises should henceforth refer to these guidelines. After taking into account the testing technologies for different chemicals the central competent authority has decided to announce the toxic chemical substances in batches. For toxic chemicals that have not yet been announced as such by the central competent authority their release volume calculation method remains as stated in Article 7 Paragraph 1 of the Regulations.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Regulations Governing Recordkeeping for the Handling and Release of Toxic Chemical Substances Amended", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-01" }, { "no": "3387", "title": "Environmental Impact Assessment Enforcement Rules Amended", "preview": "EIA\nEnvironmental Impact Assessment Enforcement Rules Amended", "content": "Environmental Impact Assessment Enforcement Rules Amended \nOn 3 January 2016 amendments made to some articles of the Environmental Impact Assessment Enforcement Rules took effect. The amendments clarify the authority and responsibilities of central and local governments toward conducting environmental assessment reviews and lay out principles of recusal due to conflict of interest. The revised enforcement rules also mean a greater role for the industry competent authority in ensuring that the division of labor for future environmental assessment reviews is clearer and that evaluations are more trustworthy and effective. \nThe Environmental Impact Assessment Enforcement Rules were amended on 3 July 2015 with the biggest change ever seen since the promulgation of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act in 1995. Amendments to three of the articles Article 5 1, Article 11 1 and Article 12 came into force on 3 January 2016 while the remaining changes had come into effect on the date of announcement. \nAfter the amendments whenever a local government is the developer or the authority in charge of a development project that falls under the Act for Promotion of Private Participation in Infrastructure Projects and an environmental impact assessment review is being conducted no representatives of government agencies should sit on the environmental impact assessment review committee. The regulations are tightened to reassure the general public that the review will not be influenced by government representatives to support a local government s policy. \nIn the past the role of the industry competent authority was limited to delivering environmental assessment statements to the environmental competent authority for review. However the review process often involves disputes over matters not environmental in nature but that have to be handled by the environmental impact assessment review committee such as compensation for fishery enterprises or disputes over land expropriation. This usually results in the review process being drawn out with less time to focus on necessary professional details. \nThe EPA also took into consideration that the industry competent authority is a part of the government. Therefore the amendments stipulate that when the industry competent authority receives environmental assessment statements from the developer it should identify points of dispute that do not come under environmental law and are thus not the concern of the environmental competent authority. It should also add explanations and suggestions about their policies toward a proposed development project before sending the statements on to the environmental competent authority for review. Having the environmental competent authority and industry competent authority cooperating closely will allow the environmental impact assessment review to proceed more smoothly and efficiently. \nThe amendments also clarify and put into an attachment the authority and responsibilities of central and local governments regarding environmental impact assessment reviews. It also states that whenever a development activity involves two or more competent authorities or is located in the jurisdiction of two or more counties provincial cities or special municipalities the environmental impact assessment will be reviewed by the central competent authority. \nIn addition the central competent authority will also be henceforth conducting environmental impact assessment reviews for large scale or complicated development activities including projects involving fish harbors yacht harbors industrial parks of over 30 hectares in area factories of state run industries cable car projects and recreation areas in national parks or national scenic areas. Local governments will be responsible for conducting environmental impact assessment reviews for development activities of university campuses museums tourist hotels hospitals local communities sports facilities and other small-scale projects or projects to improve local quality of life. The elimination of all gray areas in the regulations is designed to reduce disputes over how environmental impact assessment review tasks are allocated among government institutions.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "EIA", "titlename": "Environmental Impact Assessment Enforcement Rules Amended", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-01" }, { "no": "3386", "title": "Effluent Standards Amended to Add Heavy Metal Limits for Specified Agricultural Areas", "preview": "Water\nEffluent Standards Amended to Add Heavy Metal Limits for Specified Agricultural Areas", "content": "Effluent Standards Amended to Add Heavy Metal Limits for Specified Agricultural Areas \nOn 6 January 2016 the EPA announced revisions to six items in the Effluent Standards to reduce the risk of farmland becoming polluted. For enterprises or operators of sewer systems in specified effluent total quantity control areas the maximum values of cadmium total chromium hexavalent chromium copper zinc and nickel in the effluent have been tightened. \nCurrently water quality of discharged effluent generally meets current control standards. However its discharge into water bodies that have low base flows such as irrigation ditches and some small waterways may cause the accumulation of heavy metals and heighten the risk of contaminating irrigated farmland and agricultural produce. The EPA has thus tightened the maximum values for cadmium total chromium hexavalent chromium copper zinc and nickel in the effluent depending upon the category of specified effluent total quantity control zones. The new values will apply to effluents that will flow through water bodies in the total quantity control zones announced by the local competent authorities for the protection of farmland. \nAn effluent total quantity control zone is classified as Category 1 if the water quality of receiving water bodies in the area does not meet the quality standards for irrigation water. Once an area is announced as a Category 1 Effluent Total Quantity Control Zone the establishment of new enterprises or sewer systems will not be allowed. For existing enterprises the control values for cadmium total chromium hexavalent chromium copper zinc and nickel will be the same as the standards for irrigation water quality for existing sewer systems the control values for these six metals will be half of those of the current effluent standards. The less strict standards for sewer systems were set to encourage existing enterprises to relocate to industrial parks.\nAn effluent total quantity control zone is classified as Category 2 if the water quality of receiving water bodies in the area does meet the quality standards for irrigation water. In a Category 2 Effluent Total Quantity Control Zone the establishment of new enterprises or sewer systems will be allowed but with tightened effluent standards. The control values for cadmium total chromium hexavalent chromium copper zinc and nickel will be the same as the maximum values permitted under the current irrigation water quality standards. For new sewer systems the control values for these six heavy metals will be half of the maximum values of the current effluent standards. For existing enterprises and existing sewer systems the maximum values will also be cut to half of the current effluent standards.\nSeveral other standards have also been revised including the Effluent Standards the Chemical Industry Effluent Standards the Petrochemical Industrial Parks Sewage System Effluent Standards the Optoelectronic Materials and Component Manufacturer Effluent Standards the Wafer and Semiconductor Industry Effluent Standards and the Science Park Sewer Systems Effluent Standards. Effluent standards are a form of end-of-pipe control and the EPA is urging all enterprises to ensure that wastewater treatment facilities are operated properly and at maximum efficiency. They should also strengthen source control during the manufacturing process over waste solvents to reduce the amount of chemicals that enter wastewater treatment facilities.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Effluent Standards Amended to Add Heavy Metal Limits for Specified Agriculturarel Aas", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-01" }, { "no": "3385", "title": "Greenhouse Gas Inventory and Registration Required for Large Emission Sources", "preview": "Climate Change\nGreenhouse Gas Inventory and Registration Required for Large Emission Sources", "content": "Greenhouse Gas Inventory and Registration Required for Large Emission Sources\nOn 5 January 2016, the EPA announced the Management Regulations Governing Greenhouse Gas Emission Inventories and Registration. Henceforth, Taiwan’s major sources of greenhouse gas emissions will be required to conduct regular inventories of their greenhouse gas emission volumes, and have them verified and registered so that the government can keep tabs on the status of emissions. The EPA also announced the first batch of greenhouse gas emission sources that should be registered. \nIn accordance with Article 16 Paragraph 3 of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act – and backed up by the EPA’s experience in implementing the Management Regulations Governing the Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions under the Air Pollution Control Act– the management regulations stipulate the inventory calculation methods for greenhouse gas emission volumes from listed sources, registration procedures, contents of reports, the auditing authority of the competent authority, and online registration and verification procedures. \nThe EPA also announced the First Batch of Emission Sources Requiring Greenhouse Gas Emission Inventory and Registration. The two batches that were announced through the Air Pollution Control Act are included in the announcement. The First Batch of Emission Sources Requiring Greenhouse Gas Emission Inventory and Registration stipulates the emission sources for which inventories and registration are required, as well as time periods and deadlines for registration of records. The industries in the first batch were selected because of their pollutants and also for emitting CO2 equivalents of over 25,000 metric tonnes annually. The EPA is asking the affected enterprises to begin implementing the new regime from the date of announcement. The EPA estimates that 269 emission sources are affected, representing over 80% of Taiwan’s greenhouse gas emissions from the combustion of fossil fuels by the industrial sector and the energy sector.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Greenhouse Gas Inventory and Registration Required for Large Emission Sources", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-01" }, { "no": "3384", "title": "Greenhouse Gas Offset Program Management Regulations Announced", "preview": "Climate Change\nGreenhouse Gas Offset Program Management Regulations Announced", "content": "Greenhouse Gas Offset Program Management Regulations Announced\nOn 31 December 2015 the EPA announced the Regulations Governing Greenhouse Gas Offset Program Management 溫室氣體抵換專案管理辦法 which has 21 articles in total. The regulations primarily govern enterprise offset programs and the matters of concern for the central competent authority that reviews such programs. The regulations are part of the government s continuing push for voluntary emission reductions before the next emission cap phase is introduced. \nIn drawing up the Regulations Governing Greenhouse Gas Offset Program Management the EPA referred primarily to the UN’s Clean Development Mechanism and the EPA s experience in implementing the promotion of offset programs. Applications for offset schemes will be divided into projects and plans according to stated criteria and the application rules and evaluation criteria will differ accordingly. The Regulations Governing Greenhouse Gas Offset Program Management also cover the verification of emission reduction methods and approval of reduction quotas for early stage programs and offset programs that were previously approved by the EPA in accordance with the old implementation principles. \nThe purpose of the offset program is to incentivize enterprises to voluntarily reduce emissions so that national reduction targets of the current phase can be met before the cap system is introduced.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Greenhouse Gas Offset Program Management Regulations Announced", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-01" }, { "no": "3383", "title": "Minister Wei Leads Taiwan s Delegation to UNFCCC COP 21", "preview": "Climate Change\nMinister Wei Leads Taiwan’s Delegation to UNFCCC COP 21", "content": "Minister Wei Leads Taiwan s Delegation to UNFCCC COP 21 \nEPA Minister Kuo Yen Wei led Taiwan s delegation to participate in the Twenty first session of the Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change UNFCCC COP 21 . The trip was a chance for Taiwan to demonstrate its willingness to engage in carbon reduction efforts and to exchange ideas and strategies on environmental issues with delegates from Taiwan s diplomatic allies and other nations thus helping to cement partnerships that will enhance the international response to climate change.\nClimate change has drawn much concern around the world in recent years and the annual UNFCCC COP talks always garner broad attention. Taiwan s starting point for these talks was its experience with voluntarily responses to climate change. Under the leadership of Minister Wei the delegates actively participated in COP 21 and were able to tell the international community about Taiwan s achievements in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and establishing the Pan Pacific Adaptation on Climate Change PPACC partnerships with European and North American nations.\nTaiwan Soon to Formulate Responding Climate Change Strategies\nOn 10 December in Paris Minister Wei gave a speech that was broadcast online in which he outlined some of his observations from participation in COP 21. He pointed out that participation has given Taiwan an indication of the international position that Taiwan can take in future climate response efforts which will allow Taiwan to formulate its major climate change strategies. Taiwan will also actively seek official observer status so that its domestic environmental work can gain international visibility. \nAs Minister Wei pointed out COP 21 touched upon six major topics mitigation adaptation losses and damage capacity building financing technology development and transfers. The Paris conference was an opportunity for Taiwan to learn what it can do particularly in terms of mitigation and adaptation and to clarify its status in terms of taking on some of the workload and moving forward into the future. The outcome of the intended nationally determined contribution INDCs was particularly significant. The EPA will soon convene meetings with relevant ministries to discuss Taiwan s future INDC strategy in detail. \nCooperating with Pan Pacific Nations and MIT to Combat Climate Change\nTaiwan s starting point for discussions at COP 21 was its experience with voluntary responses to climate change. The talks were also an opportunity to build upon climate change mitigation partnerships with other pan Pacific nations. Taiwan was also able to formally announce the PPACC which has been two years in the making and also the signing of a collaborative agreement with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology MIT Center for Collective Intelligence.\nOn 6 December Dr. Thomas W. Malone the head of the MIT Center for Collective Intelligence and his Climate CoLab team also signed a letter of intent to cooperate with the EPA s Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Office. It made Taiwan the CoLab s first overseas station in a network that will encompass other Asian nations. Climate CoLab is building a platform that will operate using the concepts of the wisdom of crowds and open data to promote climate change adaptation in the region. \nDr. Malone pointed out that the Climate CoLab had recently formed a strategic alliance with the UN and that cooperating with Taiwan would be its first step. The successful establishment of the PPACC and the cooperation with MIT show that Taiwan is building practical regional relationships that will help to strengthen future climate change adaptation. \nMinister Wei COP 21 Highlights Enhanced Action and Taiwan Should Follow Suit\nAt a press conference held upon the delegation s return to Taiwan on 12 December Minister Wei stressed that Taiwan has long been working hard at protecting the global environment and the passing of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act in 2015 means that Taiwan now has legally binding long term carbon reduction targets. The demonstration of a willingness to share the common responsibility of carbon reduction with other nations and move toward eco friendly sustainable development has won Taiwan plaudits from developed nations in the EU and North America. Minister Wei also conveyed his gratitude for 12 diplomatic allies of Taiwan who expressed their strong support at COP21 for Taiwan being granted observer status. Another 19 nations also sent letters to the secretariat expressing the same sentiment. In addition the Taiwan delegation also attended 17 side events at the conference to discuss future cooperative projects as well as to make Taiwan s standpoints known. \nTaiwan always has a positive and forward looking attitude when it comes to making pledges. In addition to demonstrating its commitment to its obligations as a member of the global community such pledges also help Taiwan gain more direct participation in international affairs and be included in the implementation of new agreements. The government sees deeper international ties as crucial to Taiwan s sustainable future and the prosperity of future generations. \nThe Paris Agreement placed much emphasis on the Lima Paris Action Agenda LPAA which called for the formulation and implementation of concrete action plans in several areas and that will continue to be a focus of future COPs. Minister Wei said that Taiwan should demonstrate its enthusiasm for the LPAA by formulating related strategies at an early date.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Minister Wei Leads Taiwan s Delegation to UNFCCC COP 21", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-01" }, { "no": "3382", "title": "New Environmental Measures Take Effect on 1 January 2016", "preview": "General Policy\nNew Environmental Measures Take Effect on 1 January 2016\n\nNew Environmental Measures Take Effect on 1 January 2016", "content": "New Environmental Measures Take Effect on 1 January 2016 \nTo simplify administration for the public s convenience the EPA announced a raft of new environmental measures that entered into effect on 1 January 2016. These include revisions to the online reporting of industrial waste amendments to the Regulations Governing Air Quality Models and Simulation discounts on recycling fee rates for environmentally friendly products the tightening of mercury maximums for cylindrical batteries and the banning of chromated copper arsenate as a wood preservative. \nThe following are major foci of the new measures. \n1. Revisions to the online reporting of industrial waste\nRevisions to the online reporting of industrial waste have been made to improve the accuracy of industrial waste clearance and disposal data and simplify the online verification procedure for the enterprises affected. \n2. Regulations Governing Air Quality Models and Simulations\nThe Regulations Governing Air Quality Models and Simulations（空氣品質模式模擬規範）cover models and simulations designed to verify that pollutant emission volumes from new or modified stationary pollution sources of a designated size do not exceed the stated maximums for the air quality control area and the air quality control areas neighboring the area where the pollution source is located. The amendments primarily add fine particulate matters into the simulation items along with lowering the emission thresholds for enterprises whose emissions need to be included in the simulation in order to enlarge the simulation database. \n3. Eligible criteria for discounted recycling fee rates tightened \nTo encourage manufacturers to design environmentally friendly products the EPA tightened the eligibility criteria for discounted recycling fee rates. From 1 January 2016 only products that have the Green Mark or IT products that carry the Green Mark or the Energy Saving Label will be eligible for reduced recycling fee rates. A 15% discount on recycling fee rates will be given to all Green Mark products with the exception of IT products. \nAs for IT products only those products that carry the Green Mark or the Energy Saving Mark will be eligible for a 30% reduction on recycling fee rates 5% for printers . Fee rates for printers are based on the status of the recycling fund and will be reevaluated every three years.\n4. Tightening maximum mercury value for cylindrical batteries\nLooking to improve the regulation of one-time use cylindrical batteries in Taiwan the EPA has referenced methods used by the EU the UN and several other countries to regulate heavy metal content in dry cell batteries. In order to diminish environmental impacts regulations have been tightened for mercury content to 1 ppm and new restrictions have been added for cadmium content effective 1 January 2016.\n5. Banning the use of chromated copper arsenate as a wood preservative\nChromated copper arsenate is a water soluble wood preservative that is composed of chrome arsenic and copper. Weather conditions rain and acidic soil can all cause these heavy metals to be released into the environment. Since arsenic and hexavalent chromium have been proven to be hazardous to human health and the environment the EPA decided to tighten control over the use of chromated copper arsenate and ban its use as a wood preservative. \n6. Reward Payment for Landfill Greenhouse Gas Reduction Promulgated \nThe EPA announced on 25 December 2015 the Regulations Governing Incentives for General Waste Landfills to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "New Environmental Measures Take Effect on 1 January 2016", "position": "print\/V19\/V19-01" }, { "no": "3381", "title": "Electricity Revenue from Incinerators Reaches a New High", "preview": "waste Electricity Revenue from Incinerators Reaches a New High", "content": "Electricity Revenue from Incinerators Reaches a New High\nCurrently, there are 24 refuse incineration plants operating in Taiwan. In 2014, these incineration plants generated 3.187 billion kWh of electricity, enough for 890,000 households to consume for a whole year. In addition to internal facility use, these incineration plants sold the surplus 2.481 billion kWh of electricity to Taiwan Power Company for NT$5.527 billion, a new record high. \nAccording to the EPA, other than burning garbage and generating electricity, refuse incineration plants in Taiwan also did their best during food safety crises and when the avian flu was at its peak, to burn plasticizers, waste cooking oil, and discarded objects related to avian flu. In particular in January 2015, when the avian flu swept across Taiwan, the workers of these incineration plants had to burn large amounts of poultry on top of their normal workload. Thus, a word of thanks is due for these unsung heroes who spared no efforts in controlling the spread of the epidemic. \nLearning from the experiences of foreign countries, these incinerator plants were installed by the Taiwan government years ago. Now, the relevant technologies have been deeply rooted in Taiwan, and local enterprises are beginning to participate in the open bidding for the construction of incineration plants in other countries. It is a laudable progress. \nThe results of the 2014 incineration plant evaluation were recently announced. The EPA gave a Premium Award to six incineration plants. The Bali incineration plant of New Taipei City and the Hsinchu Incineration Plant received a Special Award, whereas the Kaohsiung City Environmental Protection Bureau received the Regional Contribution Award for its cooperation in incinerating refuse of neighboring areas.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Electricity Revenue from Incinerators Reaches a New High", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-12" }, { "no": "3380", "title": "Thirty-one Enterprises Receive 2015 Enterprise Environmental Protection Awards", "preview": "control and evaluation Thirty-one Enterprises Receive 2015 Enterprise Environmental Protection Awards", "content": "Thirty-one Enterprises Receive 2015 Enterprise Environmental Protection Awards \nThe 2015 Enterprise Environmental Protection Award ceremony was held on 4 November 2015. The following enterprises have been awarded gold medals: China Airlines, First Bank, United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC) Fab8A and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC). In addition, there were also 10 people awarded as model designated environmental protection personnel.\nThe Enterprise Environmental Protection Awards have been held for 24 years, and 323 enterprises have received the award. Among them, 39 enterprises have won three years in a row. This year, a total of 31 enterprises have been awarded, including four enterprises being presented a special award for having won the award for three consecutive years : China Airlines, Onyx Ta-Ho Environmental Service Co.’s Yilan Branch, Taoyuan General Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare, and Chaoyang University of Technology.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "control and evaluation", "titlename": "Thirty-one Enterprises Receive 2015 Enterprise Environmental Protection Awards", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-12" }, { "no": "3379", "title": "Amendments to Stationary Pollution Source Installation and Operating Permit Management Regulations Preannounced", "preview": "air Amendments to Stationary Pollution Source Installation and Operating Permit Management Regulations Preannounced", "content": "Amendments to Stationary Pollution Source Installation and Operating Permit Management Regulations Preannounced\nTo strengthen the administrative control of local competent authorities and protect industry rights to apply for air pollution source installation and operating permits, the EPA has reviewed and preannounced amendments to the Stationary Pollution Source Installation and Operating Permit Management Regulations. The major amendments achieve the following:\n(a) Adjustment of the threshold over which a permit amendment application is required for the increase of air pollutant emission volumes. Taking particulate matters for example, the threshold for operation and emission permit amendment application has been lowered from 15 tons to 10 tons.\n(b) Strengthening of administrative control of competent authorities for permit review and urging enterprises to carry out test runs in accordance with the application.\n(c) Creation of a reasonable calculation methodology for volatile organic compound emission calculations, to unify air pollutant emission volume calculations.\n(d) Protection of industry’s rights by adding provisions allowing enterprises to operate while competent authorities complete the permit extension review procedure.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Amendments to Stationary Pollution Source Installation and Operating Permit Management Regulations Preannounced", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-12" }, { "no": "3378", "title": "Enhancement of Public Participation in Polluted Site Remediation Preannounced", "preview": "soil and groundwater Enhancement of Public Participation in Polluted Site Remediation Preannounced", "content": "Enhancement of Public Participation in Polluted Site Remediation Preannounced\nTo encourage the general public to provide comments on environmental decisions and laws, on 2 November 2015 the EPA preannounced the draft of amendments to Article 2 of the Guidelines Governing Public Hearings Concerning Remediation Targets of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Sites, and to Articles 6 and 9 of the Regulations Governing Environmental Impact and Health Risk Assessments for Soil and Groundwater Remediation Sites. The amendments aim to encourage public participation through increasing access to information and improving online commenting channels on pollution prevention policies.\nIn light of the prevalence of computers and mobile devices and the fact that the public is more willing to participate in governmental affairs, the EPA is improving the accessibility of governmental information. By using internet technology to publicize environmental laws and regulations, the EPA is providing online participation channels for the general public to give their comments, so that the administration of competent authorities can be improved and that future policy formulation can be more transparent.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "soil and groundwater", "titlename": "Enhancement of Public Participation in Polluted Site Remediation Preannounced", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-12" }, { "no": "3377", "title": "Dry Air Technology Promoted for Sludge Dewatering", "preview": "Air Dry Air Technology Promoted for Sludge Dewatering\nThe EPA has vigorously promoted using dry air to dewater sludge and reduce its volume by 50%. This will not only save energy but also reduce air pollution. The sludge treatment market is expected to undergo major changes due to this new technology.", "content": "Dry Air Technology Promoted for Sludge Dewatering\nThe EPA has vigorously promoted using dry air to dewater sludge and reduce its volume by 50%. This will not only save energy but also reduce air pollution. The sludge treatment market is expected to undergo major changes due to this new technology. \nTaiwan produces 2.4 million tons of sludge every year. Although treatment facilities and reuse organizations have adequate capacity to deal with such an amount, these facilities and organizations are often ordered to shut down for not complying with regulations due to technological issues. This results in the market becoming unstable and an increase in treatment prices. Previously, it cost only NT$2000-3000 to treat one ton of sludge, but the price has risen to NT$7000-8000 per ton. At present, sludge is treated primarily by using a high temperature rotary kiln which has high energy-consumption and other drawbacks. \nTo improve this situation, the EPA has vigorously promoted the introduction of utilizing dry air as a dehydration method. By so doing, the ratio of water in sludge can be reduced from 80% down to 60%, and sludge weight can be reduced to half. Furthermore, through source dewatering, energy can be saved and pollution can be reduced. The dry air method seems to be a worthy way by which sludge can be treated in the future. \nThe major ingredients of sludge are water, organic materials and inorganic materials. Water comprises about 80% of sludge. Currently, sludge is treated by putting it in a rotary kiln incinerator, which is then heated to 600-900℃ to remove the water and burn the organic materials. The organic materials are then sintered with the inorganic materials to make artificial bone materials which can be used as reclaimed aggregate material. However, to treat the three major ingredients at the same time is technologically challenging, while the steam will carry away the bulk of the energy, rendering it unavailable for use. \nThe Douliu Wastewater Treatment Plant may serve as an example. After the operator imported the sludge dewatering equipment, the amount of sludge was reduced from 549 tons per month as of August 2014, to 123 tons per month as of August 2015 – a reduction of 78%. This has resulted in a great reduction of sludge treatment fees as well as the reduction of tail- end treatment.\nSolar Technology Inc. in the Tainan Environmental Science and Technology Park is another good example. The company imported sludge dewatering equipment from Japan in early 2015. After the equipment was put to use, the monthly sludge output was reduced from 40 tons in the past, to 20 tons as of now. Ninety-five percent of the dewatered sludge is now sent to Germany for further refinement. \nYet another good example is the World Resources Company (WRC) Pacific Ltd. In Kaohsiung Environmental Science and Technology Park. The company uses fluidized bed technology to treat the electroplating sludge and heavy metal sludge. It can treat four to five tons of sludge every hour, with a recess time of only one to two minutes. The metal-enriched output from the fluidized bed drying process is then exported to other countries for further treatment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Dry Air Technology Promoted for Sludge Dewatering", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-12" }, { "no": "3376", "title": "Urban Mining Promoted for Full-scale E-waste Recycling", "preview": "Waste Urban Mining Promoted for Full-scale E-waste Recycling \nFrom 12-15 October 2015, the Taiwan and US EPAs and the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE) held a Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP) conference in San Diego, USA. Thirty-five environmental education experts representing governments and NGOs in 15 nations were in attendance, which was the highest number of delegates and nations to ever attend a GEEP conference.", "content": "Urban Mining Promoted for Full-scale E-waste Recycling \nFrom 12-15 October 2015, the Taiwan and US EPAs and the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE) held a Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP) conference in San Diego, USA. Thirty-five environmental education experts representing governments and NGOs in 15 nations were in attendance, which was the highest number of delegates and nations to ever attend a GEEP conference. \nMany consumer electrical and electronic products contain precious metals that can be recovered through recycling. To optimize the recycling of e-waste, the EPA is working hard on formulating its urban mining policy that will lead to the establishment of a national green industry and a system of salvaging rare resources. \nThe designs of consumer electrical and electronic products are evolving rapidly and the speed at which consumers replace their electronic devices is thus accelerating accordingly. This e-waste is a good source of urban mines containing precious metals such as gold, silver, palladium, indium and gallium. The EPA’s urban mining policy will thus seek to optimize the recycling of e-waste. \nThe volumes of e-waste generated are increasing annually, from an estimated 3.9 million items in 2007 to an estimated 6.5 million items in 2014. Disposing of e-waste is now an emerging industry, and the urban mining policy represents a milestone for the EPA and will help enterprises to think up innovative ways to transform recycled e-waste into useful products. \nSince most e-waste contains precious metals, up-to-date recycling techniques can extract and reuse them. Most of Taiwan’s recyclers and reuse enterprises are only able to extract low-grade precious metals that are then sold abroad for small profit margins, while the purer, high-grade rare metals are mostly imported from overseas. However, in recent years some Taiwan enterprises have developed techniques to extract high-grade valuable and rare metals from recycled e-waste to make high added-value reuse products.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Urban Mining Promoted for Full-scale E-waste Recycling", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-12" }, { "no": "3375", "title": "Touqian River Constructed Wetlands in Hsinchu City Now in Use", "preview": "Water Touqian River Constructed Wetlands in Hsinchu City Now in Use\nA new page has been written in the story of cooperation between central and local governments in remediating the environment. With the assistance of the EPA, the Hsinchu City Government has completed the construction of Kezi Lake and Xipuzi constructed wetlands on the Touquian River. A ceremony on 2 December 2015 marked the start of the wetlands in use.", "content": "Touqian River Constructed Wetlands in Hsinchu City Now in Use\nA new page has been written in the story of cooperation between central and local governments in remediating the environment. With the assistance of the EPA, the Hsinchu City Government has completed the construction of Kezi Lake and Xipuzi constructed wetlands on the Touquian River. A ceremony on 2 December 2015 marked the start of the wetlands in use. \nIn his speech at the ceremony, EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei pointed out that having constructed wetlands in operation at Kezi Lake and Xipuzi on Touqian River will facilitate greater control over water quality in the river and create a cleaner riverbank\/eco-corridor environment, as well as help maintain the river’s base flow. The EPA expects the riverbanks and eco-corridor to become a good place for local residents and visitors alike to enjoy leisure or environmental education activities. \nThe Kezihu Constructed Wetland is located upstream of the Nanya drinking water intake point and encompasses a total area of eight hectares. The wetland will treat up to 8,000 tonnes daily of household wastewater from the Kezi Lake drainage system, equivalent to the wastewater produced by 20,000 people. The wetland will remove significant amounts of pollutants from the water before it reaches the Nanya drinking water intake point, and thus help maintain safe drinking water for local residents. \nThe Xipuzi Constructed Wetland encompasses 12 hectares of high riverbank area. The wetland will treat a third of the wastewater from the northern and eastern districts of Hsinchu City, which passes through the Xipuzi drainage system before entering Touqian River. The wetland will help improve water quality in the mid- and downstream sections of the river by treating up to 16,000 tonnes of wastewater daily, equivalent to the wastewater produced by 40,000 people. The two wetlands were completed with a subsidy of NT$52.36 million from the EPA.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Touqian River Constructed Wetlands in Hsinchu City Now in Use", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-12" }, { "no": "3374", "title": "EPA Awarded for Crackdown on Illegal Toxic Wastewater Discharging", "preview": "Environmental Inspection EPA Awarded for Crackdown on Illegal Toxic Wastewater Discharging\nThe EPA received an award from the Executive Yuan for its meritorious performance for a Sustainable Environment and Local Governance. On 11 November 2015, Premier Mao Chi-kuo presented the award to the EPA to recognize its efforts in cracking down on crimes involving the discharge of toxic wastewater.", "content": "EPA Awarded for Crackdown on Illegal Toxic Wastewater Discharging\nThe EPA received an award from the Executive Yuan for its meritorious performance for a Sustainable Environment and Local Governance. On 11 November 2015, Premier Mao Chi-kuo presented the award to the EPA to recognize its efforts in cracking down on crimes involving the discharge of toxic wastewater. \nTo protect soil and aqueous environments from contamination by wastewater containing heavy metals, the EPA established a special task force to clamp down on crimes involving the discharge of toxic wastewater. This task force broke away from conventional thinking and spared no efforts to crack down on illegal wastewater discharging on all fronts. A case in point is the electroplating industry in Changhua. Knowing that Changhua is an area where electroplating industries cluster, the task force searched for high risk enterprises and hot zones with high contamination, and reined in the major offenders in one fell swoop. In so doing, the task force showed its high precision and efficiency in law enforcement. As wastewater containing heavy metals has been proven to be hazardous to human health, the EPA’s bold action not only greatly improved the water quality in irrigation ditches, but efficiently protected farmlands and the safety of rice crops.\nThe EPA’s task force proved adept at using information technology and scientific equipment to create new ways of inspection. By collaborating with prosecutors and the police, and coordinating both internally and externally, the task force was able to integrate their professional expertise to investigate the intricate modes of committing violations. In the end, the task force clamped down on enterprises which discharged toxic wastewater into irrigation ditches. \nAfter five major waves of inspections, 35 enterprises were indicted and 24 were ordered by the EPA to suspend operations. It is estimated that more than 3,000 tons of highly toxic wastewater from the electroplating industry were prevented from being discharged into the environment. This has enhanced the irrigation ditch water quality passing rate to nearly 100%, and enabled the recovery of the ditches’ ecosystems. Fish can now be seen swimming in the ditches again. \nThe EPA’s efforts benefited 5,500 hectares of rice crops and weeded out some illegal enterprises. In addition, the EPA also established a successful precedent for a win-win situation in economic development and environmental protection. The electroplating industry’s revenue increased 120%-210%. Since 118 electroplating plants were encouraged to relocate to an area designated for electroplating in Changhua Coastal Industrial Park where they could be collectively managed, revenue of electroplating enterprises increased 120%~210%. To maximize the positive outcomes of this operation, the EPA has compiled an instruction manual of more than 50,000 words describing the process mentioned above. The manual aims to serve as a legacy and is intended for national circulation.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Inspection", "titlename": "EPA Awarded for Crackdown on Illegal Toxic Wastewater Discharging", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-12" }, { "no": "3373", "title": "High Tech Applied to Protect Taiwan’s Environment", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring High Tech Applied to Protect Taiwan’s Environment \nTaiwan’s 2015 IT Month kicked off in November with an exhibition. The EPA was there with a booth anchored around the theme of “High Tech that Helps Make Taiwan Beautiful.” The EPA exhibited a number of high-tech environmental technologies and products including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and the latest air quality microsensors. Vice Premier San-cheng Chang and EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei were present on the opening day to try on a pair of virtual reality (VR) goggles and experience a simulation of a high-tech way in which environmental personnel seek out pollution sources.", "content": "High Tech Applied to Protect Taiwan’s Environment \nTaiwan’s 2015 IT Month kicked off in November with an exhibition. The EPA was there with a booth anchored around the theme of “High Tech that Helps Make Taiwan Beautiful.” The EPA exhibited a number of high-tech environmental technologies and products including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and the latest air quality microsensors. Vice Premier San-cheng Chang and EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei were present on the opening day to try on a pair of virtual reality (VR) goggles and experience a simulation of a high-tech way in which environmental personnel seek out pollution sources.\nTechnology seems to be advancing by the day, and high-tech devices are now able to play important roles in monitoring pollution sources and air and water quality. At the EPA’s booth at the 9-day IT show, which began on 28 November, a range of cutting edge high-tech environmental devices and equipment were on display. To gain an accurate picture of pollution sources and act quickly to eliminate them, the EPA has joined forces with the National Airborne Service Corps to use their helicopters to cover large areas to ensure that pollution sources have nowhere to hide. . \nUAVs are used over smaller areas for the same purpose, thus giving the EPA a range of in-depth, far-reaching, dynamic inspection and monitoring tools. The VR goggles were unveiled for the first time at the IT show for members of the public to try on and better understand the importance of aerial inspections, by experiencing how environmental personnel can benefit from a panoramic aerial view. \nThe new generation of air quality microsensor has a number of outstanding features including low cost, as well as ease of use and deployment to give total coverage in a designated area. The EPA is currently operating 76 air quality monitoring stations around Taiwan that are able to accurately record concentrations of pollutants such as PM2.5, CO and VOCs in large areas. But since there are many factors that affect air quality, EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei has come up with the concept of “crowd science and community participation” to meld the potential of the microsensors together with public education in order to clamp down on pollution sources that adversely affect air quality. The microsensors will be able to supplement monitoring stations and also provide timely reminders and learning opportunities to local residents. A tight-knit network of microsensors and monitoring stations can thus provide air quality protection for the whole of Taiwan. \nThe EPA booth also displayed an intelligent water quality management system that displays interactive projections of land formations, rivers, and sand spits that facilitates accurate water quality monitoring and improvements at both micro and macro levels. Guided by the concept of sustainability, the EPA is actively adopting a policy of “point-line-plane combined protection for water, land and air” to make Taiwan a more attractive place.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "High Tech Applied to Protect Taiwan s Environment", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-12" }, { "no": "3372", "title": "Understanding Weather Factors Better to Strengthen Poor Air Quality Day Restrictions", "preview": "Air Understanding Weather Factors Better to Strengthen Poor Air Quality Day Restrictions \nAt the beginning of November 2015, Taiwan experienced a spell of poor air quality that resulted in the EPA asking the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) to request the Taichung Power Plant for load curtailment. To better understand the air quality improvement efficiency resulting from the load curtailment, the EPA used an air quality model to estimate the improvement efficiency. The results suggested that the degree of improvement and the locations with better air quality were highly related to weather conditions. The EPA will continue to conduct research on suitable restrictive measures that can be written into law and applied under different weather conditions.", "content": "Understanding Weather Factors Better to Strengthen Poor Air Quality Day Restrictions \nAt the beginning of November 2015, Taiwan experienced a spell of poor air quality that resulted in the EPA asking the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) to request the Taichung Power Plant for load curtailment. To better understand the air quality improvement efficiency resulting from the load curtailment, the EPA used an air quality model to estimate the improvement efficiency. The results suggested that the degree of improvement and the locations with better air quality were highly related to weather conditions. The EPA will continue to conduct research on suitable restrictive measures that can be written into law and applied under different weather conditions. \nThe spell of poor air quality over a period of a few days at the start of November 2015 led the EPA to take emergency action under its poor air quality day protocols. The EPA asked the MOEA to request the operators of Taichung Power Plant to curtail a load of 180 MW. The air quality assessment model showed that the load curtailment of 180 MW led to reductions of 0.01%~0.11% in fine particulate matter concentrations at monitoring stations in central Taiwan. Load curtailment of 1,100 MW led to reductions of 0.13%~0.7% at the same stations, while load curtailment of 2,200 MW led to reductions of 0.28%~1.46% at said monitoring stations. \nAir quality is affected by emissions from pollution sources, the weather, local topography, and other factors. Of these, the weather has the biggest impact upon short-term changes in air quality, especially the diffusion and transmission mechanisms in the atmosphere. These two mechanisms are primarily affected by wind speed and meteorological conditions in the atmospheric mixed layer. The height of the atmospheric mixed layer represents the height to which pollutants can diffuse vertically. The pollutants are dispersed evenly throughout this layer by the action of turbulence. The higher the atmospheric mixed layer, the stronger the convection and the higher the chance of pollutants rising up and being diluted. Wind strength, by contrast, determines the scope of the area that pollutants can be transmitted in a horizontal direction: The stronger the wind, the further pollutants can be carried. The lower air currents that accompany the autumn and winter northeast seasonal winds – combined with lower surface temperatures and weaker sunlight – lead to a more stable atmosphere. The atmospheric mixed layer thus hangs lower and pollutants do not readily disperse in a vertical direction in autumn and winter. \nUnder such meteorological conditions, improving air quality requires significantly tougher and more wide-ranging restrictions on the ground. Since different weather conditions have differing degrees of impact upon air quality, the EPA is continuing to conduct research on suitable restrictive measures that can be written into law and applied to different weather conditions.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Understanding Weather Factors Better to Strengthen Poor Air Quality Day Restrictions", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-12" }, { "no": "3371", "title": "Multi-tier Microsensor Network Helps Improve Air Quality", "preview": "Air Multi-tier Microsensor Network Helps Improve Air Quality \nThe EPA is currently rolling out its Air Quality Microsensor System with the aim of boosting its ability to collect air quality data on a “point, line, plane” basis and thus bring about immediate improvements to air quality. Puli Township in Nantou County has been chosen as the site for the first demonstration of the system. The town will soon host at least 30 microsensors that will work in conjunction with the air quality monitoring station that has already been set up in Puli Junior High School.", "content": "Multi-tier Microsensor Network Helps Improve Air Quality \nThe EPA is currently rolling out its Air Quality Microsensor System with the aim of boosting its ability to collect air quality data on a “point, line, plane” basis and thus bring about immediate improvements to air quality. Puli Township in Nantou County has been chosen as the site for the first demonstration of the system. The town will soon host at least 30 microsensors that will work in conjunction with the air quality monitoring station that has already been set up in Puli Junior High School. \nIn an update issued on 27 November 2015, the EPA said that the air quality monitoring station in Puli Junior High School is collecting data representative of the whole Puli area on concentrations of harmful air pollutants such as PM2.5, CO, O3 and VOCs. However, the station cannot determine the nature of small- and medium-sized pollution sources. To make up for this deficiency, the microsensors are spread around the township to monitor PM2.5 and, like a watchful soldier on guard duty, the microsensor system is able to quickly flag up pollution sources in the immediate vicinity. The EPA is looking forward to being able to link up the microsensor system with the monitoring station to create an effective air pollution monitoring network that can quickly identify pollution sources from both inside and outside the township. \nThere are already successful examples of air pollution monitoring networks in operation overseas, such as in Amsterdam, Netherlands and Chicago, USA. The Puli microsensor system uses sensors of international standard and has local volunteers willing to help out. The EPA is developing an app for cellphones that will allow data from the microsensor system to be downloaded by volunteers and other concerned residents to give users a better understanding of local air quality and to stimulate their desire to improve it.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Multi-tier Microsensor Network Helps Improve Air Quality", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-12" }, { "no": "3370", "title": "Amendments to Regulations Governing Recordkeeping for Toxic Chemical Substance Release Preannounced", "preview": "Toxic Substance Amendments to Regulations Governing Recordkeeping for Toxic Chemical Substance Release Preannounced", "content": "Amendments to Regulations Governing Recordkeeping for Toxic Chemical Substance Release Preannounced \nOn 3 November 2015, the EPA preannounced amendments to the Regulations Governing Recordkeeping for Toxic Chemical Substance Release. This was done in order to strengthen control over the volumes of toxic chemicals being released into the environment, increase the number of listed toxic chemicals, and stipulate the guidelines for calculating permitted release volumes. \nThe main points of the revisions to the Regulations Governing Recordkeeping for Toxic Chemical Substance Release are as follows:\n1. To improve the quality and accuracy of toxic chemical release data submitted by enterprises, the EPA has changed the date by which toxic chemical release volumes for the previous year must be submitted from 10 January to 31 January of each year.\n2. To let the enterprises have consistent standards against which they can calculate their toxic chemical release volumes to make their release data more consonant with actual circumstances, the EPA has added the stipulation that the Toxic Chemical Substance Release Volume Calculation Guidelines should be used for calculating released volumes of toxic chemical substances that are subject to the guidelines announced by the central competent authority.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "toxic substance", "titlename": "Amendments to Regulations Governing Recordkeeping for Toxic Chemical Substance Release Preannounced", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-12" }, { "no": "3369", "title": "PCNs Preannounced as Class 1 Toxic Chemical Substances", "preview": "Toxic Substance PCNs Preannounced as Class 1 Toxic Chemical Substances\nDue to the international trend toward restrictions on the use of polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs) and tetrachloroethene, and tighter controls over the use of formaldehyde, 1,2-dichloroethane, acrylamide, nonylphenols, and nonylphenol ethoxylates, the EPA has reviewed, revised and preannounced changes to the list of controlled toxic chemical substances to include the above substances.", "content": "PCNs Preannounced as Class 1 Toxic Chemical Substances\nDue to the international trend toward restrictions on the use of polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs) and tetrachloroethene, and tighter controls over the use of formaldehyde, 1,2-dichloroethane, acrylamide, nonylphenols, and nonylphenol ethoxylates, the EPA has reviewed, revised and preannounced changes to the list of controlled toxic chemical substances to include the above substances. \nThe amendments to the list of controlled toxic chemical substances were preannounced on 4 November 2015. The main points of the amendments are as follows: \n1. The decisions of the 7th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Stockholm Convention in May 2015 listed PCNs (including dichloronaphthalene, trichloronaphthalene, tetrachloronaphthalene, pentachloronaphthalene, and heptachloronaphthalene) as Annex A and Annex C chemicals to be controlled. Since their bioconcentration characteristics also make them Class 1 toxic chemical substances under the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act, the EPA has listed them as Class 1 Toxic Chemical Substances. After examining the scope of the Stockholm Convention Annex A, the EPA has added the stipulation that dichloronaphthalene, trichloronaphthalene, tetrachloronaphthalene, pentachloronaphthalene, hexachloronaphthalene, heptachloronaphthalene and octachloronaphthalene can only be used for research, experiments, education, or for the manufacturing of fluoronaphthalene, including the intermediate materials of octafluoronaphthalene.\n2. Adjustments have been made to control concentrations of acrylamide, formaldehyde, 1,2-dichloroethane, nonylphenols, and nonylphenol ethoxylates, expanding the scope of controls. \n3. Tetrachloroethylene is a persistent environmental pollutant that has been classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) of the World Health Organization as a Group 2A carcinogen. After taking into account that most dry cleaners in Taiwan are situated in residential areas, and after examining the US ban effective 21 December 2020 on the use of tetrachloroethylene by dry cleaners located in residential buildings, as well as France’s total ban on the use of tetrachloroethylene after 1 January 2022, the EPA has preannounced a ban on the use of this chemical by dry cleaners from 1 January 2021. No new permits for its use will be issued from the date of promulgation of the amendments. \n4. The Council of Agriculture banned the manufacturing, processing, or import of the pesticide endosulfan from 1 January 2012, and its sale or use from 1 January 2014. Since it can no longer be used for agriculture, the EPA has amended the regulations to state that industrial grade endosulfan, α-endosulfan, β-endosulfan and endosulfan sulfate can only be used for research, experiments, and educational purposes.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "toxic substance", "titlename": "PCNs Preannounced as Class 1 Toxic Chemical Substances", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-12" }, { "no": "3368", "title": "Film of Children s Environmental Wishes Released", "preview": "General Policy Film of Children’s Environmental Wishes Released\nWith the start of the 21st session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP21) in early December, the EPA made a film – titled For 2030, Children’s Wishes for the Future in Taiwan – which acts as a time capsule that lays out Taiwan’s vision for a new era in global history up to the year 2030. The film was shown for the first time on 30 November at Wanfang Elementary School in Taipei. The EPA is encouraging all citizens to make film clips and upload them to the EPA’s website of their own visions and hopes of how they would like our planet to be in 2030.", "content": "Film of Children’s Environmental Wishes Released\nWith the start of the 21st session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP21) in early December, the EPA made a film – titled For 2030, Children’s Wishes for the Future in Taiwan – which acts as a time capsule that lays out Taiwan’s vision for a new era in global history up to the year 2030. The film was shown for the first time on 30 November at Wanfang Elementary School in Taipei. The EPA is encouraging all citizens to make film clips and upload them to the EPA’s website of their own visions and hopes of how they would like our planet to be in 2030.\nThe world agrees that to protect the planet we need to reduce carbon emissions. At the UNFCCC COP21, the participating nations also put forward their intended nationally determined contributions (INDCs). The EU has pledged to reduce annual emissions by 40% by 2030, while the US and South Korea have said they will reduce their annual emissions by 26-28% and 37% of 2005 levels respectively before 2025. On 15 June 2015, Taiwan passed the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act, which stipulates that Taiwan’s emissions must be below 50% of 2005 levels by 2050. This pledge was made after thorough analyses. By looking through children’s viewpoints, EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei hopes more people will realize that environmental protection is not just empty talk but is about action and commitment, which is the greatest blessing that we can give to the next generation. \nThe new generation has simple hopes for our planet in the year 2030: They want the grass to be green and the sky to be blue. They want to be able to see big woodlands and they hope that polar bears and penguins won’t be extinct. The most moving thing about the children in the film is that they don’t lose heart just because they are small and powerless. All of them suggest small ways to make things better, such as using public transportation more, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, turning off lights and taps not in use, and taking part in the organized clean-ups of mountains and beaches.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "general policy", "titlename": "Film of Children s Environmental Wishes Released", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-12" }, { "no": "3367", "title": "97.4% of Controlled Enterprises File First Water Pollution Control Fees Declaration", "preview": "Water 97.4% of Controlled Enterprises File First Water Pollution Control Fees DeclarationThe EPA began collecting water pollution control fees on 1 May 2015, and the first regular six-month collecting period ended on 2 November 2015. As of the deadline, 5,359 of controlled enterprises had filed their fee declarations, which totaled NT$30.58 million.", "content": "97.4% of Controlled Enterprises File First Water Pollution Control Fees DeclarationThe EPA began collecting water pollution control fees on 1 May 2015, and the first regular six-month collecting period ended on 2 November 2015. As of the deadline, 5,359 of controlled enterprises had filed their fee declarations, which totaled NT$30.58 million.In accordance with a Legislative Yuan resolution, on 31 March 2015 the EPA announced amendments to the Regulations Governing the Collection of Water Pollution Control Fees. Since 1 May 2015, the EPA started to collect water pollution control fees on all enterprises except livestock industry enterprises and operators of sewage systems in industrial parks. The EPA began accepting the first fee declaration on 1 July 2015. According to EPA statistics, 5,500 listed enterprises were legally required to report and pay water pollution control fees for the first collecting period, of which 97.4% did so. With regard to industrial categories, there were 5,286 enterprises that filed fees totaling NT$24.1 million (78.8% of the total). Regarding the breakdown by industrial category of fees submitted, 78.8% (NT$24.1 million) of the total was submitted by 5,286 enterprises. The top three industries were metal finishing (814 enterprises, or 15.2% of the total 5,359 that filed declarations), electroplating (628 enterprises, or 11.7%), and hospitals and medical organizations (474 enterprises, or 8.8%). In terms of total fees collected, the top three industries were paper manufacturing (NT$3.3 million), the finishing and textile industry (NT$3.05 million) and power plants (NT$2.64 million). Seventy-three operators of industrial park sewage systems also reported and paid fees totaling NT$6.48 million (21.2% of the total fees collected). To encourage businesses to reduce the amount of wastewater they discharge, the EPA is providing 20-85% water pollution control fee reductions for enterprises whose effluent quality and volumes are below the stated maximums. In other words, less polluted and lower volumes of wastewater mean lower fees. The EPA is also giving affected enterprises a one-year grace period (2015) during which all fees will be halved. The fees will then increase annually by 10%, so in the sixth year (2020) and thereafter the full amount will be collected. Seeing that about 78% of enterprises for the first collection period on average pay under NT$1,500 in fees (i.e., under NT$10,000 annually), with the discounts, the new fee rates should not unduly impact their financial flows.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "97.4% of Controlled Enterprises File First Water Pollution Control Fees Declaration", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-12" }, { "no": "3366", "title": "Fine Particulate Matter Monitoring in Taiwan", "preview": "Air Fine Particulate Matter Monitoring in Taiwan \nThe Taiwan EPA established air quality monitoring stations years ago to monitor and publish online real-time air quality information. Taiwan’s residents thus have access to detailed data and first-hand, accurate advice from the EPA to help safeguard their health.", "content": "Fine Particulate Matter Monitoring in Taiwan \nThe Taiwan EPA established air quality monitoring stations years ago to monitor and publish online real-time air quality information. Taiwan’s residents thus have access to detailed data and first-hand, accurate advice from the EPA to help safeguard their health.\nPM2.5 refers to solid particles, or solid particles mixed with liquids, that are suspended in the air and are 2.5 μm or less in aerodynamic diameter. Being of such small diameter, PM2.5 can enter the pulmonary alveoli of the lungs and even pass through blood vessel walls into the bloodstream. Its impact on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems is the main cause for concern. Fine particulate matters (PM2.5) can be divided into primary PM2.5 – which is directly emitted by pollution sources – and secondary PM2.5. Secondary PM2.5 is formed when sulfur oxides (Sox), nitrogen oxides (Nox), Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), ammonia and other gaseous precursors undergo complicated chemical reactions in the atmosphere. The monitoring of PM2.5 in the atmosphere must therefore include these gaseous precursors.\n31 Monitoring Stations Produce Real-time PM2.5 Data\nThe EPA is currently operating 76 air quality monitoring stations around Taiwan and regularly conducts manual PM2.5 measurement at 31 of them. Data collected are published in real-time on the EPA’s website. Twice a day, forecasts are given for air quality and UV for the forthcoming three days, including the PM2.5 indices. \nFrom October to May of the following year, the EPA monitors for airborne pollutants transmitted from overseas and issues warnings online and through news channels when there is a need, as well as publishing the PM2.5 indices. In conjunction with the use of the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI), the data and advice provided helps members of the public to better protect their health. \nThe EPA has discovered that particulate matter is the main cause behind poor air quality during the fall and winter months when the seasonal northeast wind is blowing. Considering that particulate matter that are 2.5 μm or smaller in aerodynamic diameter have the biggest impact upon human health, the EPA publishes simple and easy-to-understand PM2.5 air quality indices and data on its website. \nThe EPA examined PM2.5 indices of developed nations and adapted the Daily Air Quality Index used in the UK to develop Taiwan’s PM2.5 alert system. The alert system employs a grading of level one to ten from the lightest to the most serious PM2.5 pollution which is also presented with different colors. For example, code 4 indicates the concentration of PM2.5 has reached 36 μg\/m3, for which the EPA’s advice is that people who are susceptible should think carefully before participating in outdoor activities and pay more attention to their health conditions. For people in normal health, the same advice would be given for a code 7 alert, or when PM2.5 reaches 54 μg\/m3. Real-time air quality data is always available on the EPA’s website http:\/\/taqm.epa.gov.tw, and members of the public who wish to know how the indices are calculated can look at the EPA Web page http:\/\/taqm.epa.gov.tw\/taqm\/tw\/fpmi.aspx. Real-time PM2.5 indices and data are always available on the EPA’s website http:\/\/taqm.epa.gov.tw\/taqm\/tw\/PsiMap.aspx.\nRoad Transportation and Industrial Emissions the Main Sources of PM2.5 \nAnalyses of emission inventories from Taiwan’s air pollution sources show that total annual PM2.5 emissions for a recent year was 73,855 tonnes. Of this total, 37% was dust created by building and infrastructure construction, 16,865 tonnes (23%) was from industry, and 23% was vehicle emissions.\nIn the same year, the total amount of Sox, a PM2.5 precursor, emitted into the atmosphere was 119,720 tonnes, of which industry accounted for 105,261 tonnes, or 88% of the total. The total amount of Nox, another PM2.5 precursor, emitted into the atmosphere was 434,160 tonnes, of which industry accounted for 176,100 tonnes, or 41%. \nIn the future, the EPA will continue to strengthen controls over emissions to reduce PM2.5 and improve air quality whenever pollution control technology allows. To implement greater control over pollution sources and enhance and accelerate the government’s PM2.5 reduction efforts, the EPA is calling upon operators of industrial pollution sources to implement their own air pollutant reduction measures. The EPA will also continue to cooperate closely with, and offer guidance to, the industry competent authority (the Ministry of Economic Affairs, MOEA) in assisting enterprises to phase in improvements so that residents will be able to breathe clean air.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Fine Particulate Matter Monitoring in Taiwan", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-12" }, { "no": "3365", "title": "Road Test Results of Volkswagen Diesel Cars Meet Emission Standards", "preview": "Air Road Test Results of Volkswagen Diesel Cars Meet Emission Standards\nTo dispel doubts about the emissions of Volkswagen diesel cars the EPA commissioned the Automotive Research and Testing Center to conduct actual road tests on three Volkswagen vehicles using the same measurement systems used by the US EPA, along with the standard testing methods as announced by the Taiwan EPA. The results showed that emissions of all the tested vehicles met the emission standards.", "content": "Road Test Results of Volkswagen Diesel Cars Meet Emission Standards\nTo dispel doubts about the emissions of Volkswagen diesel cars the EPA commissioned the Automotive Research and Testing Center to conduct actual road tests on three Volkswagen vehicles using the same measurement systems used by the US EPA, along with the standard testing methods as announced by the Taiwan EPA. The results showed that emissions of all the tested vehicles met the emission standards. \nThe EPA commissioned the Automotive Research and Testing Center to conduct tests on three Volkswagen diesel cars, including two Golf 2.0 TDI (affected model) borrowed from car owners and one Golf 1.6 TDI (unaffected model), which underwent a new car random inspection on 22 September. The results of the road tests are as follows: \n\n1. The NOX control limit for Phase 5 Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards for diesel cars was 0.18g\/km (EU). The two affected vehicles were tested in accordance with standard procedures and met emission standards. \n2. The affected vehicles displayed a higher NOX value than values obtained when tested in a laboratory. Other than this, there was no significant difference in regards to the discharge of other air pollutants. \n3. As for the unaffected Golf 1.6 model, the actual road test results were about 35-150% higher than the results obtained in laboratory tests. \n4. The actual road tests of the affected Golf 2.0 model showed results about 430-578% higher than those obtained in laboratory testing. \n5. Taiwan’s evaluation of the average NOX emission value of the affected Golf 2.0 model stood at 0.750 g\/km, which was roughly the same as the test results obtained by West Virginia University in the US and the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), which stood at 0.818 g\/km. \n\nThe total volume of air pollution from mobile sources is the sum of the emission factors of various types of cars multiplied by the mileage traveled. To bridge the gap between the estimated values and the actual situation, since 2009 the EPA has used the portable emission measurement system (PEMS) to conduct actual road tests on cars, and the results have served as references for the modification of emission factors. So far, 44 cars have been tested (including petrol-run vehicles, motorcycles and buses), and more than 10,000 data sets have been obtained to evaluate energy consumption and conduct emission factor modification. \n\nFrom 2012 onwards, the EPA has been using the Phase 5 Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards for diesel cars, which are identical to the EURO 5 standards enforced comprehensively since 2012 in the EU. From 2015 the EPA commissioned a professional agency to conduct a three-year research project on PEMS actual road tests of heavy duty diesel cars. The EPA will align with international control trends and implementation agendas and integrate the PEMS testing method into relevant regulations. \n\nThe emission standards of Volkswagen vehicles imported to Taiwan adhere to EU standards, while those imported into the US adhere to US standards. It is to be noted that the anti-pollution components are different, and the testing methods and fuel standards vary as well. Therefore, the test results of Taiwan cannot be compared directly with those of the US, but the results do show that the NOX emission of the affected vehicles are both much higher in actual road tests than those measured in laboratory tests. \n\nThe EPA will continue to use the PEMS to conduct actual road tests with the purpose of collecting more data to determine the functionality of emission reduction mechanisms, as well as to conduct tests on vehicles of other car makers and models that may have similar devices to make sure that the imported cars in Taiwan do actually meet emission standards. The EPA would also like to maintain air quality by complying with international trends and agendas to accelerate the adoption of the PEMS into Taiwan’s regulatory vehicle emission testing system.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Road Test Results of Volkswagen Diesel Cars Meet Emission Standards", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-11" }, { "no": "3364", "title": "Taiwan and US EPAs Hold Global Environmental Education Partnership Conference", "preview": "Environmental Education Taiwan and US EPAs Hold Global Environmental Education Partnership Conference\nFrom 12-15 October 2015 the Taiwan and US EPAs and the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE) held a Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP) conference in San Diego, USA. Thirty-five environmental education experts representing governments and NGOs in fifteen nations were in attendance, which was the highest number of delegates and nations to ever attend a GEEP conference.", "content": "Taiwan and US EPAs Hold Global Environmental Education Partnership Conference\nFrom 12-15 October 2015 the Taiwan and US EPAs and the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE) held a Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP) conference in San Diego, USA. Thirty-five environmental education experts representing governments and NGOs in fifteen nations were in attendance, which was the highest number of delegates and nations to ever attend a GEEP conference. \nThe conference was an opportunity for delegates to share the achievements and experiences their respective nations have attained in environmental education. Delegates also exchanged opinions on the function and role of GEEP and on how to implement specific projects in the future. Some of the topics discussed included the special features of environmental education in various nations, legal procedures related to environmental education, climate change education, and environmental education in professional development. \n\nThe EPA delegates spoke about the hard work that has gone into delivering environmental education in Taiwan. They pointed out that since the implementation of the Environmental Education Act in 2011 related regulations have been formulated, and the EPA is more than happy to share its experiences with other nations. They also expressed the EPA’s desire to work closely with other nations in establishing partnerships through the GEEP platform to jointly develop environmental education tools, methods, and promotion mechanisms. \n\nIn addition to the exchanges of opinions, the work done so far on the GEEP website was also on display so that delegates could give suggestions on its functions and data maintenance. The website will become the main channel for GEEP to implement global environmental education.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Taiwan and US EPAs Hold Global Environmental Education Partnership Conference", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-11" }, { "no": "3363", "title": "EPA Monitors South China Sea Environmental Quality with US NOAA and NASA", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring EPA Monitors South China Sea Environmental Quality with US NOAA and NASA The Taiwan EPA has been working with the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to conduct long-term sample-taking and monitoring of greenhouse gases over the South China Sea. Five-year monitoring data from the Dongsha Islands indicate that evels of three main greenhouse gases – CO2 methane and nitrous oxide – are on the rise. The increase in the average annual concentration of CO2 to over 400 ppm in 2014 indicates that CO2 levels are rising year-on-year.", "content": "EPA Monitors South China Sea Environmental Quality with US NOAA and NASA\nThe Taiwan EPA has been working with the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to conduct long-term sample-taking and monitoring of greenhouse gases over the South China Sea. Five-year monitoring data from the Dongsha Islands indicate that levels of three main greenhouse gases – CO2 methane and nitrous oxide – are on the rise. The increase in the average annual concentration of CO2 to over 400 ppm in 2014 indicates that CO2 levels are rising year-on-year. \nTaiwan is situated at the northern edge of Southeast Asia, a region which includes Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines. These nations are prone to large-scale burnings of forests and agricultural waste during summer months which produces serious air pollution. When combined with emissions from industrial activity the smoke becomes smog, or the “Asian brown cloud,” as it is called by the United Nations Environment Programme. This smog is easily carried by seasonal winds and westerly winds towards Taiwan and has a negative impact upon the local environment and ecosystem. From September to April in most of Asia, the winter seasonal winds carry less rain which means that the pollutants are not being washed away by precipitation. Thus the Asian brown cloud problem becomes most apparent from January to March. \nTo monitor global changes in greenhouse gases in cooperation with other countries, the EPA has been part of the ESRL\/GMD\/CCGG of NOAA since 2010. On 20 October 2015, the EPA disclosed the preliminary results of monitoring greenhouse gases and the Asian brown cloud. Data from five years of monitoring indicated that levels of three of the main greenhouse gases – CO2, methane, and nitrous oxide – are on the rise. The increase in the average annual concentration of CO2 to over 400 ppm in 2014 indicated that CO2 levels are rising year-on-year.\nTo monitor the spread of the Asian brown cloud, the EPA also has been jointly conducting the 7-SEAS Mission-Dongsha project with NASA, as well as involving 14 of Taiwan’s research and academic organizations in another overseas monitoring project, the 7 SEAS-Baseline Integrated Project. This latter project involves the use of existing satellite remote sensing, radar, and international ground networks to conduct air quality background monitoring at the Thai-Myanmar border (with Thai assistance) and in northern Vietnam (with Vietnamese assistance), as well as at the Atmospheric Background Monitoring Station on the top of Mt. Lulin, the National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium in HengChuen, and the monitoring stations at Dongsha Island and Taiping Island. Expanding the scope of international joint monitoring is allowing the participating nations to investigate the physics and chemistry involved in the long-range transmission of pollutants originating with biomass burning in Southeast Asia. \n\nAs for marine water quality monitoring, the EPA is currently implementing the Dongsha Islands Coastal Marine Territory Environmental Water Quality Monitoring Plan and the South China Sea Environmental Quality Survey Plan. The main targets of the monitoring are the waters around the Dongsha Islands and the Taiping Islands. Over the last seven years the EPA has built up a body of water quality data along a line running north to south through the South China Sea. This includes data for 17 items: water temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, salinity, total coliform group of bacteria, suspended solids, biochemical oxygen demand, ammonia nitrogen, total phosphorus, silicates, chlorophyll a, cadmium, chromium, mercury, copper, tin, and lead. Repeated surveys have shown that water quality around the coral islands and shipping routes in the South China Sea are generally good. \n\nSince the Dongsha and Nansha Islands are both some distance from Taiwan, the EPA is unable to single-handedly bear the cost of the research and has thus asked the Coast Guard Administration and the Ministry of National Defense to dispatch ships or planes to the areas to conduct water quality surveys. The marine water quality monitoring in the South China Sea is very challenging considering: the water sampling equipment and on-site monitoring instruments must be carried back and forth on the vessels; the risk of sampling being unable to be carried out if the wind is too strong or the waves are too big; and the requirement that samples collected must be kept under specific conditions while being transported back to a laboratory for analysis. The time, money, and effort involved means that the data obtained from the South China Sea are precious. \n\nResults from all of the EPA’s atmospheric and marine monitoring programs are published on the EPA’s air quality monitoring network website (http:\/\/taqm.epa.gov.tw\/taqm) and the national water quality monitoring data network website (http:\/\/wq.epa.gov.tw\/).", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "EPA Monitors South China Sea Environmental Quality with US NOAA and NASA", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-11" }, { "no": "3362", "title": "Classification of Ballast Water as Marine Pollutant Considered", "preview": "Water Classification of Ballast Water as Marine Pollutant Considered The EPA works closely with the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) in managing affairs related to ballast water. To this end on 26 October 2015, the EPA preannounced two draft sets of regulations: Ballast Water Classified as Discharged Substances Defined by Article 3 Paragraph 6 of the Marine Pollution Control Act and Taiwan’s Territorial Waters Classified as Controlled Marine Areas for Ballast Water Change Prohibitions and Related Pollution Control Measures.", "content": "Classification of Ballast Water as Marine Pollutant Considered", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Classification of Ballast Water as Marine Pollutant Considered", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-11" }, { "no": "3361", "title": "Regulations for Calculating Water Polluters’ Illegal Gains Announced", "preview": "Water Regulations for Calculating Water Polluters’ Illegal Gains Announced In order for environmental law to be enforced in a more just manner on 7 October 2015 the EPA announced the Regulations Governing Calculating and Estimating Benefits Obtained from Water Pollution Control Act Violations. The regulations make a major change to the penalty regime for violators of the Water Pollution Control Act by calculating penalties on the basis of both reliance interest and performance interest. In addition to the current system of fines, the EPA will clarify the types of major violations that will be classed as illegal gains for the purpose of seeking financial redress. This measure will further restrict illegal activities while promoting environmental justice.", "content": "Regulations for Calculating Water Polluters’ Illegal Gains Announced \nIn order for environmental law to be enforced in a more just manner on 7 October 2015 the EPA announced the Regulations Governing Calculating and Estimating Benefits Obtained from Water Pollution Control Act Violations. The regulations make a major change to the penalty regime for violators of the Water Pollution Control Act by calculating penalties on the basis of both reliance interest and performance interest. In addition to the current system of fines, the EPA will clarify the types of major violations that will be classed as illegal gains for the purpose of seeking financial redress. This measure will further restrict illegal activities while promoting environmental justice. \nIn the past, fines were the main penalty for environmental violations. The amount of the fine was calculated according to the Administrative Penalties Act and was factored upon the size of the enterprise’s profits. \nThus, although the competent authority was confiscating the illegal gains it was also simultaneously reducing or removing the sanctions that the violators should have been receiving, a travesty of both environmental justice and the notion of fair corporate competition. Long-term or major violators were able to enjoy conspicuous benefits in the form of profits made from breaking the law and also inconspicuous benefits in the form of not having to pay the full cost of the damage that they had caused. \nAs a result of this flaw, amendments to the Water Pollution Control Act were announced on 4 February 2015: Regulations were added to Article 66 stating that violators of the Water Pollution Control Act who profit from their violations will not only be fined but will also be forced to pay compensation within the scope of their gains in order to further restrict illegal activities while realizing environmental justice.\nAs authorized by Article 66-2 Paragraph 4 of the Water Pollution Control Act, the EPA has formulated the Regulations Governing Calculating and Estimating Illegal Benefits Obtained from Water Pollution Control Act Violations, which cover the calculation or estimation of violators’ gains. The EPA has also examined other examples of how illegal gains are penalized, in principle and in practice, both in Taiwan and overseas, and has referred to a number of actual cases over the last few years. The main points of the regulations are as follows: \n1. The legal basis of the regulations\n2. Definitions of terms used\n3. Reminders to the competent authority of the types of major violation that should result in illegal gains being confiscated\n4. Types of conspicuous benefits and methods for calculating\/estimating them\n5. Types of inconspicuous benefits and methods for calculating\/estimating them\n6. Sources of data\/information to be used for calculating illegal benefits\n7. Determining the period for which illegal benefits should be calculated\n8. Methods to be used by the competent authority to calculate\/estimate illegal benefits\n9. The evidence providing responsibility of the accused party and the rights for them to seek assistance from other related agencies or organizations\n10. Illegal calculation, estimation and expert review mechanisms\n11. Negotiation mechanism between the competent authority seeking financial redress and the accused party\n12. For illegal benefits obtained before the last amendment to the Water Pollution Control Act, confiscation must be conducted in accordance with the Administrative Penalty Act.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Regulations for Calculating Water Polluters Illegal Gains Announced", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-11" }, { "no": "3360", "title": "Water Pollution Disclosure from Petrochemical Optoelectronics and Semiconductor Industries Considered", "preview": "Water Water Pollution Disclosure from Petrochemical Optoelectronics and Semiconductor Industries Considered", "content": "Water Pollution Disclosure from Petrochemical Optoelectronics and Semiconductor Industries Considered \nOn 20 October 2015 the EPA preannounced the draft of the Water Pollutants to Be Disclosed by Designated Enterprises. The draft specifies the categories of industry that need to disclose their air pollution information, the pollutants that they need to disclose, and the criteria for determining whether or not the said pollutants are potentially harmful to ecosystems or human health. \nThe latest revision to the Water Pollution Control Act that was announced on 4 February 2015 is intended to strengthen risk prevention management. Since some pollutants are not restricted under current effluent control standards, the EPA has added to Article 14-1 the requirement that designated enterprises should disclose information on all potential pollutants in their effluent along with discharge volumes. The EPA has added to Article 14-2 the requirement that if any discharged pollutants have the potential to harm human health or ecosystems, the enterprises in question must submit a risk assessment and details of control measures to be adopted. \nThe announced designated enterprises mentioned above are those that have permits to discharge more than 10,000 cubic meters of wastewater daily and are in the following industries:\n‧The petrochemical and chemical industry, for using large volumes of chemicals in their manufacturing processes \n‧The Optoelectronic materials and components manufacturing industry, for constantly changing the composition of the raw materials in their manufacturing processes\n‧The wafer fabricating industry\n‧The semiconductor manufacturing industry\nTo clarify the scope of the items to be disclosed, the EPA has adopted the International Agency for Research on Cancer’s (IARC) Group 1 carcinogenic substances as well as the Group I carcinogenic, mutagenic and toxic for reproduction (CMR) substances which are already controlled by the Ministry of Labor. After deleting substances that had been deemed unsuitable for inclusion, a total of 129 chemical substances were listed in the draft and considered to be disclosed.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Water Pollution Disclosure from Petrochemical Optoelectronics and Semiconductor Industries Considered", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-11" }, { "no": "3359", "title": "Taiwan Forms Climate Change Adaptation Partnerships with Other Nations", "preview": "climate change Taiwan Forms Climate Change Adaptation Partnerships with Other Nations From 18~20 October 2015 EPA Deputy Minister Shu-Chiang Fu led a delegation to the 2015 Pan Pacific Adaptation on Climate Change (PPACC) International Workshop in Hanoi, Vietnam. A total of 26 climate change experts from ten nations, the EPA, and four international organizations were present to share their experiences and technological knowledge, thus helping in the formation of adaptation partnership models and exchange platforms.", "content": "Taiwan Forms Climate Change Adaptation Partnerships with Other Nations\nFrom 18~20 October 2015 EPA Deputy Minister Shu-Chiang Fu led a delegation to the 2015 Pan Pacific Adaptation on Climate Change (PPACC) International Workshop in Hanoi, Vietnam. A total of 26 climate change experts from ten nations, the EPA, and four international organizations were present to share their experiences and technological knowledge, thus helping in the formation of adaptation partnership models and exchange platforms. \nFollowing EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei’s visit to the USA in August 2015 to attend the International Environmental Partnership (IEP) symposium, the EPA is keen to strengthen its international environmental partnerships. To this end, EPA Deputy Minister Shu-Chiang Fu led a delegation to Hanoi, Vietnam for the Pan Pacific Partnership on Climate Change Adaptation Workshop to lay out Taiwan’s innovative adaptation actions and its active response to shoulder the responsibility of climate change mitigation and adaptation. With Taiwan’s response experiences, the EPA is eagerly promoting international cooperation on climate change issues. \nIn his opening remarks at the workshop, Deputy Minister Fu pointed out that in 2015, Taiwan passed the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act, legislation dedicated to the mitigation of and adaptation to climate change. The Act lays out Taiwan’s approaches to emissions reduction that industries can refer to when devising specific reduction measures. Its passage represents a milestone and the start of a new era in Taiwan’s environmental protection efforts and participation in international affairs. \n\nTaiwan’s Representative to Vietnam, Ambassador Chih-peng Huang, talked about the broad scope and depth of climate change impacts. He pointed out that climate change is not a problem that any single nation can handle alone, but that the risks must be faced and addressed among all nations, as must the hard work needed to bring about sustainable global development. The US ambassador to Vietnam, Alison Davis, said that under the leadership of President Obama the US has been pushing rigorously for international responses to climate change. Examples of this include the partnership with Taiwan and environmental cooperation programs with other Asia Pacific nations. The US Agency for International Development (USAID) has also funded programs in Southeast Asia to assist in the development of related policies and technologies. \n\nSoutheast Asian and Pacific nations are among those most affected by climate change. According to research published in 2014 by USAID, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand lose up to US$16 billion annually because of damage to natural resources and basic infrastructure due to climate change. \n\nThe 26 academics and experts participating in the workshop came from 10 nations: Taiwan, Indonesia, Kiribati, the Marshall Islands, Myanmar, the Philippines, South Korea, Thailand, the US and Vietnam. The four international organizations participating were: the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies, the Singapore British High Commission Met Office, the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI), and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Climate CoLab. The participants had in-depth discussions on topics such as each nation’s intended nationally determined contributions (INDCs), public awareness of climate change, crowdsourcing, education and innovative technologies. \n\nThe EPA points out that building the climate change adaptation partnerships through the information sharing mechanisms that each nation put forward during the conference will facilitate substantive regional cooperation, reduce time spent by countries getting familiar with the plans made to deal with climate change, and enhance policymaking for adaptation. The workshop not only promoted closer support and recognition of the pan-Pacific adaptation partnerships, but also facilitated the establishment of innovative platforms for sharing pan-Pacific climate change data and applications such as crowdsourcing. A series of cooperative plans are expected to be rolled out next year.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "climate change", "titlename": "Taiwan Forms Climate Change Adaptation Partnerships with Other Nations", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-11" }, { "no": "3358", "title": "Taiwans Strategies and Achievements in Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction", "preview": "climate change Taiwan’s Strategies and Achievements in Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction In response to climate change Taiwan promulgated the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act on 1 July 2015, and later on 17 September 2015 announced its intended nationally determined contributions (INDCs) in accordance with the decisions of the 20th Convention of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP20). The Taiwan EPA is currently promoting a raft of strategies to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases. These include building the necessary legal infrastructure; strengthening greenhouse gas management and reduction capabilities; promoting energy saving and carbon reduction among the populace; participating in international actions on climate change; and constructing low-carbon demonstration communities and cities. With the combined hard work of government, industry, and the general population, Taiwan's carbon emissions have been leveled out in recent years.", "content": "Taiwan’s Strategies and Achievements in Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "clmiate change", "titlename": "Taiwan s Strategies and Achievements in Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-11" }, { "no": "3352", "title": "Taiwan US and Colombia Jointly Hold E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference", "preview": "Recycling Taiwan US and Colombia Jointly Hold E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference", "content": "Taiwan US and Colombia Jointly Hold E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference\nOn 24 September 2015, the 5th International E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference was jointly held by the governmental environment agencies of Taiwan, the USA, and Colombia. Forty-four delegates – from governments and non-profit organizations from 17 nations in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Oceania – met in Colombia’s capital Bogota to share their experiences of electronic waste management. \nTsu-Shou Cheng, Deputy Executive Secretary of the EPA's Recycling Fund Management Board, led Taiwan’s team of government personnel, academics, and experts. During his speech given at the opening ceremony on 21 September, Mr. Cheng pointed out that since 2011 the Taiwan EPA has been holding the International E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference and associated research activities as a part of the Taiwan-US environmental protection cooperation agreement. The conference brings together regional partners to discuss e-waste recycling management experiences and strategies. The workshops also serve as an international platform for Taiwan’s expertise and efficiency in recycling to be shared with other nations.\nThe conference followed the same basic format as previous ones, with the first day for reports from delegates on the development and current situation in e-waste management in their respective nations. The following three days were a continuation of the main topics from last year: Building and implementing the environmentally sound management (ESM) framework and exploring the best available technology for treating cathode ray tubes from waste television sets. \nIn April 2014, the EPA launched the International Environmental Partnership (IEP). As a part of this new plan, Taiwan will be sharing its knowledge and experience in environmental protection and the establishment of an effective resource recycling system with its partners. Taiwan will also be actively seeking to expand membership of the partnership so that member nations can work together in protecting the global environment. The conference in Colombia was partly a means to this end, and the four days of presentations and fruitful discussions hopefully would leave participants with greater capabilities to build effective e-waste treatment and recycling management regulatory systems when they return to their homelands.\nTaiwan, US and Colombia Jointly Hold E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference\nOn 24 September 2015, the 5th International E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference was jointly held by the governmental environment agencies of Taiwan, the USA, and Colombia. Forty-four delegates – from governments and non-profit organizations from 17 nations in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Oceania – met in Colombia’s capital Bogota to share their experiences of electronic waste management. \nTsu-Shou Cheng, Deputy Executive Secretary of the EPA's Recycling Fund Management Board, led Taiwan’s team of government personnel, academics, and experts. During his speech given at the opening ceremony on 21 September, Mr. Cheng pointed out that since 2011 the Taiwan EPA has been holding the International E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference and associated research activities as a part of the Taiwan-US environmental protection cooperation agreement. The conference brings together regional partners to discuss e-waste recycling management experiences and strategies. The workshops also serve as an international platform for Taiwan’s expertise and efficiency in recycling to be shared with other nations.\nThe conference followed the same basic format as previous ones, with the first day for reports from delegates on the development and current situation in e-waste management in their respective nations. The following three days were a continuation of the main topics from last year: Building and implementing the environmentally sound management (ESM) framework and exploring the best available technology for treating cathode ray tubes from waste television sets. \nIn April 2014, the EPA launched the International Environmental Partnership (IEP). As a part of this new plan, Taiwan will be sharing its knowledge and experience in environmental protection and the establishment of an effective resource recycling system with its partners. Taiwan will also be actively seeking to expand membership of the partnership so that member nations can work together in protecting the global environment. The conference in Colombia was partly a means to this end, and the four days of presentations and fruitful discussions hopefully would leave participants with greater capabilities to build effective e-waste treatment and recycling management regulatory systems when they return to their homelands.\n\nTaiwan, US and Colombia Jointly Hold E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference\nOn 24 September 2015, the 5th International E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference was jointly held by the governmental environment agencies of Taiwan, the USA, and Colombia. Forty-four delegates – from governments and non-profit organizations from 17 nations in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Oceania – met in Colombia’s capital Bogota to share their experiences of electronic waste management. \nTsu-Shou Cheng, Deputy Executive Secretary of the EPA's Recycling Fund Management Board, led Taiwan’s team of government personnel, academics, and experts. During his speech given at the opening ceremony on 21 September, Mr. Cheng pointed out that since 2011 the Taiwan EPA has been holding the International E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference and associated research activities as a part of the Taiwan-US environmental protection cooperation agreement. The conference brings together regional partners to discuss e-waste recycling management experiences and strategies. The workshops also serve as an international platform for Taiwan’s expertise and efficiency in recycling to be shared with other nations.\nThe conference followed the same basic format as previous ones, with the first day for reports from delegates on the development and current situation in e-waste management in their respective nations. The following three days were a continuation of the main topics from last year: Building and implementing the environmentally sound management (ESM) framework and exploring the best available technology for treating cathode ray tubes from waste television sets. \nIn April 2014, the EPA launched the International Environmental Partnership (IEP). As a part of this new plan, Taiwan will be sharing its knowledge and experience in environmental protection and the establishment of an effective resource recycling system with its partners. Taiwan will also be actively seeking to expand membership of the partnership so that member nations can work together in protecting the global environment. The conference in Colombia was partly a means to this end, and the four days of presentations and fruitful discussions hopefully would leave participants with greater capabilities to build effective e-waste treatment and recycling management regulatory systems when they return to their homelands.\n\nTaiwan, US and Colombia Jointly Hold E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference\nOn 24 September 2015, the 5th International E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference was jointly held by the governmental environment agencies of Taiwan, the USA, and Colombia. Forty-four delegates – from governments and non-profit organizations from 17 nations in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Oceania – met in Colombia’s capital Bogota to share their experiences of electronic waste management. \nTsu-Shou Cheng, Deputy Executive Secretary of the EPA's Recycling Fund Management Board, led Taiwan’s team of government personnel, academics, and experts. During his speech given at the opening ceremony on 21 September, Mr. Cheng pointed out that since 2011 the Taiwan EPA has been holding the International E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference and associated research activities as a part of the Taiwan-US environmental protection cooperation agreement. The conference brings together regional partners to discuss e-waste recycling management experiences and strategies. The workshops also serve as an international platform for Taiwan’s expertise and efficiency in recycling to be shared with other nations.\nThe conference followed the same basic format as previous ones, with the first day for reports from delegates on the development and current situation in e-waste management in their respective nations. The following three days were a continuation of the main topics from last year: Building and implementing the environmentally sound management (ESM) framework and exploring the best available technology for treating cathode ray tubes from waste television sets. \nIn April 2014, the EPA launched the International Environmental Partnership (IEP). As a part of this new plan, Taiwan will be sharing its knowledge and experience in environmental protection and the establishment of an effective resource recycling system with its partners. Taiwan will also be actively seeking to expand membership of the partnership so that member nations can work together in protecting the global environment. The conference in Colombia was partly a means to this end, and the four days of presentations and fruitful discussions hopefully would leave participants with greater capabilities to build effective e-waste treatment and recycling management regulatory systems when they return to their homelands.\n\nTaiwan, US and Colombia Jointly Hold E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference\nOn 24 September 2015, the 5th International E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference was jointly held by the governmental environment agencies of Taiwan, the USA, and Colombia. Forty-four delegates – from governments and non-profit organizations from 17 nations in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Oceania – met in Colombia’s capital Bogota to share their experiences of electronic waste management. \nTsu-Shou Cheng, Deputy Executive Secretary of the EPA's Recycling Fund Management Board, led Taiwan’s team of government personnel, academics, and experts. During his speech given at the opening ceremony on 21 September, Mr. Cheng pointed out that since 2011 the Taiwan EPA has been holding the International E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference and associated research activities as a part of the Taiwan-US environmental protection cooperation agreement. The conference brings together regional partners to discuss e-waste recycling management experiences and strategies. The workshops also serve as an international platform for Taiwan’s expertise and efficiency in recycling to be shared with other nations.\nThe conference followed the same basic format as previous ones, with the first day for reports from delegates on the development and current situation in e-waste management in their respective nations. The following three days were a continuation of the main topics from last year: Building and implementing the environmentally sound management (ESM) framework and exploring the best available technology for treating cathode ray tubes from waste television sets. \nIn April 2014, the EPA launched the International Environmental Partnership (IEP). As a part of this new plan, Taiwan will be sharing its knowledge and experience in environmental protection and the establishment of an effective resource recycling system with its partners. Taiwan will also be actively seeking to expand membership of the partnership so that member nations can work together in protecting the global environment. The conference in Colombia was partly a means to this end, and the four days of presentations and fruitful discussions hopefully would leave participants with greater capabilities to build effective e-waste treatment and recycling management regulatory systems when they return to their homelands.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Taiwan US and Colombia Jointly Hold E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-10" }, { "no": "3332", "title": "Fifteen Cities Townships and Districts Receive Subsidies to Create High Quality Environment", "preview": "Environmental sanitation Fifteen Cities Townships and Districts Receive Subsidies to Create High Quality Environment", "content": "Fifteen Cities Townships and Districts Receive Subsidies to Create High Quality Environment\nFrom 2015 to 2018, the EPA is slated to subsidize 60 cities and townships in their efforts to build friendly\/pleasant living environments. On 4 August 2015, the EPA announced the communities that were granted the subsidies for 2016. A total of 15 cities and townships will each receive a subsidy of more than NT$10 million to create high quality environments imbued with local characteristics. \nTo encourage cities and counties nationwide to participate in the Friendly City\/County selection, EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei（魏國彥）sent a letter to all mayors and magistrates earlier in 2015. A total of 30 townships and districts recommended by 20 cities\/counties submitted proposals – a fierce competition not seen before. The selection process commenced in June 2015, and bidders were competing for subsidies of up to NT$60 million each. Volunteer mobilization capability, project themes and local development visions were the three major criteria for this year’s evaluation. In the end, 15 communities were awarded subsidies. Among these, five were awarded as top-notch and the other 10 as excellent.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental sanitation", "titlename": "Fifteen Cities Townships and Districts Receive Subsidies to Create High Quality Environment", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-08" }, { "no": "3331", "title": "Basic Environment Act Serves as Guidelines Principles and Policies", "preview": "General Policy Basic Environment Act Serves as Guidelines Principles and Policies", "content": "Basic Environment Act Serves as Guidelines Principles and Policies\nAs there is a degree of misunderstanding about the nature of the Basic Environment Act（環境基本法）, the EPA is keen to point out that the act does not have priority status. The Basic Environment Act has the function of being a policy declaration and thus does not confer any specific rights or benefits to any party. It cannot be used as the legal basis for formulating specific laws or regulations, nor can it be used as the legal basis for local governments to create their autonomous regulations outside of central government control. \nThe EPA explains that reasons for adoption of the Basic Environment Act are to raise overall environmental quality, promote public health and welfare, protect natural resources and pursue sustainable development so as to protect the environment in general. The stipulations of the act are designed to be clear and forward-looking to guide future policymaking and formulation of regulations. \nIn Taiwan’s legal system, the Basic Environment Act is given legal support by Article 170 of the Constitution of the Republic of China（中華民國憲法）. However, the Central Regulation Standard Act（中央法規標準法）does not state that the basic acts take precedence over other laws and so the Basic Environment Act does not have priority status of any kind. The Basic Environment Act is seen by government officials as being a policy declaration, and thus does not confer any specific rights or benefits to any party. It cannot be used as the legal basis for formulating substantive laws or regulations. \nThe Basic Environment Act primarily serves as guidelines, principles and policies, but cannot be used as the legal basis for local governments to create autonomous regulations outside of central government control. It should be seen as providing basic principles, guidelines and policies for formulating regulations to cover matters pertaining to specified domains. Regulations governing the actual implementation of matters pertaining to specified domains can only be formulated by the central competent authority to become the legal basis for implementation.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Basic Environment Act Serves as Guidelines Principles and Policies", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-08" }, { "no": "3252", "title": "Methods and Facility Standards Governing the Storage Clearance and Disposal of Waste Containers Amended", "preview": "waste Methods and Facility Standards Governing the Storage Clearance and Disposal of Waste Containers Amended", "content": "Methods and Facility Standards Governing the Storage Clearance and Disposal of Waste Containers Amended \nTo tackle the problem of logjams in waste container recycling channels, on 29 December 2014 the EPA an?nounced amendments to the Methods and Facility Standards Governing the Storage, Clearance and Disposal of Waste Containers（廢容器回收貯存清除處理方法及設施標準）. The amendments stipulate that whenever waste container recycling channels are potentially underperforming, waste containers can be sent to general waste incineration plants for incineration. This measure is intended to solve the problem of waste containers pil?ing up at recycling facilities.\nCurrent regulations stipulate that waste containers cannot be incinerated or landfilled without prior permission from the EPA. However, there are occasions when recycling facilities cease operating or have insufficient capacity to deal with large volumes of waste containers, thus creating logjams in recycling channels and cascading issues with large piles of unsightly and unhygienic waste containers causing public concern. \nTo address this problem, the EPA has amended Articles 7 and 8 of the Methods and Facility Standards Governing the Storage, Clearance and Disposal of Waste Containers so that if a waste container recycling facility stops operations for six months or longer, or if its recycling capacity does not reach 50% of its total capacity for the previous year leading to obstructed recycling channels, then waste containers can be sent directly to incinerators designated by the EPA for incineration without the need for permission. The EPA believes that this is the best way to ensure that waste container recycling and disposal channels remain unobstructed.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Methods and Facility Standards Governing the Storage Clearance and Disposal of Waste Containers Amended", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-01" }, { "no": "3241", "title": "Green Hotels Restaurants and Marketing Companies Commended", "preview": "Ecolabeling\nGreen Hotels Restaurants and Marketing Companies Commended", "content": "Ecolabeling Green Hotels Restaurants and Marketing Companies Commended \nIn order to advocate green living for all citizens, the EPA has been promoting the green service industry over the past few years. On 10 November 2014, the EPA publicly commended: 10 enterprises which were accredited with the service industry Green Mark in 2014; 18 stores that had outstanding performance in green marketing; 21 hotels that are exemplary in the eco-friendly services they provide; and 17 restaurants that have been issued the environmental star and provide outstanding green services to their clients. The above-mentioned commendations were made to encourage the conscientious efforts of enterprises toward environmental protection. \nThe EPA points out that there are criteria for eight different categories pertaining to the service industry. In 2014, ten enterprises were accredited the Green Mark in the service industry. In addition, to facilitate consumer purchases of eco-friendly products, the EPA has assisted 11,480 stores to become green shops. Furthermore, to encourage these green shops to actively promote green consumption, the EPA organized an evaluation of the green marketing power of these green shops. Altogether 80 shops participated in the evaluation. The evaluation included product introduction, display and labeling, marketing and promotion, etc. Scores were given by on-site inspection, documentary review, disguised guest visits, etc. At the end, 18 shops were selected and commended by the EPA. \nTo assist enterprises to take steps in improving their environmental protection measures for the purpose of being awarded a Green Mark, the EPA made great efforts to upgrade the environmental protection measures and green services of Green Hotels and the Star scheme for Green Restaurants in 2014. As of the end of October 2014, 728 hotels visited by 880,546 guests have been rated as environmentally friendly hotels, of which 370 have been confirmed to have completed implementation of five environmental protection measures. A total of 230 restaurants were given the environmental star, of which 188 met the requirements of all five indicators.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Ecolabeling", "titlename": "Green Hotels Restaurants and Marketing Companies Commended", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-12" }, { "no": "3225", "title": "Over 30000 Motor Vehicles Tested at Roadsides for Excessive Noise", "preview": "Noise Control Over 30000 Motor Vehicles Tested at Roadsides for Excessive Noise", "content": "Over 30000 Motor Vehicles Tested at Roadsides for Excessive Noise", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "noise control", "titlename": "Over 30000 Motor Vehicles Tested at Roadsides for Excessive Noise", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-11" }, { "no": "3218", "title": "List of Restaurants Food Manufacturers and Hotels Required to Report Waste Cooking Oil to Be Expanded", "preview": "Waste List of Restaurants Food Manufacturers and Hotels Required to Report Waste Cooking Oil to Be Expanded", "content": "List of Restaurants Food Manufacturers and Hotels Required to Report Waste Cooking Oil to Be Expanded", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "List of Restaurants Food Manufacturers and Hotels Required to Report Waste Cooking Oil to Be Expanded", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-11" }, { "no": "3201", "title": "Cleaning Agents on the Market Tested Green Mark Products Come to the Fore", "preview": "Toxic substance Cleaning Agents on the Market Tested Green Mark Products Come to the Fore", "content": "Cleaning Agents on the Market Tested Green Mark Products Come to the Fore The EPA released the results of its random check of 33 laundry detergents (including 14 Green Mark products) and 29 dish detergent products (including 15 Green Mark products). The results showed that seven general laundry detergents, six general dish detergents and one laundry detergent with the Green Mark label failed to meet the criteria for the Green Mark. The EPA has processed the violation case in accordance with regulations. \nThe EPA maintained that its latest check of the commercially available detergents was based on a high standard for the Green Mark. The purpose of so doing was not only to understand the characteristics of the general detergent products, but also to enforce tracking management, as well as to safeguard the quality of green marked detergent products for consumers.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "toxic substance", "titlename": "Cleaning Agents on the Market Tested Green Mark Products Come to the Fore", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-09" }, { "no": "3194", "title": "Taiwan US and Philippines Join Forces to Promote Cooperation on Environmental Data", "preview": "International Cooperation\nTaiwan US and Philippines Join Forces to Promote Cooperation on Environmental Data", "content": "Taiwan US and Philippines Join Forces to Promote Cooperation on Environmental Data\nTo set in motion the International Environmental Partnership established in April 2014 by the EPAs of Taiwan and the US, the Taiwan EPA, the US EPA and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources of the Philippines jointly held the 2014 Regional Working Group on Environmental Information conference in Manila, from 1-4 September 2014. This was the first time that the three agencies have cooperated in such a manner. \nTaiwan and the US have already benefited from over ten years of mutual cooperation over environmental data systems development and have had some substantial successes. One of these is a Central Data eXchange (CDX) that the Taiwan EPA developed after examining the one established by the US EPA. Taiwan is keen to continue working with the US to gain similar knowledge and experience that could then be offered to other nations in South East Asia, which would also highlight the strength of Taiwan’s environmental data system technologies.\n\nEnvironmental agencies from eight nations – including Indonesia, Malaysia, the Maldives, Vietnam, and Thailand – were invited to the conference in Manila, along with representatives from a number of non-profit organizations. Wide-ranging discussions on topics related to the development of regional environmental data systems were held, and the delegates also explored potential avenues for future exchanges and cooperation. Taiwan’s delegates noted that during the four days of the conference there was considerable sharing of experiences on how to deal with the challenges of environmental data integration, data exchange, open data, as well as trends in the development of data technologies. \n\nDuring the conference, the Taiwan EPA displayed its Environmental Cloud plan and also its accomplishments in saving energy in server rooms. The US EPA had a display showing its Business Intelligence Analytic Center in operation, as well as other interactive Web tools. \n \nThe Taiwan EPA hopes that the level of Taiwan-US cooperation shown before and during the Manila conference will become a template on which to build closer Asia Pacific regional environmental protection partnerships and jointly seek out new opportunities to develop regional environmental data systems.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "International Cooperation", "titlename": "Taiwan US and Philippines Join Forces to Promote Cooperation on Environmental Data", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-09" }, { "no": "3177", "title": "Ninety-eight Percent of Nearly 70000 Listed Public Toilets Rated Excellent", "preview": "environmental sanitation Ninety-eight Percent of Nearly 70000 Listed Public Toilets Rated Excellent", "content": "environmental sanitation Ninety-eight Percent of Nearly 70000 Listed Public Toilets Rated Excellent The cleanliness of public toilets is regarded by some as an indicator of how progressive a nation is, and to this end the EPA has been working hard at listing 70,000 or so public toilets around Taiwan. Multi-point inspections carried out by the EPA have shown that 98% of these facilities rank as “excellent” for sanitation, which is reflected in public opinion surveys for the last two years that show public satisfaction with improvements in public toilets is increasing year-on-year. The EPA has been implementing its plan to raise the overall hygiene of public toilets by checking the following: whether or not any items are damaged or broken; whether or not the urinals\/toilets, floor and wash basins are grimy or dirty; and the cleaning record for each facility. The inspectors also give scores for each of the following parameters: energy-saving illumination; water-saving installations, availability of cleaning utensils that can be easily used by toilet users; reminding signs that indicate toilet facility etiquette; availability of toilet paper and hand soap; and additional hygiene inspections. From January to May 2014 the EPA inspected 315,715 toilet facilities. In 2012, 45% of people surveyed said that they felt there had been an improvement in the overall standard of public toilets; by 2013 that figure had risen to 67%.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "environmental sanitation", "titlename": "Ninety-eight Percent of Nearly 70000 Listed Public Toilets Rated Excellent", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-07" }, { "no": "3107", "title": "Green Consumption Milestone Reached with Issuance of 10000th Green Mark Certification", "preview": "ecolabeling Green Consumption Milestone Reached with Issuance of 10000th Green Mark Certification", "content": "ecolabeling Green Consumption Milestone Reached with Issuance of 10000th Green Mark Certification On 20 January 2014, the Electronics Testing Center, contracted by the EPA to conduct Green Mark certification, issued the ten thousandth certificate, evidence of the great strides taken in the task of promoting the Green Mark scheme. \nIn recent years, environmental awareness has started to sprout in Taiwan, stimulating the production of more green products and a rise in the numbers of applications for Green Mark accreditation. In order to speed up the certification review process, in 2013 the EPA commissioned two testing agencies, the Environment and Development Foundation and the Electronics Testing Center, to conduct Green Mark certification. The average time needed for certification (including submission of supplement documents) fell from 64 days to 35 days. To date, over 4,700 products have been accredited, most of which are household goods such as cleaning agents, toilet paper, and electrical and electronic products.\nThe Green Mark signifies not just that a product is of an approved, eco-friendly nature but also that the manufacturing company and its premises are operating in accordance with environmental regulations. This means that the EPA has conducted factory inspections to ensure that the manufacturing processes, raw materials used and quality control mechanisms all accord with regulations. Since commissioning the two testing agencies, the EPA has also simplified the evaluation procedure, thus greatly reducing the time for certification. The EPA is also keeping an eye on quality control of certification reviews through random inspection of review reports and by supervising the certification process, to ensure consistency between the two certification organizations and immediately correct any flaws. \nThe 127 products that currently carry the Green Mark fall into 14 categories: recyclable products, cleaning products, electronic products, electrical appliances, water saving devices, power saving devices, office accessories, biodegradable products, organic materials, construction materials, household goods, products for industrial use, solar power products, and general services. The EPA also plans to roll out a second green product certification scheme for products not in the aforementioned 14 categories but whose environmental performance rank among the top 30% of their own type, thereby highlighting more green choices for consumers.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "ecolabeling", "titlename": "Green Consumption Milestone Reached with Issuance of 10000th Green Mark Certification", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-02" }, { "no": "3106", "title": "Educational Video Changing Climate Sustainable Taiwan Released", "preview": "Climate Change Educational Video Changing Climate Sustainable Taiwan Released", "content": "Climate Change Educational Video Changing Climate Sustainable Taiwan Released In order to raise awareness of climate change and encourage citizens to adopt low-carbon lifestyles the EPA has made a short educational video on climate change entitled Changing Climate, Sustainable Taiwan. A press conference was held on 24 January 2014 to promote the video, with famous designer Qing-Yang Xiao, the first ethnic Chinese to ever have been nominated for a Grammy Award, invited to act as an endorsor. \n2013 was the year when atmospheric concentrations of CO2 reached an all-time high exceeding 400 ppm and the summer temperatures in Taipei were higher than any time in the last 100 years. It was also the year that super typhoon Haiyan wreaked havoc in the Philippines, a tragedy that caught the world’s attention. The beginning of 2014 has already seen North America caught in the grip of a polar vortex, bringing with it the coldest weather for 20 years, while Australia saw record high temperatures. This is clear evidence that extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and that we will face increasingly perilous changes to the environment.\nTo raise citizens’ awareness of the threat of climate change, the EPA has made a short educational video with assistance in filming and production from renowned designer Qing-Yang Xiao, a man known for speaking out about environmental issues and for his love of Taiwan. By adopting the perspective and outlook of a designer, the EPA hopes that the audience will gain a greater appreciation of both the beauty and the worry that he sees in the world. The video calls upon citizens to take a hard look at their lifestyles and exert greater effort to protect the environment and reduce carbon emissions for the sake of our planet. \nIn response to the impact of climate change, the Taiwan government has adopted a dual strategy of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to the impacts of climate change on humans and ecosystems. A variety of measures to save energy and reduce carbon emissions have been rolled out over the past few decades as a part of a larger international cooperative effort. Some initial successes have already been recorded: In 2008, Taiwan’s CO2 emissions from burning fossil fuels fell for the first time since 1990, and over the following five-year period (2008-2012) they fell by an average of 0.6% annually. According to data on global CO2 emissions from fossil fuels published by the International Energy Agency, Taiwan’s total CO2 emissions from energy sources fell from 276 million tonnes in 2007 to 265 million tonnes in 2011, evidence of clear progress in emissions reduction. \nNo country in the world can avoid the impact of climate change, and the mitigation measures implemented by governments are only of limited benefits. What is needed is for everyone to thoroughly change their lifestyles to become as eco-friendly as possible. With the beginning of a new year, the EPA is once again urging everyone to remember their environmental responsibility and go low-carbon to attain the goal of a low-carbon sustainable homeland. A more in-depth understanding of the content of Changing Climate, Sustainable Taiwan can be gained by visiting the EPA’s Ecolife platform: http:\/\/ecolife.epa.gov.tw\/cooler\/", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Educational Video Changing Climate Sustainable Taiwan Released", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-02" }, { "no": "3078", "title": "Power Generation from Incinerators Hits New Annual High of 3060 GWh", "preview": "Waste management\n\nSolid Waste\n\nPower Generation from Incinerators Hits New Annual High of 3060 GWh\n\nFollowing ten years of auditing and evaluation by the EPA, Taiwan’s 24 incineration plants have seen a distinct improvement in the way they incinerate waste. The incinerators are not only at the forefront of dealing with Taiwan’s waste but are also now providing up to 3,060 gigawatt hours (GWh) of electricity for the nation every year, a considerable contribution to the household power supply. \n\nOn 17 October 2013, the EPA held a ceremony to present awards to the best operated incineration plants. Since the construction of incineration plants was completed in 2001, the EPA has undertaken evaluations every year, with the initial focus on technical guidance being gradually transformed into the current regimen of auditing and evaluation. \n\nAdministration of the incineration plants over the last decade or so has been done by a combination of incineration plant managers and local government environmental protection bureaus handling internal management, with the EPA conducting external audits. This has evolved into the present system of evaluation, which ensures that the managers of each plant do their job properly and continually upgrade operational techniques. The outstanding success of the system in treating waste is reflected in the statistics: Annual waste incineration rates went from 51.5% in 2001 to 97% in 2012, meanwhile, the waste incineration volume also increased from 3.9 to 6.4 million tonnes. The performance looks even better in the light of the domestic and international attention that is being paid to energy efficiency: From 2001 to 2012 the incinerators’ total power output climbed from 1,740 GWh to 3,060 GWh, and the income derived from selling the electricity rose from NT$1.35 billion to NT$4.55 billion. This means that the electricity produced by burning one tonne of refuse is enough to supply the average household for 1.6 months. \n\nThe ceremony saw the best performing incinerator teams for 2012 given awards by the EPA. The Exceptionally Outstanding Award was presented to the team from New Taipei City’s Hsindien Refuse Incineration Plant, and “outstanding” awards were presented to the teams from seven incinerators: Taoyuan County Refuse Incineration Plant, Mucha Refuse Incineration Plant, Bali Refuse Incineration Plant, Miaoli Refuse Incineration Plant, Tainan Refuse Incineration Plant, Yong Kang Waste Recycling (Incineration) Plant, and Shulin Refuse Incineration Plant. Three other teams were given “excellent” awards: Letzer Refuse Incineration Plant, Taichung City Refuse Incineration Plant and Chiayi City Refuse Incineration Plant. \n\nOver the last few years the issue of energy saving and carbon reduction has become increasingly prominent in the international arena. In the face of a dramatically increased global demand for energy and a sustained high energy price, nations around the world are racing to develop technology to exploit alternative energy sources. The most important of these is probably Waste to Energy (WtE). The EPA thus held the Waste to Energy Technology Forum in conjunction with the awards ceremony in order to promote a deeper understanding among incinerator operators and plant managers of the current WtE situation in Taiwan and related technology. A number of experts from local and abroad spoke at the forum, giving accounts of successes overseas in the field of WtE.", "content": "Waste management\n\nSolid Waste\n\nPower Generation from Incinerators Hits New Annual High of 3060 GWh\n\nFollowing ten years of auditing and evaluation by the EPA, Taiwan’s 24 incineration plants have seen a distinct improvement in the way they incinerate waste. The incinerators are not only at the forefront of dealing with Taiwan’s waste but are also now providing up to 3,060 gigawatt hours (GWh) of electricity for the nation every year, a considerable contribution to the household power supply. \n\nOn 17 October 2013, the EPA held a ceremony to present awards to the best operated incineration plants. Since the construction of incineration plants was completed in 2001, the EPA has undertaken evaluations every year, with the initial focus on technical guidance being gradually transformed into the current regimen of auditing and evaluation. \n\nAdministration of the incineration plants over the last decade or so has been done by a combination of incineration plant managers and local government environmental protection bureaus handling internal management, with the EPA conducting external audits. This has evolved into the present system of evaluation, which ensures that the managers of each plant do their job properly and continually upgrade operational techniques. The outstanding success of the system in treating waste is reflected in the statistics: Annual waste incineration rates went from 51.5% in 2001 to 97% in 2012, meanwhile, the waste incineration volume also increased from 3.9 to 6.4 million tonnes. The performance looks even better in the light of the domestic and international attention that is being paid to energy efficiency: From 2001 to 2012 the incinerators’ total power output climbed from 1,740 GWh to 3,060 GWh, and the income derived from selling the electricity rose from NT$1.35 billion to NT$4.55 billion. This means that the electricity produced by burning one tonne of refuse is enough to supply the average household for 1.6 months. \n\nThe ceremony saw the best performing incinerator teams for 2012 given awards by the EPA. The Exceptionally Outstanding Award was presented to the team from New Taipei City’s Hsindien Refuse Incineration Plant, and “outstanding” awards were presented to the teams from seven incinerators: Taoyuan County Refuse Incineration Plant, Mucha Refuse Incineration Plant, Bali Refuse Incineration Plant, Miaoli Refuse Incineration Plant, Tainan Refuse Incineration Plant, Yong Kang Waste Recycling (Incineration) Plant, and Shulin Refuse Incineration Plant. Three other teams were given “excellent” awards: Letzer Refuse Incineration Plant, Taichung City Refuse Incineration Plant and Chiayi City Refuse Incineration Plant. \n\nOver the last few years the issue of energy saving and carbon reduction has become increasingly prominent in the international arena. In the face of a dramatically increased global demand for energy and a sustained high energy price, nations around the world are racing to develop technology to exploit alternative energy sources. The most important of these is probably Waste to Energy (WtE). The EPA thus held the Waste to Energy Technology Forum in conjunction with the awards ceremony in order to promote a deeper understanding among incinerator operators and plant managers of the current WtE situation in Taiwan and related technology. A number of experts from local and abroad spoke at the forum, giving accounts of successes overseas in the field of WtE.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Power Generation from Incinerators Hits New Annual High of 3060 GWh", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-11" }, { "no": "3075", "title": "Tablet PCs External Hard Drives, and Mercury-containing Bulbs to be Recycled from March 2014", "preview": "resource recycling\n\nTablet PCs External Hard Drives, and Mercury-containing Bulbs to be Recycled from March 2014\n\nOn 5 August 2013, the EPA announced the amended Scope of Enterprises Responsible for the Recycling, Clearance and Disposal of Packaging and Containers, to which tablet PCs, external hard drives, cold cathode bulbs, induction fluorescent bulbs and other mercury-containing light sources were added as recyclable items. The new regulation will take effect from 1 March 2014. \n\nTo align with the international trend on the management and recycling of mercury-containing substances, and to cope with problems of product identification faced by information industry members who regularly need to manufacture or import new products, the EPA has amended its Scope of Enterprises Responsible for the Clearance and Disposal of Packaging and Containers. Thus far the articles that have been designated as fit for recycling include: containers, cars, motorcycles and scooters, tires, lead-acid batteries, electrical and electronic products, information products, dry batteries and lighting products.", "content": "resource recycling\n\nTablet PCs External Hard Drives, and Mercury-containing Bulbs to be Recycled from March 2014\n\nOn 5 August 2013, the EPA announced the amended Scope of Enterprises Responsible for the Recycling, Clearance and Disposal of Packaging and Containers, to which tablet PCs, external hard drives, cold cathode bulbs, induction fluorescent bulbs and other mercury-containing light sources were added as recyclable items. The new regulation will take effect from 1 March 2014. \n\nTo align with the international trend on the management and recycling of mercury-containing substances, and to cope with problems of product identification faced by information industry members who regularly need to manufacture or import new products, the EPA has amended its Scope of Enterprises Responsible for the Clearance and Disposal of Packaging and Containers. Thus far the articles that have been designated as fit for recycling include: containers, cars, motorcycles and scooters, tires, lead-acid batteries, electrical and electronic products, information products, dry batteries and lighting products.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "resource recycling", "titlename": "Tablet PCs External Hard Drives and Mercury-containing Bulbs to be Recycled from March 2014", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-11" }, { "no": "3062", "title": "Revisions to Methods and Facilities Standards for Storage Clearance and Disposal of Industrial Waste Preannounced", "preview": "waste management\n\nRevisions to Methods and Facilities Standards for Storage Clearance and Disposal of Industrial Waste Preannounced\n\nThe EPA has preannounced draft revisions to the Methods and Facilities Standards for Storage, Clearance and Disposal of Industrial Waste. Changes to industrial waste storage or facilities will henceforth need to be implemented by submitting a “Changes to Industrial Waste Clearance and Disposal Plan.” If unforeseen circumstances result in the industrial waste not being treated according to schedule, the responsible enterprise will be required to submit a storage plan to the local competent authority for evaluation. Following re-evaluation and approval by the central industry competent authority, a permit will be granted for an extension of the storage period. In addition, manufacturers will be required to sign tripartite, joint responsibility contracts with clearance operators and disposal operators. \n\nThe EPA has also revised wording concerning sorting, disposal, final disposal, reuse, resource recovery and detoxification, along with considering whether or not “intermediate treatment” should be classed as “treatment.” In addition, in consideration of the safety of landfills, the draft adds regulations stating that stabilized landfills or sanitation landfills cannot be dug within 60 meters on either side of active seismic fault lines, and sealed landfills will not be permitted within 100 meters of such fault lines.", "content": "waste management\n\nRevisions to Methods and Facilities Standards for Storage Clearance and Disposal of Industrial Waste Preannounced\n\nThe EPA has preannounced draft revisions to the Methods and Facilities Standards for Storage, Clearance and Disposal of Industrial Waste. Changes to industrial waste storage or facilities will henceforth need to be implemented by submitting a “Changes to Industrial Waste Clearance and Disposal Plan.” If unforeseen circumstances result in the industrial waste not being treated according to schedule, the responsible enterprise will be required to submit a storage plan to the local competent authority for evaluation. Following re-evaluation and approval by the central industry competent authority, a permit will be granted for an extension of the storage period. In addition, manufacturers will be required to sign tripartite, joint responsibility contracts with clearance operators and disposal operators. \n\nThe EPA has also revised wording concerning sorting, disposal, final disposal, reuse, resource recovery and detoxification, along with considering whether or not “intermediate treatment” should be classed as “treatment.” In addition, in consideration of the safety of landfills, the draft adds regulations stating that stabilized landfills or sanitation landfills cannot be dug within 60 meters on either side of active seismic fault lines, and sealed landfills will not be permitted within 100 meters of such fault lines.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Revisions to Methods and Facilities Standards for Storage Clearance and Disposal of Industrial Waste Preannounced", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-10" }, { "no": "3035", "title": "EPA Holds Science and Technology Forum to Promote Interchanges among Government Industry and Academia", "preview": "Science and Technology\n\nEPA Holds Science and Technology Forum to Promote Interchanges among Government Industry and Academia\n\nThe EPA held the “2013 Environmental Science and Technology Forum” on 10 June 2013. The Forum was geared toward promoting exchanges regarding the newest environmental sciences and technologies of Taiwan. Professsor Gwo-Dong Roam of National Central University, Professor Juu-En Chang of National Cheng Kung University, Professor Chea-Yuan Young of Chinese Cultural University, Professor Chuen-Jinn Tsai of National Chiao Tung University, and Professor Shang-Lien Lo of National Taiwan University were invited to panel discussions on developing trends in environmental science and technology. The other topics discussed during the forum included: research on noise control and improvement measures for land transport systems (especially referring to noises generated under the bridges of elevated highways); the investigation and research of new physical public nuisances; the formulation of product categories for eco-labeling; the sharing of research achievements on inspection, auditing, and assessments of environmental benefits; the study of the status quo of the sludge industry and the R&D of its forensic technology; high velocity solid phase extraction coupled with ultraperformance liquid chromatography (UPLC) systems\/using a tandem mass spectrometer to analyze the existence of 100 pesticides in water bodies; the R&D of inspection technology for nano-particle cytotoxicity; R&D projects for the treatment and recycling of community sewage using film filter automation technology combined with continuous flow sequencing batch reactor (CFSBR); recycling polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles to make new three layered PET bottles; and finally, how to capitalize on industry\/academia cooperation to enhance the environmental performance of industries.", "content": "Science and Technology\n\nEPA Holds Science and Technology Forum to Promote Interchanges among Government Industry and Academia\n\nThe EPA held the “2013 Environmental Science and Technology Forum” on 10 June 2013. The Forum was geared toward promoting exchanges regarding the newest environmental sciences and technologies of Taiwan. Professsor Gwo-Dong Roam of National Central University, Professor Juu-En Chang of National Cheng Kung University, Professor Chea-Yuan Young of Chinese Cultural University, Professor Chuen-Jinn Tsai of National Chiao Tung University, and Professor Shang-Lien Lo of National Taiwan University were invited to panel discussions on developing trends in environmental science and technology. The other topics discussed during the forum included: research on noise control and improvement measures for land transport systems (especially referring to noises generated under the bridges of elevated highways); the investigation and research of new physical public nuisances; the formulation of product categories for eco-labeling; the sharing of research achievements on inspection, auditing, and assessments of environmental benefits; the study of the status quo of the sludge industry and the R&D of its forensic technology; high velocity solid phase extraction coupled with ultraperformance liquid chromatography (UPLC) systems\/using a tandem mass spectrometer to analyze the existence of 100 pesticides in water bodies; the R&D of inspection technology for nano-particle cytotoxicity; R&D projects for the treatment and recycling of community sewage using film filter automation technology combined with continuous flow sequencing batch reactor (CFSBR); recycling polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles to make new three layered PET bottles; and finally, how to capitalize on industry\/academia cooperation to enhance the environmental performance of industries.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Science and Technology", "titlename": "EPA Holds Science and Technology Forum to Promote Interchanges among Government Industry and Academia", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-07" }, { "no": "3016", "title": "Over 1000 More Enterprises Will Be Required to Submit Waste Clearance and Disposal Plans", "preview": "Waste management Solid Waste\n\nOver 1000 More Enterprises Will Be Required to Submit Waste Clearance and Disposal Plans\n\nThe EPA has preannounced revisions to regulations that will require over 1,000 enterprises – public incinerators and some car repair shops – to submit waste clearance and disposal plans. A grace period has also been allotted.\n\nThe EPA has preannounced two items concerning industrial waste clearance and disposal plans, and has combined the two under the title Regulations Governing Enterprises Required to Submit Industrial Waste Clearance and Disposal Plans, Plan Formats and Items to be Stated. The revisions add over 1,000 enterprises – including public incinerators and some car repair shops – that will have to submit waste clearance and disposal plans in the future. \n\nThe EPA has also set time limits for submitting waste clearance and disposal plans for review. Also included in the revisions are ten existing formats for waste clearance and disposal plans and two formats for the newly-listed reuse operators and waste disposal operators. Added to the items to be stated in the plans is an affidavit of self-regulation. This should enhance the management of manufacturing at source and facilitate the confiscation of illegal gains. The EPA has formulated working guidelines to help local competent authorities with reviewing clearance and disposal plans, and has incorporated an audit list of reused waste into the format. \n\nIn this way, the review of waste clearance and disposal plans will serve as a way to manage waste reuse organizations.", "content": "Waste management Solid Waste\n\nOver 1000 More Enterprises Will Be Required to Submit Waste Clearance and Disposal Plans\n\nThe EPA has preannounced revisions to regulations that will require over 1,000 enterprises – public incinerators and some car repair shops – to submit waste clearance and disposal plans. A grace period has also been allotted.\n\nThe EPA has preannounced two items concerning industrial waste clearance and disposal plans, and has combined the two under the title Regulations Governing Enterprises Required to Submit Industrial Waste Clearance and Disposal Plans, Plan Formats and Items to be Stated. The revisions add over 1,000 enterprises – including public incinerators and some car repair shops – that will have to submit waste clearance and disposal plans in the future. \n\nThe EPA has also set time limits for submitting waste clearance and disposal plans for review. Also included in the revisions are ten existing formats for waste clearance and disposal plans and two formats for the newly-listed reuse operators and waste disposal operators. Added to the items to be stated in the plans is an affidavit of self-regulation. This should enhance the management of manufacturing at source and facilitate the confiscation of illegal gains. The EPA has formulated working guidelines to help local competent authorities with reviewing clearance and disposal plans, and has incorporated an audit list of reused waste into the format. \n\nIn this way, the review of waste clearance and disposal plans will serve as a way to manage waste reuse organizations.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Over 1000 More Enterprises Will Be Required to Submit Waste Clearance and Disposal Plans", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-05" }, { "no": "3015", "title": "Long-term Care Organizations Nursing Homes Required to Report Waste Flow from 2014", "preview": "Waste management Solid Waste\n\nLong-term Care Organizations Nursing Homes Required to Report Waste Flow from 2014\n\nThe EPA has preannounced revisions to two sets of regulations that have been combined into one, under the title Regulations Governing Enterprises Required for Online Waste Flow Reporting. The revisions will see the number of enterprises reporting waste flows increased by about 2,200, and will take effect on 1 January 2014.\n\nSince 2002, the EPA has been gradually expanding the list of enterprises required to report waste flow online. To date, there are 29,824 such enterprises, of which 27,321 have submitted reports, a completion rate of 97%.\n\nIn order to improve waste management, the list of enterprises required to submit waste flow reports online has been expanded to include approximately 2,200 more enterprises in 3 categories: long-term care organizations and nursing homes, car repair and maintenance shops, and incineration plants. The joint online reporting procedure has also been added: enterprises can henceforth use an online barcode reader that simplifies the online verification process. Reuse enterprises will also henceforth be required to submit industrial waste clearance and disposal plans for evaluation when applying for control numbers to improve waste management. \n\nThe online reporting responsibilities of contracted agents have also been clarified to facilitate better management of these entities. The streamlining of the regulations means that it is now easier for enterprises submitting online reports to find and read the regulatory information they require. The revisions will lead to much more simplified procedures for reporting and verifying waste clearance and disposal, and will improve the accuracy of online reports. By giving environmental protection authorities a firmer grasp on information concerning listed reuse enterprises and their contracted agents, it is expected the management of online reporting will be enhanced.", "content": "Waste management Solid Waste\n\nLong-term Care Organizations Nursing Homes Required to Report Waste Flow from 2014\n\nThe EPA has preannounced revisions to two sets of regulations that have been combined into one, under the title Regulations Governing Enterprises Required for Online Waste Flow Reporting. The revisions will see the number of enterprises reporting waste flows increased by about 2,200, and will take effect on 1 January 2014.\n\nSince 2002, the EPA has been gradually expanding the list of enterprises required to report waste flow online. To date, there are 29,824 such enterprises, of which 27,321 have submitted reports, a completion rate of 97%.\n\nIn order to improve waste management, the list of enterprises required to submit waste flow reports online has been expanded to include approximately 2,200 more enterprises in 3 categories: long-term care organizations and nursing homes, car repair and maintenance shops, and incineration plants. The joint online reporting procedure has also been added: enterprises can henceforth use an online barcode reader that simplifies the online verification process. Reuse enterprises will also henceforth be required to submit industrial waste clearance and disposal plans for evaluation when applying for control numbers to improve waste management. \n\nThe online reporting responsibilities of contracted agents have also been clarified to facilitate better management of these entities. The streamlining of the regulations means that it is now easier for enterprises submitting online reports to find and read the regulatory information they require. The revisions will lead to much more simplified procedures for reporting and verifying waste clearance and disposal, and will improve the accuracy of online reports. By giving environmental protection authorities a firmer grasp on information concerning listed reuse enterprises and their contracted agents, it is expected the management of online reporting will be enhanced.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Long-term Care Organizations Nursing Homes Required to Report Waste Flow from 2014", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-05" }, { "no": "2991", "title": "Subsidies Up to NT$ 500000 Offered to Environmental Education Establishments", "preview": "Environmental Education\n\nSubsidies Up to NT$ 500000 Offered to Environmental Education Establishments\n\nIn order to promote environmental education, the EPA has formulated the “2013 Subsidizing Plan for Environmental Education Establishments” to carry out environmental education. According to this plan, all accredited and certified environmental education establishments can apply for a grant from the EPA to help offset expenses, with a maximum grant for each case of NT$ 500,000. It is also required, however, that applicants offer discounts to students during the time the courses are offered, with the period of discount being no shorter than the period of the promotional activities. The applying environmental education establishments must include details of this in their applications.", "content": "Environmental Education\n\nSubsidies Up to NT$ 500000 Offered to Environmental Education Establishments\n\nIn order to promote environmental education, the EPA has formulated the “2013 Subsidizing Plan for Environmental Education Establishments” to carry out environmental education. According to this plan, all accredited and certified environmental education establishments can apply for a grant from the EPA to help offset expenses, with a maximum grant for each case of NT$ 500,000. It is also required, however, that applicants offer discounts to students during the time the courses are offered, with the period of discount being no shorter than the period of the promotional activities. The applying environmental education establishments must include details of this in their applications.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Subsidies Up to NT$ 500000 Offered to Environmental Education Establishments", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-03" }, { "no": "2966", "title": "Guidelines for Restricting Exposure to Electric Magnetic, and Electromagnetic Fields Announced", "preview": "Air Quality\nGuidelines for Restricting Exposure to Electric Magnetic, and Electromagnetic Fields Announced\nOn 30 November 2012, the EPA announced the Guidelines for Restricting Exposure to Time-Varying Electric, Magnetic, and Electromagnetic Fields. The exposure guidelines are the same as those followed in a number of nations. Details of the guidelines can be found under the Latest Environmental Regulations section of the EPA’s Web site: http:\/\/ivy5.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/.\nTo protect the citizens of Taiwan from excessive exposure to electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic fields (EMF) produced by man-made sources, the EPA formulated the new guidelines. The EPA first consulted the Guidelines for Limiting Exposure to Time-varying Electric, Magnetic, and Electromagnetic Fields published by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), a subsidiary organization of the World Health Organization (WHO). \nThe first EPA regulations of this type were the Suggested Values for Non-Ionizing Environmental Radiation promulgated on 12 January 2001. The values were set after consulting the ICNIRP 1998 guidelines. These guidelines went unrevised for a decade until the ICNIRP decided to take advantage of the latest advances in medicine, science, and technological research, and updated them in 2010 as guidelines for exposure to low-frequency EMFs. In Taiwan, a combination of decisions reached at a number of Legislative Yuan public hearings and demands from environmental NGOs required the EPA to quickly amend the title and content of the Suggested Values for Non-Ionizing Environmental Radiation to avoid any public misunderstanding regarding the use of the word “radiation”. The decision to draw up the Guidelines for Restricting Exposure to Time-Varying Electric, Magnetic, and Electromagnetic Fields was thus a result of the EPA’s effort to update and modify according to the latest international regulations, as well as a response to decisions reached at a number of Legislative Yuan public hearings, plus demands from environmental NGOs. The guidelines were formulated after an overall review of the ICNIRP guidelines published in 1998 and 2010. \nThe EPA’s overarching principle in drawing up the exposure guidelines was safeguarding public health on the basis of the latest scientific research. Research from around the world has clearly proven that short-term exposure to EMFs cause acute effects. The EPA thus took the EMF exposure value at which negative effects are seen on human health and divided it by 50 to serve as the basis of the guidelines. The EPA believes that by following these guidelines, operators of extremely low frequency, low frequency, and radio frequency sources can protect the public from the acute effects of EMF radiation. \nLong-term exposure to EMF is also an issue of some public concern. A careful assessment by the ICNIRP of research data from the fields of epidemiology and biology led them to conclude that there is presently not enough scientific evidence to prove that non-ionizing radiation is harmful to health. The WHO therefore recommends that it is not necessary to adjust the exposure guidelines for long-term exposure to low levels of non-ionizing radiation. However, the WHO has still given its member nations risk management suggestions based on the principle that preventing long-term exposure to non-ionizing radiation should be encouraged. The EPA has reviewed these suggestions, and has incorporated the precautionary principle into the EPA guidelines. The EPA will be formulating working regulations to cover the administration of preventative measures.\nSince enforcing non-ionizing radiation controls and other management matters are currently divided between ministries (see table above), the EPA has requested each industry competent authority to add the exposure guidelines to their own set of regulations or specifications and begin to enforce restrictions so that effective control can be gained over environmental exposure from non-ionizing radiation sources.\n?\nMinistry\nTask\nRegulations\nEPA\nMonitoring EMF effects on the environment\n1. Guidelines for Restricting Exposure to Time-Varying Electric, Magnetic, and Electromagnetic Fields\n2. Electric and Magnetic Field Testing Methods for High Voltage Overhead Power Lines, Substations and Grounding Transformers\n3. Electromagnetic Testing Methods－FM\/AM Broadcasting Stations, Wireless TV Stations, Mobile Phone Base Stations\nMinistry of Economic Affairs\nManagement of power industry facilities (high voltage power lines, substations, etc.); Testing items and standards for electrical and electronic products. \n1. The Electricity Act\n2. Outdoor Power Line Installation Regulations\n3. Indoor Power Line Installation Regulations\n4. Substation Installation Regulations\n5. Electromagnetic Field Assessment and Strength Testing Methods for Household Type Appliances and Similar Products\nNational Communications Commission\nSupervision and management of communication industry operations; frequency allocation; license granting; management of industrial, scientific, medical and other types of machinery and equipment that have radiating capabilities. \n1. Telecommunications Act\n2. Regulations for Administration of Mobile Communications Businesses\n3. Regulations Governing Technical Evaluations for Mobile Phone Base Stations\n4. Technical Specifications for Engineering Facilities in Wireless Broadcasting Stations\nDepartment of Health \n?\nAnalyzing EMF effects on human health and formulating appropriate policies.\nCouncil of Labor Affairs \nControl over non-ionizing radiation in the workplace.\nMinistry of Education\nSupervising schools to develop curricula and campus management.", "content": "Air Quality\nGuidelines for Restricting Exposure to Electric Magnetic, and Electromagnetic Fields Announced\nOn 30 November 2012, the EPA announced the Guidelines for Restricting Exposure to Time-Varying Electric, Magnetic, and Electromagnetic Fields. The exposure guidelines are the same as those followed in a number of nations. Details of the guidelines can be found under the Latest Environmental Regulations section of the EPA’s Web site: http:\/\/ivy5.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/.\nTo protect the citizens of Taiwan from excessive exposure to electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic fields (EMF) produced by man-made sources, the EPA formulated the new guidelines. The EPA first consulted the Guidelines for Limiting Exposure to Time-varying Electric, Magnetic, and Electromagnetic Fields published by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), a subsidiary organization of the World Health Organization (WHO). \nThe first EPA regulations of this type were the Suggested Values for Non-Ionizing Environmental Radiation promulgated on 12 January 2001. The values were set after consulting the ICNIRP 1998 guidelines. These guidelines went unrevised for a decade until the ICNIRP decided to take advantage of the latest advances in medicine, science, and technological research, and updated them in 2010 as guidelines for exposure to low-frequency EMFs. In Taiwan, a combination of decisions reached at a number of Legislative Yuan public hearings and demands from environmental NGOs required the EPA to quickly amend the title and content of the Suggested Values for Non-Ionizing Environmental Radiation to avoid any public misunderstanding regarding the use of the word “radiation”. The decision to draw up the Guidelines for Restricting Exposure to Time-Varying Electric, Magnetic, and Electromagnetic Fields was thus a result of the EPA’s effort to update and modify according to the latest international regulations, as well as a response to decisions reached at a number of Legislative Yuan public hearings, plus demands from environmental NGOs. The guidelines were formulated after an overall review of the ICNIRP guidelines published in 1998 and 2010. \nThe EPA’s overarching principle in drawing up the exposure guidelines was safeguarding public health on the basis of the latest scientific research. Research from around the world has clearly proven that short-term exposure to EMFs cause acute effects. The EPA thus took the EMF exposure value at which negative effects are seen on human health and divided it by 50 to serve as the basis of the guidelines. The EPA believes that by following these guidelines, operators of extremely low frequency, low frequency, and radio frequency sources can protect the public from the acute effects of EMF radiation. \nLong-term exposure to EMF is also an issue of some public concern. A careful assessment by the ICNIRP of research data from the fields of epidemiology and biology led them to conclude that there is presently not enough scientific evidence to prove that non-ionizing radiation is harmful to health. The WHO therefore recommends that it is not necessary to adjust the exposure guidelines for long-term exposure to low levels of non-ionizing radiation. However, the WHO has still given its member nations risk management suggestions based on the principle that preventing long-term exposure to non-ionizing radiation should be encouraged. The EPA has reviewed these suggestions, and has incorporated the precautionary principle into the EPA guidelines. The EPA will be formulating working regulations to cover the administration of preventative measures.\nSince enforcing non-ionizing radiation controls and other management matters are currently divided between ministries (see table above), the EPA has requested each industry competent authority to add the exposure guidelines to their own set of regulations or specifications and begin to enforce restrictions so that effective control can be gained over environmental exposure from non-ionizing radiation sources.\n?\nMinistry\nTask\nRegulations\nEPA\nMonitoring EMF effects on the environment\n1. Guidelines for Restricting Exposure to Time-Varying Electric, Magnetic, and Electromagnetic Fields\n2. Electric and Magnetic Field Testing Methods for High Voltage Overhead Power Lines, Substations and Grounding Transformers\n3. Electromagnetic Testing Methods－FM\/AM Broadcasting Stations, Wireless TV Stations, Mobile Phone Base Stations\nMinistry of Economic Affairs\nManagement of power industry facilities (high voltage power lines, substations, etc.); Testing items and standards for electrical and electronic products. \n1. The Electricity Act\n2. Outdoor Power Line Installation Regulations\n3. Indoor Power Line Installation Regulations\n4. Substation Installation Regulations\n5. Electromagnetic Field Assessment and Strength Testing Methods for Household Type Appliances and Similar Products\nNational Communications Commission\nSupervision and management of communication industry operations; frequency allocation; license granting; management of industrial, scientific, medical and other types of machinery and equipment that have radiating capabilities. \n1. Telecommunications Act\n2. Regulations for Administration of Mobile Communications Businesses\n3. Regulations Governing Technical Evaluations for Mobile Phone Base Stations\n4. Technical Specifications for Engineering Facilities in Wireless Broadcasting Stations\nDepartment of Health \n?\nAnalyzing EMF effects on human health and formulating appropriate policies.\nCouncil of Labor Affairs \nControl over non-ionizing radiation in the workplace.\nMinistry of Education\nSupervising schools to develop curricula and campus management.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Guidelines for Restricting Exposure to Electric Magnetic and Electromagnetic Fields Announced", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-01" }, { "no": "2942", "title": "Revisions to Management Regulations for the Import Export, Transit and Transshipment of Waste Preannounced", "preview": "Waste Management\n\nRevisions to Management Regulations for the Import Export, Transit and Transshipment of Waste Preannounced\n\nIn order to facilitate the proper management of the import and export of waste and improve the relevant reporting and evaluation procedures, the EPA recently preannounced revisions to a number of articles in the Management Regulations for the Import, Export, Transit and Transshipment of Waste.\n\nWith the aim of improving the management of the export and import of waste, the EPA intends to conduct a full review of some of the articles of the Management Regulations for the Import, Export, Transit and Transshipment of Waste (廢棄物輸入輸出過境轉口管理辦法) and make revisions where necessary. Updating the management regulations will also help to harmonize them with industry operating requirements. \n\nThe main points of the revisions are as follows:\n\n．In order to bring the regulations into line with the Act for the Establishment and Management of Free Trade Zones, import and storage of waste will be governed by the same permit application regulations. \n\n．Waste import and export permit applications have included an affidavit mechanism. \n\n．Importers and exporters will also be allowed to file applications, and regulations have been added to govern the management of such applications.\n\n．Applications for the import or export of hazardous waste that is the by-product of academic research or technological research in industry must be approved by the central competent authority. \n\n．The method for calculating occurrences and time periods for violations of the regulations prohibiting certain items from being exported or imported has been clarified. \n\n．Shipments of waste to Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) nations, or other nations that have signed relevant reciprocal agreements with Taiwan, will not be limited to 300 tonnes for the initial shipment.\n\n．Should customs authorities report that they are unable to fully verify the nature of the waste, the importer or exporter will be able to state that the waste will be verified by the local competent authority at its final destination. \n\nThe EPA is working to complete the revisions to the management regulations by 31 December 2012. Strengthening the management of the export\/import of waste is fully in keeping with the EPA’s obligation to protect the environment and safeguard public health.", "content": "Waste Management\n\nRevisions to Management Regulations for the Import Export, Transit and Transshipment of Waste Preannounced\n\nIn order to facilitate the proper management of the import and export of waste and improve the relevant reporting and evaluation procedures, the EPA recently preannounced revisions to a number of articles in the Management Regulations for the Import, Export, Transit and Transshipment of Waste.\n\nWith the aim of improving the management of the export and import of waste, the EPA intends to conduct a full review of some of the articles of the Management Regulations for the Import, Export, Transit and Transshipment of Waste (廢棄物輸入輸出過境轉口管理辦法) and make revisions where necessary. Updating the management regulations will also help to harmonize them with industry operating requirements. \n\nThe main points of the revisions are as follows:\n\n．In order to bring the regulations into line with the Act for the Establishment and Management of Free Trade Zones, import and storage of waste will be governed by the same permit application regulations. \n\n．Waste import and export permit applications have included an affidavit mechanism. \n\n．Importers and exporters will also be allowed to file applications, and regulations have been added to govern the management of such applications.\n\n．Applications for the import or export of hazardous waste that is the by-product of academic research or technological research in industry must be approved by the central competent authority. \n\n．The method for calculating occurrences and time periods for violations of the regulations prohibiting certain items from being exported or imported has been clarified. \n\n．Shipments of waste to Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) nations, or other nations that have signed relevant reciprocal agreements with Taiwan, will not be limited to 300 tonnes for the initial shipment.\n\n．Should customs authorities report that they are unable to fully verify the nature of the waste, the importer or exporter will be able to state that the waste will be verified by the local competent authority at its final destination. \n\nThe EPA is working to complete the revisions to the management regulations by 31 December 2012. Strengthening the management of the export\/import of waste is fully in keeping with the EPA’s obligation to protect the environment and safeguard public health.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Revisions to Management Regulations for the Import Export Transit and Transshipment of Waste Preannounced", "position": "print\/V15\/V15-10" }, { "no": "2903", "title": "Subsidies for the Recycling Clearance, and Disposal of Waste to be Suspended for Violators of Environmental Laws", "preview": "Recycling\n\nSubsidies for the Recycling Clearance, and Disposal of Waste to be Suspended for Violators of Environmental Laws \n\nThe EPA recently preannounced revisions to the Management Regulations for the Review of Applications for Waste Recycling, Clearance, and Disposal Subsidies that will strengthen the management of organizations that receive recycling, clearance, and disposal fee subsidies, and streamline the subsidy application process\n\nIn order to streamline subsidy application and evaluation processes, the EPA has established an electronic database so that organizations can file their subsidy applications online. Following the principle of simplifying administration to streamline procedures, some of the requirements for applicants to update information have been removed and applicants who forget to update their basic details will now be given a second chance to update, rather than having their subsidies stopped immediately. \n\nIn the addition, to encourage organizations that receive government subsidies to more closely abide by regulations, the EPA will suspend subsidies to any organization that is found to be breaking environmental laws or is being prosecuted for illegally obtaining government subsidies. Should an organization that receives government subsidies be found guilty of polluting soil or groundwater it will not only have its subsidies suspended or cancelled, but will not be allowed to submit another application within six months. As for organizations that have subsidies suspended for obtaining them in an improper or illegal manner, both the organization and the person in charge will not be allowed to apply for subsidies for five years.", "content": "Recycling\n\nSubsidies for the Recycling Clearance, and Disposal of Waste to be Suspended for Violators of Environmental Laws \n\nThe EPA recently preannounced revisions to the Management Regulations for the Review of Applications for Waste Recycling, Clearance, and Disposal Subsidies that will strengthen the management of organizations that receive recycling, clearance, and disposal fee subsidies, and streamline the subsidy application process\n\nIn order to streamline subsidy application and evaluation processes, the EPA has established an electronic database so that organizations can file their subsidy applications online. Following the principle of simplifying administration to streamline procedures, some of the requirements for applicants to update information have been removed and applicants who forget to update their basic details will now be given a second chance to update, rather than having their subsidies stopped immediately. \n\nIn the addition, to encourage organizations that receive government subsidies to more closely abide by regulations, the EPA will suspend subsidies to any organization that is found to be breaking environmental laws or is being prosecuted for illegally obtaining government subsidies. Should an organization that receives government subsidies be found guilty of polluting soil or groundwater it will not only have its subsidies suspended or cancelled, but will not be allowed to submit another application within six months. As for organizations that have subsidies suspended for obtaining them in an improper or illegal manner, both the organization and the person in charge will not be allowed to apply for subsidies for five years.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Subsidies for the Recycling Clearance and Disposal of Waste to be Suspended for Violators of Environmental Laws", "position": "print\/V15\/V15-06" }, { "no": "2886", "title": "Subsidies for the Recycling Clearance, and Disposal of Waste to be Suspended for Violators of Environmental Laws", "preview": "Recycling\n\nSubsidies for the Recycling Clearance, and Disposal of Waste to be Suspended for Violators of Environmental Laws \n\nThe EPA recently preannounced revisions to the Management Regulations for the Review of Applications for Waste Recycling, Clearance, and Disposal Subsidies that will strengthen the management of organizations that receive recycling, clearance, and disposal fee subsidies, and streamline the subsidy application process\n\nIn order to streamline subsidy application and evaluation processes, the EPA has established an electronic database so that organizations can file their subsidy applications online. Following the principle of simplifying administration to streamline procedures, some of the requirements for applicants to update information have been removed and applicants who forget to update their basic details will now be given a second chance to update, rather than having their subsidies stopped immediately. \n\nIn the addition, to encourage organizations that receive government subsidies to more closely abide by regulations, the EPA will suspend subsidies to any organization that is found to be breaking environmental laws or is being prosecuted for illegally obtaining government subsidies. Should an organization that receives government subsidies be found guilty of polluting soil or groundwater it will not only have its subsidies suspended or cancelled, but will not be allowed to submit another application within six months. As for organizations that have subsidies suspended for obtaining them in an improper or illegal manner, both the organization and the person in charge will not be allowed to apply for subsidies for five years.", "content": "Recycling\n\nSubsidies for the Recycling Clearance, and Disposal of Waste to be Suspended for Violators of Environmental Laws \n\nThe EPA recently preannounced revisions to the Management Regulations for the Review of Applications for Waste Recycling, Clearance, and Disposal Subsidies that will strengthen the management of organizations that receive recycling, clearance, and disposal fee subsidies, and streamline the subsidy application process\n\nIn order to streamline subsidy application and evaluation processes, the EPA has established an electronic database so that organizations can file their subsidy applications online. Following the principle of simplifying administration to streamline procedures, some of the requirements for applicants to update information have been removed and applicants who forget to update their basic details will now be given a second chance to update, rather than having their subsidies stopped immediately. \n\nIn the addition, to encourage organizations that receive government subsidies to more closely abide by regulations, the EPA will suspend subsidies to any organization that is found to be breaking environmental laws or is being prosecuted for illegally obtaining government subsidies. Should an organization that receives government subsidies be found guilty of polluting soil or groundwater it will not only have its subsidies suspended or cancelled, but will not be allowed to submit another application within six months. As for organizations that have subsidies suspended for obtaining them in an improper or illegal manner, both the organization and the person in charge will not be allowed to apply for subsidies for five years.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Subsidies for the Recycling Clearance and Disposal of Waste to be Suspended for Violators of Environmental Laws", "position": "print\/V15\/V15-05" }, { "no": "2879", "title": "Zero Tariffs for Users of Hydrogen Fuel CNS-Certified Natural Gas, and LaPG", "preview": "Air Quality\n\nZero Tariffs for Users of Hydrogen Fuel CNS-Certified Natural Gas, and LaPG \n\nIn order to simplify procedures for enterprises submitting attachments to environmental protection agencies for review, the EPA has combined the procedures for evaluating users of CNS-certified natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). The EPA has also revised the Stationary Source Air Pollution Control Fees so that users of hydrogen fuel, CNS-certified natural gas, and LPG no longer have to pay these tariffs. \n\nThe EPA has long encouraged operators of public and private premises to adopt low-pollution gaseous fuels. To this end, when the Stationary Source Air Pollution Control Fees came into effect in 1998, the EPA added an economic incentive for public and private enterprises: a fee exemption for users of hydrogen fuel, natural gas or other low-pollution gaseous fuels.\n\nHowever, in recent years the manufacturing operations of a number of enterprises have changed dramatically. They are now using gaseous products so complex that the EPA can not easily determine whether or not they count as low-pollution gaseous fuels. In order to simplify procedures for enterprises submitting attachments to environmental protection agencies for review, the EPA has combined the procedures for evaluating users of CNS-certified natural gas and LPG. In the interests of encouraging enterprises to adopt cleaner manufacturing processes and fuels to improve air quality, the EPA has also revised the Stationary Source Air Pollution Control Fees so that users of hydrogen fuel, CNS-certified natural gas, and LPG no longer have to pay these tariffs. \n\nA table attached to the Stationary Source Air Pollution Control Fees, which was revised on 5 August 2008, gives the fee rates for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for the first period (1 January 2007-31 December 2009). The EPA has also taken into consideration the fact that the first-period formula for calculating VOC tariffs is still being used by public and private enterprises to calculate second-period tariffs. The EPA has thus added explanatory content to the first-period VOCs fee calculation regulations so that the aforementioned enterprises need not waste time consulting the revised regulations.", "content": "Air Quality\n\nZero Tariffs for Users of Hydrogen Fuel CNS-Certified Natural Gas, and LaPG \n\nIn order to simplify procedures for enterprises submitting attachments to environmental protection agencies for review, the EPA has combined the procedures for evaluating users of CNS-certified natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). The EPA has also revised the Stationary Source Air Pollution Control Fees so that users of hydrogen fuel, CNS-certified natural gas, and LPG no longer have to pay these tariffs. \n\nThe EPA has long encouraged operators of public and private premises to adopt low-pollution gaseous fuels. To this end, when the Stationary Source Air Pollution Control Fees came into effect in 1998, the EPA added an economic incentive for public and private enterprises: a fee exemption for users of hydrogen fuel, natural gas or other low-pollution gaseous fuels.\n\nHowever, in recent years the manufacturing operations of a number of enterprises have changed dramatically. They are now using gaseous products so complex that the EPA can not easily determine whether or not they count as low-pollution gaseous fuels. In order to simplify procedures for enterprises submitting attachments to environmental protection agencies for review, the EPA has combined the procedures for evaluating users of CNS-certified natural gas and LPG. In the interests of encouraging enterprises to adopt cleaner manufacturing processes and fuels to improve air quality, the EPA has also revised the Stationary Source Air Pollution Control Fees so that users of hydrogen fuel, CNS-certified natural gas, and LPG no longer have to pay these tariffs. \n\nA table attached to the Stationary Source Air Pollution Control Fees, which was revised on 5 August 2008, gives the fee rates for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for the first period (1 January 2007-31 December 2009). The EPA has also taken into consideration the fact that the first-period formula for calculating VOC tariffs is still being used by public and private enterprises to calculate second-period tariffs. The EPA has thus added explanatory content to the first-period VOCs fee calculation regulations so that the aforementioned enterprises need not waste time consulting the revised regulations.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Zero Tariffs for Users of Hydrogen Fuel CNS-Certified Natural Gas and LaPG", "position": "print\/V15\/V15-05" }, { "no": "2863", "title": "Taipei City Seeks to Control Light Pollution with Fines up to NT$50000", "preview": "Air quality\n\nTaipei City Seeks to Control Light Pollution with Fines up to NT$50000 \n\nIn an attempt to solve the problem of light pollution in the metropolis and maintain suitable levels of illumination, the Taipei City Environmental Protection Bureau is leading the way in formulating the Taipei City Light Pollution Management Ordinance. The ordinance was approved at a city government meeting on 27 March and will be sent to Taipei City Council for review. The ordinance stipulates that illuminance and luminance from light sources, and visible light reflectance from building glass, metallic surfaces, tiles, mirrors or other reflective materials must not exceed light pollution control values. Violators will first be issued with a notice to make improvements within a deadline. If improvements are not made then installers, owners, users, or owners of the premises containing the light pollution source can be fined NT$5,000~50,000, and ordered to make improvements within a given time period. If improvements are failed to be made within a given time period again, daily consecutive fines will be issued, and if necessary the installation must be removed.", "content": "Air quality\n\nTaipei City Seeks to Control Light Pollution with Fines up to NT$50000 \n\nIn an attempt to solve the problem of light pollution in the metropolis and maintain suitable levels of illumination, the Taipei City Environmental Protection Bureau is leading the way in formulating the Taipei City Light Pollution Management Ordinance. The ordinance was approved at a city government meeting on 27 March and will be sent to Taipei City Council for review. The ordinance stipulates that illuminance and luminance from light sources, and visible light reflectance from building glass, metallic surfaces, tiles, mirrors or other reflective materials must not exceed light pollution control values. Violators will first be issued with a notice to make improvements within a deadline. If improvements are not made then installers, owners, users, or owners of the premises containing the light pollution source can be fined NT$5,000~50,000, and ordered to make improvements within a given time period. If improvements are failed to be made within a given time period again, daily consecutive fines will be issued, and if necessary the installation must be removed.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Taipei City Seeks to Control Light Pollution with Fines up to NT$50000", "position": "print\/V15\/V15-04" }, { "no": "2846", "title": "New Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fee Rates for Containers Slated to Take Effect on 1 July", "preview": "Waste Management\n\nNew Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fee Rates for Containers Slated to Take Effect on 1 July \n\nThe EPA recently pre-announced draft revisions to the fee rates for the recycling, clearance and treatment of containers in response to dramatic fluctuations in the price of raw materials and also to promote the production of containers with more eco-friendly designs. The new rates are slated to come into effect on 1 July 2012.\n\nThe draft of the revisions concerns adjustment to the fee rates due to the need for an overall review of costs deriving from the recycling, clearance and treatment of recyclable waste container materials, auditing costs, the value of the market for renewable resources, the environmental impact of the containers, and the financial standing of the Resource Recycling Fund.\n\nIn order to accelerate the trend toward eco-friendly designs for container products, the drafted revisions provide for a low fee rate for PET containers from which the label can be easily removed, either because the label is made from shrink film with an easy-tear line or because the label is not self-adhesive but is stuck on with an eco-friendly adhesive. Offering economic incentives such as these is one of the many measures that the EPA adopts to protect the environment. In addition, operation mechanisms for the recycling, treatment and disposal of bioplastics have also been included within the scope of the Resource Recycling Fund's management, and were therefore added onto the revision of material fee rates. \n\nDetails of the new subsidy rates can be found on the EPA resource recycling Web site http:\/\/ivy5.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx in the section titled Pre-announcements of Drafts to Statutory Orders.", "content": "Waste Management\n\nNew Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fee Rates for Containers Slated to Take Effect on 1 July \n\nThe EPA recently pre-announced draft revisions to the fee rates for the recycling, clearance and treatment of containers in response to dramatic fluctuations in the price of raw materials and also to promote the production of containers with more eco-friendly designs. The new rates are slated to come into effect on 1 July 2012.\n\nThe draft of the revisions concerns adjustment to the fee rates due to the need for an overall review of costs deriving from the recycling, clearance and treatment of recyclable waste container materials, auditing costs, the value of the market for renewable resources, the environmental impact of the containers, and the financial standing of the Resource Recycling Fund.\n\nIn order to accelerate the trend toward eco-friendly designs for container products, the drafted revisions provide for a low fee rate for PET containers from which the label can be easily removed, either because the label is made from shrink film with an easy-tear line or because the label is not self-adhesive but is stuck on with an eco-friendly adhesive. Offering economic incentives such as these is one of the many measures that the EPA adopts to protect the environment. In addition, operation mechanisms for the recycling, treatment and disposal of bioplastics have also been included within the scope of the Resource Recycling Fund's management, and were therefore added onto the revision of material fee rates. \n\nDetails of the new subsidy rates can be found on the EPA resource recycling Web site http:\/\/ivy5.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx in the section titled Pre-announcements of Drafts to Statutory Orders.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "New Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fee Rates for Containers Slated to Take Effect on 1 July", "position": "print\/V15\/V15-02" }, { "no": "2801", "title": "Grants of up to NT$500000 for Environmental Education Accreditation Applicants", "preview": "Environmental Education \n\nGrants of up to NT$500000 for Environmental Education Accreditation Applicants\n\nThe EPA encourages private organizations and operators of premises engaged in environmental education to actively seek accreditation for their organization\/premises and the environmental education activities and personnel training that they conduct. To this end, the EPA has drawn up two plans that allow such entities that gain accreditation before 31 August 2012 to receive grants, of up to NT$70,000 for premises and NT$40,000 for organizations. Grants of up to NT$500,000 are available for holding environmental education activities, personnel training and development courses. \n\nThe 2012 Subsidies for Accreditation Applications from Environmental Education Premises Plan provides for subsidies of up to NT$70,000 for premises engaged in environmental education that apply for and gain accreditation before 31 August 2012. Premises that have their applications successfully evaluated before this date but do not receive accreditation in time can apply for a grant of NT$4,500. Grants of up to NT$500,000 are available to premises that hold environmental education activities and personnel training\/development courses, provided that the application is received before 31 August 2012. Premises that receive grants to hold such activities and courses should offer discounts to participants on entrance fees, instruction, learning materials and any other costs related to the environmental activity being held. The above subsidies are available to the first 40 applicants, and it is hoped that implementation of the subsidy plan will lead to more than 40 premises that are able to provide the public with top notch environmental education facilities gaining accreditation within a year. \n\nThe 2012 Subsidies for Accreditation Applications from Environmental Education Organizations and for Conducting Training (Workshops) of Environmental Educators Plan also provides for subsidies of up to NT$40,000 for organizations engaged in environmental education that apply for and gain accreditation before 31 August 2012. Organizations that have their applications successfully evaluated before this date but do not receive accreditation in time can apply for a grant of NT$5,000. Accredited organizations that apply before 31 August 2012 are also eligible for subsidies of up to 50% of the tuition fees charged to participants in training and workshops up to a limit of NT$8,000 per student for training courses and NT$2,000 per student for workshops. The maximum amount that any one organization can receive in total has been set at NT$500,000. The above subsidies are available to the first ten applicants, and it is hoped that implementation of the subsidy plan will lead to more than ten organizations gaining accreditation within a year.\n\nAt present, two premises have been accredited: Taipei City Guandu Nature Park and Feitsui Reservoir Environmental Learning Center. Members of the public are welcome to visit these centers to learn more about environmental matters. The EPA will soon be announcing details of these two subsidy plans and welcoming applications from all qualified organizations.", "content": "Environmental Education \n\nGrants of up to NT$500000 for Environmental Education Accreditation Applicants\n\nThe EPA encourages private organizations and operators of premises engaged in environmental education to actively seek accreditation for their organization\/premises and the environmental education activities and personnel training that they conduct. To this end, the EPA has drawn up two plans that allow such entities that gain accreditation before 31 August 2012 to receive grants, of up to NT$70,000 for premises and NT$40,000 for organizations. Grants of up to NT$500,000 are available for holding environmental education activities, personnel training and development courses. \n\nThe 2012 Subsidies for Accreditation Applications from Environmental Education Premises Plan provides for subsidies of up to NT$70,000 for premises engaged in environmental education that apply for and gain accreditation before 31 August 2012. Premises that have their applications successfully evaluated before this date but do not receive accreditation in time can apply for a grant of NT$4,500. Grants of up to NT$500,000 are available to premises that hold environmental education activities and personnel training\/development courses, provided that the application is received before 31 August 2012. Premises that receive grants to hold such activities and courses should offer discounts to participants on entrance fees, instruction, learning materials and any other costs related to the environmental activity being held. The above subsidies are available to the first 40 applicants, and it is hoped that implementation of the subsidy plan will lead to more than 40 premises that are able to provide the public with top notch environmental education facilities gaining accreditation within a year. \n\nThe 2012 Subsidies for Accreditation Applications from Environmental Education Organizations and for Conducting Training (Workshops) of Environmental Educators Plan also provides for subsidies of up to NT$40,000 for organizations engaged in environmental education that apply for and gain accreditation before 31 August 2012. Organizations that have their applications successfully evaluated before this date but do not receive accreditation in time can apply for a grant of NT$5,000. Accredited organizations that apply before 31 August 2012 are also eligible for subsidies of up to 50% of the tuition fees charged to participants in training and workshops up to a limit of NT$8,000 per student for training courses and NT$2,000 per student for workshops. The maximum amount that any one organization can receive in total has been set at NT$500,000. The above subsidies are available to the first ten applicants, and it is hoped that implementation of the subsidy plan will lead to more than ten organizations gaining accreditation within a year.\n\nAt present, two premises have been accredited: Taipei City Guandu Nature Park and Feitsui Reservoir Environmental Learning Center. Members of the public are welcome to visit these centers to learn more about environmental matters. The EPA will soon be announcing details of these two subsidy plans and welcoming applications from all qualified organizations.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Grants of up to NT$500000 for Environmental Education Accreditation Applicants", "position": "print\/V15\/V15-01" }, { "no": "2788", "title": "”Golden Decade National Vision of Sustainable Environment” Announced", "preview": "generaly policy”Golden Decade National Vision of Sustainable Environment” Announced Responding to global climate change and resource conservation trends, Taiwan is not only in the process of establishing the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, integrating each agency’s work on pollution prevention and nature conservation, but is also strengthening the protection of environmental resources and keeping a balanced ecosystem. President Ma Ying-jeou has proclaimed this as the ”Golden Decade, National Visions,” a scheme consisting of Four Assurances, including the promise of environmental sustainability and social justice. This policy will revolve around the concepts of green energy, carbon reduction, creation of an ecosystem preservation-based homeland, and disaster prevention and relief.Environmental Sustainability is listed as the Fifth Vision in the ”Golden Decade, National Visions.” Policy ideals for this include new forms of energy that prioritize energy conservation and carbon reduction as well as the safety and preservation of a healthy environment. These concepts build on current trends in energy conservation and carbon reduction, development of clean energy and expansion of green production. Green energy and recycling of resources is beneficial to the rebuilding of both urban and rural environments. Other focal points include national land planning and watershed management so as to make further progress in water resources utilization, nature conservation, integrated waste management, pollution clean-up, ocean and wetland protection, and the creation of an ecosystem preservation-based homeland. New highlights include the utilization of cloud computing technology in disaster prevention and relief, strengthening community coordination of disaster prevention, as well as further initiatives to restore ecological balance such as slope stabilization, flood prevention, reforestation, degraded habitat restoration, and maintenance of national land security. The EPA has adhered to this vision for environmental sustainability in setting forth the following three environmental protection core policies for the next decade:1. Green Energy and Carbon ReductionTasks in this area include expediting the restructuring of industry to develop low-carbon energy and promote renewable energy installations, gradually decreasing dependence on nuclear energy, developing sound market and legal mechanisms that foster energy conservation and carbon reduction, and establishing support for green lifestyles that emphasize energy and water conservation.Goals: ．Reduce national CO2 emissions to 2005 levels by the year 2020．Annually increase energy efficiency by over 2% so that energy intensity decreases 12% below 2010 levels by the year 2016, and 18.3% below 2010 levels by the year 2020．Increase total installed capacity of renewable energy to 4.58 million Kw by 2016 and 6.04 million Kw by 2020. Annual power production for these years is projected at 12.2 kWh and 16.1 kWh, respectively (equivalent to the annual power consumption of 4.03 million households)．Create a low-carbon homeland and foster new ways of living that conserve energy and reduce carbon emissions so that all citizens are partaking in green consumptionStrategies:．Put maximum effort into promoting renewable energy．Develop sound energy conservation and carbon reduction market mechanisms, legal infrastructure and implementation systems．Expedite low-carbon production and promote regional integration of energy and resources．Expand research and development of new energy technologies and their applications in the green energy industry．Promote a low-carbon homeland and lifestyles that emphasize energy and water conservation2. Ecosystem preservation-based homelandTasks in this area include promotion of national land planning and watershed management, resource recycling, pollution reduction and ecosystem conservation, and spreading new concepts of living more harmoniously with mountains, forests, rivers, oceans, wetlands and all natural resources in a manner that brings society closer to the goal of creating a healthy sustainable ecological homeland.Goals:．Emphasize sustainable development in national land planning to ensure equal emphasis is put on development, conservation and disaster prevention．Continue to strengthen information transparency and public participation to ensure human and environmental rights．Promote resource recycling for zero waste, and pollution prevention to conserve and protect the ecosystem．Implement development of water resources through control of overall consumption and watershed management so as to establish sustainable water environments．Develop reasonable and diverse development of water resources, including the construction of the Hushan Reservoir, which is slated for completion by 2015, as well as the planning of the Black River Niaozui Artificial Lake．Plan river, gutter, and groundwater recharging facilities for the Zhuoshui River and western Taiwan, and a groundwater recharging plan in conjunction with the Dachaozhou Artificial Lake ．Strengthen reforestation to create green shields for a sustainable environment, increasing forest cover to 59.78% in five years and 60.23% in ten years．Protect biodiversity by setting up nature conservation areas, with 80 areas planned within five years and a total of 83 within ten years．Improve Central Mountain Range ecological corridors, and ecosystem protection and management in the foothills on the edges of urban areas, as well as expand national park boundaries and nature trails．Promote wetland conservation and strengthen marine protection and coastal restoration to restore natural balance in these areas.Strategies:．Develop a comprehensive national land planning system．Create clean and amenable environments．Create integrated management and development of watersheds and water resources．Strengthen reforestation．Strengthen ecosystem conservation．Strengthen marine protection and sustainable utilization of marine resources3. Disaster prevention and reliefTasks in this area include promotion of climate change adaptation, nuclear energy safety, integrated slope stabilization and flood prevention, water and soil resource conservation, land subsidence prevention, building of capacity and efficiency for disaster prevention and relief, and improvement of disaster-related early warning and evacuation procedures, so as to create safe environments. Goals:．Promote climate change adaptation and implement national land security and conservation．Maintain international-level standards in holding nuclear power safety evaluations．Carry out integrated slope stabilization and flood prevention and planning in disaster-prone areas in order to minimize the threat of natural disasters．Improve planning in flood-prone areas to free people from fear and anxiety of inundation．Strengthen capacity for disaster early warning monitoring and evacuation．Develop community autonomy and civil participation in networks for prevention and relief so as to improve efficiency in preparing for and responding to disasters．Uphold the principles of ”prepare for the worst” and ”an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” to strengthen disaster preparedness, deploying troops in advance and always being ready for disaster response, so that people can live in greater safety and peace of mind Strategies:．Promote climate change adaptation and implement national land security and conservation．Upgrade nuclear power safety．Develop comprehensive planning for disaster prevention．Plan for effective control of land subsidence．Strengthen capacity for monitoring, early warning and evacuation in disaster-prone areas．Enhance basic-level government capabilities for disaster prevention and relief, and help communities build capacity to prevent and deal with disasters independently．Implement pre-disaster evacuation and troop deployment", "content": "generaly policy”Golden Decade National Vision of Sustainable Environment” Announced Responding to global climate change and resource conservation trends, Taiwan is not only in the process of establishing the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, integrating each agency’s work on pollution prevention and nature conservation, but is also strengthening the protection of environmental resources and keeping a balanced ecosystem. President Ma Ying-jeou has proclaimed this as the ”Golden Decade, National Visions,” a scheme consisting of Four Assurances, including the promise of environmental sustainability and social justice. This policy will revolve around the concepts of green energy, carbon reduction, creation of an ecosystem preservation-based homeland, and disaster prevention and relief.Environmental Sustainability is listed as the Fifth Vision in the ”Golden Decade, National Visions.” Policy ideals for this include new forms of energy that prioritize energy conservation and carbon reduction as well as the safety and preservation of a healthy environment. These concepts build on current trends in energy conservation and carbon reduction, development of clean energy and expansion of green production. Green energy and recycling of resources is beneficial to the rebuilding of both urban and rural environments. Other focal points include national land planning and watershed management so as to make further progress in water resources utilization, nature conservation, integrated waste management, pollution clean-up, ocean and wetland protection, and the creation of an ecosystem preservation-based homeland. New highlights include the utilization of cloud computing technology in disaster prevention and relief, strengthening community coordination of disaster prevention, as well as further initiatives to restore ecological balance such as slope stabilization, flood prevention, reforestation, degraded habitat restoration, and maintenance of national land security. The EPA has adhered to this vision for environmental sustainability in setting forth the following three environmental protection core policies for the next decade:1. Green Energy and Carbon ReductionTasks in this area include expediting the restructuring of industry to develop low-carbon energy and promote renewable energy installations, gradually decreasing dependence on nuclear energy, developing sound market and legal mechanisms that foster energy conservation and carbon reduction, and establishing support for green lifestyles that emphasize energy and water conservation.Goals: ．Reduce national CO2 emissions to 2005 levels by the year 2020．Annually increase energy efficiency by over 2% so that energy intensity decreases 12% below 2010 levels by the year 2016, and 18.3% below 2010 levels by the year 2020．Increase total installed capacity of renewable energy to 4.58 million Kw by 2016 and 6.04 million Kw by 2020. Annual power production for these years is projected at 12.2 kWh and 16.1 kWh, respectively (equivalent to the annual power consumption of 4.03 million households)．Create a low-carbon homeland and foster new ways of living that conserve energy and reduce carbon emissions so that all citizens are partaking in green consumptionStrategies:．Put maximum effort into promoting renewable energy．Develop sound energy conservation and carbon reduction market mechanisms, legal infrastructure and implementation systems．Expedite low-carbon production and promote regional integration of energy and resources．Expand research and development of new energy technologies and their applications in the green energy industry．Promote a low-carbon homeland and lifestyles that emphasize energy and water conservation2. Ecosystem preservation-based homelandTasks in this area include promotion of national land planning and watershed management, resource recycling, pollution reduction and ecosystem conservation, and spreading new concepts of living more harmoniously with mountains, forests, rivers, oceans, wetlands and all natural resources in a manner that brings society closer to the goal of creating a healthy sustainable ecological homeland.Goals:．Emphasize sustainable development in national land planning to ensure equal emphasis is put on development, conservation and disaster prevention．Continue to strengthen information transparency and public participation to ensure human and environmental rights．Promote resource recycling for zero waste, and pollution prevention to conserve and protect the ecosystem．Implement development of water resources through control of overall consumption and watershed management so as to establish sustainable water environments．Develop reasonable and diverse development of water resources, including the construction of the Hushan Reservoir, which is slated for completion by 2015, as well as the planning of the Black River Niaozui Artificial Lake．Plan river, gutter, and groundwater recharging facilities for the Zhuoshui River and western Taiwan, and a groundwater recharging plan in conjunction with the Dachaozhou Artificial Lake ．Strengthen reforestation to create green shields for a sustainable environment, increasing forest cover to 59.78% in five years and 60.23% in ten years．Protect biodiversity by setting up nature conservation areas, with 80 areas planned within five years and a total of 83 within ten years．Improve Central Mountain Range ecological corridors, and ecosystem protection and management in the foothills on the edges of urban areas, as well as expand national park boundaries and nature trails．Promote wetland conservation and strengthen marine protection and coastal restoration to restore natural balance in these areas.Strategies:．Develop a comprehensive national land planning system．Create clean and amenable environments．Create integrated management and development of watersheds and water resources．Strengthen reforestation．Strengthen ecosystem conservation．Strengthen marine protection and sustainable utilization of marine resources3. Disaster prevention and reliefTasks in this area include promotion of climate change adaptation, nuclear energy safety, integrated slope stabilization and flood prevention, water and soil resource conservation, land subsidence prevention, building of capacity and efficiency for disaster prevention and relief, and improvement of disaster-related early warning and evacuation procedures, so as to create safe environments. Goals:．Promote climate change adaptation and implement national land security and conservation．Maintain international-level standards in holding nuclear power safety evaluations．Carry out integrated slope stabilization and flood prevention and planning in disaster-prone areas in order to minimize the threat of natural disasters．Improve planning in flood-prone areas to free people from fear and anxiety of inundation．Strengthen capacity for disaster early warning monitoring and evacuation．Develop community autonomy and civil participation in networks for prevention and relief so as to improve efficiency in preparing for and responding to disasters．Uphold the principles of ”prepare for the worst” and ”an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” to strengthen disaster preparedness, deploying troops in advance and always being ready for disaster response, so that people can live in greater safety and peace of mind Strategies:．Promote climate change adaptation and implement national land security and conservation．Upgrade nuclear power safety．Develop comprehensive planning for disaster prevention．Plan for effective control of land subsidence．Strengthen capacity for monitoring, early warning and evacuation in disaster-prone areas．Enhance basic-level government capabilities for disaster prevention and relief, and help communities build capacity to prevent and deal with disasters independently．Implement pre-disaster evacuation and troop deployment", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "generaly policy", "titlename": "”Golden Decade National Vision of Sustainable Environment” Announced", "position": "print\/V14\/V14-12" }, { "no": "2777", "title": "Soil Sediment and Groundwater Pollutant Analysis Standards Take Effect", "preview": "Soil and Groundwater\n\nSoil Sediment and Groundwater Pollutant Analysis Standards Take Effect \n\nThe EPA has drafted the Soil, Sediment, and Groundwater Pollutant Analysis Quality Control Standards (土壤底泥及地下水污染物檢驗測定品質管制準則) to provide a set of guidelines for controlling the analysis of testing for pollutants in soil, sediment, and groundwater. The standards took effect on 15 November 2011. \n\nThe 3 February 2010 revision of Article 10, Paragraph 3 of the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act (土壤及地下水污染整治法) regarding the Paragraph 1 stipulation on conducting soil, sediment, and groundwater pollutant analysis requires that analysis methods and quality control standards shall be set by the central government competent authority. The EPA has thus drafted the Soil, Sediment, and Groundwater Analysis Testing Quality Control Standards in order to ensure a set of guidelines for controlling the quality of analysis for pollutants in soil, sediment, and groundwater. The Standards contain eight articles, the content of which are outlined as follows: \n\nArticle 3: Quality control shall be in place to monitor the analysis process. Quality control for soil, sediment and groundwater analysis, shall be conducted according to analysis methods decreed by the EPA. \n\nArticle 4: When conducting soil, sediment, and groundwater samples, appropriate quality control samples must be collected according to relevant sampling methods announced by the EPA. Sampling procedures must include appropriate sampling monitoring procedures and should be recorded to facilitate follow-up sampling tracking and management. \n\nArticle 5: In order to maintain quality analytical data for inorganic samples of soil, sediment and groundwater, a series of quality controls and control procedures should be conducted including preparation of calibration curve, calibration check, blank sample analysis, duplicate sample analysis, check sample analysis, and additive sample analysis.\n\nArticle 6: In order to maintain quality analytical data for organic samples of soil, sediment and groundwater, a series of quality controls and control procedures should be conducted including blank sample analysis, check sample analysis, additive sample analysis and duplicate sample analysis. When analyzing samples for volatile organic compounds, relevant analysis methods announced by the central government competent authority should be followed, including stipulations on delivering blank samples and in-situ blank sample analysis. Dioxin testing quality control should also follow analysis methods announced by the EPA.", "content": "Soil and Groundwater\n\nSoil Sediment and Groundwater Pollutant Analysis Standards Take Effect \n\nThe EPA has drafted the Soil, Sediment, and Groundwater Pollutant Analysis Quality Control Standards (土壤底泥及地下水污染物檢驗測定品質管制準則) to provide a set of guidelines for controlling the analysis of testing for pollutants in soil, sediment, and groundwater. The standards took effect on 15 November 2011. \n\nThe 3 February 2010 revision of Article 10, Paragraph 3 of the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act (土壤及地下水污染整治法) regarding the Paragraph 1 stipulation on conducting soil, sediment, and groundwater pollutant analysis requires that analysis methods and quality control standards shall be set by the central government competent authority. The EPA has thus drafted the Soil, Sediment, and Groundwater Analysis Testing Quality Control Standards in order to ensure a set of guidelines for controlling the quality of analysis for pollutants in soil, sediment, and groundwater. The Standards contain eight articles, the content of which are outlined as follows: \n\nArticle 3: Quality control shall be in place to monitor the analysis process. Quality control for soil, sediment and groundwater analysis, shall be conducted according to analysis methods decreed by the EPA. \n\nArticle 4: When conducting soil, sediment, and groundwater samples, appropriate quality control samples must be collected according to relevant sampling methods announced by the EPA. Sampling procedures must include appropriate sampling monitoring procedures and should be recorded to facilitate follow-up sampling tracking and management. \n\nArticle 5: In order to maintain quality analytical data for inorganic samples of soil, sediment and groundwater, a series of quality controls and control procedures should be conducted including preparation of calibration curve, calibration check, blank sample analysis, duplicate sample analysis, check sample analysis, and additive sample analysis.\n\nArticle 6: In order to maintain quality analytical data for organic samples of soil, sediment and groundwater, a series of quality controls and control procedures should be conducted including blank sample analysis, check sample analysis, additive sample analysis and duplicate sample analysis. When analyzing samples for volatile organic compounds, relevant analysis methods announced by the central government competent authority should be followed, including stipulations on delivering blank samples and in-situ blank sample analysis. Dioxin testing quality control should also follow analysis methods announced by the EPA.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil and Groundwater", "titlename": "Soil Sediment and Groundwater Pollutant Analysis Standards Take Effect", "position": "print\/V14\/V14-11" }, { "no": "2776", "title": "Soil Pollution Assessment Survey and Testing Management Regulations Announced", "preview": "Soil and Groundwater\n\nSoil Pollution Assessment Survey and Testing Management Regulations Announced \n\nThe EPA has drafted the Soil Pollution Assessment, Survey and Testing Procedure Management Regulations (土壤污染評估調查及檢測作業管理辦法) as authorized under Article 9, Paragraph 2 of the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act (SGPRA, 土壤及地下水污染整治法) to ensure the sound implementation of reporting references and reviews as stipulated in Article 8, Paragraph 1 and Article 9, Paragraph 1 of the SGPRA. The new regulations will ensure grantors, businesses, assessors and testing organizations have a protocol for affairs concerning land and soil pollution. \n\nThe EPA stated that the Soil Pollution Assessment, Survey and Testing Procedure Management Regulations were formulated mainly to provide details concerning the various work procedures, data processing, and verification methods involved in implementing soil pollution assessments, surveys and tests. For example, soil pollution assessments, surveys and tests on land designated for industrial use should be conducted by an investigator, who is required to follow specified methods—either the site environmental assessment method or the grid method. This regulation also sets rules for determining minimum sampling numbers, conditions exempt from testing and a list of pollutants that should be tested for. \n\nIn addition, regulations have been made regarding the scheduling of reports. The grantors or businesses should complete procedures for applying for reference material and reviews with the local environmental protection bureau within six months of soil sampling. The latest format for soil pollution assessment, survey and testing data can be downloaded from the EPA Web site at http:\/\/sgw.epa.gov.tw\/public\/index.asp.\n\nThe EPA pointed out that whether the situation is: 1) a grantor handing over land reporting references in accordance with Article 8 of the SGPRA, or 2) a regulated company filing for a review according to Article 9 of the SGPRA. In either case one may conduct a land transfer or establish, alter or terminate business only after obtaining a letter of acceptance from the environmental protection bureau. If the grantor handing over land or a regulated company completes land transfer or procedures for establishing a factory, making alterations or terminating business before obtaining a notice of reference or review approval from the environmental protection bureau, they will be penalized according to Article 40, Paragraph 1 of the SGPRA and fined from NT$150,000 to NT$750,000. Such cases will also be notified of a deadline to make corrections. \n\nFailure to meet the deadline will result in further penalties. The EPA reiterates that after businesses obtain a notice of approval of review of their soil pollution assessment survey and test data, they must complete registration of any changes or termination of business operations within six months. \n\nFailure to meet this six-month deadline will require resubmission of new soil pollution assessment survey and test data. This regulation will take effect on 1 January 2012. All are reminded to respond early and to follow the regulations to protect their own rights and interests and avoid penalization.", "content": "Soil and Groundwater\n\nSoil Pollution Assessment Survey and Testing Management Regulations Announced \n\nThe EPA has drafted the Soil Pollution Assessment, Survey and Testing Procedure Management Regulations (土壤污染評估調查及檢測作業管理辦法) as authorized under Article 9, Paragraph 2 of the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act (SGPRA, 土壤及地下水污染整治法) to ensure the sound implementation of reporting references and reviews as stipulated in Article 8, Paragraph 1 and Article 9, Paragraph 1 of the SGPRA. The new regulations will ensure grantors, businesses, assessors and testing organizations have a protocol for affairs concerning land and soil pollution. \n\nThe EPA stated that the Soil Pollution Assessment, Survey and Testing Procedure Management Regulations were formulated mainly to provide details concerning the various work procedures, data processing, and verification methods involved in implementing soil pollution assessments, surveys and tests. For example, soil pollution assessments, surveys and tests on land designated for industrial use should be conducted by an investigator, who is required to follow specified methods—either the site environmental assessment method or the grid method. This regulation also sets rules for determining minimum sampling numbers, conditions exempt from testing and a list of pollutants that should be tested for. \n\nIn addition, regulations have been made regarding the scheduling of reports. The grantors or businesses should complete procedures for applying for reference material and reviews with the local environmental protection bureau within six months of soil sampling. The latest format for soil pollution assessment, survey and testing data can be downloaded from the EPA Web site at http:\/\/sgw.epa.gov.tw\/public\/index.asp.\n\nThe EPA pointed out that whether the situation is: 1) a grantor handing over land reporting references in accordance with Article 8 of the SGPRA, or 2) a regulated company filing for a review according to Article 9 of the SGPRA. In either case one may conduct a land transfer or establish, alter or terminate business only after obtaining a letter of acceptance from the environmental protection bureau. If the grantor handing over land or a regulated company completes land transfer or procedures for establishing a factory, making alterations or terminating business before obtaining a notice of reference or review approval from the environmental protection bureau, they will be penalized according to Article 40, Paragraph 1 of the SGPRA and fined from NT$150,000 to NT$750,000. Such cases will also be notified of a deadline to make corrections. \n\nFailure to meet the deadline will result in further penalties. The EPA reiterates that after businesses obtain a notice of approval of review of their soil pollution assessment survey and test data, they must complete registration of any changes or termination of business operations within six months. \n\nFailure to meet this six-month deadline will require resubmission of new soil pollution assessment survey and test data. This regulation will take effect on 1 January 2012. All are reminded to respond early and to follow the regulations to protect their own rights and interests and avoid penalization.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil and Groundwater", "titlename": "Soil Pollution Assessment Survey and Testing Management Regulations Announced", "position": "print\/V14\/V14-11" }, { "no": "2758", "title": "Light Bulb Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fees Raised 15%", "preview": "Recycling\n\nLight Bulb Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fees Raised 15% \n\nFrom January 2002, straight fluorescent light tubes have been regulated as an item for which manufacturers and importers, herein termed as \"responsible enterprises,\" are required to provide recycling, clearance and treatment. On 1 July 2007, additions were made to this list of regulated items, including circular fluorescent bulbs, self-ballasted fluorescent bulbs, compact fluorescent bulbs, and incandescent bulbs over 2.6 cm in diameter. High-intensity discharge (HID) bulbs were added to the list starting from 1 July 2008. Responsible enterprises are required to pay bulb recycling, clearance, and treatment fees for these items according to announced fee rates.\n\nWaste light bulb recycling rates had risen from 7% in 2002 to 80% in 2010. The lower fee rates set in the past had been unable to make up for the cost of subsidizing recycling, clearance and treatment operations, and thus from 2003, the trust fund for light bulb recycling had incurred an annual loss. In 2008 the EPA assessed the possibility of adjusting fee rates and subsidy rates, but decided not to do so due to economic factors at the time. By June 2011 the recycling fund for waste light bulbs had already incurred nearly NT$290 million in debt, and this figure is expected to increase to NT$320 million by the end of 2011.\n\nTo ensure ideal operation of this fund, consideration has been given to the impact that raising the fee rate may have on responsible enterprises. Thus the EPA has set a goal to amortize the deficit over a ten-year period starting in 2012. From 1 January 2012, the recycling, clearance and treatment fee rate will be raised to NT$31 per kilogram, a 15% increase over the current rate of NT$27 per kilogram. As HID light bulb recycling, clearance and treatment costs are comparable to that of other waste bulbs, the fee rate for HID bulbs has been adjusted to the same rate as other bulbs at NT$31 per kilogram, slightly lower than the current rate of NT$32.48 per kilogram. The EPA will continually reevaluate reasonable fee rates based on the status of the fund.", "content": "Recycling\n\nLight Bulb Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fees Raised 15% \n\nFrom January 2002, straight fluorescent light tubes have been regulated as an item for which manufacturers and importers, herein termed as \"responsible enterprises,\" are required to provide recycling, clearance and treatment. On 1 July 2007, additions were made to this list of regulated items, including circular fluorescent bulbs, self-ballasted fluorescent bulbs, compact fluorescent bulbs, and incandescent bulbs over 2.6 cm in diameter. High-intensity discharge (HID) bulbs were added to the list starting from 1 July 2008. Responsible enterprises are required to pay bulb recycling, clearance, and treatment fees for these items according to announced fee rates.\n\nWaste light bulb recycling rates had risen from 7% in 2002 to 80% in 2010. The lower fee rates set in the past had been unable to make up for the cost of subsidizing recycling, clearance and treatment operations, and thus from 2003, the trust fund for light bulb recycling had incurred an annual loss. In 2008 the EPA assessed the possibility of adjusting fee rates and subsidy rates, but decided not to do so due to economic factors at the time. By June 2011 the recycling fund for waste light bulbs had already incurred nearly NT$290 million in debt, and this figure is expected to increase to NT$320 million by the end of 2011.\n\nTo ensure ideal operation of this fund, consideration has been given to the impact that raising the fee rate may have on responsible enterprises. Thus the EPA has set a goal to amortize the deficit over a ten-year period starting in 2012. From 1 January 2012, the recycling, clearance and treatment fee rate will be raised to NT$31 per kilogram, a 15% increase over the current rate of NT$27 per kilogram. As HID light bulb recycling, clearance and treatment costs are comparable to that of other waste bulbs, the fee rate for HID bulbs has been adjusted to the same rate as other bulbs at NT$31 per kilogram, slightly lower than the current rate of NT$32.48 per kilogram. The EPA will continually reevaluate reasonable fee rates based on the status of the fund.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Light Bulb Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fees Raised 15%", "position": "print\/V14\/V14-10" }, { "no": "2751", "title": "No Toxins Found in Random Test of Household Detergents Toys and Paints", "preview": "toxic substance \n\nNo Toxins Found in Random Test of Household Detergents Toys and Paints\n\nDetergents, paints and toys were the three categories of commonly used products targeted by the EPA in 2011 for random testing of toxic substances including trichloroethylene, nonylphenol (NP), nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEO), tributyltin (TBT), and 8 kinds of phthalic acid esters (PAEs). Test results showed that none of the products contained any of these toxic substances.\n\nThe EPA explained that the products in this round of random testing included 25 kinds of household detergents, 3 kinds of paints, and 17 kinds of toys, for a total of 45 products. Testing was conducted by the EPA's Environmental Analysis Laboratory. According to the test report, trichloroethylene, NP and NPEO were not found in the 25 household detergents, TBT was not present in the 3 paint products, and the 8 kinds of PAEs were not found in the 17 tested toys. Test results confirmed that all tested products were in compliance with regulations on toxic substances.", "content": "toxic substance management\n\nNo Toxins Found in Random Test of Household Detergents Toys and Paints\n\nDetergents, paints and toys were the three categories of commonly used products targeted by the EPA in 2011 for random testing of toxic substances including trichloroethylene, nonylphenol (NP), nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEO), tributyltin (TBT), and 8 kinds of phthalic acid esters (PAEs). Test results showed that none of the products contained any of these toxic substances.\n\nThe EPA explained that the products in this round of random testing included 25 kinds of household detergents, 3 kinds of paints, and 17 kinds of toys, for a total of 45 products. Testing was conducted by the EPA's Environmental Analysis Laboratory. According to the test report, trichloroethylene, NP and NPEO were not found in the 25 household detergents, TBT was not present in the 3 paint products, and the 8 kinds of PAEs were not found in the 17 tested toys. Test results confirmed that all tested products were in compliance with regulations on toxic substances.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "No Toxins Found in Random Test of Household Detergents Toys and Paints", "position": "print\/V14\/V14-09" }, { "no": "2736", "title": "Bioplastic Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fee Rates Revised", "preview": "Recycling\n\nBioplastic Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fee Rates Revised\n\nThe EPA revised the Bioplastic Product and Container Recycling, Clearance and Treatment Fee Rates (生質塑膠物品及其容器回收清除處理費費率), which is slated to take effect on 1 January 2012. The revisions are as follows:\n\n1. Bioplastic product and container recycling, clearance and treatment fee rates: a) The fee for bioplastic raw materials and boards is NT$1.46\/kg. b) The fee for bioplastic containers, container products, flat containers or non-flat disposable dishware is NT$5.96.\n\n2. Responsible enterprises and their associations or environmental organizations should at all times be able to show concrete scientific figures and data to the EPA for reference in making reviews and revisions. The EPA will provide this information to the Resource Recycling Fee Rate Review Committee, and based on its deliberation will make revisions according to the relevant provisions of the Waste Disposal Act (廢棄物清理法).", "content": "Recycling\n\nBioplastic Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fee Rates Revised\n\nThe EPA revised the Bioplastic Product and Container Recycling, Clearance and Treatment Fee Rates (生質塑膠物品及其容器回收清除處理費費率), which is slated to take effect on 1 January 2012. The revisions are as follows:\n\n1. Bioplastic product and container recycling, clearance and treatment fee rates: a) The fee for bioplastic raw materials and boards is NT$1.46\/kg. b) The fee for bioplastic containers, container products, flat containers or non-flat disposable dishware is NT$5.96.\n\n2. Responsible enterprises and their associations or environmental organizations should at all times be able to show concrete scientific figures and data to the EPA for reference in making reviews and revisions. The EPA will provide this information to the Resource Recycling Fee Rate Review Committee, and based on its deliberation will make revisions according to the relevant provisions of the Waste Disposal Act (廢棄物清理法).", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Bioplastic Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fee Rates Revised", "position": "print\/V14\/V14-08" }, { "no": "2719", "title": "Subsidies Drafted for Bioplastic Container Recycling Clearance and Treatment", "preview": "Recycling\n\nSubsidies Drafted for Bioplastic Container Recycling Clearance and Treatment \n\nThe EPA is planning to subsidize fees for recycling, clearance and treatment of bioplastic containers to encourage sorting, recycling, clearance and treatment of waste bioplastic products and containers as well as prevent bioplastic containers from adversely affecting the existing recycling system for other plastics. Government intervention to provide economic incentives through fee subsidies is expected to raise the efficiency of recycling and treating waste bioplastic goods and containers.\n\nBioplastic containers look similar to conventional plastic containers, and are not easy for most people to distinguish. Thus they are commonly channeled into the recycling and treatment system for conventional plastics, hindering the latter's reuse. After reviewing the current status of recycling and treatment of bioplastic containers and goods, including treatment efficiency and the balance of the fund budget, the EPA drafted revisions to subsidies for bioplastic container recycling, clearance and treatment fees in accordance with Article 5 of the Regulated Recyclable Waste Recycling, Clearance and Treatment Subsidy Application Review Management Regulations (應回收廢棄物回收清除處理補貼申請審核管理辦法). The revised subsidy for recycling, clearance and treatment of bioplastic containers was set at NT$15.17 per kilogram. \n\nThe draft revisions to the Subsidized Fee Rates for Recycling, Clearance and Treatment of Regulated Recyclable Containers (應回收廢容器回收清除處理補貼費率) are posted on the EPA Web site in the section on regulation preannouncements (http:\/\/ivy5.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx). Suggestions and comments are welcome from all circles and may be sent by email to hcliang@epa.gov.tw", "content": "Recycling\n\nSubsidies Drafted for Bioplastic Container Recycling Clearance and Treatment \n\nThe EPA is planning to subsidize fees for recycling, clearance and treatment of bioplastic containers to encourage sorting, recycling, clearance and treatment of waste bioplastic products and containers as well as prevent bioplastic containers from adversely affecting the existing recycling system for other plastics. Government intervention to provide economic incentives through fee subsidies is expected to raise the efficiency of recycling and treating waste bioplastic goods and containers.\n\nBioplastic containers look similar to conventional plastic containers, and are not easy for most people to distinguish. Thus they are commonly channeled into the recycling and treatment system for conventional plastics, hindering the latter's reuse. After reviewing the current status of recycling and treatment of bioplastic containers and goods, including treatment efficiency and the balance of the fund budget, the EPA drafted revisions to subsidies for bioplastic container recycling, clearance and treatment fees in accordance with Article 5 of the Regulated Recyclable Waste Recycling, Clearance and Treatment Subsidy Application Review Management Regulations (應回收廢棄物回收清除處理補貼申請審核管理辦法). The revised subsidy for recycling, clearance and treatment of bioplastic containers was set at NT$15.17 per kilogram. \n\nThe draft revisions to the Subsidized Fee Rates for Recycling, Clearance and Treatment of Regulated Recyclable Containers (應回收廢容器回收清除處理補貼費率) are posted on the EPA Web site in the section on regulation preannouncements (http:\/\/ivy5.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx). Suggestions and comments are welcome from all circles and may be sent by email to hcliang@epa.gov.tw", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Subsidies Drafted for Bioplastic Container Recycling Clearance and Treatment", "position": "print\/V14\/V14-07" }, { "no": "2707", "title": "Standards Announced for Soil Pollution Assessment Inspection and Testing Data Review Fee", "preview": "Soil and Groundwater\n\nStandards Announced for Soil Pollution Assessment Inspection and Testing Data Review Fee \n\nThe EPA has announced the Soil Pollution Assessment, Inspection and Testing Data Review Fee Standards (土壤污染評估調查及檢測資料審查收費標準) in accordance with Articles 9 and 55 of the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act (SGPRA), which stipulate that soil pollution assessment, inspection and testing data must be approved through a professional review process. After the Standards take effect, enterprises must ask their local environmental protection bureau to review their case in accordance with Article 9 of the SGPRA and must pay a review fee as stipulated in the Standards. Fees will not be charged for submission of additional reference materials according to Article 8 of the SGPRA.", "content": "Soil and Groundwater\n\nStandards Announced for Soil Pollution Assessment Inspection and Testing Data Review Fee \n\nThe EPA has announced the Soil Pollution Assessment, Inspection and Testing Data Review Fee Standards (土壤污染評估調查及檢測資料審查收費標準) in accordance with Articles 9 and 55 of the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act (SGPRA), which stipulate that soil pollution assessment, inspection and testing data must be approved through a professional review process. After the Standards take effect, enterprises must ask their local environmental protection bureau to review their case in accordance with Article 9 of the SGPRA and must pay a review fee as stipulated in the Standards. Fees will not be charged for submission of additional reference materials according to Article 8 of the SGPRA.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil and Groundwater", "titlename": "Standards Announced for Soil Pollution Assessment Inspection and Testing Data Review Fee", "position": "print\/V14\/V14-06" }, { "no": "2696", "title": "Lead-Acid Battery Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fee Reduction Announced", "preview": "Recycling\n\nLead-Acid Battery Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fee Reduction Announced\n\nIn recent years prices of raw materials have increased worldwide, leading to corresponding changes in domestic manufacturing costs. To effectively reflect market conditions and stabilize resource recycling fund operations, the EPA has announced a reduction in the recycling, clearance and treatment fee for lead-acid batteries, dropping from the former NT$1.9\/kg to NT$1.53\/kg. The new fee is effective from 1 May 2011.", "content": "Recycling\n\nLead-Acid Battery Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fee Reduction Announced\n\nIn recent years prices of raw materials have increased worldwide, leading to corresponding changes in domestic manufacturing costs. To effectively reflect market conditions and stabilize resource recycling fund operations, the EPA has announced a reduction in the recycling, clearance and treatment fee for lead-acid batteries, dropping from the former NT$1.9\/kg to NT$1.53\/kg. The new fee is effective from 1 May 2011.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Lead-Acid Battery Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fee Reduction Announced", "position": "print\/V14\/V14-05" }, { "no": "2643", "title": "Effluent Standards Revised Grace Period Ends in January 2012", "preview": "Water Quality\n\nEffluent Standards Revised Grace Period Ends in January 2012\n\nIn order to strengthen controls over high-tech industrial wastewater, on 15 December 2010 the EPA promulgated revisions to the Effluent Standards, adding categories and restrictions on gallium, indium, molybdenum, Total Toxic Organics (TTO) and Acute Toxic Unit (Tua) for materials and components of optoelectronics manufacturers and science parks. A grace period was put into effect until 1 January 2012. Details can be found on the EPA Web site under the section on the latest environmental protection regulations (http:\/\/ivy5.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/).\n\nThe EPA indicated that these revisions mainly focus on high-tech industrial wastewater characteristics and risk prevention. Priority is given to optoelectronics industry through independent controls with defined control standards and restrictions. Apart from control categories of biological oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, suspended solids and true color, other categories have been set for gallium, indium, molybdenum, total toxic organics (TTO) and acute toxic units (Tua) to strengthen wastewater controls. The Tua is a general indicator and represents the degree to which wastewater affects aquatic organisms. If Tua is verified by environmental agencies to exceed 1.43, companies will have to strengthen monitoring for 12 weeks and will be fined depending on whether or not improvements are made. During this period of strengthened monitoring, companies may choose to significantly cut down pollution, which of course will have an overall positive effect on the ecological protection of water bodies.\n\nThe EPA points out that science and technology parks were originally defined as any industrial park besides those exclusively set aside for petrochemical operations, and that these are sites of strategic importance for clustering domestic high-tech manufacturing operations. This makes it practical to use standard control limits for gallium, indium, molybdenum, Total Toxic Organics (TTO) and Acute Toxic Unit (Tua) in these parks. Giving consideration to the fact that existing science parks need more time to evaluate and control the source of acutely toxic substances, it was deemed necessary to make reductions at the source. These parks must therefore submit \"Effluent Aquatic Organism Acute Toxicity Reduction Management Plans\" before 31 March 2011 and carry out the content of these plans after they have been approved. Regulations on Tua will be implemented starting on 31 December 2012 and these parks will be subject to fines from 1 January 2012 if plans have not yet been approved or plans are not being implemented as written.", "content": "Water Quality\n\nEffluent Standards Revised Grace Period Ends in January 2012\n\nIn order to strengthen controls over high-tech industrial wastewater, on 15 December 2010 the EPA promulgated revisions to the Effluent Standards, adding categories and restrictions on gallium, indium, molybdenum, Total Toxic Organics (TTO) and Acute Toxic Unit (Tua) for materials and components of optoelectronics manufacturers and science parks. A grace period was put into effect until 1 January 2012. Details can be found on the EPA Web site under the section on the latest environmental protection regulations (http:\/\/ivy5.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/).\n\nThe EPA indicated that these revisions mainly focus on high-tech industrial wastewater characteristics and risk prevention. Priority is given to optoelectronics industry through independent controls with defined control standards and restrictions. Apart from control categories of biological oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, suspended solids and true color, other categories have been set for gallium, indium, molybdenum, total toxic organics (TTO) and acute toxic units (Tua) to strengthen wastewater controls. The Tua is a general indicator and represents the degree to which wastewater affects aquatic organisms. If Tua is verified by environmental agencies to exceed 1.43, companies will have to strengthen monitoring for 12 weeks and will be fined depending on whether or not improvements are made. During this period of strengthened monitoring, companies may choose to significantly cut down pollution, which of course will have an overall positive effect on the ecological protection of water bodies.\n\nThe EPA points out that science and technology parks were originally defined as any industrial park besides those exclusively set aside for petrochemical operations, and that these are sites of strategic importance for clustering domestic high-tech manufacturing operations. This makes it practical to use standard control limits for gallium, indium, molybdenum, Total Toxic Organics (TTO) and Acute Toxic Unit (Tua) in these parks. Giving consideration to the fact that existing science parks need more time to evaluate and control the source of acutely toxic substances, it was deemed necessary to make reductions at the source. These parks must therefore submit \"Effluent Aquatic Organism Acute Toxicity Reduction Management Plans\" before 31 March 2011 and carry out the content of these plans after they have been approved. Regulations on Tua will be implemented starting on 31 December 2012 and these parks will be subject to fines from 1 January 2012 if plans have not yet been approved or plans are not being implemented as written.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Effluent Standards Revised Grace Period Ends in January 2012", "position": "print\/V14\/V14-01" }, { "no": "2591", "title": "Gasoline and Diesel Standards Tightened Air Pollution Fees Adjusted", "preview": "Air Quality\n\nGasoline and Diesel Standards Tightened Air Pollution Fees Adjusted \n\nThe EPA recently tightened controls on the chemical content of retailed gasoline and diesel. Sulfur content can now not exceed 10 ppmw, compared to the previous limit of 50 ppmw. This accords with standards enforced in the EU, the US, and Japan. In tandem with the latest revision the EPA has also adjusted air pollution fees for vehicular gasoline and diesel. Fees will no longer be graded according to the sulfur content of the fuel and single rates will be charged instead.\n\nIn order to encourage oil companies to produce low-sulfur gasoline and diesel for vehicles, starting in 2000 air pollution fees were placed on these fuels according to sulfur content. This has had the effect of progressively reducing sulfur content from 500 ppmw to 10 ppmw. Fuel with sulfur content of 10ppmw or below cannot be practically graded for sulfur content and grading an oil product by its content of other chemicals such as olefins or aromatic hydrocarbons might have an adverse effect on the proper functioning of the product. The EPA thus decided to adopt a single rate fee of NT$0.2 per liter. China Petroleum Co. and Formosa Petrochemical Co. will from now on pay this rate on every liter of vehicular gasoline and diesel that they retail. \n\nAccording to the current floating pricing mechanisms, air pollution fees are calculated based on average fees paid in the previous year. The public review of oil prices in 2011 will be based on the actual fees paid for 2010. Since the fee adjustments came into effect on 1 October 2010, this should not lead to extra costs for the consumer. \n\nFollowing the 1995 decision to impose an air pollution tariff on mobile pollution sources it was decided that a flat fee of NT$0.2 per liter of gasoline or diesel would be the best option. At the time, gasoline cost NT$16.7 per liter and so the air pollution tariff was 1.2%. Using the cost of gasoline for the second season in 2010 and the recently-adjusted rate to calculate the percentage taken up by the air pollution tariff gives 0.67%, which is lower than in 1995. \n\nThe EPA has also been actively encouraging the residents of Taiwan to purchase electric vehicles instead of those powered by traditional engines in order to reduce the use of vehicular gasoline and diesel. Although income from air pollution fees would be reduced as a result, air quality would certainly improve, which is the reason for imposing an air pollution tariff in the first place.", "content": "Air Quality\n\nGasoline and Diesel Standards Tightened Air Pollution Fees Adjusted \n\nThe EPA recently tightened controls on the chemical content of retailed gasoline and diesel. Sulfur content can now not exceed 10 ppmw, compared to the previous limit of 50 ppmw. This accords with standards enforced in the EU, the US, and Japan. In tandem with the latest revision the EPA has also adjusted air pollution fees for vehicular gasoline and diesel. Fees will no longer be graded according to the sulfur content of the fuel and single rates will be charged instead.\n\nIn order to encourage oil companies to produce low-sulfur gasoline and diesel for vehicles, starting in 2000 air pollution fees were placed on these fuels according to sulfur content. This has had the effect of progressively reducing sulfur content from 500 ppmw to 10 ppmw. Fuel with sulfur content of 10ppmw or below cannot be practically graded for sulfur content and grading an oil product by its content of other chemicals such as olefins or aromatic hydrocarbons might have an adverse effect on the proper functioning of the product. The EPA thus decided to adopt a single rate fee of NT$0.2 per liter. China Petroleum Co. and Formosa Petrochemical Co. will from now on pay this rate on every liter of vehicular gasoline and diesel that they retail. \n\nAccording to the current floating pricing mechanisms, air pollution fees are calculated based on average fees paid in the previous year. The public review of oil prices in 2011 will be based on the actual fees paid for 2010. Since the fee adjustments came into effect on 1 October 2010, this should not lead to extra costs for the consumer. \n\nFollowing the 1995 decision to impose an air pollution tariff on mobile pollution sources it was decided that a flat fee of NT$0.2 per liter of gasoline or diesel would be the best option. At the time, gasoline cost NT$16.7 per liter and so the air pollution tariff was 1.2%. Using the cost of gasoline for the second season in 2010 and the recently-adjusted rate to calculate the percentage taken up by the air pollution tariff gives 0.67%, which is lower than in 1995. \n\nThe EPA has also been actively encouraging the residents of Taiwan to purchase electric vehicles instead of those powered by traditional engines in order to reduce the use of vehicular gasoline and diesel. Although income from air pollution fees would be reduced as a result, air quality would certainly improve, which is the reason for imposing an air pollution tariff in the first place.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Gasoline and Diesel Standards Tightened Air Pollution Fees Adjusted", "position": "print\/V13\/V13-10" }, { "no": "2588", "title": "Taiwan to Become First Nation to Control Gallium Indium, and Molybdenum in Wastewater", "preview": "Water Quality\n\nTaiwan to Become First Nation to Control Gallium Indium, and Molybdenum in Wastewater\n\nIn order to strengthen controls over wastewater produced by high-tech industries the EPA will soon make revisions to the effluent discharge standards for the optoelectronics industry. Taiwan will become the world's first nation to enforce restrictions on gallium, indium, and molybdenum in wastewater, as well as on levels of total toxic organics (TTO) and the degree of acute organism toxicity (Tua) permissible. A preannouncement of the draft will be forthcoming. \n\nAs a result of recent public concern about the toxicity of wastewater from optoelectronics factories the EPA will make revisions to the effluent discharge standards. The new restrictions will cover gallium, indium, and molybdenum in wastewater, as well as levels of TTO and acute organism toxicity. A preannouncement of the draft will be followed by consultations with relevant parties and public meetings in accordance with legal procedural requirements before the revision is officially announced. \n\nThe EPA is keen to point out that the new restrictions on the three heavy metals - gallium, indium, and molybdenum - are the first of their kind anywhere in the world. These toxic metals are used primarily in the manufacture of optoelectronics products and end up in wastewater as a result of washing during the manufacturing process. Although the impact of these metals on human health and the environment has yet to be clearly determined, and improvements in the manufacturing process have allowed for less discharge of these metals, the EPA has decided to play it safe by listing them as controlled substances. As for TTO, taking into account that some environmental impact assessments have already included U.S. maximum values in their promises, the EPA decided to list them as controlled substances at the same time for the sake of completeness. As for substances in wastewater of the optoelectronics industry which cannot be easily identified or whose environmental impact is unclear, the EPA will measure Tua, which involves a non substance-specific test to determine the effect of microsubstances in the wastewater on living organisms. \n\nBased on the maximum values to be included in the upcoming draft regulation and the results of wastewater quality inspections, the EPA estimates that about 20% of manufacturers will have to increase their reduction of acute organism toxicity caused as a result of manufacturing processes. Reduction methods that could help them to stay within the new maximum values include changing the chemicals that they use and reinforcing safeguards to prevent waste solvents from entering wastewater. The EPA will be giving manufacturers a grace period in which to gradually implement improvements to wastewater quality in the hope that this will make the new restrictions more effective. \n\nThe EPA is well aware that the pace of change in industry can be quick and will thus continue to carry out water quality inspections for all categories of industry for the purpose of formulating suitable wastewater quality standards that take into account the special nature of manufacturing operations. The EPA will also start to build a list of candidates for suitable discharge water controls in order to conduct rolling reviews of discharge water standards.\n\nTable of items to be controlled under the Optoelectronics Industry Discharge Water Standards (draft)", "content": "Water Quality\n\nTaiwan to Become First Nation to Control Gallium Indium, and Molybdenum in Wastewater\n\nIn order to strengthen controls over wastewater produced by high-tech industries the EPA will soon make revisions to the effluent discharge standards for the optoelectronics industry. Taiwan will become the world's first nation to enforce restrictions on gallium, indium, and molybdenum in wastewater, as well as on levels of total toxic organics (TTO) and the degree of acute organism toxicity (Tua) permissible. A preannouncement of the draft will be forthcoming. \n\nAs a result of recent public concern about the toxicity of wastewater from optoelectronics factories the EPA will make revisions to the effluent discharge standards. The new restrictions will cover gallium, indium, and molybdenum in wastewater, as well as levels of TTO and acute organism toxicity. A preannouncement of the draft will be followed by consultations with relevant parties and public meetings in accordance with legal procedural requirements before the revision is officially announced. \n\nThe EPA is keen to point out that the new restrictions on the three heavy metals - gallium, indium, and molybdenum - are the first of their kind anywhere in the world. These toxic metals are used primarily in the manufacture of optoelectronics products and end up in wastewater as a result of washing during the manufacturing process. Although the impact of these metals on human health and the environment has yet to be clearly determined, and improvements in the manufacturing process have allowed for less discharge of these metals, the EPA has decided to play it safe by listing them as controlled substances. As for TTO, taking into account that some environmental impact assessments have already included U.S. maximum values in their promises, the EPA decided to list them as controlled substances at the same time for the sake of completeness. As for substances in wastewater of the optoelectronics industry which cannot be easily identified or whose environmental impact is unclear, the EPA will measure Tua, which involves a non substance-specific test to determine the effect of microsubstances in the wastewater on living organisms. \n\nBased on the maximum values to be included in the upcoming draft regulation and the results of wastewater quality inspections, the EPA estimates that about 20% of manufacturers will have to increase their reduction of acute organism toxicity caused as a result of manufacturing processes. Reduction methods that could help them to stay within the new maximum values include changing the chemicals that they use and reinforcing safeguards to prevent waste solvents from entering wastewater. The EPA will be giving manufacturers a grace period in which to gradually implement improvements to wastewater quality in the hope that this will make the new restrictions more effective. \n\nThe EPA is well aware that the pace of change in industry can be quick and will thus continue to carry out water quality inspections for all categories of industry for the purpose of formulating suitable wastewater quality standards that take into account the special nature of manufacturing operations. The EPA will also start to build a list of candidates for suitable discharge water controls in order to conduct rolling reviews of discharge water standards.\n\nTable of items to be controlled under the Optoelectronics Industry Discharge Water Standards (draft)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Taiwan to Become First Nation to Control Gallium Indium and Molybdenum in Wastewater", "position": "print\/V13\/V13-09" }, { "no": "2573", "title": "Preannouncement: Twelve POPs Added to Control List Asbestos Banned", "preview": "Toxic Substance \n\nPreannouncement: Twelve POPs Added to Control List Asbestos Banned\n\nTo decrease the potential risk of citizen exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs), on 26 July 2010 the EPA issued a preliminary announcement of revised regulations that will add to the current control list of certain chemical substances for which there is clear data regarding toxicology and environmental distribution, such as mirex. The draft revision also sets a deadline for completely phasing out asbestos. \n\nThe EPA stated that the main reason for reviewing and revising the list of controlled toxic chemical substances is to remain in compliance with the list of POPs regulated under the Stockholm Convention. Some of the defining characteristics of POPs are that they do not readily decompose, are bioaccumulative, are acutely toxic in the ecosystem, and are carcinogenic, making them an important topic of discussion in the international arena regarding the issue of human consumption. This preannouncement also clearly sets a deadline for phasing out asbestos, to prevent asbestos fibers from harming human health. \n\nThe focus of this round of revisions includes:\n\n1) 2,2',4,4'-tetrabrominated diphenyl ether, 2,2',4,4',5,5'-hexabrominated diphenyl ether, 2,2',4,4',5,6'-hexabrominated diphenyl ether(BDE -154), 2,2',3,3',4,5',6-heptabrominated diphenyl ether(BDE-175), and 2,2',3,4,4',5',6-heptabrominated diphenyl ether(BDE -183) are added to the list of Class I toxic chemical substances for their characteristics of bioaccumulativity and inability to readily decompose. Hexabromobiphenyl is also added to this list for its characteristic of bioaccumulativity.\n\n2) Perfluorooctane sulfonate and lithium perfluorooctane sulfonate are added to the lists of Class I and Class II toxic chemical substances for their characteristics of bioaccumulativity and chronic toxicity.\n\n3) Mirex, chlordecone and pentachlorobenzene are added to the lists of Class I and Class III toxic chemical substances for their characteristics of bioaccumulativity, acute toxicity and carcinogenicity. \n\n4) Perfluorooctane sulfonyl fluoride is added to the list of Class IV toxic chemical substances due to its wide distribution in the environment and emergence in the international arena concerning the issue of human consumption.\n\n5) A deadline is set for the phase out of asbestos: from 1 July 2015 asbestos will be banned from use in manufacture of fill material; from 1 July 2020 asbestos will be banned from use in the manufacture of tiles, brake pads and extruded cement composite hollow panels.", "content": "Toxic Substance Management\n\nPreannouncement: Twelve POPs Added to Control List Asbestos Banned\n\nTo decrease the potential risk of citizen exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs), on 26 July 2010 the EPA issued a preliminary announcement of revised regulations that will add to the current control list of certain chemical substances for which there is clear data regarding toxicology and environmental distribution, such as mirex. The draft revision also sets a deadline for completely phasing out asbestos. \n\nThe EPA stated that the main reason for reviewing and revising the list of controlled toxic chemical substances is to remain in compliance with the list of POPs regulated under the Stockholm Convention. Some of the defining characteristics of POPs are that they do not readily decompose, are bioaccumulative, are acutely toxic in the ecosystem, and are carcinogenic, making them an important topic of discussion in the international arena regarding the issue of human consumption. This preannouncement also clearly sets a deadline for phasing out asbestos, to prevent asbestos fibers from harming human health. \n\nThe focus of this round of revisions includes:\n\n1) 2,2',4,4'-tetrabrominated diphenyl ether, 2,2',4,4',5,5'-hexabrominated diphenyl ether, 2,2',4,4',5,6'-hexabrominated diphenyl ether(BDE -154), 2,2',3,3',4,5',6-heptabrominated diphenyl ether(BDE-175), and 2,2',3,4,4',5',6-heptabrominated diphenyl ether(BDE -183) are added to the list of Class I toxic chemical substances for their characteristics of bioaccumulativity and inability to readily decompose. Hexabromobiphenyl is also added to this list for its characteristic of bioaccumulativity.\n\n2) Perfluorooctane sulfonate and lithium perfluorooctane sulfonate are added to the lists of Class I and Class II toxic chemical substances for their characteristics of bioaccumulativity and chronic toxicity.\n\n3) Mirex, chlordecone and pentachlorobenzene are added to the lists of Class I and Class III toxic chemical substances for their characteristics of bioaccumulativity, acute toxicity and carcinogenicity. \n\n4) Perfluorooctane sulfonyl fluoride is added to the list of Class IV toxic chemical substances due to its wide distribution in the environment and emergence in the international arena concerning the issue of human consumption.\n\n5) A deadline is set for the phase out of asbestos: from 1 July 2015 asbestos will be banned from use in manufacture of fill material; from 1 July 2020 asbestos will be banned from use in the manufacture of tiles, brake pads and extruded cement composite hollow panels.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Preannouncement: Twelve POPs Added to Control List Asbestos Banned", "position": "print\/V13\/V13-08" }, { "no": "2548", "title": "NT$5000 to NT$100,000 Fines for Food Vendors Violating Air Pollution Control Act", "preview": "Air Quality\n\nNT$5000 to NT$100,000 Fines for Food Vendors Violating Air Pollution Control Act \n\nOn 9 June 2010, the EPA announced explanatory notes to the Air Pollution Control Act. In the future, food or beverage vendors who are exempt from registration under the Business Registration Act, and have a monthly turnover of less than the business tax starting rate of NT$80,000, will be fined NT$5,000–NT$100,000 for violating the Air Pollution Control Act. The size of the fine will depend on the amount and form that the pollution takes. \n\nThe EPA emphasizes that according to the Administrative Penalty Act, fines should be levied in proportion to the ability of the offender to pay. The most common food vendor pollution violations discovered by environmental protection authority inspectors are excessive smoke and foul odors. In the case of factories, such violations would lead to fines of NT$100,000-NT$1,000,000. It would, however, be clearly unfair to penalize small food and beverage operators with such severe fines. Considering the current state of affairs, the EPA has promulgated these explanatory notes in accordance with this proportion principle, and urges food and beverage enterprises to make sure they implement air pollution improvements.\n\nThe EPA would like to stress that members of the public who encounter food and beverage vendors creating excessive smoke or foul odors, or are venting smoke directly into sewers, can report them by calling the toll-free number 0800-066-666. Inspectors will then be sent out to verify the reports and offenders will be given a fine and a deadline to make improvements.", "content": "Air Quality\n\nNT$5000 to NT$100,000 Fines for Food Vendors Violating Air Pollution Control Act \n\nOn 9 June 2010, the EPA announced explanatory notes to the Air Pollution Control Act. In the future, food or beverage vendors who are exempt from registration under the Business Registration Act, and have a monthly turnover of less than the business tax starting rate of NT$80,000, will be fined NT$5,000–NT$100,000 for violating the Air Pollution Control Act. The size of the fine will depend on the amount and form that the pollution takes. \n\nThe EPA emphasizes that according to the Administrative Penalty Act, fines should be levied in proportion to the ability of the offender to pay. The most common food vendor pollution violations discovered by environmental protection authority inspectors are excessive smoke and foul odors. In the case of factories, such violations would lead to fines of NT$100,000-NT$1,000,000. It would, however, be clearly unfair to penalize small food and beverage operators with such severe fines. Considering the current state of affairs, the EPA has promulgated these explanatory notes in accordance with this proportion principle, and urges food and beverage enterprises to make sure they implement air pollution improvements.\n\nThe EPA would like to stress that members of the public who encounter food and beverage vendors creating excessive smoke or foul odors, or are venting smoke directly into sewers, can report them by calling the toll-free number 0800-066-666. Inspectors will then be sent out to verify the reports and offenders will be given a fine and a deadline to make improvements.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "NT$5000 to NT$100,000 Fines for Food Vendors Violating Air Pollution Control Act", "position": "print\/V13\/V13-07" }, { "no": "2518", "title": "Inspection of Products with Batteries Reveals Slack Reporting of Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fees", "preview": "Recycling\n \nInspection of Products with Batteries Reveals Slack Reporting of Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fees \n\nAn increasing number of products on the market are sold with batteries included. According to results of a recent inspection launched by the EPA, some enterprises providing batteries for toy figurines and lanterns sold in stores are not being reported according to regulations. It was found that these companies are not reporting recycling, clearance and treatment fees, and owe the government a total of NT$879,000 in fees. The EPA has asked related industries to complete all fee reporting procedures and to shoulder due responsibility.\n\nTo prevent liable enterprises from failing to pay recycling, clearance and treatment fees for dry cell batteries included in their products, in the past the EPA has held education events and inspected records of manufactured and imported product volumes. Inspections not only provide proof but also uphold fair competition among businesses. The recent market inspection of toy figurines and lanterns containing batteries showed that two battery importers have not filed records and fees according to regulations. The EPA immediately provided guidance to enterprises on filing procedures and collected unpaid fees in two installments of NT$759,000 and NT$119,000. One manufacturer of toys including batteries was found to have violated regulations that require registration within two months of importing batteries. The EPA has requested local environmental agencies to fine this company from NT$60,000 to NT$300,000 according to regulations. \n\nThe EPA made a special appeal to manufacturers, importers and vendors of products that include batteries, requiring that they either check themselves or require their suppliers to confirm whether the batteries included comply with regulations on registration and reporting of recycling, clearance and treatment fees. Recycling labels should be on all batteries as well as a code number confirming mercury content; if not, the responsible enterprise will be subject to fines. \n\nThere is a need not only for consumers to recycle spent batteries but also for companies to design their products in a way that makes it convenient for consumers to take spent batteries out and recycle them. Green design should be a prerequisite in the product development stage so as to reduce waste at the source or even avoid the use of batteries entirely. \n\nIn order to ensure that batteries contained within products are appropriately recycled and to guarantee their safe usage, the EPA has recently convened large chain-store enterprises to discuss the issue of batteries included in toys. Those in attendance, including McDonald’s, 7-ELEVEN, Family Mart and Hi-Life, showed support of green design for toys, reducing the use of batteries in toys, recycling of spent batteries, and safe use of batteries. They expressed willingness to make good on their corporate responsibility to guarantee child safety and protect the environment. \n\nThe EPA will continue to hold recycling promotion activities for large vendors or suppliers of products with batteries and at the local level encourage the promotion of concepts and actions to make sure that all batteries are recycled. \n\nThe EPA reminds the public to embrace the three concepts of battery recycling: only buy batteries with accredited labels, use up batteries that still have power, and recycle spent batteries. Consumers are reminded to appropriately recycle batteries when using products that include batteries, after the power has been spent or after the product is not being used anymore.\n\nFor more information about recycling of dry cell batteries, the public can call the toll free hotline at 0800-085717 or check the EPA Web site at http:\/\/recycle.epa.gov.tw\/材質專區\/廢乾電池類.", "content": "Recycling\n \nInspection of Products with Batteries Reveals Slack Reporting of Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fees \n\nAn increasing number of products on the market are sold with batteries included. According to results of a recent inspection launched by the EPA, some enterprises providing batteries for toy figurines and lanterns sold in stores are not being reported according to regulations. It was found that these companies are not reporting recycling, clearance and treatment fees, and owe the government a total of NT$879,000 in fees. The EPA has asked related industries to complete all fee reporting procedures and to shoulder due responsibility.\n\nTo prevent liable enterprises from failing to pay recycling, clearance and treatment fees for dry cell batteries included in their products, in the past the EPA has held education events and inspected records of manufactured and imported product volumes. Inspections not only provide proof but also uphold fair competition among businesses. The recent market inspection of toy figurines and lanterns containing batteries showed that two battery importers have not filed records and fees according to regulations. The EPA immediately provided guidance to enterprises on filing procedures and collected unpaid fees in two installments of NT$759,000 and NT$119,000. One manufacturer of toys including batteries was found to have violated regulations that require registration within two months of importing batteries. The EPA has requested local environmental agencies to fine this company from NT$60,000 to NT$300,000 according to regulations. \n\nThe EPA made a special appeal to manufacturers, importers and vendors of products that include batteries, requiring that they either check themselves or require their suppliers to confirm whether the batteries included comply with regulations on registration and reporting of recycling, clearance and treatment fees. Recycling labels should be on all batteries as well as a code number confirming mercury content; if not, the responsible enterprise will be subject to fines. \n\nThere is a need not only for consumers to recycle spent batteries but also for companies to design their products in a way that makes it convenient for consumers to take spent batteries out and recycle them. Green design should be a prerequisite in the product development stage so as to reduce waste at the source or even avoid the use of batteries entirely. \n\nIn order to ensure that batteries contained within products are appropriately recycled and to guarantee their safe usage, the EPA has recently convened large chain-store enterprises to discuss the issue of batteries included in toys. Those in attendance, including McDonald’s, 7-ELEVEN, Family Mart and Hi-Life, showed support of green design for toys, reducing the use of batteries in toys, recycling of spent batteries, and safe use of batteries. They expressed willingness to make good on their corporate responsibility to guarantee child safety and protect the environment. \n\nThe EPA will continue to hold recycling promotion activities for large vendors or suppliers of products with batteries and at the local level encourage the promotion of concepts and actions to make sure that all batteries are recycled. \n\nThe EPA reminds the public to embrace the three concepts of battery recycling: only buy batteries with accredited labels, use up batteries that still have power, and recycle spent batteries. Consumers are reminded to appropriately recycle batteries when using products that include batteries, after the power has been spent or after the product is not being used anymore.\n\nFor more information about recycling of dry cell batteries, the public can call the toll free hotline at 0800-085717 or check the EPA Web site at http:\/\/recycle.epa.gov.tw\/材質專區\/廢乾電池類.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Inspection of Products with Batteries Reveals Slack Reporting of Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fees", "position": "print\/V13\/V13-04" }, { "no": "2509", "title": "Testing of Detergents Paints and Toys Shows Compliance with Regulations", "preview": "Toxic Substance\n\nTesting of Detergents Paints and Toys Shows Compliance with Regulations\n\nIn 2009, the EPA tested for toxic chemical substances in three designated categories of commonly used products on the market: detergents, paints and children’s toys. All products were found to comply with environmental regulations—news that should bring peace of mind to consumers. \n\n \n\nIn response to recent international concern over the effects of endocrine disruptors on human health, in 2009 the EPA conducted tests on three selected categories of commonly used products on the market, including detergents, paints, and children’s toys. Tested chemicals included nonylphenol (NP), nonylphenol ethoxylate (NPEO), tributyl tin oxide (TBTO) and di-n-octyl phthalate (DNOP). All products complied with all environmental regulations for these substances. \n\n \n\nThe EPA indicated that samples were taken on a random basis from stores inside shopping centers throughout the greater Taipei area. Products bought on the market for sampling included 28 kinds of household detergents (for floors, clothes, toilets, kitchens and windows), 15 kinds of plastic children’s toys, and 5 kinds of antifouling paints for boats. Testing was conducted by the EPA Environmental Analysis Laboratory. \n\n \n\nTesting reports showed one of the household detergents to have as high as 0.044% NPEO, and one boat paint sample contained 0.124% TBT. Neither of these chemicals exceeded 10 MDL (ten times the Method Detection Limit) and none of the other targeted chemicals were found in the tested samples. These findings indicate that these products sold on the market in Taiwan comply with Toxic Chemical Substances Management Act regulations, and consumers can safely purchase and use them. \n\n \n\nWith regard to the issue of endocrine disruptors in chemical substances used by citizens, the EPA will continue to pay close attention to developments in international controls and assess whether strengthened controls are required in order to protect public health.", "content": "Toxic Substance Management\n\nTesting of Detergents Paints and Toys Shows Compliance with Regulations\n\nIn 2009, the EPA tested for toxic chemical substances in three designated categories of commonly used products on the market: detergents, paints and children’s toys. All products were found to comply with environmental regulations—news that should bring peace of mind to consumers. \n\n \n\nIn response to recent international concern over the effects of endocrine disruptors on human health, in 2009 the EPA conducted tests on three selected categories of commonly used products on the market, including detergents, paints, and children’s toys. Tested chemicals included nonylphenol (NP), nonylphenol ethoxylate (NPEO), tributyl tin oxide (TBTO) and di-n-octyl phthalate (DNOP). All products complied with all environmental regulations for these substances. \n\n \n\nThe EPA indicated that samples were taken on a random basis from stores inside shopping centers throughout the greater Taipei area. Products bought on the market for sampling included 28 kinds of household detergents (for floors, clothes, toilets, kitchens and windows), 15 kinds of plastic children’s toys, and 5 kinds of antifouling paints for boats. Testing was conducted by the EPA Environmental Analysis Laboratory. \n\n \n\nTesting reports showed one of the household detergents to have as high as 0.044% NPEO, and one boat paint sample contained 0.124% TBT. Neither of these chemicals exceeded 10 MDL (ten times the Method Detection Limit) and none of the other targeted chemicals were found in the tested samples. These findings indicate that these products sold on the market in Taiwan comply with Toxic Chemical Substances Management Act regulations, and consumers can safely purchase and use them. \n\n \n\nWith regard to the issue of endocrine disruptors in chemical substances used by citizens, the EPA will continue to pay close attention to developments in international controls and assess whether strengthened controls are required in order to protect public health.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Testing of Detergents Paints and Toys Shows Compliance with Regulations", "position": "print\/V13\/V13-03" }, { "no": "2438", "title": "Minister Shen Speaks to International Community Taiwan Receives International Affirmation of Carbon Reduction Efforts", "preview": "International Cooperation \nMinister Shen Speaks to International Community Taiwan Receives International Affirmation of Carbon Reduction Efforts \n\nEPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen recently visited Burkina Faso, one of Taiwan's west African diplomatic allies, to attend the Seventh World Forum on Sustainable Development in the capital Ouagadougou on 9 October 2009. Minister Shen was given the honor of delivering a fifteen minute keynote opening speech at the first session as well as a three minute conclusion. Shen also spoke at the Heads of States Segment.\n\nMinister Shen spoke primarily on the following topics:\n\n1) The desire of African nations to take advantage of clean development and sell emission credits on the carbon trading market to fulfill the growing economic and welfare needs of African nations as well as assist in international efforts to mitigate global warming. \n\n2) Taiwan has voluntarily set targets and schedules for reducing CO2 emissions to their 2008 level during the period from 2016 to 2020, to their 2000 level by 2020, and to half their 2000 level by 2050. Being the first non-Annex I country to announce such reduction schemes attests to the fact that Taiwan is not only working hard to raise the quality of life of its residents but is also mindful of the need to fulfill obligations as a member of the global village. Taiwan's efforts to reduce carbon emissions are already bearing fruit but concerted international cooperation is needed if lasting progress is to be made. It is hoped that the differentiations in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change between Annex I countries and developing countries, especially with the commitment of many African nations to cleaner production plans, will lead to targets being met. Minister Shen reiterated that Taiwan is ready and able to work on many levels with governmental or corporate entities in Africa to assist in drawing up feasible clean development mechanism (CDM) plans. \n\n3) Taiwan understands the requests of African nations for the Copenhagen negotiations to result in the lowering of participation thresholds and the streamlining of CDM rules. Taiwan hopes that these requests will be granted at the plenary session in Copenhagen. \n\n4) The first and utmost principle of sustainable development is to resolve international disputes between different countries, races, religious or political parties in peaceful and democratic ways. Taiwan and China are now cooperating on many issues of mutual concern, and Taiwan believes that relations will improve even more if both sides respect each other's right to an active role on the international stage. \n\nOn October 10, Minister Shen cut the ribbon at the opening ceremony of the 2009 Taiwan Industrial Technology Exhibition, also held in Ougadougou, and met with a number of Burkina Faso's leading political figures including Premier Fertius Zongo and Environment Minister Salif Swadago. Premier Zongo and Minister Swadogo took the opportunity to thank Taiwan for its assistance over many years and also promised to continue offering diplomatic support to Taiwan's attempts to gain full participation in international organizations and events. Minister Shen also attended a state banquet hosted by the president of Burkina Faso, Blaise Compaore.\n\nThis year's forum was attended by representatives of over 60 countries and well-known international organizations, including some heads of state, environmental ministers and other luminaries in the field of environmental protection. Minister Shen took advantage of this rare opportunity to address large gatherings of leading international figures three times in three days. This greatly enhanced Taiwan's visibility on the international stage as many left with a far greater understanding of Taiwan's role in international affairs. Taiwan particularly won plaudits for voluntarily setting carbon emission reduction targets, a further boost to the nation's international eco-image, and it was even suggested that other nations could follow the Taiwan model.", "content": "International Cooperation \nMinister Shen Speaks to International Community Taiwan Receives International Affirmation of Carbon Reduction Efforts \n\nEPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen recently visited Burkina Faso, one of Taiwan's west African diplomatic allies, to attend the Seventh World Forum on Sustainable Development in the capital Ouagadougou on 9 October 2009. Minister Shen was given the honor of delivering a fifteen minute keynote opening speech at the first session as well as a three minute conclusion. Shen also spoke at the Heads of States Segment.\n\nMinister Shen spoke primarily on the following topics:\n\n1) The desire of African nations to take advantage of clean development and sell emission credits on the carbon trading market to fulfill the growing economic and welfare needs of African nations as well as assist in international efforts to mitigate global warming. \n\n2) Taiwan has voluntarily set targets and schedules for reducing CO2 emissions to their 2008 level during the period from 2016 to 2020, to their 2000 level by 2020, and to half their 2000 level by 2050. Being the first non-Annex I country to announce such reduction schemes attests to the fact that Taiwan is not only working hard to raise the quality of life of its residents but is also mindful of the need to fulfill obligations as a member of the global village. Taiwan's efforts to reduce carbon emissions are already bearing fruit but concerted international cooperation is needed if lasting progress is to be made. It is hoped that the differentiations in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change between Annex I countries and developing countries, especially with the commitment of many African nations to cleaner production plans, will lead to targets being met. Minister Shen reiterated that Taiwan is ready and able to work on many levels with governmental or corporate entities in Africa to assist in drawing up feasible clean development mechanism (CDM) plans. \n\n3) Taiwan understands the requests of African nations for the Copenhagen negotiations to result in the lowering of participation thresholds and the streamlining of CDM rules. Taiwan hopes that these requests will be granted at the plenary session in Copenhagen. \n\n4) The first and utmost principle of sustainable development is to resolve international disputes between different countries, races, religious or political parties in peaceful and democratic ways. Taiwan and China are now cooperating on many issues of mutual concern, and Taiwan believes that relations will improve even more if both sides respect each other's right to an active role on the international stage. \n\nOn October 10, Minister Shen cut the ribbon at the opening ceremony of the 2009 Taiwan Industrial Technology Exhibition, also held in Ougadougou, and met with a number of Burkina Faso's leading political figures including Premier Fertius Zongo and Environment Minister Salif Swadago. Premier Zongo and Minister Swadogo took the opportunity to thank Taiwan for its assistance over many years and also promised to continue offering diplomatic support to Taiwan's attempts to gain full participation in international organizations and events. Minister Shen also attended a state banquet hosted by the president of Burkina Faso, Blaise Compaore.\n\nThis year's forum was attended by representatives of over 60 countries and well-known international organizations, including some heads of state, environmental ministers and other luminaries in the field of environmental protection. Minister Shen took advantage of this rare opportunity to address large gatherings of leading international figures three times in three days. This greatly enhanced Taiwan's visibility on the international stage as many left with a far greater understanding of Taiwan's role in international affairs. Taiwan particularly won plaudits for voluntarily setting carbon emission reduction targets, a further boost to the nation's international eco-image, and it was even suggested that other nations could follow the Taiwan model.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "International Cooperation", "titlename": "Minister Shen Speaks to International Community Taiwan Receives International Affirmation of Carbon Reduction Efforts", "position": "print\/V12\/V12-11" }, { "no": "2432", "title": "NT$3000 Subsidy Extended for Electric Assist Bicycles in 2010", "preview": "Air Quality \nNT$3000 Subsidy Extended for Electric Assist Bicycles in 2010 \n\nThe EPA has pre-announced revisions to the Management Regulations for Subsidizing the Purchase of New Electric Assist Bicycles. This means that the subsidy of NT$3,000 for each EPA-approved electric assist bicycle purchased will still be available in 2010. \n\nThe management regulations originally stipulated that the subsidy scheme was to expire on 30 November 2009. However, in order to further encourage members of the public to buy the eco-friendly electric assist bicycles, the regulations have been revised to allow the program to be extended until 30 November 2010 (the latest date acceptable on a receipt of purchase). The subsidy must also be applied for by 31 December 2010 at the latest. The management regulations also stipulate that the subsidy must be discounted from the purchase price at the time of purchase by the local manufacturer (or the local agent for imported bicycles). These new revisions fulfill a number of purposes: to ensure that the scheme fits in with the recent abolishment of the unified certification system for profit-seeking enterprises; to prevent government employees from submitting multiple applications for vacation subsidies and electric assist bicycle subsidies; and to shorten the time that applicants have to wait before receiving subsidy monies. \n\nDetails of the preannouncement are posted on the EPA Web site: http:\/\/share1.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx", "content": "Air Quality \nNT$3000 Subsidy Extended for Electric Assist Bicycles in 2010 \n\nThe EPA has pre-announced revisions to the Management Regulations for Subsidizing the Purchase of New Electric Assist Bicycles. This means that the subsidy of NT$3,000 for each EPA-approved electric assist bicycle purchased will still be available in 2010. \n\nThe management regulations originally stipulated that the subsidy scheme was to expire on 30 November 2009. However, in order to further encourage members of the public to buy the eco-friendly electric assist bicycles, the regulations have been revised to allow the program to be extended until 30 November 2010 (the latest date acceptable on a receipt of purchase). The subsidy must also be applied for by 31 December 2010 at the latest. The management regulations also stipulate that the subsidy must be discounted from the purchase price at the time of purchase by the local manufacturer (or the local agent for imported bicycles). These new revisions fulfill a number of purposes: to ensure that the scheme fits in with the recent abolishment of the unified certification system for profit-seeking enterprises; to prevent government employees from submitting multiple applications for vacation subsidies and electric assist bicycle subsidies; and to shorten the time that applicants have to wait before receiving subsidy monies. \n\nDetails of the preannouncement are posted on the EPA Web site: http:\/\/share1.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "NT$3000 Subsidy Extended for Electric Assist Bicycles in 2010", "position": "print\/V12\/V12-11" }, { "no": "2419", "title": "EIAs to Be Required for All Development 1500+ Meters Above Sea Level", "preview": "EIA \nEIAs to Be Required for All Development 1500+ Meters Above Sea Level\n\nThe EPA has issued the third preannouncement of revisions to the Standards for Determining Specific Items and Scope of Environmental Impact Assessments for Development Activities. New revisions specify whether an environmental impact assessment needs to be conducted for activities of a certain scope. Additional consideration has been given to locations over 1,500 above sea level, groundwater control zones, and expanded environmentally sensitive areas.\n\nThe EPA reported that the second preannouncement of revisions to the Standards for Determining Specific Items and Scope of Environmental Impact Assessments for Development Activities (開發行為應實施環境影響評估細目及範圍認定標準) was last issued on 24 July 2009. The content of revisions was deemed necessary to review due to numerous views and suggestions from various circles, and in light of the serious disaster wrought by Typhoon Morakot. The third preannouncement of revisions has now been made to solicit views from all sides. The main differences between the latest revision and the former version include:\n\n1. Environmental impact assessments (EIAs) shall be conducted for all development activities over 1,500 meters above sea level\n\n2. EIAs shall be conducted for all development activities drawing groundwater from groundwater control zones (groundwater control zones include areas with serious land subsidence). However small-scale extraction of groundwater from groundwater control areas can be exempt from conducting EIAs with consent of the competent authority.\n\n3. The new revision deems that expansion of environmentally sensitive areas (national parks, important wildlife habitat, reservoir catchment areas, tap water quality and quantity protected areas, and indigenous reservations) could make protected areas too large and impose restrictions without regard to scope of activity, requiring EIAs for even small-scale developments. Therefore some of the development activities listed in the second preannouncement under a certain scale can be exempt from EIAs with the consent of the protected area competent authority and the industry competent authority. To prevent developers from breaking down their development activities into small projects, the new revision provides a clause requiring EIAs for \"cumulative development activities.\"\n\nDetails of this revision are posted in the regulation preannouncement section of the EPA Web site at http:\/\/share1.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx", "content": "EIA \nEIAs to Be Required for All Development 1500+ Meters Above Sea Level\n\nThe EPA has issued the third preannouncement of revisions to the Standards for Determining Specific Items and Scope of Environmental Impact Assessments for Development Activities. New revisions specify whether an environmental impact assessment needs to be conducted for activities of a certain scope. Additional consideration has been given to locations over 1,500 above sea level, groundwater control zones, and expanded environmentally sensitive areas.\n\nThe EPA reported that the second preannouncement of revisions to the Standards for Determining Specific Items and Scope of Environmental Impact Assessments for Development Activities (開發行為應實施環境影響評估細目及範圍認定標準) was last issued on 24 July 2009. The content of revisions was deemed necessary to review due to numerous views and suggestions from various circles, and in light of the serious disaster wrought by Typhoon Morakot. The third preannouncement of revisions has now been made to solicit views from all sides. The main differences between the latest revision and the former version include:\n\n1. Environmental impact assessments (EIAs) shall be conducted for all development activities over 1,500 meters above sea level\n\n2. EIAs shall be conducted for all development activities drawing groundwater from groundwater control zones (groundwater control zones include areas with serious land subsidence). However small-scale extraction of groundwater from groundwater control areas can be exempt from conducting EIAs with consent of the competent authority.\n\n3. The new revision deems that expansion of environmentally sensitive areas (national parks, important wildlife habitat, reservoir catchment areas, tap water quality and quantity protected areas, and indigenous reservations) could make protected areas too large and impose restrictions without regard to scope of activity, requiring EIAs for even small-scale developments. Therefore some of the development activities listed in the second preannouncement under a certain scale can be exempt from EIAs with the consent of the protected area competent authority and the industry competent authority. To prevent developers from breaking down their development activities into small projects, the new revision provides a clause requiring EIAs for \"cumulative development activities.\"\n\nDetails of this revision are posted in the regulation preannouncement section of the EPA Web site at http:\/\/share1.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Impact Assessment", "titlename": "EIAs to Be Required for All Development 1500+ Meters Above Sea Level", "position": "print\/V12\/V12-10" }, { "no": "2400", "title": "EPA Develops 24-hour Automatic, Internet-linked Water Quality Monitoring Vehicles", "preview": "Water Quality EPA Develops 24-hour Automatic, Internet-linked Water Quality Monitoring Vehicles\n\nSampling and analysis of effluent is an important part of environmental agencies’ work to investigate pollution. To help with this task, the EPA has developed a 24-hour, automatic, Internet-linked, continuous water quality sampling and storage facility that can be transported by vehicle. The equipment will be used to screen industrial park effluent treatment plants. In just two weeks it will carry out round-the-clock monitoring and automatic sampling. Samples can then be further analyzed to maintain control of effluent and water quality.\n\nThe EPA indicated that conventional effluent inspection methods require personnel for sampling and only collect samples at the time of inspection. While this method is quick and saves time, the results are not very comprehensive. The new mobile equipment provides 24-hour, automatic, Internet-linked, continuous monitoring of effluent pH, temperature, and conductivity. It can be programmed for automatic sampling at regular intervals or during abnormal conditions, and samples are immediately placed in cold storage.", "content": "Water Quality EPA Develops 24-hour Automatic, Internet-linked Water Quality Monitoring Vehicles\n\nSampling and analysis of effluent is an important part of environmental agencies’ work to investigate pollution. To help with this task, the EPA has developed a 24-hour, automatic, Internet-linked, continuous water quality sampling and storage facility that can be transported by vehicle. The equipment will be used to screen industrial park effluent treatment plants. In just two weeks it will carry out round-the-clock monitoring and automatic sampling. Samples can then be further analyzed to maintain control of effluent and water quality.\n\nThe EPA indicated that conventional effluent inspection methods require personnel for sampling and only collect samples at the time of inspection. While this method is quick and saves time, the results are not very comprehensive. The new mobile equipment provides 24-hour, automatic, Internet-linked, continuous monitoring of effluent Ph, temperature, and conductivity. It can be programmed for automatic sampling at regular intervals or during abnormal conditions, and samples are immediately placed in cold storage.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "EPA Develops 24-hour Automatic Internet-linked Water Quality Monitoring Vehicles", "position": "print\/V12\/V12-08" }, { "no": "2394", "title": "Bisphenol A Added to List of Toxic Chemicals; New Restrictions on Mercury Asbestos, and Dioxane", "preview": "Toxic Substance Management Bisphenol A Added to List of Toxic Chemicals; New Restrictions on Mercury Asbestos, and Dioxane\n\nIn order to reduce the risk of exposure to environmental hormones, the EPA has added bisphenol A to the list of toxic chemicals covered by the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act. The permitted uses of mercury, asbestos, and dioxane have also been further restricted with the intention of gradually reducing the amounts of these toxic chemicals in use. \n\n \n\nThe EPA is targeting the toxic chemicals bisphenol A, mercury, asbestos, and dioxane in a recent amendment to the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act (毒性化學物質管理法). Bisphenol A is a common chemical raw material often used in the making of epoxy resins and polycarbonate products. It has been proven to interfere with the endocrine system of animals, and the international community paying close attention to research on its harmful effects. Asbestos fibers produced when asbestos board is cut or broken up are highly toxic, and the long-term accumulation of mercury in the environment is a problem that is causing much concern around the world. The EPA has therefore tightened restrictions on the use of these dangerous substances. The main contents of the revisions are as follows: \n\n1. Bisphenol A has been added to the list of toxic substances. As stated in the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act, operators must submit information on how they store and handle this substance before using it. They must also submit periodic reports on amounts used, amounts released, and emergency procedures. \n\n2. From 1 January 2010 asbestos will be banned from adding to composite resins (adhesives); waterproofing sealants, anti-corrosive paints, or caulking; fireproofing or insulating materials (such as calcium silicate board); tape, cloth, rope, mats, or filters; or as aggregate in the production of asphalt. Neither registration of new asbestos manufacturers nor permission to use it in the above products will be granted from the date of the announcement. \n\n3. The addition of mercury to industrial catalysts will be banned, as will the use of dioxane in the manufacture of cosmetics. These measures are in accordance with regulations governing cosmetic hygiene. \n\nThe EPA emphasizes that the work of reviewing all products that contain environmental hormones and building materials that contain asbestos will continue into the future. This is in line with international practice, and is a part of the EPA’s responsibility to safeguard the health of the nation and preserve a sustainable environment.", "content": "Toxic Substance Management Bisphenol A Added to List of Toxic Chemicals; New Restrictions on Mercury Asbestos, and Dioxane\n\nIn order to reduce the risk of exposure to environmental hormones, the EPA has added bisphenol A to the list of toxic chemicals covered by the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act. The permitted uses of mercury, asbestos, and dioxane have also been further restricted with the intention of gradually reducing the amounts of these toxic chemicals in use. \n\n \n\nThe EPA is targeting the toxic chemicals bisphenol A, mercury, asbestos, and dioxane in a recent amendment to the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act (毒性化學物質管理法). Bisphenol A is a common chemical raw material often used in the making of epoxy resins and polycarbonate products. It has been proven to interfere with the endocrine system of animals, and the international community paying close attention to research on its harmful effects. Asbestos fibers produced when asbestos board is cut or broken up are highly toxic, and the long-term accumulation of mercury in the environment is a problem that is causing much concern around the world. The EPA has therefore tightened restrictions on the use of these dangerous substances. The main contents of the revisions are as follows: \n\n1. Bisphenol A has been added to the list of toxic substances. As stated in the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act, operators must submit information on how they store and handle this substance before using it. They must also submit periodic reports on amounts used, amounts released, and emergency procedures. \n\n2. From 1 January 2010 asbestos will be banned from adding to composite resins (adhesives); waterproofing sealants, anti-corrosive paints, or caulking; fireproofing or insulating materials (such as calcium silicate board); tape, cloth, rope, mats, or filters; or as aggregate in the production of asphalt. Neither registration of new asbestos manufacturers nor permission to use it in the above products will be granted from the date of the announcement. \n\n3. The addition of mercury to industrial catalysts will be banned, as will the use of dioxane in the manufacture of cosmetics. These measures are in accordance with regulations governing cosmetic hygiene. \n\nThe EPA emphasizes that the work of reviewing all products that contain environmental hormones and building materials that contain asbestos will continue into the future. This is in line with international practice, and is a part of the EPA’s responsibility to safeguard the health of the nation and preserve a sustainable environment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Bisphenol A Added to List of Toxic Chemicals; New Restrictions on Mercury Asbestos and Dioxane", "position": "print\/V12\/V12-08" }, { "no": "2381", "title": "Farms with Over 2000 Pigs Must Report Waste Flow Online", "preview": "Waste Management Farms with Over 2000 Pigs Must Report Waste Flow Online\n\nTo keep track of the flow of diseased carcasses and remains from slaughter operations, the EPA is extending regulations to require farms with over 2,000 pigs to submit industrial waste clearance and disposal plans and report waste flow online. Related transport vehicles are required to install GPS tracking equipment.\n\n \n\nRecent years have seen several instances of pig slaughtering operations illegally sending off diseased carcasses or waste remains to unknown locations. In some cases, these waste products have ended up on the market causing alarm among consumers. From 1 October 2009, the EPA has requested pig farms with over 2,000 pigs to submit industrial waste clearance and disposal plans and report their waste flow online. This measure is expected to place another 300 pig farms under regulatory control. These farms will be required to install GPS tracking systems on vehicles transporting diseased carcasses or waste remains. The new system will be able to keep accurate tabs on the flow of about 7,000 tonnes of diseased carcass and waste remains per year, and prevent these materials from entering the human food chain.\n\n \n\nThe EPA indicates that in order to ensure appropriate treatment and recycling of industrial waste generated by these industries, from 1998 it has required successive batches of industries likely to generate large volumes of hazardous industrial waste to report waste clearance and reuse status online. In October 2000 the EPA established the Industrial Waste Control Center to implement industrial waste control work and over the years expand the number of regulated industries that must report industrial waste clearance plans and report waste flow online. Currently, pig farms with over 3,000 pigs are required to report industrial waste flow online. This information helps the EPA account for the remains of around 20,000 tonnes of diseased pig carcasses per year.\n\n \n\nThe EPA indicated that in order to let newly regulated businesses smoothly report their industrial waste clearance and disposal plans and industrial waste flow online, it first held a briefing to explain the changes made as well as produced an educational CD and slideshow. This and other information are provided to companies along with a toll-free number (0800-059-777) to inquire about report procedures.", "content": "Waste Management Farms with Over 2000 Pigs Must Report Waste Flow Online\n\nTo keep track of the flow of diseased carcasses and remains from slaughter operations, the EPA is extending regulations to require farms with over 2,000 pigs to submit industrial waste clearance and disposal plans and report waste flow online. Related transport vehicles are required to install GPS tracking equipment.\n\n \n\nRecent years have seen several instances of pig slaughtering operations illegally sending off diseased carcasses or waste remains to unknown locations. In some cases, these waste products have ended up on the market causing alarm among consumers. From 1 October 2009, the EPA has requested pig farms with over 2,000 pigs to submit industrial waste clearance and disposal plans and report their waste flow online. This measure is expected to place another 300 pig farms under regulatory control. These farms will be required to install GPS tracking systems on vehicles transporting diseased carcasses or waste remains. The new system will be able to keep accurate tabs on the flow of about 7,000 tonnes of diseased carcass and waste remains per year, and prevent these materials from entering the human food chain.\n\n \n\nThe EPA indicates that in order to ensure appropriate treatment and recycling of industrial waste generated by these industries, from 1998 it has required successive batches of industries likely to generate large volumes of hazardous industrial waste to report waste clearance and reuse status online. In October 2000 the EPA established the Industrial Waste Control Center to implement industrial waste control work and over the years expand the number of regulated industries that must report industrial waste clearance plans and report waste flow online. Currently, pig farms with over 3,000 pigs are required to report industrial waste flow online. This information helps the EPA account for the remains of around 20,000 tonnes of diseased pig carcasses per year.\n\n \n\nThe EPA indicated that in order to let newly regulated businesses smoothly report their industrial waste clearance and disposal plans and industrial waste flow online, it first held a briefing to explain the changes made as well as produced an educational CD and slideshow. This and other information are provided to companies along with a toll-free number (0800-059-777) to inquire about report procedures.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Farms with Over 2000 Pigs Must Report Waste Flow Online", "position": "print\/V12\/V12-07" }, { "no": "2375", "title": "Premier Liu Says Global Warming May Overshadow Current Financial Disaster Highlights Need for Carbon Reduction", "preview": "General Policy Premier Liu Says Global Warming May Overshadow Current Financial Disaster Highlights Need for Carbon Reduction \n\nPremier Liu Chao-shiuan issued a word of warning during the 2009 Borough Chief Eco-Summit that global warming poses a far greater threat to humankind than the current global financial crisis. Liu advised people to take this issue seriously and put energy conservation and carbon reduction into practice in their daily lives.\n\n \n\nPremier Liu pointed out that global warming is responsible for increasing the intensity of climate change. Taiwan is already feeling the effects, with a recent severe drought which may very well turn into severe flooding in the near future. Densely populated cities and intense development are accelerating the pace of global warming, moving this issue to the forefront of government agendas worldwide. Global warming was the reason why this year’s Borough Chief Eco-Summit emphasized the theme of Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction.\n\n \n\nLiu said that although global warming is an issue of foremost importance, putting solutions into practice on the local level will be heavily dependent on the efforts of borough chiefs. Liu expressed confidence in imminent success as long as borough chiefs place importance on the issue and are willing and enthusiastic to extend effort; otherwise no amount of emphasis by the president or the premier will help. Liu reminded borough chiefs that a few years ago there were many unkempt public spaces throughout Taiwan’s counties and cities. Public toilets were odorous eyesores that brought in many complaints. All this has greatly improved in recent years so much that even foreign tourists are impressed. Liu stated that the reason why government policy was so successful in this case was because of the dedicated involvement of village and borough chiefs. \n\n \n\nThe Premier pointed out that last year’s financial tsunami engulfed the whole world leaving no country untouched by its effects. But economies can always recover and sooner or later economic hardship becomes a thing of the past. Global warming however has much farther-reaching effects and will only continue to get worse, affecting many generations into the future. The impact of global warming will be much greater than any financial crisis and in fact will be the overriding factor that drives economic development even farther off course. Liu urged people to take a long-term perspective and become an example for others to follow by implementing energy conservation and carbon reduction practices in their daily lives. \n\n \n\nLiu stated that the Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction theme of this summit is also one of the main hubs of current central government policy. Liu expressed hope that borough chiefs are able to help mobilize people on the ground level to implement the “Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction to Cool Down the Earth” plan. This plan calls for a shift in people’s lifestyles and attitudes, and encourages people to take actions in everyday life that will improve environmental quality and mitigate global warming.", "content": "General Policy Premier Liu Says Global Warming May Overshadow Current Financial Disaster Highlights Need for Carbon Reduction \n\nPremier Liu Chao-shiuan issued a word of warning during the 2009 Borough Chief Eco-Summit that global warming poses a far greater threat to humankind than the current global financial crisis. Liu advised people to take this issue seriously and put energy conservation and carbon reduction into practice in their daily lives.\n\n \n\nPremier Liu pointed out that global warming is responsible for increasing the intensity of climate change. Taiwan is already feeling the effects, with a recent severe drought which may very well turn into severe flooding in the near future. Densely populated cities and intense development are accelerating the pace of global warming, moving this issue to the forefront of government agendas worldwide. Global warming was the reason why this year’s Borough Chief Eco-Summit emphasized the theme of Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction.\n\n \n\nLiu said that although global warming is an issue of foremost importance, putting solutions into practice on the local level will be heavily dependent on the efforts of borough chiefs. Liu expressed confidence in imminent success as long as borough chiefs place importance on the issue and are willing and enthusiastic to extend effort; otherwise no amount of emphasis by the president or the premier will help. Liu reminded borough chiefs that a few years ago there were many unkempt public spaces throughout Taiwan’s counties and cities. Public toilets were odorous eyesores that brought in many complaints. All this has greatly improved in recent years so much that even foreign tourists are impressed. Liu stated that the reason why government policy was so successful in this case was because of the dedicated involvement of village and borough chiefs. \n\n \n\nThe Premier pointed out that last year’s financial tsunami engulfed the whole world leaving no country untouched by its effects. But economies can always recover and sooner or later economic hardship becomes a thing of the past. Global warming however has much farther-reaching effects and will only continue to get worse, affecting many generations into the future. The impact of global warming will be much greater than any financial crisis and in fact will be the overriding factor that drives economic development even farther off course. Liu urged people to take a long-term perspective and become an example for others to follow by implementing energy conservation and carbon reduction practices in their daily lives. \n\n \n\nLiu stated that the Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction theme of this summit is also one of the main hubs of current central government policy. Liu expressed hope that borough chiefs are able to help mobilize people on the ground level to implement the “Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction to Cool Down the Earth” plan. This plan calls for a shift in people’s lifestyles and attitudes, and encourages people to take actions in everyday life that will improve environmental quality and mitigate global warming.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Premier Liu Says Global Warming May Overshadow Current Financial Disaster Highlights Need for Carbon Reduction", "position": "print\/V12\/V12-07" }, { "no": "2358", "title": "NT$3000 Subsidy Available for Purchasing Electric Bicycles", "preview": "Climate Change \nNT$3000 Subsidy Available for Purchasing Electric Bicycles\n\nThose looking to buy an electric bicycle to replace their conventional motorcycle are in luck! On 5 May 2009 the EPA promulgated the New Electric Bicycle Subsidy Regulations. The EPA is now accepting subsidy eligibility applications from electric bicycle manufacturers or foreign company retailers. Those who purchase EPA-approved electric bikes can receive a subsidy of NT$3,000.\n\n \n\nThe EPA has promulgated the New Electric Bike Subsidy Regulations (新購電動自行車補助辦法) as a way of encouraging the public to purchase low-polluting electric bicycles to help reduce air pollution. In order to be eligible for the subsidy, electric bike models must be approved by the Ministry of Transportation and Communication, have certification showing that they have been tested to comply with standards, and have been reviewed and approved for subsidy eligibility by the EPA. People are eligible for this subsidy upon buying a new electric bike of a make that has been approved for subsidization with the condition that the bike must be used in Taiwan. Each new bike owner is eligible for a subsidy of NT$3,000 until the subsidy period is over on 30 November 2010.\n\n \n\nThe EPA has been providing subsidies of NT$3,000 for newly purchased electric assist bikes since 2001 and has already awarded the subsidy to over 36,000 people. From 2008, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications added both electric assist bikes and electric bikes to its Slow Transportation agenda. After assessing air pollution reduction benefits, the EPA decided to extend the subsidy to electric bikes as well as electric assist bikes. \n\n \n\nThe EPA indicates that the main difference between electric assist bikes and electric bikes is that electric assist bikes rely predominantly on human power with electric assist as an auxiliary function to ease the pedaling. Electricity is the main power of electric bikes and there are no pedals for human power. People can choose which kind of bike is more suitable for them and can receive the NT$3,000 subsidy regardless of their choice. The deadline for the electric assist bike subsidy is 30 November 2009. The EPA calls on citizens to look into buying electric bikes, which not only reduce exhaust emissions and improve air quality but also save on fuel costs and can be bought with a subsidy.", "content": "Climate Change \nNT$3000 Subsidy Available for Purchasing Electric Bicycles\n\nThose looking to buy an electric bicycle to replace their conventional motorcycle are in luck! On 5 May 2009 the EPA promulgated the New Electric Bicycle Subsidy Regulations. The EPA is now accepting subsidy eligibility applications from electric bicycle manufacturers or foreign company retailers. Those who purchase EPA-approved electric bikes can receive a subsidy of NT$3,000.\n\n \n\nThe EPA has promulgated the New Electric Bike Subsidy Regulations (新購電動自行車補助辦法) as a way of encouraging the public to purchase low-polluting electric bicycles to help reduce air pollution. In order to be eligible for the subsidy, electric bike models must be approved by the Ministry of Transportation and Communication, have certification showing that they have been tested to comply with standards, and have been reviewed and approved for subsidy eligibility by the EPA. People are eligible for this subsidy upon buying a new electric bike of a make that has been approved for subsidization with the condition that the bike must be used in Taiwan. Each new bike owner is eligible for a subsidy of NT$3,000 until the subsidy period is over on 30 November 2010.\n\n \n\nThe EPA has been providing subsidies of NT$3,000 for newly purchased electric assist bikes since 2001 and has already awarded the subsidy to over 36,000 people. From 2008, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications added both electric assist bikes and electric bikes to its Slow Transportation agenda. After assessing air pollution reduction benefits, the EPA decided to extend the subsidy to electric bikes as well as electric assist bikes. \n\n \n\nThe EPA indicates that the main difference between electric assist bikes and electric bikes is that electric assist bikes rely predominantly on human power with electric assist as an auxiliary function to ease the pedaling. Electricity is the main power of electric bikes and there are no pedals for human power. People can choose which kind of bike is more suitable for them and can receive the NT$3,000 subsidy regardless of their choice. The deadline for the electric assist bike subsidy is 30 November 2009. The EPA calls on citizens to look into buying electric bikes, which not only reduce exhaust emissions and improve air quality but also save on fuel costs and can be bought with a subsidy.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "NT$3000 Subsidy Available for Purchasing Electric Bicycles", "position": "print\/V12\/V12-06" }, { "no": "2349", "title": "Environmental Dragon Boat Creativity Contests Offer First Prize of NT$100000", "preview": "Recycling \nEnvironmental Dragon Boat Creativity Contests Offer First Prize of NT$100000\n\nThe 2009 National Environmental Dragon Boat Creativity Contests are on! The EPA is holding this event in two major cities on the east and west of Taiwan (Hualien and Taichung). For ten years the EPA has integrated resource recycling concepts into this traditional festival. This year marks the first time for the EPA to offer a grand prize of NT$100,000.\n\n \n\nEPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen said that this is the tenth dragon boat creativity contest held in Hualien, the place where it originated. Taichung has also held this contest for two years with excellent reviews, and the numbers of participating teams and spectators continues to increase year by year. This event not only upholds the original spirit of the traditional Dragon Boat Festival, but also adds a measure of environmental creativity. The annual festive atmosphere and cultural events work to bring this educational effort into full play. A press conference was held on 13 April 2009 to attract more participation in this event.\n\n \n\nDuring the press conference, the EPA displayed the dragon boats created by Parkview Hotel of Hualien and Fuping Borough of Taichung City (the famed “Environmental Bathtub Dragon Boat”). Environmental agency officials took to the theme and dressed up in traditional attire for a skit they called, “The Seven Dragon Ball Legend Comes to Life as a Recycled Dragon.” The skit cleverly introduced the 2009 National Environmental Dragon Boat Creativity Contest. EPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen played the part of the Dragon King, Taichung City Environmental Protection Bureau Director General Li Li-de played the part of Master Roshi, and Hualien County Environmental Protection Bureau Director-General Dai Wen-jian played Son Goku.\n\n \n\nThe EPA showed images of creative dragon boats from past contests, showing the wide variety of materials used to make the boats, including hoses, bamboo, PET bottles, and discarded buoys. There was also a great diversity of ways in which materials were used to portray dragons, for example using polystyrene plates to create dragon scales. The pictures showed the enormous amount of effort that was put into creating these works of art.\n\n \n\nEPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen commented that one of the current pillars of environmental protection policy is “Recycling Resources to Achieve Zero Waste.” In the future, the EPA will continue to promote its “Zero Waste, Complete Recycling” policy with the objective of raising the refuse recycling rate to over 40%. Two key targets for the year 2012 are to reduce the refuse clearance volume to 52% of the record high volume reached in 1998, and to increase the industrial waste reuse rate to over 77%. These achievements will be a source of national pride as they will put Taiwan far ahead of the game compared to advanced countries in North America and Europe.", "content": "Recycling \nEnvironmental Dragon Boat Creativity Contests Offer First Prize of NT$100000\n\nThe 2009 National Environmental Dragon Boat Creativity Contests are on! The EPA is holding this event in two major cities on the east and west of Taiwan (Hualien and Taichung). For ten years the EPA has integrated resource recycling concepts into this traditional festival. This year marks the first time for the EPA to offer a grand prize of NT$100,000.\n\n \n\nEPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen said that this is the tenth dragon boat creativity contest held in Hualien, the place where it originated. Taichung has also held this contest for two years with excellent reviews, and the numbers of participating teams and spectators continues to increase year by year. This event not only upholds the original spirit of the traditional Dragon Boat Festival, but also adds a measure of environmental creativity. The annual festive atmosphere and cultural events work to bring this educational effort into full play. A press conference was held on 13 April 2009 to attract more participation in this event.\n\n \n\nDuring the press conference, the EPA displayed the dragon boats created by Parkview Hotel of Hualien and Fuping Borough of Taichung City (the famed “Environmental Bathtub Dragon Boat”). Environmental agency officials took to the theme and dressed up in traditional attire for a skit they called, “The Seven Dragon Ball Legend Comes to Life as a Recycled Dragon.” The skit cleverly introduced the 2009 National Environmental Dragon Boat Creativity Contest. EPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen played the part of the Dragon King, Taichung City Environmental Protection Bureau Director General Li Li-de played the part of Master Roshi, and Hualien County Environmental Protection Bureau Director-General Dai Wen-jian played Son Goku.\n\n \n\nThe EPA showed images of creative dragon boats from past contests, showing the wide variety of materials used to make the boats, including hoses, bamboo, PET bottles, and discarded buoys. There was also a great diversity of ways in which materials were used to portray dragons, for example using polystyrene plates to create dragon scales. The pictures showed the enormous amount of effort that was put into creating these works of art.\n\n \n\nEPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen commented that one of the current pillars of environmental protection policy is “Recycling Resources to Achieve Zero Waste.” In the future, the EPA will continue to promote its “Zero Waste, Complete Recycling” policy with the objective of raising the refuse recycling rate to over 40%. Two key targets for the year 2012 are to reduce the refuse clearance volume to 52% of the record high volume reached in 1998, and to increase the industrial waste reuse rate to over 77%. These achievements will be a source of national pride as they will put Taiwan far ahead of the game compared to advanced countries in North America and Europe.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Environmental Dragon Boat Creativity Contests Offer First Prize of NT$100000", "position": "print\/V12\/V12-05" }, { "no": "2309", "title": "No Toxics Found in Cleaning Products Paints, and Toys", "preview": "Toxic Substance Management\nNo Toxics Found in Cleaning Products Paints, and Toys \nThere has been much international concern in recent years about the harmful effects of environmental hormones. As a result, in 2008 the EPA ran tests for these hormones on three classes of products made in Taiwan that are commonly found in homes: cleaning products, paints, and toys. Among the hormones tested for were NPEO, TBT, and six types of PAE listed as harmful by the E.U. All of the products tested were found to be free of these environmental hormones and to meet regulatory standards.", "content": "Toxic Substance Management\nNo Toxics Found in Cleaning Products Paints, and Toys \nThere has been much international concern in recent years about the harmful effects of environmental hormones. As a result, in 2008 the EPA ran tests for these hormones on three classes of products made in Taiwan that are commonly found in homes: cleaning products, paints, and toys. Among the hormones tested for were NPEO, TBT, and six types of PAE listed as harmful by the E.U. All of the products tested were found to be free of these environmental hormones and to meet regulatory standards.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "No Toxics Found in Cleaning Products Paints and Toys", "position": "print\/V12\/V12-02" }, { "no": "2292", "title": "President Ma Vows for Sustainability Approves EPA Policy", "preview": "General Policy\nPresident Ma Vows for Sustainability Approves EPA Policy\nPresident Ma met with EPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen on 19 December 2008 to get an update on how well environmental protection policies are being implemented. During the meeting the president expressed satisfaction and support for the EPA’s efforts to promote the four main pillars of environmental policy: saving energy and reducing carbon emissions to cool the planet, recycling to achieve zero waste, eliminating pollution and protecting the ecology, and cleaning and greening residential environments. These four new directions were formulated in accordance with the principle of “Health, sustainability, caring for Taiwan” with which 12 laws, 3 organizations, 6 systems, and 6 plans of action were established.\nThe Sustainable Energy Policy Guidelines were passed by the Executive Yuan on 5 June 2008, setting the short-term CO2 emissions reduction target at 2008 levels from the years 2016 to 2020. The medium-term target calls for reducing total emissions to 2000 levels by 2025. It is also hoped that the percentage of electricity generated from medium or low carbon fuels will increase from the current 40% to over 55% by the year 2025. The Executive Yuan also passed the “Sustainable Energy Policy Guidelines – Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Action Plan” on 4 September 2008, which calls for all government departments to implement specific measures to hasten the advent of a low-carbon society. \n\n“Energy conservation and carbon reduction” is now an integral part of sustainable development policies. A draft bill of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act (溫室氣體減量法) is presently being evaluated by members of the Legislative Yuan, and if it were to pass soon it would become one of the cornerstones of Taiwan’s efforts to slow down climate change. The act would bring about the setting and timely implementation of total emission targets and an internationally-acceptable system of carbon trading and reduction mechanisms to help industry reduce emissions and meet targets in the most cost-effective ways possible. Cross-ministerial meetings will be necessary at later stages so that a plan of implementation and ways to integrate the help of Taiwan’s citizens can be agreed upon. The EPA believes that a gradual and managed approach to reducing emissions has a better chance of achieving lasting effectiveness. \n\nPresident Ma expressed his satisfaction with the EPA’s report and supported the EPA’s request of all development agencies to take heed of carbon-reduction measures after the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act comes into effect. He also pointed out that, although the priority is for emissions to be reduced nationally at first, since greenhouse gas emissions are a global problem the Ministry of Economic Affairs should encourage major enterprises to budget early for carbon-reduction costs and also consider entering the international emissions trading market. The president suggested that doing this could increase corporate competitiveness and give Taiwanese companies a foothold in the burgeoning market for carbon rights trading. \n\nThe EPA is currently working on capacity building for inspecting and verifying industrial emission controls, both enforced and voluntary, and for recording the data gathered. The idea is to develop a system of measurable, reportable, and verifiable reduction measures that is in accordance with the most recent U.N. climate change frameworks and treaties. Such a system would be internationally acceptable and yet still fully under the control of the national government. In the future, the setting of carbon reduction targets and the designing of the necessary mechanisms will be done after comprehensive discussions between the government, manufacturers, researchers, and scholars have enabled a consensus to be reached. As always, the most suitable measures will be those that work on the principle of maximum effectiveness achieved at minimum cost. \n\nPresident Ma also commended the EPA for its efforts in such areas as implementing sustainable development, remediation of rivers, and waste disposal. He especially praised the EPA’s handling of environmental impact assessments for development projects and cases of pollution that seriously threaten public health. In such cases the EPA has established a system for convening meetings at which all parties involved in the dispute, including members of the public, can be represented by experts that they trust who have expertise relevant to the case. The president suggested that this model could be referred to by other departments when involving citizen groups in discussions concerning the formulation of government policy. \n \nThe Executive Yuan has also responded to rising unemployment caused by the global economic recession by instigating measures to create employment opportunities. The EPA has played its part by drawing up plans for improving public hygiene, recycling general refuse, and promoting integrated multiple mobilizations of workers involved in environmental protection work. These three plans have created jobs for 698 people.\n\nMaintaining a clean environment requires the active participation of the populace. To this end the EPA has already gained approval from the Executive Yuan for the Sustainable and High Quality Environmental Sanitation Plan, a six year plan that will run from 2009 to 2014. As part of the plan the EPA has created the Eco Life website (http:\/\/ecolife.epa.gov.tw\/) as a platform on which citizens and civil servants can exchange ideas about how to clean up homes and residential environments. The website is also a means for environmentally-conscious householders and members of the public to interact and inform each other of relevant activities. The goal, as always, is to combine forces where possible and improve the lives of all Taiwan’s citizens by making their home environments cleaner, their neighborhoods quieter, and their island the “Switzerland of the Far East.” \n\nPresident Ma is fully confident that, with dedicated public servants leading the way in environmental protection, economic development and social justice, we can create a beautiful homeland that is better than Japan and is on a par with Switzerland.", "content": "General Policy\nPresident Ma Vows for Sustainability Approves EPA Policy\nPresident Ma met with EPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen on 19 December 2008 to get an update on how well environmental protection policies are being implemented. During the meeting the president expressed satisfaction and support for the EPA’s efforts to promote the four main pillars of environmental policy: saving energy and reducing carbon emissions to cool the planet, recycling to achieve zero waste, eliminating pollution and protecting the ecology, and cleaning and greening residential environments. These four new directions were formulated in accordance with the principle of “Health, sustainability, caring for Taiwan” with which 12 laws, 3 organizations, 6 systems, and 6 plans of action were established.\nThe Sustainable Energy Policy Guidelines were passed by the Executive Yuan on 5 June 2008, setting the short-term CO2 emissions reduction target at 2008 levels from the years 2016 to 2020. The medium-term target calls for reducing total emissions to 2000 levels by 2025. It is also hoped that the percentage of electricity generated from medium or low carbon fuels will increase from the current 40% to over 55% by the year 2025. The Executive Yuan also passed the “Sustainable Energy Policy Guidelines – Energy Conservation and Carbon Reduction Action Plan” on 4 September 2008, which calls for all government departments to implement specific measures to hasten the advent of a low-carbon society. \n\n“Energy conservation and carbon reduction” is now an integral part of sustainable development policies. A draft bill of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act (溫室氣體減量法) is presently being evaluated by members of the Legislative Yuan, and if it were to pass soon it would become one of the cornerstones of Taiwan’s efforts to slow down climate change. The act would bring about the setting and timely implementation of total emission targets and an internationally-acceptable system of carbon trading and reduction mechanisms to help industry reduce emissions and meet targets in the most cost-effective ways possible. Cross-ministerial meetings will be necessary at later stages so that a plan of implementation and ways to integrate the help of Taiwan’s citizens can be agreed upon. The EPA believes that a gradual and managed approach to reducing emissions has a better chance of achieving lasting effectiveness. \n\nPresident Ma expressed his satisfaction with the EPA’s report and supported the EPA’s request of all development agencies to take heed of carbon-reduction measures after the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act comes into effect. He also pointed out that, although the priority is for emissions to be reduced nationally at first, since greenhouse gas emissions are a global problem the Ministry of Economic Affairs should encourage major enterprises to budget early for carbon-reduction costs and also consider entering the international emissions trading market. The president suggested that doing this could increase corporate competitiveness and give Taiwanese companies a foothold in the burgeoning market for carbon rights trading. \n\nThe EPA is currently working on capacity building for inspecting and verifying industrial emission controls, both enforced and voluntary, and for recording the data gathered. The idea is to develop a system of measurable, reportable, and verifiable reduction measures that is in accordance with the most recent U.N. climate change frameworks and treaties. Such a system would be internationally acceptable and yet still fully under the control of the national government. In the future, the setting of carbon reduction targets and the designing of the necessary mechanisms will be done after comprehensive discussions between the government, manufacturers, researchers, and scholars have enabled a consensus to be reached. As always, the most suitable measures will be those that work on the principle of maximum effectiveness achieved at minimum cost. \n\nPresident Ma also commended the EPA for its efforts in such areas as implementing sustainable development, remediation of rivers, and waste disposal. He especially praised the EPA’s handling of environmental impact assessments for development projects and cases of pollution that seriously threaten public health. In such cases the EPA has established a system for convening meetings at which all parties involved in the dispute, including members of the public, can be represented by experts that they trust who have expertise relevant to the case. The president suggested that this model could be referred to by other departments when involving citizen groups in discussions concerning the formulation of government policy. \n \nThe Executive Yuan has also responded to rising unemployment caused by the global economic recession by instigating measures to create employment opportunities. The EPA has played its part by drawing up plans for improving public hygiene, recycling general refuse, and promoting integrated multiple mobilizations of workers involved in environmental protection work. These three plans have created jobs for 698 people.\n\nMaintaining a clean environment requires the active participation of the populace. To this end the EPA has already gained approval from the Executive Yuan for the Sustainable and High Quality Environmental Sanitation Plan, a six year plan that will run from 2009 to 2014. As part of the plan the EPA has created the Eco Life website (http:\/\/ecolife.epa.gov.tw\/) as a platform on which citizens and civil servants can exchange ideas about how to clean up homes and residential environments. The website is also a means for environmentally-conscious householders and members of the public to interact and inform each other of relevant activities. The goal, as always, is to combine forces where possible and improve the lives of all Taiwan’s citizens by making their home environments cleaner, their neighborhoods quieter, and their island the “Switzerland of the Far East.” \n\nPresident Ma is fully confident that, with dedicated public servants leading the way in environmental protection, economic development and social justice, we can create a beautiful homeland that is better than Japan and is on a par with Switzerland.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "President Ma Vows for Sustainability Approves EPA Policy", "position": "print\/V12\/V12-01" }, { "no": "2252", "title": "Minister Shen Signs Energy Conservation Carbon Reduction Declaration with Cyclists", "preview": "Climate Change　　Minister Shen Signs Energy Conservation Carbon Reduction Declaration with Cyclists\n\nEPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen met with the Hoseng cycling group from Tainan County on 13 October 2008 and signed an energy conservation and carbon reduction declaration with a group of eight cyclists that had just embarked on a round-the-island trip. Items in the declaration include sealing air conditioned spaces, turning off lights and unplugging appliances, using energy saving lamps, buying products with energy- and water-saving labels, biking and walking, not driving a car one day a week, keeping carbon reduction in mind when selecting and using vehicles, eating more vegetables and less meat, cherishing resources, and carrying your own chopsticks, handkerchiefs, and bags. \nThe eight cyclists in this group commenced their tour on October 10 in Yongkang City, Tainan County. They followed Route 1 north and arrived in Taipei on October 12 to ride the Tamshui River route. After meeting with Minister Shen on October 13, they proceeded along the northeast coastal highway to Yilan. They then planned to ride through Hualien and the Huadong Valley, the Southern Cross-Island Highway, before finally making their way back to Tainan on October 17. Their entire journey was over 1,000 km long. \nMinister Shen expressed great admiration for the determination of the eight cyclists, and after signing the energy conservation and carbon reduction declaration, he handed a banner to the cyclists to commemorate their environmental efforts.\nPlanner and participant of this bike trip, Tainan County EPB Deputy Director Hou Jun-yan, was diagnosed three years ago with third-stage colon cancer. Since then, he has made a remarkable recovery, revealing that this trip made him more determined to fight cancer. In preparation for the trip, he cycled three times a week for half a year o build up stamina . He stated that the only way to truly comprehend the beauty of Taiwan is through firsthand experience, which gave him a profound connection with the spirit of the people of Taiwan. This trip was one of Hou’s lifelong dreams, and he encourages others to chase their dreams. The cycling team was named “Hoseng,” meaning “fun” in Taiwanese. Two elementary students joined the team’s trip around Taiwan with the full support of their parents.", "content": "Climate Change　　Minister Shen Signs Energy Conservation Carbon Reduction Declaration with Cyclists\n\nEPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen met with the Hoseng cycling group from Tainan County on 13 October 2008 and signed an energy conservation and carbon reduction declaration with a group of eight cyclists that had just embarked on a round-the-island trip. Items in the declaration include sealing air conditioned spaces, turning off lights and unplugging appliances, using energy saving lamps, buying products with energy- and water-saving labels, biking and walking, not driving a car one day a week, keeping carbon reduction in mind when selecting and using vehicles, eating more vegetables and less meat, cherishing resources, and carrying your own chopsticks, handkerchiefs, and bags. \nThe eight cyclists in this group commenced their tour on October 10 in Yongkang City, Tainan County. They followed Route 1 north and arrived in Taipei on October 12 to ride the Tamshui River route. After meeting with Minister Shen on October 13, they proceeded along the northeast coastal highway to Yilan. They then planned to ride through Hualien and the Huadong Valley, the Southern Cross-Island Highway, before finally making their way back to Tainan on October 17. Their entire journey was over 1,000 km long. \nMinister Shen expressed great admiration for the determination of the eight cyclists, and after signing the energy conservation and carbon reduction declaration, he handed a banner to the cyclists to commemorate their environmental efforts.\nPlanner and participant of this bike trip, Tainan County EPB Deputy Director Hou Jun-yan, was diagnosed three years ago with third-stage colon cancer. Since then, he has made a remarkable recovery, revealing that this trip made him more determined to fight cancer. In preparation for the trip, he cycled three times a week for half a year o build up stamina . He stated that the only way to truly comprehend the beauty of Taiwan is through firsthand experience, which gave him a profound connection with the spirit of the people of Taiwan. This trip was one of Hou’s lifelong dreams, and he encourages others to chase their dreams. The cycling team was named “Hoseng,” meaning “fun” in Taiwanese. Two elementary students joined the team’s trip around Taiwan with the full support of their parents.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Minister Shen Signs Energy Conservation Carbon Reduction Declaration with Cyclists", "position": "print\/V11\/V11-11" }, { "no": "2247", "title": "Waste Import Export and Transshipment Regulations Revised", "preview": "Waste Management　　Waste Import Export and Transshipment Regulations Revised\nIn the interest of managing waste export and import and enhancing the efficiency of applications and inspections, the EPA promulgated revisions to the Waste Import, Export, and Transshipment Regulations on 5 September 2008. The revisions were posted on the EPA’s website (http:\/\/w3.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx) for citizens to peruse.\n\nThe EPA states that in its effort to manage waste import and export, and raise the efficiency of related application and inspection work, as well as clarify certain areas of dispute, it has undertaken a full review and promulgated revisions to the Waste Import, Export, and Transshipment Regulations (廢棄物輸入輸出過境轉口管理辦法). Revisions were made to 39 articles, with the main points explained as follows:\n\n1. An explanation was added to clarify that the transport of waste at bonded warehouses, bonded factories, logistics centers, agricultural and technology parks, free ports, domestic tax zones, and bonded zones are not considered import or export activities. \n\n2. In response to the promulgation of revisions to hazardous industrial waste definition standards on 4 July 2007, mixed metal wastes originally designated as hazardous industrial waste have mostly been excluded from the definition of hazardous. Considering past import\/export practices and the fact that most cases of illegal waste import\/export have involved mixed metal wastes, and considering the different health and environmental risks posed by hazardous waste and general industrial waste, different regulations have been made regarding the allowable number of cases of illegal conduct involving hazardous waste and general industrial waste.\n\n3. Regarding articles specifying situations in which the EPA may not issue import\/export permits, it has been added that permits may not be issued “within two years of cancellation of import\/export permit” and “if the applicant has ever lent an import\/export permit to another party.” Situations that have been deleted, meaning that it is now okay for the EPA to issue a permit, include, “if the applicant has ever had its import\/export permit terminated, or if falsified documents have been used to apply for an import\/export permit” and “applicants that have been issued penalties ordering them to halt operations or shut down business.” \n\n4. It has been added that enterprises must send personnel to a recipient country within five years of application to inspect the treatment plant, treatment capability and operation status, and guarantee that report content is accurate. This ensures exported waste receives appropriate treatment overseas.\n\n5. Due to the different criteria involved in revoking and annulling permits, Article 28~2 stipulates relevant regulations and delineates the scope of falsified documents. \n\n6. It has been added that when there are doubts about waste management for operators with permits, power of decision will reside with the local competent authority where the original permit was issued.\n\n7. When there are bilateral, multilateral or regional agreements on waste import and export, the content of such agreements shall be given priority.\n\n8. A special permit can be obtained to provide regulated import and export waste samples to related clearance technology researchers. The EPA can request applicants to provide necessary documents according to management needs. \n\n9. Considering stricter requirements regarding attached documents for export permit applications, a grace period is allowed to avoid implementation difficulties. \n\nFor more information, please call 02-23117722 ext. 2600", "content": "Waste Management　　Waste Import Export and Transshipment Regulations Revised\nIn the interest of managing waste export and import and enhancing the efficiency of applications and inspections, the EPA promulgated revisions to the Waste Import, Export, and Transshipment Regulations on 5 September 2008. The revisions were posted on the EPA’s website (http:\/\/w3.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx) for citizens to peruse.\n\nThe EPA states that in its effort to manage waste import and export, and raise the efficiency of related application and inspection work, as well as clarify certain areas of dispute, it has undertaken a full review and promulgated revisions to the Waste Import, Export, and Transshipment Regulations (廢棄物輸入輸出過境轉口管理辦法). Revisions were made to 39 articles, with the main points explained as follows:\n\n1. An explanation was added to clarify that the transport of waste at bonded warehouses, bonded factories, logistics centers, agricultural and technology parks, free ports, domestic tax zones, and bonded zones are not considered import or export activities. \n\n2. In response to the promulgation of revisions to hazardous industrial waste definition standards on 4 July 2007, mixed metal wastes originally designated as hazardous industrial waste have mostly been excluded from the definition of hazardous. Considering past import\/export practices and the fact that most cases of illegal waste import\/export have involved mixed metal wastes, and considering the different health and environmental risks posed by hazardous waste and general industrial waste, different regulations have been made regarding the allowable number of cases of illegal conduct involving hazardous waste and general industrial waste.\n\n3. Regarding articles specifying situations in which the EPA may not issue import\/export permits, it has been added that permits may not be issued “within two years of cancellation of import\/export permit” and “if the applicant has ever lent an import\/export permit to another party.” Situations that have been deleted, meaning that it is now okay for the EPA to issue a permit, include, “if the applicant has ever had its import\/export permit terminated, or if falsified documents have been used to apply for an import\/export permit” and “applicants that have been issued penalties ordering them to halt operations or shut down business.” \n\n4. It has been added that enterprises must send personnel to a recipient country within five years of application to inspect the treatment plant, treatment capability and operation status, and guarantee that report content is accurate. This ensures exported waste receives appropriate treatment overseas.\n\n5. Due to the different criteria involved in revoking and annulling permits, Article 28~2 stipulates relevant regulations and delineates the scope of falsified documents. \n\n6. It has been added that when there are doubts about waste management for operators with permits, power of decision will reside with the local competent authority where the original permit was issued.\n\n7. When there are bilateral, multilateral or regional agreements on waste import and export, the content of such agreements shall be given priority.\n\n8. A special permit can be obtained to provide regulated import and export waste samples to related clearance technology researchers. The EPA can request applicants to provide necessary documents according to management needs. \n\n9. Considering stricter requirements regarding attached documents for export permit applications, a grace period is allowed to avoid implementation difficulties. \n\nFor more information, please call 02-23117722 ext. 2600", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Waste Import Export and Transshipment Regulations Revised", "position": "print\/V11\/V11-10" }, { "no": "2236", "title": "“The Greener We Live the Happier the Earth!” Logo Voting Activity", "preview": "Eco-labeling　　“The Greener We Live the Happier the Earth!” Logo Voting Activity\nTo attract citizens to get to know the Green Mark logo and do their part for green consumption, the EPA held the “Green Living Image Logo Selection Activity” in cooperation with Geant, General Welfare Service Ministry stores and B&Q. From 16 September 2008 to 15 October 2008, people can visit the EPA’s website Green Living Information Website (http:\/\/www. Eri. Com. Tw\/GreenLife\/actions\/greenlogo\/greenlogo. Html) to vote on the Green Living logo and voice their concept of green living. One hundred of the best entries will be selected and issued prizes.\nPeople are encouraged to write down their idea of green living and receive a Green Living Card, which can be posted on their own website, blog or email to show their interest in green living.", "content": "Eco-labeling　　“The Greener We Live the Happier the Earth!” Logo Voting Activity\nTo attract citizens to get to know the Green Mark logo and do their part for green consumption, the EPA held the “Green Living Image Logo Selection Activity” in cooperation with Geant, General Welfare Service Ministry stores and B&Q. From 16 September 2008 to 15 October 2008, people can visit the EPA’s website Green Living Information Website (http:\/\/www. Eri. Com. Tw\/GreenLife\/actions\/greenlogo\/greenlogo. Html) to vote on the Green Living logo and voice their concept of green living. One hundred of the best entries will be selected and issued prizes.\nPeople are encouraged to write down their idea of green living and receive a Green Living Card, which can be posted on their own website, blog or email to show their interest in green living.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Eco-labeling", "titlename": "The Greener We Live the Happier the Earth! Logo Voting Activity", "position": "print\/V11\/V11-10" }, { "no": "2232", "title": "GPS Installed on 1700 More Waste Clearance Vehicles", "preview": "Waste Management　　GPS Installed on 1700 More Waste Clearance Vehicles \nTo effectively keep track of the industrial waste flow, the EPA announced revisions to the Industrial Waste Clearance Vehicles Required to Install Real Time Tracking Systems on 25 August 2008. The revisions will expand the number of waste clearance vehicles under the tracking management system, requiring about 1,700 more vehicles to install GPS equipment. This will be carried out in three stages. \nAmong the targets to be included in the first stage of this measure are clearance and disposal vehicles that carry non-hazardous precipitator ash or mixtures of it, furnace residue, residual oil fly ash, general fly ash, or bottom ash composites, metal smelter residue (including raw steel residue), non-hazardous mineral residue, impure minerals, rejected ore, metal smelter slag, furnace slag or mineral slag composites, waste refractory material, mixed construction or building waste materials, and waste stone materials. These vehicles must obtain certification before 1 November 2008 to show that they have installed GPS equipment. \n\nThe second stage will target vehicles carrying boiler precipitator ash, precipitator ash from second grade aluminum smelting processes, coal ash, bagasse ash, cobalt-manganese ash, submerged arc welding residue, waste casting sand, electric arc furnace slag, reactor electric furnace slag, cupola furnace slag, blast furnace sludge, converter sludge, hot-rolling sludge, and rotary kiln slag. These vehicles must obtain certification before 1 November 2009 to show that they have installed GPS equipment. \n\nThe third stage targets third class publicly operated waste clearance or disposal vehicles including troughs, tankers, trough-tankers, and atmospheric-pressure trough-tankers. These vehicles must obtain certification before 1 July 2009 to show that they have installed GPS equipment. For more information, please see the EPA website (http:\/\/waste.epa.gov.tw\/).", "content": "Waste Management　　GPS Installed on 1700 More Waste Clearance Vehicles \nTo effectively keep track of the industrial waste flow, the EPA announced revisions to the Industrial Waste Clearance Vehicles Required to Install Real Time Tracking Systems on 25 August 2008. The revisions will expand the number of waste clearance vehicles under the tracking management system, requiring about 1,700 more vehicles to install GPS equipment. This will be carried out in three stages. \nAmong the targets to be included in the first stage of this measure are clearance and disposal vehicles that carry non-hazardous precipitator ash or mixtures of it, furnace residue, residual oil fly ash, general fly ash, or bottom ash composites, metal smelter residue (including raw steel residue), non-hazardous mineral residue, impure minerals, rejected ore, metal smelter slag, furnace slag or mineral slag composites, waste refractory material, mixed construction or building waste materials, and waste stone materials. These vehicles must obtain certification before 1 November 2008 to show that they have installed GPS equipment. \n\nThe second stage will target vehicles carrying boiler precipitator ash, precipitator ash from second grade aluminum smelting processes, coal ash, bagasse ash, cobalt-manganese ash, submerged arc welding residue, waste casting sand, electric arc furnace slag, reactor electric furnace slag, cupola furnace slag, blast furnace sludge, converter sludge, hot-rolling sludge, and rotary kiln slag. These vehicles must obtain certification before 1 November 2009 to show that they have installed GPS equipment. \n\nThe third stage targets third class publicly operated waste clearance or disposal vehicles including troughs, tankers, trough-tankers, and atmospheric-pressure trough-tankers. These vehicles must obtain certification before 1 July 2009 to show that they have installed GPS equipment. For more information, please see the EPA website (http:\/\/waste.epa.gov.tw\/).", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "GPS Installed on 1700 More Waste Clearance Vehicles", "position": "print\/V11\/V11-09" }, { "no": "2225", "title": "Cleanest Counties Cities, Townships and Boroughs Commended", "preview": "Environmental Sanitation　　Cleanest Counties Cities, Townships and Boroughs Commended \n\nCounties, cities, townships, and boroughs have been evaluated for their implementation of a national project to cleanup residential environments. This plan mobilizes the citizens of Taiwan’s 7,828 boroughs to clean up their living environment. The results of the 2007 evaluation show consistently high performance with 23 of Taiwan’s 25 counties\/municipalities showing outstanding performance. Tainan City, Taipei County and Yilan County ranked first place. Five townships were ranked as having superior performance: Toucheng Township in Yilan County, Fengyuan City in Taichung County, Shihding Township in Taipei County, Dongyin Township in Lianchiang County, and Lieyu Township in Kinmen County.", "content": "Environmental Sanitation　　Cleanest Counties Cities, Townships and Boroughs Commended \n\nCounties, cities, townships, and boroughs have been evaluated for their implementation of a national project to cleanup residential environments. This plan mobilizes the citizens of Taiwan’s 7,828 boroughs to clean up their living environment. The results of the 2007 evaluation show consistently high performance with 23 of Taiwan’s 25 counties\/municipalities showing outstanding performance. Tainan City, Taipei County and Yilan County ranked first place. Five townships were ranked as having superior performance: Toucheng Township in Yilan County, Fengyuan City in Taichung County, Shihding Township in Taipei County, Dongyin Township in Lianchiang County, and Lieyu Township in Kinmen County.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Sanitation", "titlename": "Cleanest Counties Cities Townships and Boroughs Commended", "position": "print\/V11\/V11-09" }, { "no": "2215", "title": "Battery Manufacture Import and Sale Restrictions Revised", "preview": "Recycling　　Battery Manufacture Import and Sale Restrictions Revised\n\nThe EPA has announced revisions to Article 6 of the Restrictions on the Manufacture, Import and Sale of Dry Cell Batteries. Revisions stipulate that when manufacturers and importers of disposable manganese-zinc batteries or non-button alkaline manganese batteries apply for document verification with the EPA, the company need only submit basic information on company registration, business registration or other authorized documents to verify their establishment.\n\n \n\nAccording to the Restrictions on the Manufacture, Import and Sale of Dry Cell Batteries (限制乾電池製造、輸入及販賣), from 1 September 2006 all manufacturers and importers of disposable manganese-zinc batteries and non-button alkaline manganese batteries have been required to first submit test reports to verify batteries contain less than 5ppm mercury before they engage in manufacture or import activities. Manufacture and import may commence only after obtaining verification documents from the EPA. By the end of 30 June 2008, already 1,350 documents had been issued to verify mercury amounts accord with the restriction. The rate of violations discovered by local environmental protection bureaus during inspections has gradually decreased, showing that this policy has steered a trend toward the design of low-mercury dry cell batteries. \n\n \n\nThe EPA has undertaken this revision to complement the Ministry of Economic Affairs’ revisions to the Business Registration Act on 16 January 2008, which have canceled the former for-profit business registration issuance system. In the future, corporations and other businesses are not required to register as for-profit businesses, and need only complete company registration or commercial registration. The EPA has responded by revising Article 6 of the original Restrictions on the Manufacture, Import and Sale of Dry Cell Batteries. Previously manufacturers and importers applying for verification documents were required to submit a “certified copy of company registration or for-profit business registration.” This has been revised to require “company registration, commercial registration, or other documents issued by competent authorities to verify establishment.” This change makes it easier for businesses to apply for verification documents.", "content": "Recycling　　Battery Manufacture Import and Sale Restrictions Revised\n\nThe EPA has announced revisions to Article 6 of the Restrictions on the Manufacture, Import and Sale of Dry Cell Batteries. Revisions stipulate that when manufacturers and importers of disposable manganese-zinc batteries or non-button alkaline manganese batteries apply for document verification with the EPA, the company need only submit basic information on company registration, business registration or other authorized documents to verify their establishment.\n\n \n\nAccording to the Restrictions on the Manufacture, Import and Sale of Dry Cell Batteries (限制乾電池製造、輸入及販賣), from 1 September 2006 all manufacturers and importers of disposable manganese-zinc batteries and non-button alkaline manganese batteries have been required to first submit test reports to verify batteries contain less than 5ppm mercury before they engage in manufacture or import activities. Manufacture and import may commence only after obtaining verification documents from the EPA. By the end of 30 June 2008, already 1,350 documents had been issued to verify mercury amounts accord with the restriction. The rate of violations discovered by local environmental protection bureaus during inspections has gradually decreased, showing that this policy has steered a trend toward the design of low-mercury dry cell batteries. \n\n \n\nThe EPA has undertaken this revision to complement the Ministry of Economic Affairs’ revisions to the Business Registration Act on 16 January 2008, which have canceled the former for-profit business registration issuance system. In the future, corporations and other businesses are not required to register as for-profit businesses, and need only complete company registration or commercial registration. The EPA has responded by revising Article 6 of the original Restrictions on the Manufacture, Import and Sale of Dry Cell Batteries. Previously manufacturers and importers applying for verification documents were required to submit a “certified copy of company registration or for-profit business registration.” This has been revised to require “company registration, commercial registration, or other documents issued by competent authorities to verify establishment.” This change makes it easier for businesses to apply for verification documents.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Battery Manufacture Import and Sale Restrictions Revised", "position": "print\/V11\/V11-08" }, { "no": "2204", "title": "Waste Import Export and Transit Regulations Under Revision", "preview": "Waste Management　　Waste Import Export and Transit Regulations Under Revision\n\nThe EPA will revise regulations to ensure appropriate treatment of exported and imported waste materials. For example, waste exporters will be required to compile a report about their onsite visit of the recipient country’s treatment plants to oversee treatment capacity and management operations. Also, enterprises may not import waste for two years after their import permit has been revoked. \n\nResponsible for the management of waste imports and exports, the EPA made a preannouncement of revisions to the Waste Import, Export, Transit and Transshipment Management Regulations (廢棄物輸入輸出過境轉口管理辦法) on 26 June 2008. The revisions are posted online under the preannouncement section of the EPA website (http:\/\/w3.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx).\n\n \n\nThe EPA promulgated the Waste Import, Export, Transit and Transshipment Management Regulations (廢棄物輸入輸出過境轉口管理辦法) on 2 January 2003 to ensure appropriate treatment of imported and exported waste. Although this was revised in 2005, some disputed parts concerning actual management still required further clarification. The focus of this round of revision includes the following:\n\n \n\n1. It is clarified that waste transported from bonded warehouses, logistics centers, bonded factories, agricultural technology park industries, free port industries and domestic taxation zones is not considered import or export waste (Article 3).\n\n \n\n2. To ensure exported waste undergoes appropriate treatment abroad, it has been added that applicants must prepare a report of their onsite visit to the recipient country’s treatment plant to inspect treatment capacity and operations within five years of applying, and verify accuracy of their report (Article 12).\n\n \n\n3. Clarification is given to waste import and export permit inspection deadlines, dubious treatment, and the definition and restrictions of first-time applications (Articles 6 and 14).\n\n \n\n4. Separate regulations have been drafted for illegal import\/export of general industrial waste and hazardous waste (Articles 7 and 16).\n\n \n\n5. A clause has been added specifying that the EPA may not issue an import permit to those who have had their import permits revoked within two years (Articles 7 and 16).\n\n \n\n6. It has been specified that those importing waste without a permit will without exception be required to send the waste back within a given deadline; customs officials may not confiscate or dispose of such waste. Punishment for those who refuse to send back waste will follow penalties for dumping waste (Article 11).\n\n \n\n7. For cases of waste import\/export with countries that have signed bilateral agreements with Taiwan, it is specified that priority shall rest with the content of agreements (Article 33).\n\n \n\n8. It is specified that the import\/export of waste samples can be provided to academic research organizations to develop treatment technology; special cases can apply for an import\/export permit from the EPA (Article 38).\n\n \n\nFor more information, please call 02-23117722 ext. 2600.", "content": "Waste Management　　Waste Import Export and Transit Regulations Under Revision\n\nThe EPA will revise regulations to ensure appropriate treatment of exported and imported waste materials. For example, waste exporters will be required to compile a report about their onsite visit of the recipient country’s treatment plants to oversee treatment capacity and management operations. Also, enterprises may not import waste for two years after their import permit has been revoked. \n\nResponsible for the management of waste imports and exports, the EPA made a preannouncement of revisions to the Waste Import, Export, Transit and Transshipment Management Regulations (廢棄物輸入輸出過境轉口管理辦法) on 26 June 2008. The revisions are posted online under the preannouncement section of the EPA website (http:\/\/w3.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx).\n\n \n\nThe EPA promulgated the Waste Import, Export, Transit and Transshipment Management Regulations (廢棄物輸入輸出過境轉口管理辦法) on 2 January 2003 to ensure appropriate treatment of imported and exported waste. Although this was revised in 2005, some disputed parts concerning actual management still required further clarification. The focus of this round of revision includes the following:\n\n \n\n1. It is clarified that waste transported from bonded warehouses, logistics centers, bonded factories, agricultural technology park industries, free port industries and domestic taxation zones is not considered import or export waste (Article 3).\n\n \n\n2. To ensure exported waste undergoes appropriate treatment abroad, it has been added that applicants must prepare a report of their onsite visit to the recipient country’s treatment plant to inspect treatment capacity and operations within five years of applying, and verify accuracy of their report (Article 12).\n\n \n\n3. Clarification is given to waste import and export permit inspection deadlines, dubious treatment, and the definition and restrictions of first-time applications (Articles 6 and 14).\n\n \n\n4. Separate regulations have been drafted for illegal import\/export of general industrial waste and hazardous waste (Articles 7 and 16).\n\n \n\n5. A clause has been added specifying that the EPA may not issue an import permit to those who have had their import permits revoked within two years (Articles 7 and 16).\n\n \n\n6. It has been specified that those importing waste without a permit will without exception be required to send the waste back within a given deadline; customs officials may not confiscate or dispose of such waste. Punishment for those who refuse to send back waste will follow penalties for dumping waste (Article 11).\n\n \n\n7. For cases of waste import\/export with countries that have signed bilateral agreements with Taiwan, it is specified that priority shall rest with the content of agreements (Article 33).\n\n \n\n8. It is specified that the import\/export of waste samples can be provided to academic research organizations to develop treatment technology; special cases can apply for an import\/export permit from the EPA (Article 38).\n\n \n\nFor more information, please call 02-23117722 ext. 2600.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Waste Import Export and Transit Regulations Under Revision", "position": "print\/V11\/V11-07" }, { "no": "2189", "title": "Restrictions on Manufacture Import and Sale of Batteries to Be Revised", "preview": "Waste Management Restrictions on Manufacture Import and Sale of Batteries to Be Revised\n\nResponding to revisions made to the Business Registration Act (商業登記法), namely, deletion of the “For-Profit Business Unified Certification System” which annuls for-profit business registration certificates, the EPA has made a preannouncement of revisions to Article 6 of the Restrictions on the Manufacture, Import and Sale of Dry Cell Batteries (限制乾電池製造、輸入及販賣). In the future, when designated battery manufacturers and importers apply to the EPA for certification documents, the only basic information required is company registration, commercial registration, or certificates issued by other competent authorities.\n\nRevisions to the Business Registration Act were promulgated by the Ministry of Economic Affairs on 16 January 2008, canceling the former for-profit business registration certification issuance system. In the future, companies and other commercial enterprises will not need to obtain for-profit industry registration, and will only need company registration and commercial registration.", "content": "Waste Management Restrictions on Manufacture Import and Sale of Batteries to Be Revised\n\nResponding to revisions made to the Business Registration Act (商業登記法), namely, deletion of the “For-Profit Business Unified Certification System” which annuls for-profit business registration certificates, the EPA has made a preannouncement of revisions to Article 6 of the Restrictions on the Manufacture, Import and Sale of Dry Cell Batteries (限制乾電池製造、輸入及販賣). In the future, when designated battery manufacturers and importers apply to the EPA for certification documents, the only basic information required is company registration, commercial registration, or certificates issued by other competent authorities.\n\nRevisions to the Business Registration Act were promulgated by the Ministry of Economic Affairs on 16 January 2008, canceling the former for-profit business registration certification issuance system. In the future, companies and other commercial enterprises will not need to obtain for-profit industry registration, and will only need company registration and commercial registration.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Restrictions on Manufacture Import and Sale of Batteries to Be Revised", "position": "print\/V11\/V11-06" }, { "no": "2171", "title": "Environmental Mascot Design Contest 15 Entries Selected", "preview": "Recycling Environmental Mascot Design Contest 15 Entries Selected\n\nThe EPA held an “environmental mascot” product design contest last month, attracting a total of 301 design entries, from which 15 outstanding works were selected for their environmental concepts and creativity. The winners were announced and given awards and grants on 24 April 2008. The EPA used this activity to remind people that caring for the environment and reusing resources in our daily lives can maximize the value and potential of waste products.", "content": "Recycling Environmental Mascot Design Contest 15 Entries Selected\n\nThe EPA held an “environmental mascot” product design contest last month, attracting a total of 301 design entries, from which 15 outstanding works were selected for their environmental concepts and creativity. The winners were announced and given awards and grants on 24 April 2008. The EPA used this activity to remind people that caring for the environment and reusing resources in our daily lives can maximize the value and potential of waste products.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Environmental Mascot Design Contest 15 Entries Selected", "position": "print\/V11\/V11-05" }, { "no": "2157", "title": "Air Water, Waste, Toxics Permit Application Available Online", "preview": "Waste Management \n\nAir Water, Waste, Toxics Permit Application Available Online\n\nThis year the EPA will allow enterprises to use the Internet for reporting twelve categories of data, including air emissions, wastewater, solid waste, and toxic chemical substances. The objective of this measure is to establish a comprehensive electronic reporting system that makes it convenient for enterprises to submit applications. \n\nThe EPA’s integrated environmental management system (EMS) was launched on 1 August 2007, allowing businesses to work through a single portal website to confirm and file baseline data for permits, apply for various permits and make changes to data. This year the EPA will expand this system to allow applications for twelve categories of permits regarding air emissions, wastewater, solid waste, and toxics over the Internet. This measure will establish a comprehensive electronic reporting system to make it convenient for enterprises to file applications.\n\n \n\nEPA statistics show there are currently 7,206 companies regulated for at least two different types of pollution, and 6,939 have already gone online to confirm baseline data. This is a confirmation rate of 96%, attesting to the effectiveness of this system. \n\n \n\nFrom February to March 2008, the EPA has held 97 promotional briefings in all counties and cities to guide industries in using this single portal EMS website for all types of waste, as well as to file industrial waste clearance and treatment plans, make changes or adjustments, and report their waste clearance and treatment flow. The EPA also plans to integrate the second generation waste clearance and treatment organization permit system into this system to make it more convenient for public and private waste clearance and treatment organizations to apply for permits online as well as expedite the online review work of local environmental protection bureaus.", "content": "Waste Management \n\nAir Water, Waste, Toxics Permit Application Available Online\n\nThis year the EPA will allow enterprises to use the Internet for reporting twelve categories of data, including air emissions, wastewater, solid waste, and toxic chemical substances. The objective of this measure is to establish a comprehensive electronic reporting system that makes it convenient for enterprises to submit applications. \n\nThe EPA’s integrated environmental management system (EMS) was launched on 1 August 2007, allowing businesses to work through a single portal website to confirm and file baseline data for permits, apply for various permits and make changes to data. This year the EPA will expand this system to allow applications for twelve categories of permits regarding air emissions, wastewater, solid waste, and toxics over the Internet. This measure will establish a comprehensive electronic reporting system to make it convenient for enterprises to file applications.\n\n \n\nEPA statistics show there are currently 7,206 companies regulated for at least two different types of pollution, and 6,939 have already gone online to confirm baseline data. This is a confirmation rate of 96%, attesting to the effectiveness of this system. \n\n \n\nFrom February to March 2008, the EPA has held 97 promotional briefings in all counties and cities to guide industries in using this single portal EMS website for all types of waste, as well as to file industrial waste clearance and treatment plans, make changes or adjustments, and report their waste clearance and treatment flow. The EPA also plans to integrate the second generation waste clearance and treatment organization permit system into this system to make it more convenient for public and private waste clearance and treatment organizations to apply for permits online as well as expedite the online review work of local environmental protection bureaus.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Air Water Waste, Toxics Permit Application Available Online", "position": "print\/V11\/V11-04" }, { "no": "2142", "title": "Reduction Recycling and Reuse Performance Awards", "preview": "Waste Management Reduction Recycling and Reuse Performance Awards \n\nEncouraging industry to appropriately treat industrial waste and reduce, recycle and reuse resources, in 2008 the EPA held the “Industrial Waste and Renewable Resource Clearance and Treatment and Resource Reduction, Recycling and Reuse Excellent Performance Awards.” The registration deadline is 31 March 2008. Selection rules are posted on the EPA’s website (www.epa.gov.tw) under the industrial waste management section. Those industries chosen for the best performance will be publicly commended and granted awards. All companies are welcome to participate. As in previous years, the selection will be based on the two categories of “Waste Clearance and Treatment and Resource Reduction, Recycling and Reuse,” and “Renewable Resource Recycling and Reuse.”", "content": "Waste Management Reduction Recycling and Reuse Performance Awards \n\nEncouraging industry to appropriately treat industrial waste and reduce, recycle and reuse resources, in 2008 the EPA held the “Industrial Waste and Renewable Resource Clearance and Treatment and Resource Reduction, Recycling and Reuse Excellent Performance Awards.” The registration deadline is 31 March 2008. Selection rules are posted on the EPA’s website (www.epa.gov.tw) under the industrial waste management section. Those industries chosen for the best performance will be publicly commended and granted awards. All companies are welcome to participate. As in previous years, the selection will be based on the two categories of “Waste Clearance and Treatment and Resource Reduction, Recycling and Reuse,” and “Renewable Resource Recycling and Reuse.”", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Reduction Recycling and Reuse Performance Awards", "position": "print\/V11\/V11-03" }, { "no": "2134", "title": "Plant a Tree Leave Your Roots in Taiwan", "preview": "General Policy Plant a Tree Leave Your Roots in Taiwan\n\nThe EPA held the “Plant a Tree, Leave Your Roots in Taiwan” tree planting activity on Valentine’s Day (14 February 2008) to fight global warming and mitigate the greenhouse effect. Attending the event were over 300 citizens and foreign friends passionate about Taiwan, as well as 23 ambassadors and national representatives, including Burkina Faso Ambassador Jacques Sawadogo, and Mr. Michael D. Reilly, Director General of the British Trade and Cultural Office. Also present were Jhu Yu-feng (朱玉鳳), deputy director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Lin Zong-nan (林宗男), deputy director of the Council of Agriculture. The six species of trees planted on that day were beech, flamegold, Cassia fistula, camphor, Fraxinus griffithii and Pterocarpus indicus. The trees are estimated to absorb between 240~360 tonnes of carbon dioxide after about 20 years.", "content": "General Policy Plant a Tree Leave Your Roots in Taiwan\n\nThe EPA held the “Plant a Tree, Leave Your Roots in Taiwan” tree planting activity on Valentine’s Day (14 February 2008) to fight global warming and mitigate the greenhouse effect. Attending the event were over 300 citizens and foreign friends passionate about Taiwan, as well as 23 ambassadors and national representatives, including Burkina Faso Ambassador Jacques Sawadogo, and Mr. Michael D. Reilly, Director General of the British Trade and Cultural Office. Also present were Jhu Yu-feng (朱玉鳳), deputy director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Lin Zong-nan (林宗男), deputy director of the Council of Agriculture. The six species of trees planted on that day were beech, flamegold, Cassia fistula, camphor, Fraxinus griffithii and Pterocarpus indicus. The trees are estimated to absorb between 240~360 tonnes of carbon dioxide after about 20 years.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Plant a Tree Leave Your Roots in Taiwan", "position": "print\/V11\/V11-03" }, { "no": "2122", "title": "Local Governments Subsidized to Purchase 2800 Garbage Trucks", "preview": "Waste Management \n\nLocal Governments Subsidized to Purchase 2800 Garbage Trucks\n\nIn consideration of the safety of sanitation crews and the fact that 60% of the nation’s garbage trucks are nearing retirement, the EPA will allocate NT$4.85 billion over the next five years toward the replacement of 2,800 garbage trucks. \n\nOver sixty percent of Taiwan’s garbage trucks are beyond their years and experience frequent failure. Expenses for repairs are high and this situation represents a potential safety hazard for the sanitation crews that are shuttled around every day. The EPA is expediting the replacement of these aging vehicles by subsidizing all 25 counties and municipalities to replace 2,800 garbage trucks over the next five years. This measure, the largest subsidy from the central government toward local garbage trucks, will ensure that all aging garbage trucks in every township are replaced.\n\n \n\nAccording to the Executive Yuan’s “Property Classification Standards,” garbage trucks can be replaced after six years on the road, however the EPA statistics show that over 60% of the nation’s 4,600 garbage trucks throughout Taiwan’s 319 townships and 25 counties and municipalities are already over six years old. With local governments unable to finance replacements, constant repairs are the only way to keep their aging fleets in use. Not only do these vehicles frequently malfunction, but each year a great deal of money is spent on repairs and maintenance. Neither economical nor safe, this sometimes means living with odors, leakage of garbage effluent and even the proliferation of disease vectors that could affect the appearance of localities.\n\n \n\nThe EPA will allocate NT$4.85 billion over six years from 2007 to 2012 to subsidize the replacement of 2,800 aged vehicles. The new vehicles will have the latest sealed compression system which guarantees optimal sealing to ensure garbage effluent does not leak out or release odors during transport. The reinforced compression function is capable of reducing the volume of loose garbage by a third and increasing the amount of space available for transporting garbage each trip.\n\n \n\nThis is the first time the central government has provided contracts for procurement subsidies. Last year the EPA allocated NT$240 million to subsidize the purchase of 86 trucks, and this year will set aside NT$1.22 billion for the purchase of 500 trucks. At this rate, over the next five years, the EPA will achieve its goal to replace all aged garbage trucks throughout the nation’s townships and cities. \n\n \n\nThe EPA emphasizes that local governments need only select appropriate vehicles from among 30 supplying companies and do not have to enter a bidding process. This saves costs on procurement administration and raises procurement efficiency. As for the replaced aging vehicles, the EPA will consider donating them to ally countries or regions to ensure sustainable use of resources and maintain friendly diplomatic relations.", "content": "Waste Management \n\nLocal Governments Subsidized to Purchase 2800 Garbage Trucks\n\nIn consideration of the safety of sanitation crews and the fact that 60% of the nation’s garbage trucks are nearing retirement, the EPA will allocate NT$4.85 billion over the next five years toward the replacement of 2,800 garbage trucks. \n\nOver sixty percent of Taiwan’s garbage trucks are beyond their years and experience frequent failure. Expenses for repairs are high and this situation represents a potential safety hazard for the sanitation crews that are shuttled around every day. The EPA is expediting the replacement of these aging vehicles by subsidizing all 25 counties and municipalities to replace 2,800 garbage trucks over the next five years. This measure, the largest subsidy from the central government toward local garbage trucks, will ensure that all aging garbage trucks in every township are replaced.\n\n \n\nAccording to the Executive Yuan’s “Property Classification Standards,” garbage trucks can be replaced after six years on the road, however the EPA statistics show that over 60% of the nation’s 4,600 garbage trucks throughout Taiwan’s 319 townships and 25 counties and municipalities are already over six years old. With local governments unable to finance replacements, constant repairs are the only way to keep their aging fleets in use. Not only do these vehicles frequently malfunction, but each year a great deal of money is spent on repairs and maintenance. Neither economical nor safe, this sometimes means living with odors, leakage of garbage effluent and even the proliferation of disease vectors that could affect the appearance of localities.\n\n \n\nThe EPA will allocate NT$4.85 billion over six years from 2007 to 2012 to subsidize the replacement of 2,800 aged vehicles. The new vehicles will have the latest sealed compression system which guarantees optimal sealing to ensure garbage effluent does not leak out or release odors during transport. The reinforced compression function is capable of reducing the volume of loose garbage by a third and increasing the amount of space available for transporting garbage each trip.\n\n \n\nThis is the first time the central government has provided contracts for procurement subsidies. Last year the EPA allocated NT$240 million to subsidize the purchase of 86 trucks, and this year will set aside NT$1.22 billion for the purchase of 500 trucks. At this rate, over the next five years, the EPA will achieve its goal to replace all aged garbage trucks throughout the nation’s townships and cities. \n\n \n\nThe EPA emphasizes that local governments need only select appropriate vehicles from among 30 supplying companies and do not have to enter a bidding process. This saves costs on procurement administration and raises procurement efficiency. As for the replaced aging vehicles, the EPA will consider donating them to ally countries or regions to ensure sustainable use of resources and maintain friendly diplomatic relations.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Local Governments Subsidized to Purchase 2800 Garbage Trucks", "position": "print\/V11\/V11-02" }, { "no": "2084", "title": "Domestic and Foreign Experts Talk on Waste Management Treatment and Reuse Technology", "preview": "Waste Management From 22~23 November 2007 the EPA invited waste experts from the US and Taiwan for a series of special topic lectures in Taipei and Kaohsiung on “Domestic and Foreign Industrial Waste Management Policy, Waste Management and Recycling Technology.” The purpose of this event was to increase understanding of the current state of domestic and foreign waste management and treatment and recycling technology. The EPA invited Dr. Pao-Chiang Yuan (袁保強), a professor at Jackson State University Department of Technology in Mississippi, USA, to deliver a lecture. Drawing from his many years of experience in the US researching industrial waste management, recycling and treatment technology, and landfill materials control, during the conference Dr. Yuan introduced related examples of appropriate treatment and monitoring technology at hazardous waste treatment facilities in the US. In addition the EPA invited National Taipei Technology University Environmental Planning and Management Research Institute professor Chang Tian Jin (張添晉) to introduce the current domestic waste with potential for reuse such as mercury light bulbs, dust from steel smelting, waste lithium batteries and real applications of reusing waste lead glass.", "content": "Waste Management From 22~23 November 2007 the EPA invited waste experts from the US and Taiwan for a series of special topic lectures in Taipei and Kaohsiung on “Domestic and Foreign Industrial Waste Management Policy, Waste Management and Recycling Technology.” The purpose of this event was to increase understanding of the current state of domestic and foreign waste management and treatment and recycling technology. The EPA invited Dr. Pao-Chiang Yuan (袁保強), a professor at Jackson State University Department of Technology in Mississippi, USA, to deliver a lecture. Drawing from his many years of experience in the US researching industrial waste management, recycling and treatment technology, and landfill materials control, during the conference Dr. Yuan introduced related examples of appropriate treatment and monitoring technology at hazardous waste treatment facilities in the US. In addition the EPA invited National Taipei Technology University Environmental Planning and Management Research Institute professor Chang Tian Jin (張添晉) to introduce the current domestic waste with potential for reuse such as mercury light bulbs, dust from steel smelting, waste lithium batteries and real applications of reusing waste lead glass.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Domestic and Foreign Experts Talk on Waste Management Treatment and Reuse Technology", "position": "print\/V10\/V10-12" }, { "no": "2058", "title": "LPG Retrofit Can Save NT$4000 a Month, EPA Minister Sets Example", "preview": "Air Quality \n\nLPG Retrofit Can Save NT$4000 a Month, EPA Minister Sets Example\n\nFacing imminent energy scarcity and inflating oil prices, EPA Minister Winston Dang has taken the lead to retrofit his vehicle to use LPG. After making the changes, the minister’s car saves an average of NT$4,000 each month. Dang calls on other government agencies to retrofit their public vehicles.\n\nAs oil prices continue to rise, the EPA is encouraging the public to use bi-fuel cars (locally referred to as “LPG cars”). Fueling up with LPG costs NT$17.7 per liter, and the EPA provides a subsidy of NT$2 to make up for the price difference so consumers actually only pay NT$15.7 per liter. This is comparable to the price of unleaded gasoline at NT$15 per liter in 2006. Bi-fuel cars are preferable in that they generate less exhaust than conventional automobiles. \n\n \n\nWhile EPA Minister Dang was delivering a report recently in the Legislative Yuan, one legislator commented that ministers’ sedans are commonly 3,000cc or 4,000cc vehicles so if the government is going to advocate energy conservation, why not take the lead by first retrofitting these vehicles.\n\n \n\nMinister Dang replied that he hopes that all of the nation’s public vehicles and 96,000 taxis are retrofitted with LPG bi-fuel engines or low-polluting cars that save money and energy and are better for the earth. Dang said that after retrofitting his 3,000 cc sedan as a LPG bi-fuel vehicle that uses both LPG and gasoline, he saves about NT$3,800 per month. The EPA’s two deputy ministers have also retrofitted their vehicles and currently the EPA has four LPG bi-fuel public vehicles. Early on in mid-August the minister reported to the Executive Yuan that future purchases of public vehicles must go toward low-polluting vehicles. While gradually replacing its fleet, the EPA also calls on the nation’s many taxis to be retrofitted as LPG bi-fuel vehicles.\n\n \n\nMinister Dang indicated that Taiwan currently has about 12,000 LPG bi-fuel vehicles. It costs about NT$46,000 to retrofit an average vehicle. After making the retrofit, the minister’s vehicle saves about NT$3,000~4000 in fuel costs per month. Taxis could save as much as NT$10,000 per month. Currently Taichung County, Taichung City, and Changhua County subsidize NT$25,000 per vehicle in gas vouchers toward the newly purchased and retrofitted LPG bi-fuel vehicle. In addition, retrofitters give retrofit drivers discount coupons for NT$1.5 off each liter. \n\n \n\nMinister Dang said that one of the main reasons why the number of LPG bi-fuel vehicles is not going up is because LPG filling stations are few and far between. Dang said that currently Taiwan only has 20 LPG filling stations. Kaohsiung has 6,600 taxis but only two filling stations. The EPA is now working with the Bureau of Energy, Ministry of Economic Affairs, and Chinese Petroleum Corp to expedite the addition of more LPG filling stations in the near future. \n\n \n\nThe EPA indicates that the technology for retrofitting gasoline and LPG bi-fuel vehicles is already quite mature. Statistics show that one liter of LPG can get up to ten kilometers on the highway. If it takes 45 liters to fill a tank of LPG, there should be no problem driving all the way from Taipei to Kaohsiung on one tank. After the tank is empty, the vehicle automatically switches over to the gasoline fuel system with no worries about the engine turning off.", "content": "Air Quality \n\nLPG Retrofit Can Save NT$4000 a Month, EPA Minister Sets Example\n\nFacing imminent energy scarcity and inflating oil prices, EPA Minister Winston Dang has taken the lead to retrofit his vehicle to use LPG. After making the changes, the minister’s car saves an average of NT$4,000 each month. Dang calls on other government agencies to retrofit their public vehicles.\n\nAs oil prices continue to rise, the EPA is encouraging the public to use bi-fuel cars (locally referred to as “LPG cars”). Fueling up with LPG costs NT$17.7 per liter, and the EPA provides a subsidy of NT$2 to make up for the price difference so consumers actually only pay NT$15.7 per liter. This is comparable to the price of unleaded gasoline at NT$15 per liter in 2006. Bi-fuel cars are preferable in that they generate less exhaust than conventional automobiles. \n\n \n\nWhile EPA Minister Dang was delivering a report recently in the Legislative Yuan, one legislator commented that ministers’ sedans are commonly 3,000cc or 4,000cc vehicles so if the government is going to advocate energy conservation, why not take the lead by first retrofitting these vehicles.\n\n \n\nMinister Dang replied that he hopes that all of the nation’s public vehicles and 96,000 taxis are retrofitted with LPG bi-fuel engines or low-polluting cars that save money and energy and are better for the earth. Dang said that after retrofitting his 3,000 cc sedan as a LPG bi-fuel vehicle that uses both LPG and gasoline, he saves about NT$3,800 per month. The EPA’s two deputy ministers have also retrofitted their vehicles and currently the EPA has four LPG bi-fuel public vehicles. Early on in mid-August the minister reported to the Executive Yuan that future purchases of public vehicles must go toward low-polluting vehicles. While gradually replacing its fleet, the EPA also calls on the nation’s many taxis to be retrofitted as LPG bi-fuel vehicles.\n\n \n\nMinister Dang indicated that Taiwan currently has about 12,000 LPG bi-fuel vehicles. It costs about NT$46,000 to retrofit an average vehicle. After making the retrofit, the minister’s vehicle saves about NT$3,000~4000 in fuel costs per month. Taxis could save as much as NT$10,000 per month. Currently Taichung County, Taichung City, and Changhua County subsidize NT$25,000 per vehicle in gas vouchers toward the newly purchased and retrofitted LPG bi-fuel vehicle. In addition, retrofitters give retrofit drivers discount coupons for NT$1.5 off each liter. \n\n \n\nMinister Dang said that one of the main reasons why the number of LPG bi-fuel vehicles is not going up is because LPG filling stations are few and far between. Dang said that currently Taiwan only has 20 LPG filling stations. Kaohsiung has 6,600 taxis but only two filling stations. The EPA is now working with the Bureau of Energy, Ministry of Economic Affairs, and Chinese Petroleum Corp to expedite the addition of more LPG filling stations in the near future. \n\n \n\nThe EPA indicates that the technology for retrofitting gasoline and LPG bi-fuel vehicles is already quite mature. Statistics show that one liter of LPG can get up to ten kilometers on the highway. If it takes 45 liters to fill a tank of LPG, there should be no problem driving all the way from Taipei to Kaohsiung on one tank. After the tank is empty, the vehicle automatically switches over to the gasoline fuel system with no worries about the engine turning off.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "LPG Retrofit Can Save NT$4000 a Month EPA Minister Sets Example", "position": "print\/V10\/V10-11" }, { "no": "2033", "title": "Threshold Raised for Receiving Recycling Clearance and Treatment Subsidies", "preview": "Recycling \n\nThreshold Raised for Receiving Recycling Clearance and Treatment Subsidies \n\nTo enhance the effectiveness of enterprises engaging in recycling, clearance and treatment of waste resources, the EPA will revise related regulations and require enterprises to reach stipulated treatment outcomes before they may receive subsidies.\n\nThe EPA is revising regulations on applications for subsidization of waste recycling, clearance and treatment. The draft revision tightens the criteria for receiving subsidies to ensure enterprises engaged in treatment of mandatory recyclables raise their resource recycling and reuse rates, increase the elimination rate of hazardous waste, and attain recycling goals. In the future when treatment enterprises apply for subsidies they must first show their treatment performance meets stipulated restrictions. For example, they must attain certain reuse rates or show that they can effectively recycle or extract hazardous substances. \n\nThe EPA indicates that according to the Waste Disposal Act, those wishing to apply for subsidization of recycling, clearance, or treatment of mandatory recyclables must first receive approval by the EPA. On 9 October 2002, the EPA promulgated the Mandatory Recyclable Waste Recycling, Clearance and Treatment Subsidy Application Review Management Regulations, which can be used to review the qualifications of businesses applying for subsidies. Important items considered for review include various treatment methods and equipment standard and inspection verification regulations. This is to ensure industries comply with all environmental regulations, appropriately treat mandatory recyclables, and enhance the effectiveness of resource recycling. \n\nThe EPA states that the main objective of this round of revisions is to strengthen management of enterprises that receive subsidies, and to increase recycling and reuse rates. The regulation treats an enterprise's treatment effectiveness as a requirement in applying for subsidies. This is will effectively reach goals to cycle and reuse resources by guiding enterprises to enhance treatment technology and expand reuse channels. As for updating application procedures, the EPA has added a new online application service to provide greater convenience as enterprises are already required to report waste flow and other information online. The subsidy application procedure has been streamlined to reduce difficulties and enhance administrative efficiency. \n\nThe EPA has posted this draft revision on the preannouncement section of its website at http:\/\/w3.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx.", "content": "Recycling \n\nThreshold Raised for Receiving Recycling Clearance and Treatment Subsidies \n\nTo enhance the effectiveness of enterprises engaging in recycling, clearance and treatment of waste resources, the EPA will revise related regulations and require enterprises to reach stipulated treatment outcomes before they may receive subsidies.\n\nThe EPA is revising regulations on applications for subsidization of waste recycling, clearance and treatment. The draft revision tightens the criteria for receiving subsidies to ensure enterprises engaged in treatment of mandatory recyclables raise their resource recycling and reuse rates, increase the elimination rate of hazardous waste, and attain recycling goals. In the future when treatment enterprises apply for subsidies they must first show their treatment performance meets stipulated restrictions. For example, they must attain certain reuse rates or show that they can effectively recycle or extract hazardous substances. \n\nThe EPA indicates that according to the Waste Disposal Act, those wishing to apply for subsidization of recycling, clearance, or treatment of mandatory recyclables must first receive approval by the EPA. On 9 October 2002, the EPA promulgated the Mandatory Recyclable Waste Recycling, Clearance and Treatment Subsidy Application Review Management Regulations, which can be used to review the qualifications of businesses applying for subsidies. Important items considered for review include various treatment methods and equipment standard and inspection verification regulations. This is to ensure industries comply with all environmental regulations, appropriately treat mandatory recyclables, and enhance the effectiveness of resource recycling. \n\nThe EPA states that the main objective of this round of revisions is to strengthen management of enterprises that receive subsidies, and to increase recycling and reuse rates. The regulation treats an enterprise's treatment effectiveness as a requirement in applying for subsidies. This is will effectively reach goals to cycle and reuse resources by guiding enterprises to enhance treatment technology and expand reuse channels. As for updating application procedures, the EPA has added a new online application service to provide greater convenience as enterprises are already required to report waste flow and other information online. The subsidy application procedure has been streamlined to reduce difficulties and enhance administrative efficiency. \n\nThe EPA has posted this draft revision on the preannouncement section of its website at http:\/\/w3.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Threshold Raised for Receiving Recycling Clearance and Treatment Subsidies", "position": "print\/V10\/V10-09" }, { "no": "2030", "title": "Neighborhood Cleanup Performance Best in Taichung City Taichung County and Yilan County", "preview": "Environmental Saniation Since the outset of the EPA's \"Neighborhood Cleanup Mobilization Plan\" in September 2006 local governments have been asked to carry out comprehensive neighborhood cleanup initiatives. To ensure this plan is being carried out, local governments are evaluated for not only tidying residential areas, but also clamping down on polluting activities, cleaning up unkempt spots, greening and beautification, and environmental education efforts. The EPA invited experts and scholars to evaluate progress over this past year and rank the performance of all counties and cities. The top three performers were Taichung City, Taichung County and Yilan County.", "content": "Environmental Saniation Since the outset of the EPA's \"Neighborhood Cleanup Mobilization Plan\" in September 2006 local governments have been asked to carry out comprehensive neighborhood cleanup initiatives. To ensure this plan is being carried out, local governments are evaluated for not only tidying residential areas, but also clamping down on polluting activities, cleaning up unkempt spots, greening and beautification, and environmental education efforts. The EPA invited experts and scholars to evaluate progress over this past year and rank the performance of all counties and cities. The top three performers were Taichung City, Taichung County and Yilan County.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Saniation", "titlename": "Neighborhood Cleanup Performance Best in Taichung City Taichung County and Yilan County", "position": "print\/V10\/V10-09" }, { "no": "1993", "title": "Environmental Management System Integrates Air Water, Waste, Toxics", "preview": "Environmental Information \n\nEnvironmental Management System Integrates Air Water, Waste, Toxics\n\nThe EPA's air, water, waste and toxic environmental management system (EMS) will be integrated from 1 August 2007. Enterprises can confirm permit baseline data through a single portal website and handle all sorts of permit transfers and applications for permits. \n\nThe EPA's website has set up individual permit application control systems for the fields of air, water, waste, and toxics. Oftentimes companies must enter the same information for different control systems, even if some permit control data overlaps (such as company name, address, responsible persons). This is not only a waste of manpower but also is likely to cause inconsistencies between different control systems as data is entered at different times. Also, without links established between each control system, there is less ability to interlink and contrast data.\n\nThe new air, water, waste, and toxics environmental management system (EMS) can solve these problems. The EPA has already completed checking each category of permit data in this system, which is slated for launching on 1 August 2007. Enterprises can use this integrated air, water, waste, and toxics EMS over the Internet to confirm permit baseline data and handle changing of permits and permit applications. This will greatly shorten the time required for enterprises to fill out forms. \n\nThe newly integrated data management system will allow companies to check the promptness and accuracy of air, water, waste, and toxic pollutant permit application data and baseline data. This can help when undertaking whole-factory pollution source flow management. EMS will also spare enterprises the hassle of repeatedly entering the same air, water, waste and toxic pollution data when applying for permit applications, changing operations, or relocating. \n\nEnvironmental protection agencies can also use this system to inquire about air, water, waste and toxic pollutant permit application data and baseline data. This can be used to facilitate cross-checking during inspecting and control through interlinked charts on air, water, waste, and toxic pollution. This system effectively shows whether generated volumes and flow of pollutants including dust, ash, waste liquid, and sludge collected and generated by air pollution control equipment and water pollution control facilities are reasonable and legal. EMS thus enhances the efficiency of pollution control.", "content": "Environmental Information \n\nEnvironmental Management System Integrates Air Water, Waste, Toxics\n\nThe EPA's air, water, waste and toxic environmental management system (EMS) will be integrated from 1 August 2007. Enterprises can confirm permit baseline data through a single portal website and handle all sorts of permit transfers and applications for permits. \n\nThe EPA's website has set up individual permit application control systems for the fields of air, water, waste, and toxics. Oftentimes companies must enter the same information for different control systems, even if some permit control data overlaps (such as company name, address, responsible persons). This is not only a waste of manpower but also is likely to cause inconsistencies between different control systems as data is entered at different times. Also, without links established between each control system, there is less ability to interlink and contrast data.\n\nThe new air, water, waste, and toxics environmental management system (EMS) can solve these problems. The EPA has already completed checking each category of permit data in this system, which is slated for launching on 1 August 2007. Enterprises can use this integrated air, water, waste, and toxics EMS over the Internet to confirm permit baseline data and handle changing of permits and permit applications. This will greatly shorten the time required for enterprises to fill out forms. \n\nThe newly integrated data management system will allow companies to check the promptness and accuracy of air, water, waste, and toxic pollutant permit application data and baseline data. This can help when undertaking whole-factory pollution source flow management. EMS will also spare enterprises the hassle of repeatedly entering the same air, water, waste and toxic pollution data when applying for permit applications, changing operations, or relocating. \n\nEnvironmental protection agencies can also use this system to inquire about air, water, waste and toxic pollutant permit application data and baseline data. This can be used to facilitate cross-checking during inspecting and control through interlinked charts on air, water, waste, and toxic pollution. This system effectively shows whether generated volumes and flow of pollutants including dust, ash, waste liquid, and sludge collected and generated by air pollution control equipment and water pollution control facilities are reasonable and legal. EMS thus enhances the efficiency of pollution control.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Information", "titlename": "Environmental Management System Integrates Air Water Waste, Toxics", "position": "print\/V10\/V10-07" }, { "no": "1983", "title": "Online Sale of Foreign Environmental Sanitation Agents Penalized up to NT$300000", "preview": "Toxic Substance Management Current online trading trends have given rise to instances of individuals selling foreign environmental sanitation agents online. The EPA has stressed that the small quantities of environmental sanitation agents brought into the country by travelers is restricted to use by that individual only and may not be sold. Those found selling such substances illegally could face fines ranging from NT$60000 to NT$300,000. To prevent such behavior, the EPA has notified online trading companies to inform its trading members about relevant regulations on environmental agents. Meanwhile, inspections and clampdowns have been reinforced. Those caught selling environmental agents online will be punished according to regulations and the source of those goods will be tracked down.", "content": "Toxic Substance Current online trading trends have given rise to instances of individuals selling foreign environmental sanitation agents online. The EPA has stressed that the small quantities of environmental sanitation agents brought into the country by travelers is restricted to use by that individual only and may not be sold. Those found selling such substances illegally could face fines ranging from NT$60000 to NT$300,000. To prevent such behavior, the EPA has notified online trading companies to inform its trading members about relevant regulations on environmental agents. Meanwhile, inspections and clampdowns have been reinforced. Those caught selling environmental agents online will be punished according to regulations and the source of those goods will be tracked down.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Online Sale of Foreign Environmental Sanitation Agents Penalized up to NT$300000", "position": "print\/V10\/V10-06" }, { "no": "1979", "title": "Green Mark Promotional Giveaway Buy Green Products Online", "preview": "Eco-labelling The EPA held nationwide Green Mark and green consumption activities on the eve of World Environment Day on 5 June 2007. The activities encouraged the public to buy environmentally friendly Green Mark products as well as publicized the EPA's new website where these products can be purchased online. To increase public awareness of Taiwan's Green Mark ecolabeling system and the concept of green consumption the EPA is working with department store retailers around the island, including B&Q, to encourage the purchase of more environmentally-friendly, low-polluting, recyclable products. These stores were asked to showcase environmental products and assist with a promotional giveaway, which offers prizes for consumers that collect the labels of a certain number of Green Mark products. \n\nThe promotional giveaway coincided with the week of World Environment Day from 2 June to 10 June 2007. The aim of the giveaway was to popularize green consumption with any buyer purchasing just two Green Mark products eligible for a prize redeemable at designated sites in cities and counties around Taiwan. City and county environmental protection bureaus also held environmental quiz giveaways, DIY environmental creativity events and Green Mark product activities at various times and locations throughout the week. These activities provided a fun way to help the general public gain a deeper understanding of green consumerism. \n\nThe EPA launched its Buy Green website (http:\/\/www.buygreentw.net) on 31 May 2007 to serve the public's green purchasing needs. From 31 May to 10 June 2007 environmentally friendly laundry detergent was among four products available for a buy one get one free promotion, including a free set of environmentally friendly tableware with the purchase. \n\nThe EPA explains the website was set up to offer consumers the convenience of shopping for green products from the comfort of their homes. Shopping online allows the green conscious consumer to do his or her part in reducing negative impacts on the environment. Presently the main products for sale on the site include Green Mark cleaning products, OA office supplies and non-mercury batteries. Other products include printer tone cartridges, office machines, biodegradable plastics, plastic floor pads, recycled paper products, building materials and household electrical appliances. Interested parties are welcome to become franchises of the site. \n\nThe EPA encourages consumers to change daily habits and use more renewable and recyclable resources to combat the problems of depleted resources and global warming. Simple changes made by consumers with the environment in mind will add up to benefits for everyone.", "content": "Eco-labelling The EPA held nationwide Green Mark and green consumption activities on the eve of World Environment Day on 5 June 2007. The activities encouraged the public to buy environmentally friendly Green Mark products as well as publicized the EPA's new website where these products can be purchased online. To increase public awareness of Taiwan's Green Mark ecolabeling system and the concept of green consumption the EPA is working with department store retailers around the island, including B&Q, to encourage the purchase of more environmentally-friendly, low-polluting, recyclable products. These stores were asked to showcase environmental products and assist with a promotional giveaway, which offers prizes for consumers that collect the labels of a certain number of Green Mark products. \n\nThe promotional giveaway coincided with the week of World Environment Day from 2 June to 10 June 2007. The aim of the giveaway was to popularize green consumption with any buyer purchasing just two Green Mark products eligible for a prize redeemable at designated sites in cities and counties around Taiwan. City and county environmental protection bureaus also held environmental quiz giveaways, DIY environmental creativity events and Green Mark product activities at various times and locations throughout the week. These activities provided a fun way to help the general public gain a deeper understanding of green consumerism. \n\nThe EPA launched its Buy Green website (http:\/\/www.buygreentw.net) on 31 May 2007 to serve the public's green purchasing needs. From 31 May to 10 June 2007 environmentally friendly laundry detergent was among four products available for a buy one get one free promotion, including a free set of environmentally friendly tableware with the purchase. \n\nThe EPA explains the website was set up to offer consumers the convenience of shopping for green products from the comfort of their homes. Shopping online allows the green conscious consumer to do his or her part in reducing negative impacts on the environment. Presently the main products for sale on the site include Green Mark cleaning products, OA office supplies and non-mercury batteries. Other products include printer tone cartridges, office machines, biodegradable plastics, plastic floor pads, recycled paper products, building materials and household electrical appliances. Interested parties are welcome to become franchises of the site. \n\nThe EPA encourages consumers to change daily habits and use more renewable and recyclable resources to combat the problems of depleted resources and global warming. Simple changes made by consumers with the environment in mind will add up to benefits for everyone.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Eco-labelling", "titlename": "Green Mark Promotional Giveaway Buy Green Products Online", "position": "print\/V10\/V10-06" }, { "no": "1940", "title": "Electric Cable Steel Door, Sewer Grate Recyclers Required to Record Transactions", "preview": "In coordination with the Executive Yuan’s measures to strengthen public safety the EPA has revised the Responsible Enterprise Regulated Recyclable Waste Management Regulations to prevent recycling, clearance and treatment organizations from becoming a link in illegal trade channels. The revisions require these organizations to keep a daily record of the flow of materials collected for recycling, clearance or treatment including scrap electric cables, steel doors, sewer grates and other items designated by the EPA. \n\nThe \"Plan to Strengthen Inspection of Electric Wires and Cables of Unknown Origin\" drafted by the EPA works through the EPA Bureau of Environmental Inspection and the Environmental Police Unit, National Police Agency, Ministry of the Interior, as well as local environmental protection agencies. The plan calls for a thorough inspection of related recycling, clearance, and treatment enterprises. From the beginning of 2007 to the end of March 2007, over 4,300 inspections have been carried out revealing over 15 instances of illegal collection or treatment of Taipower electric wires or cables. The inspection has confirmed over 13,200 kilograms of stolen Taipower cables.\n\nThe EPA emphasizes the focus of revisions requires enterprises to establish records of purchases and sales of designated items. Books are to be kept on daily purchases and sales including items, quantity, date, source, and destination. Data must be retained for five years and provided to related agencies for inspection. Public hearings and discussions for the draft revision have already been held according to legal procedures and the revisions will be promulgated in the near future. The establishment of transaction records is expected to put an end to illegal trade channels and improve public security.\n\nThe EPA requires all enterprises collecting electric wires and cables to apply for permission from environmental protection agencies. In no case shall any enterprise collect wires or cables of unknown origin. Violators will be charged with collection of stolen goods by the police. If activities involve obtainment of treatment permits through illegal means for the purpose of engaging in waste treatment services, violators will be subject to stipulations in Articles 41 and 57 in the Waste Disposal Act. Violators could face fines ranging from NT$60,000 to NT$300,000 and could be ordered to suspend business operations. \n\n7. 2.77% of Gas Stations Noncompliant with Soil Pollution Standards\n\nUp to April 2007, the EPA has inspected a total of 1,771 gas stations, 49 of which have been listed under regulatory control. Thirteen of these gas stations have been removed from the list and the others are currently making the necessary corrections. \n\nAs part of a general inspection of the nation’s gas stations to ensure citizen’s health and environmental safety, the EPA is successively conducting inspections on the remaining 1,200 gas stations that have not undergone soil and groundwater inspections. In addition, the EPA promulgated revisions to the Gas Station Groundwater Pollution Prevention and Monitoring Equipment Installation Management Regulations on 4 July 2006 to thoroughly eliminate soil and groundwater pollution at gas stations. This self-management measure adopts early controls to prevent pollution of soil or groundwater.", "content": "In coordination with the Executive Yuan’s measures to strengthen public safety the EPA has revised the Responsible Enterprise Regulated Recyclable Waste Management Regulations to prevent recycling, clearance and treatment organizations from becoming a link in illegal trade channels. The revisions require these organizations to keep a daily record of the flow of materials collected for recycling, clearance or treatment including scrap electric cables, steel doors, sewer grates and other items designated by the EPA. \n\nThe \"Plan to Strengthen Inspection of Electric Wires and Cables of Unknown Origin\" drafted by the EPA works through the EPA Bureau of Environmental Inspection and the Environmental Police Unit, National Police Agency, Ministry of the Interior, as well as local environmental protection agencies. The plan calls for a thorough inspection of related recycling, clearance, and treatment enterprises. From the beginning of 2007 to the end of March 2007, over 4,300 inspections have been carried out revealing over 15 instances of illegal collection or treatment of Taipower electric wires or cables. The inspection has confirmed over 13,200 kilograms of stolen Taipower cables.\n\nThe EPA emphasizes the focus of revisions requires enterprises to establish records of purchases and sales of designated items. Books are to be kept on daily purchases and sales including items, quantity, date, source, and destination. Data must be retained for five years and provided to related agencies for inspection. Public hearings and discussions for the draft revision have already been held according to legal procedures and the revisions will be promulgated in the near future. The establishment of transaction records is expected to put an end to illegal trade channels and improve public security.\n\nThe EPA requires all enterprises collecting electric wires and cables to apply for permission from environmental protection agencies. In no case shall any enterprise collect wires or cables of unknown origin. Violators will be charged with collection of stolen goods by the police. If activities involve obtainment of treatment permits through illegal means for the purpose of engaging in waste treatment services, violators will be subject to stipulations in Articles 41 and 57 in the Waste Disposal Act. Violators could face fines ranging from NT$60,000 to NT$300,000 and could be ordered to suspend business operations. \n\n7. 2.77% of Gas Stations Noncompliant with Soil Pollution Standards\n\nUp to April 2007, the EPA has inspected a total of 1,771 gas stations, 49 of which have been listed under regulatory control. Thirteen of these gas stations have been removed from the list and the others are currently making the necessary corrections. \n\nAs part of a general inspection of the nation’s gas stations to ensure citizen’s health and environmental safety, the EPA is successively conducting inspections on the remaining 1,200 gas stations that have not undergone soil and groundwater inspections. In addition, the EPA promulgated revisions to the Gas Station Groundwater Pollution Prevention and Monitoring Equipment Installation Management Regulations on 4 July 2006 to thoroughly eliminate soil and groundwater pollution at gas stations. This self-management measure adopts early controls to prevent pollution of soil or groundwater.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Electric Cable Steel Door Sewer Grate Recyclers Required to Record Transactions", "position": "print\/V10\/V10-04" }, { "no": "1931", "title": "Plastic Egg Cartons Fresh Produce Trays to Be Reduced 15% in July", "preview": "To reduce the amount of plastic used in packaging the EPA formally passed a new plastics restriction policy in March 2007. From 1 July 2007, mass merchants, supermarkets, shopping centers, and department stores will be required to make an on PET, PS, PVC, PE, and PP plastic packaging of egg cartons, fresh produce trays (for fruit, meat, salad, etc.), and boxes for baked items including cakes, cookies and breads. Annual reduction rates for the next two years have been set at 15% (2007) and 25% (2008). Reduction rates for future years will be determined according to achievement rates of designated public and private facilities in prior years. This policy has already been announced to the WTO. The EPA calls on all industries to comply with this new plastics restriction policy. Violators will face fines ranging from NT$30,000 to NT$150,000.", "content": "To reduce the amount of plastic used in packaging the EPA formally passed a new plastics restriction policy in March 2007. From 1 July 2007, mass merchants, supermarkets, shopping centers, and department stores will be required to make an on PET, PS, PVC, PE, and PP plastic packaging of egg cartons, fresh produce trays (for fruit, meat, salad, etc.), and boxes for baked items including cakes, cookies and breads. Annual reduction rates for the next two years have been set at 15% (2007) and 25% (2008). Reduction rates for future years will be determined according to achievement rates of designated public and private facilities in prior years. This policy has already been announced to the WTO. The EPA calls on all industries to comply with this new plastics restriction policy. Violators will face fines ranging from NT$30,000 to NT$150,000.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Plastic Egg Cartons Fresh Produce Trays to Be Reduced 15% in July", "position": "print\/V10\/V10-03" }, { "no": "1929", "title": "Methods and Facility Standards for Recycling Storage, Clearance, and Treatment of Waste Electric, Electronic and IT Products Announced", "preview": "With the constant release of new electronic products and in response to the inclusion of waste fans and keyboards on the list of mandatory recyclable waste the EPA has merged existing related regulations. On 16 February 2007, the EPA announced the Methods and Facility Standards for the Recycling, Storage, Clearance and Treatment of Waste Electric, Electronic and Information Products. This includes stricter standards for regulating the treatment of cathode-ray tube and liquid crystal displays. In the future recycling and treatment enterprises unable to perform recycling, clearance, or treatment of waste electric, electronic and information products according to these standards will face fines ranging from NT$60,000 to NT$300,000. Those failing to correct the situation within a given period of time will be penalized with consecutive daily fines. For serious violations, perpetrators will be ordered to halt business operations for one month to one year or permanently shut down some or all of their business activities. Detailed information on these standards can be accessed on the EPA’s website at http:\/\/w3.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/search\/LordiDispFull.aspx?ltype=16&lname=4352", "content": "With the constant release of new electronic products and in response to the inclusion of waste fans and keyboards on the list of mandatory recyclable waste the EPA has merged existing related regulations. On 16 February 2007, the EPA announced the Methods and Facility Standards for the Recycling, Storage, Clearance and Treatment of Waste Electric, Electronic and Information Products. This includes stricter standards for regulating the treatment of cathode-ray tube and liquid crystal displays. In the future recycling and treatment enterprises unable to perform recycling, clearance, or treatment of waste electric, electronic and information products according to these standards will face fines ranging from NT$60,000 to NT$300,000. Those failing to correct the situation within a given period of time will be penalized with consecutive daily fines. For serious violations, perpetrators will be ordered to halt business operations for one month to one year or permanently shut down some or all of their business activities. Detailed information on these standards can be accessed on the EPA’s website at http:\/\/w3.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/search\/LordiDispFull.aspx?ltype=16&lname=4352", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Methods and Facility Standards for Recycling Storage Clearance, and Treatment of Waste Electric, Electronic and IT Products Announced", "position": "print\/V10\/V10-03" }, { "no": "1920", "title": "Southern Eastern Taiwan Have Higher Ratio of Noncompliant Diesel Vehicle Emissions", "preview": "Results of an investigation carried out from October to December 2006 show a higher percentage of diesel vehicles failed exhaust tests in Chiayi County Tainan County, Kaohsiung County and Hualien County. Findings indicate that less emphasis is being placed on diesel vehicle maintenance in the more remote areas of southern and eastern Taiwan, resulting in serious environmental pollution.\n\nAs the number of vehicles continues to rise each year, citizens and the government have come to pay greater heed to pollution caused by diesel car exhaust. In the interest of protecting and enhancing domestic air quality, as well as decreasing pollution emitted by diesel vehicles, the EPA has formulated the “Plan to Strengthen Inspection and Control of Pollution from Diesel Vehicles on Highways,” which went into effect from October 2006. County and municipal environmental protection bureaus (EPBs) and police forces have stationed personnel along highways and at entrance and exit ramps to reinforce inspection and control of pollution from all diesel vehicles, especially targeting small and large gravel trucks, tractors, and diesel vehicles emitting black smoke. Inspections are conducted at tollgates and other locations suitable for checking vehicles. In other areas where vehicles cannot be pulled over due to safety considerations, vehicles emitting black smoke are photographed and the drivers are notified to bring their vehicles in to a designated testing station for inspection. Failure to pass this inspection will result in penalization. \n\nAccording to statistics on inspections conducted from 1 October 2006 to 31 December 2006, out of 5,058 vehicles pulled over for spot checks, substandard emissions were highest in Chiayi County (35%), Tainan County (34%), Kaohsiung County (24%), and Hualien County (17%). Substandard emissions were on average 9% more frequent in these counties, far exceeding the rate of substandard emissions in other localities. Southern and eastern Taiwan have evidently not adequately emphasized the importance of maintaining diesel vehicles, which has resulted in serious environmental pollution. Photographing has been used in place of spot checks out of consideration of driver safety. A total of 12,508 vehicles have reported to environmental protection bureau exhaust testing stations after being notified to make improvements within a given time period. Out of these, substandard emissions during re-testing were highest in Hsinchu City (19%), Taitung County (13%), and Hualien County (10%). These counties and cities had a cumulative average ratio of substandard emissions 5 percentage points greater than other counties and municipalities. This shows that the relatively more remote areas of Hsinchu City, Taitung County and Hualien County have been unable to improve exhaust emissions to comply with standards and will need to replace more old vehicles.\n\nThe EPA calls on all vehicle owners to help protect air quality and avoid polluting the environment by paying attention to vehicle maintenance, using legal fuel products, and adopting proper driving methods. The EPA will strengthen mobilization of environmental and police forces at major highway entrances and exits to conduct unscheduled spot checks and photograph polluting diesel vehicles. Those found with substandard exhaust emissions during environmental agency examinations will be fined from NT$3,000 to NT$60,000 and be required to make corrections within a given period of time.", "content": "Results of an investigation carried out from October to December 2006 show a higher percentage of diesel vehicles failed exhaust tests in Chiayi County Tainan County, Kaohsiung County and Hualien County. Findings indicate that less emphasis is being placed on diesel vehicle maintenance in the more remote areas of southern and eastern Taiwan, resulting in serious environmental pollution.\n\nAs the number of vehicles continues to rise each year, citizens and the government have come to pay greater heed to pollution caused by diesel car exhaust. In the interest of protecting and enhancing domestic air quality, as well as decreasing pollution emitted by diesel vehicles, the EPA has formulated the “Plan to Strengthen Inspection and Control of Pollution from Diesel Vehicles on Highways,” which went into effect from October 2006. County and municipal environmental protection bureaus (EPBs) and police forces have stationed personnel along highways and at entrance and exit ramps to reinforce inspection and control of pollution from all diesel vehicles, especially targeting small and large gravel trucks, tractors, and diesel vehicles emitting black smoke. Inspections are conducted at tollgates and other locations suitable for checking vehicles. In other areas where vehicles cannot be pulled over due to safety considerations, vehicles emitting black smoke are photographed and the drivers are notified to bring their vehicles in to a designated testing station for inspection. Failure to pass this inspection will result in penalization. \n\nAccording to statistics on inspections conducted from 1 October 2006 to 31 December 2006, out of 5,058 vehicles pulled over for spot checks, substandard emissions were highest in Chiayi County (35%), Tainan County (34%), Kaohsiung County (24%), and Hualien County (17%). Substandard emissions were on average 9% more frequent in these counties, far exceeding the rate of substandard emissions in other localities. Southern and eastern Taiwan have evidently not adequately emphasized the importance of maintaining diesel vehicles, which has resulted in serious environmental pollution. Photographing has been used in place of spot checks out of consideration of driver safety. A total of 12,508 vehicles have reported to environmental protection bureau exhaust testing stations after being notified to make improvements within a given time period. Out of these, substandard emissions during re-testing were highest in Hsinchu City (19%), Taitung County (13%), and Hualien County (10%). These counties and cities had a cumulative average ratio of substandard emissions 5 percentage points greater than other counties and municipalities. This shows that the relatively more remote areas of Hsinchu City, Taitung County and Hualien County have been unable to improve exhaust emissions to comply with standards and will need to replace more old vehicles.\n\nThe EPA calls on all vehicle owners to help protect air quality and avoid polluting the environment by paying attention to vehicle maintenance, using legal fuel products, and adopting proper driving methods. The EPA will strengthen mobilization of environmental and police forces at major highway entrances and exits to conduct unscheduled spot checks and photograph polluting diesel vehicles. Those found with substandard exhaust emissions during environmental agency examinations will be fined from NT$3,000 to NT$60,000 and be required to make corrections within a given period of time.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Southern Eastern Taiwan Have Higher Ratio of Noncompliant Diesel Vehicle Emissions", "position": "print\/V10\/V10-02" }, { "no": "1899", "title": "Mandatory Sorting of Biomedical Waste into Toxic Genetic Sharp, and Infectious Waste", "preview": "The EPA promulgated revisions to the Methods and Facilities Standards on Storage Clearance, and Treatment of Industrial Waste on 14 December 2006. In the future, biomedical waste must be sorted into the three categories of toxic genetic, sharp and infectious waste. Waste treatment methods are distinguished according to new sorting and packaging regulations. Infectious waste should be stored under zero degrees Celsius, and may be kept in storage for no longer than 30 days. Other additions include an allowance for simplified labeling of waste through use of automatic recognition electronic or optical tagging, and a stipulation to shorten the maximum storage time of hazardous industrial waste to one year.\n\nThe EPA promulgated revisions to the Methods and Facilities Standards on Storage, Clearance, and Treatment of Industrial Waste on 14 December 2006. Revisions focused on regulations regarding the clearance and treatment of biomedical waste. To prevent these revisions from directly impacting enterprises and to protect the rights and interests of the private sector, the EPA will give industries a buffer period of one year in which to respond. During this time the EPA will publicize the content of these revisions and assess progress to ensure enterprises adhere to the required measures. \n\nThis revision complements adjustments made to the identification standards of hazardous industrial waste. Biomedical waste is classified into the three main categories of toxic genetic waste, sharps, and infectious waste. Hospitals or biotechnology research organizations must adhere to the new regulations. Sorting should take place at the outset of waste generation; classification of different wastes is based on the waste treatment methods specified in new sorting and packaging regulations. Waste requiring disinfection treatment should be put in yellow packaging. Other waste that can be treated through high temperature treatment such as incineration or vitrification should be put in red packaging. Color-coding thus distinguishes treatment method and helps prevent the potential hazard of mixing up different kinds of waste during transport and treatment. Moreover, as hospitals have long questioned the excessively strict measure calling for a maximum storage time of seven days, in this revision the EPA has referenced methods used in the EU and US by adding that infectious waste must be kept below zero degrees Celsius and may be stored for a maximum of 30 days. However, the EPA emphasizes that due to sanitation concerns, clinics generating waste containing bacterial culture or histopathological tissue should ensure prompt clearance of such wastes.\n\nAdjustments have also been made to certain aspects of industrial waste management. Waste labeling can be simplified if automatic recognition electronic or optical tagging (such as RFID) is adopted. The maximum storage period for hazardous industrial waste has been shortened to one year to prevent potential hazards of storing dangerous waste for too long. It is also stipulated that waste pharmaceuticals, dioxin and waste toxic chemical substances should first go through designated pretreatment to prevent the risk of endangering human health or the environment. The EPA indicates that industrial waste slated to enter sanitary landfills of commissioned clearance and treatment organizations must comply with landfill entrance control standards. Waste that does not comply with control standards must first undergo pretreatment. The EPA will specify related control standards in the near future based on operations, manufacture, waste type and treatment method, and hazardous substance controls to prevent contamination of landfills.", "content": "The EPA promulgated revisions to the Methods and Facilities Standards on Storage Clearance, and Treatment of Industrial Waste on 14 December 2006. In the future, biomedical waste must be sorted into the three categories of toxic genetic, sharp and infectious waste. Waste treatment methods are distinguished according to new sorting and packaging regulations. Infectious waste should be stored under zero degrees Celsius, and may be kept in storage for no longer than 30 days. Other additions include an allowance for simplified labeling of waste through use of automatic recognition electronic or optical tagging, and a stipulation to shorten the maximum storage time of hazardous industrial waste to one year.\n\nThe EPA promulgated revisions to the Methods and Facilities Standards on Storage, Clearance, and Treatment of Industrial Waste on 14 December 2006. Revisions focused on regulations regarding the clearance and treatment of biomedical waste. To prevent these revisions from directly impacting enterprises and to protect the rights and interests of the private sector, the EPA will give industries a buffer period of one year in which to respond. During this time the EPA will publicize the content of these revisions and assess progress to ensure enterprises adhere to the required measures. \n\nThis revision complements adjustments made to the identification standards of hazardous industrial waste. Biomedical waste is classified into the three main categories of toxic genetic waste, sharps, and infectious waste. Hospitals or biotechnology research organizations must adhere to the new regulations. Sorting should take place at the outset of waste generation; classification of different wastes is based on the waste treatment methods specified in new sorting and packaging regulations. Waste requiring disinfection treatment should be put in yellow packaging. Other waste that can be treated through high temperature treatment such as incineration or vitrification should be put in red packaging. Color-coding thus distinguishes treatment method and helps prevent the potential hazard of mixing up different kinds of waste during transport and treatment. Moreover, as hospitals have long questioned the excessively strict measure calling for a maximum storage time of seven days, in this revision the EPA has referenced methods used in the EU and US by adding that infectious waste must be kept below zero degrees Celsius and may be stored for a maximum of 30 days. However, the EPA emphasizes that due to sanitation concerns, clinics generating waste containing bacterial culture or histopathological tissue should ensure prompt clearance of such wastes.\n\nAdjustments have also been made to certain aspects of industrial waste management. Waste labeling can be simplified if automatic recognition electronic or optical tagging (such as RFID) is adopted. The maximum storage period for hazardous industrial waste has been shortened to one year to prevent potential hazards of storing dangerous waste for too long. It is also stipulated that waste pharmaceuticals, dioxin and waste toxic chemical substances should first go through designated pretreatment to prevent the risk of endangering human health or the environment. The EPA indicates that industrial waste slated to enter sanitary landfills of commissioned clearance and treatment organizations must comply with landfill entrance control standards. Waste that does not comply with control standards must first undergo pretreatment. The EPA will specify related control standards in the near future based on operations, manufacture, waste type and treatment method, and hazardous substance controls to prevent contamination of landfills.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Mandatory Sorting of Biomedical Waste into Toxic Genetic Sharp and Infectious Waste", "position": "print\/V10\/V10-01" }, { "no": "1891", "title": "Awards Granted for Environmental Action Photography and Education Initiatives", "preview": "On 26 December 2006 the EPA held three joint awarding ceremonies for the following activities: “Wanted: New Environmental Lifestyle Ideas,” “Environmental Photography Competition,” and “Environmental Creative Education Implementation Plans.” Altogether there were 29 recipients of silver, bronze and outstanding performance awards for their creative environmental ideas in the themes of food, clothing, shelter, and transportation. Awards were given to 33 outstanding creative environmental education plans, representing the actions and education initiatives of over thirty schools, with participation and outstanding results from over 200 classes of students. EPA Deputy Minister Lin Ta-hsiung was present at the awarding ceremony and handed out 84 awards.", "content": "On 26 December 2006 the EPA held three joint awarding ceremonies for the following activities: “Wanted: New Environmental Lifestyle Ideas,” “Environmental Photography Competition,” and “Environmental Creative Education Implementation Plans.” Altogether there were 29 recipients of silver, bronze and outstanding performance awards for their creative environmental ideas in the themes of food, clothing, shelter, and transportation. Awards were given to 33 outstanding creative environmental education plans, representing the actions and education initiatives of over thirty schools, with participation and outstanding results from over 200 classes of students. EPA Deputy Minister Lin Ta-hsiung was present at the awarding ceremony and handed out 84 awards.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Awards Granted for Environmental Action Photography and Education Initiatives", "position": "print\/V10\/V10-01" }, { "no": "1885", "title": "Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fees Adjusted from November", "preview": "To reflect the market and stabilize resource recycling fund operations from 1 November 2006 the EPA made adjusted fee rates for the recycling, clearance and treatment of mandatory recyclables. Fee rates were adjusted for six categories: cars, motorcycles, tyres, lighting sources (straight tube fluorescent), LCD monitors and TV screens. The EPA indicates that if fees are not paid within a certain time period according to regulations, regulations can be enforced and penalties could be one to two times the original fee. Failure to register, report, or pay fines according to regulations is subject to fines ranging from NT$60,000 to NT$300,000. Failure to pay fines within the allotted time period is subject to daily consecutive fines. Serious violations may be penalized by suspension of business for one month to one year or a mandate to shut down some or all operations. The EPA calls on all related industries to pay heed to this announcement. (Recycling Fund Management Board: 886 -2-2311-7722)", "content": "To reflect the market and stabilize resource recycling fund operations from 1 November 2006 the EPA made adjusted fee rates for the recycling, clearance and treatment of mandatory recyclables. Fee rates were adjusted for six categories: cars, motorcycles, tyres, lighting sources (straight tube fluorescent), LCD monitors and TV screens. The EPA indicates that if fees are not paid within a certain time period according to regulations, regulations can be enforced and penalties could be one to two times the original fee. Failure to register, report, or pay fines according to regulations is subject to fines ranging from NT$60,000 to NT$300,000. Failure to pay fines within the allotted time period is subject to daily consecutive fines. Serious violations may be penalized by suspension of business for one month to one year or a mandate to shut down some or all operations. The EPA calls on all related industries to pay heed to this announcement. (Recycling Fund Management Board: 886 -2-2311-7722)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fees Adjusted from November", "position": "print\/V9\/V9-12" }, { "no": "1879", "title": "Environmental Volunteer Day: 10000 Volunteers Clean Up Environment", "preview": "On November 12 National Environmental Volunteer Day, the EPA coordinated with nationwide citizen environmental cleanup plans by launching the “1112 Love Taiwan, Pitch in to Clean Up the Environment” activity. This integrated the efforts of nearly one thousand environmental volunteer teams from the villages and communities of all 25 counties and municipalities. Preschools, elderly care centers, and learning centers were invited to join by cleaning up the living environment near their address. Tens of thousands of volunteers nationwide responded that day to together create a more beautiful and clean home for all. During the event, the EPA called on all citizens to take part in environmental protection work by continuing to use the online report system to report unkempt areas, and to clean up their own living environment. The public was reminded not to throw trash, to use real actions to show care for the environment, and make a change for the better. (Department of Environmental Sanitation and Toxic Management: 886 -2-2311-7722)", "content": "On November 12 National Environmental Volunteer Day, the EPA coordinated with nationwide citizen environmental cleanup plans by launching the “1112 Love Taiwan, Pitch in to Clean Up the Environment” activity. This integrated the efforts of nearly one thousand environmental volunteer teams from the villages and communities of all 25 counties and municipalities. Preschools, elderly care centers, and learning centers were invited to join by cleaning up the living environment near their address. Tens of thousands of volunteers nationwide responded that day to together create a more beautiful and clean home for all. During the event, the EPA called on all citizens to take part in environmental protection work by continuing to use the online report system to report unkempt areas, and to clean up their own living environment. The public was reminded not to throw trash, to use real actions to show care for the environment, and make a change for the better. (Department of Environmental Sanitation and Toxic Management: 886 -2-2311-7722)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Environmental Volunteer Day: 10000 Volunteers Clean Up Environment", "position": "print\/V9\/V9-12" }, { "no": "1875", "title": "Battery Labeling Violations Fined NT$60000-NT$300,000", "preview": "On 1 September 2006 the EPA announced and put into effect the “Restriction on Manufacture, Import and Sale of Mercury Batteries” to control the amount of mercury in manganese-zinc batteries and non-button type alkaline-manganese batteries to under 5 ppm mercury. Moreover, documents confirming mercury content must be obtained before manufacture, import or sale. The announcement stipulates that the packaging of all designated batteries or products containing the designated batteries sold on the market after 1 December 2006 must clearly state in a conspicuous location “The mercury content of this battery or the batteries inside this product comply with EPA regulations” along with the document verification code. Manufacturers and importers that violate this regulation will be penalized NT$60,000 to NT$300,000. (Department of Waste Management: 886 -2-2311-7722)", "content": "On 1 September 2006 the EPA announced and put into effect the “Restriction on Manufacture, Import and Sale of Mercury Batteries” to control the amount of mercury in manganese-zinc batteries and non-button type alkaline-manganese batteries to under 5 ppm mercury. Moreover, documents confirming mercury content must be obtained before manufacture, import or sale. The announcement stipulates that the packaging of all designated batteries or products containing the designated batteries sold on the market after 1 December 2006 must clearly state in a conspicuous location “The mercury content of this battery or the batteries inside this product comply with EPA regulations” along with the document verification code. Manufacturers and importers that violate this regulation will be penalized NT$60,000 to NT$300,000. (Department of Waste Management: 886 -2-2311-7722)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Battery Labeling Violations Fined NT$60000-NT$300,000", "position": "print\/V9\/V9-12" }, { "no": "1873", "title": "1199 Contaminated Farmlands Remediated and Removed from Control Site List", "preview": "Since the EPA began inspecting and carrying out remediation of contaminated farmland in 2002 a total of 1,719 parcels of contaminated farmland were announced, covering a total area of 401.76 hectares. The EPA has allocated NT$286 million to assist local governments in carrying out improvement measures. To date 1,199 parcels (291.7 hectares) of farmland have been removed from the list of contaminated sites. Currently only 110.59 hectares have yet to undergo remediation. The EPA will continue to oversee improvement work carried out by local environmental protection bureaus.\n\nThe EPA completed the “Plan to Survey and Regulate 319 Hectares of Heavy Metal Contaminated Farmland” in 2002. Findings showed 259.37 hectares of farmland soils were contaminated with heavy metals in excess of control standards. Following this initial survey, local environmental protection bureaus (EPBs) discovered another 541 parcels of polluted farmland covering a total of 142.39 hectares. By the end of September 2006, a total of 1,719 parcels of farmland covering 401.76 hectares were listed under regulatory control. The EPA provided NT$286 million in subsidies to local governments to carry out improvement work and restore soil fertility. From June 2004 to October 2006, already 1,199 parcels (291.7 hectares) of farmland have undergone remediation and have been removed from the list. Already 95% of the contaminated farmland initially discovered in 2002 has undergone remediation. \n\nTo prevent pollution from reoccurring, the EPA and the Council of Agriculture cooperate to assist irrigation associations clean up and treat polluted sludge from irrigation canals. A total of NT$28 million has been spent on sludge treatment to prevent potential pollutants in sludge from becoming free and flowing onto farmland. The EPA has implemented a pollution control plan called the “Water Pollution Focal Investigation Action Plan” which made 1,396 inspections in the Changhua area from January 2005 to August 2006, resulting in 150 violation reports. The EPA also coordinated with the Industrial Development Bureau to provide guidance on emission reductions to electroplating and metal surface treatment industries moving into industrial parks. Based on records of the 28 companies that have applied to move into the area’s industrial parks, already 11 companies have built factories, 9 are still building, and 8 have not begun building.\n\nChanghua County is not only home to most electroplating and metal surface treatment industries, but is also a prominent area for the horticulture industry. Therefore the EPA has teamed up with the COA in conducting a study of using plants to remove heavy metals from contaminated farmland soils in central Taiwan. Twelve different plants, including flowers such as sunflowers, were screened for their suitability based on plant growth and ability to uptake heavy metals. The EPA has also worked with the Changhua County EPB to trial energy crops such as soybeans to assess the feasibility of producing biodiesel. After referring to other countries’ experiences, the EPA indicates that growing horticultural plants and energy crops in contaminated areas can meet the goal of removing heavy metals as well as improving the ecosystem. This solution not only increases the income of farmers, but also serves the purpose of keeping polluted farmland in production, helping transform agribusiness and conserving water resources.\n\nThe EPA emphasizes that in the future it will strengthen efforts to monitor and assist local governments reinforce pollution control and inspection, and improve polluted farmland. The EPA will also continue to work closely with the COA to promote the reuse of polluted agricultural lands. (Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Fund Management Board: 886 -2-2311-7722)", "content": "Since the EPA began inspecting and carrying out remediation of contaminated farmland in 2002 a total of 1,719 parcels of contaminated farmland were announced, covering a total area of 401.76 hectares. The EPA has allocated NT$286 million to assist local governments in carrying out improvement measures. To date 1,199 parcels (291.7 hectares) of farmland have been removed from the list of contaminated sites. Currently only 110.59 hectares have yet to undergo remediation. The EPA will continue to oversee improvement work carried out by local environmental protection bureaus.\n\nThe EPA completed the “Plan to Survey and Regulate 319 Hectares of Heavy Metal Contaminated Farmland” in 2002. Findings showed 259.37 hectares of farmland soils were contaminated with heavy metals in excess of control standards. Following this initial survey, local environmental protection bureaus (EPBs) discovered another 541 parcels of polluted farmland covering a total of 142.39 hectares. By the end of September 2006, a total of 1,719 parcels of farmland covering 401.76 hectares were listed under regulatory control. The EPA provided NT$286 million in subsidies to local governments to carry out improvement work and restore soil fertility. From June 2004 to October 2006, already 1,199 parcels (291.7 hectares) of farmland have undergone remediation and have been removed from the list. Already 95% of the contaminated farmland initially discovered in 2002 has undergone remediation. \n\nTo prevent pollution from reoccurring, the EPA and the Council of Agriculture cooperate to assist irrigation associations clean up and treat polluted sludge from irrigation canals. A total of NT$28 million has been spent on sludge treatment to prevent potential pollutants in sludge from becoming free and flowing onto farmland. The EPA has implemented a pollution control plan called the “Water Pollution Focal Investigation Action Plan” which made 1,396 inspections in the Changhua area from January 2005 to August 2006, resulting in 150 violation reports. The EPA also coordinated with the Industrial Development Bureau to provide guidance on emission reductions to electroplating and metal surface treatment industries moving into industrial parks. Based on records of the 28 companies that have applied to move into the area’s industrial parks, already 11 companies have built factories, 9 are still building, and 8 have not begun building.\n\nChanghua County is not only home to most electroplating and metal surface treatment industries, but is also a prominent area for the horticulture industry. Therefore the EPA has teamed up with the COA in conducting a study of using plants to remove heavy metals from contaminated farmland soils in central Taiwan. Twelve different plants, including flowers such as sunflowers, were screened for their suitability based on plant growth and ability to uptake heavy metals. The EPA has also worked with the Changhua County EPB to trial energy crops such as soybeans to assess the feasibility of producing biodiesel. After referring to other countries’ experiences, the EPA indicates that growing horticultural plants and energy crops in contaminated areas can meet the goal of removing heavy metals as well as improving the ecosystem. This solution not only increases the income of farmers, but also serves the purpose of keeping polluted farmland in production, helping transform agribusiness and conserving water resources.\n\nThe EPA emphasizes that in the future it will strengthen efforts to monitor and assist local governments reinforce pollution control and inspection, and improve polluted farmland. The EPA will also continue to work closely with the COA to promote the reuse of polluted agricultural lands. (Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Fund Management Board: 886 -2-2311-7722)", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil and Groundwater", "titlename": "1199 Contaminated Farmlands Remediated and Removed from Control Site List", "position": "print\/V9\/V9-12" }, { "no": "1863", "title": "Revised Battery Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fees Effective from November 1", "preview": "In response to growing numbers of domestic battery treatment factories the EPA has revised the fee rates and subsidy rates for recycling, clearance and treatment of discarded dry cell batteries, effective from 1 November 2006. The revision affects about 1,000 companies including battery manufacturers, importers and recycling and treatment enterprises. Fee rates for recycling, clearance and treatment have been adjusted for manganese-zinc batteries, oxyhydrogen batteries, cylindrical alkaline-manganese batteries, one-time-use lithium batteries, rechargeable lithium batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, rechargeable nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries and rechargeable nickel-hydrogen batteries. Subsidy rates have been adjusted for manganese-zinc batteries, oxyhydrogen batteries, cylindrical alkaline-manganese batteries, one-time-use lithium batteries, rechargeable lithium batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries and nickel-hydrogen batteries.", "content": "In response to growing numbers of domestic battery treatment factories the EPA has revised the fee rates and subsidy rates for recycling, clearance and treatment of discarded dry cell batteries, effective from 1 November 2006. The revision affects about 1,000 companies including battery manufacturers, importers and recycling and treatment enterprises. Fee rates for recycling, clearance and treatment have been adjusted for manganese-zinc batteries, oxyhydrogen batteries, cylindrical alkaline-manganese batteries, one-time-use lithium batteries, rechargeable lithium batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, rechargeable nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries and rechargeable nickel-hydrogen batteries. Subsidy rates have been adjusted for manganese-zinc batteries, oxyhydrogen batteries, cylindrical alkaline-manganese batteries, one-time-use lithium batteries, rechargeable lithium batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries and nickel-hydrogen batteries.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Revised Battery Recycling Clearance and Treatment Fees Effective from November 1", "position": "print\/V9\/V9-11" }, { "no": "1847", "title": "Fans Keyboards, and Lamps Designated as Recyclables", "preview": "The EPA has announced that manufacturers and importers of electric fans keyboards, circular fluorescent light tubes, energy-saving lights, incandescent bulbs and high intensity discharge (HID) lamps are responsible for post-consumer collection, transport and treatment of these items. This regulation will take effect on 1 July 2007 for all above items except for HID lamps, which will be included in this regulation on 1 July 2008. The EPA estimates that in the first year 7 million keyboards (about 5,700 tonnes), 8.8 million fans (about 35,000 tonnes), and 1,600 tonnes of non-straight light tubes\/bulbs will be recycled. This equates to a total of 42,300 tonnes of recycled resources, and will prevent the release of 73 kg of mercury into the environment.\n\nThe EPA indicates that electronic and information technology (IT) products already listed as mandatory recyclables include televisions, refrigerators, air conditioners and heaters, clothes washing machines, computers, and printers. Approximately 81,860 tonnes of these items were recycled in 2005. To enhance the effectiveness of recycling and reuse efforts, the EPA announced on 20 September 2006 that manufacturers and importers of electric fans, keyboards, circular fluorescent light tubes, energy-saving lights, incandescent bulbs (over 2.6 cm in diameter) and high intensity discharge (HID) lamps are responsible for collection, clearance and treatment of these items. The regulation will take effect on 1 July 2007 for all items except for HID lamps, which will be included on 1 July 2008. \n\nIn the regulations, electric fans are specified as desk fans, freestanding fans, wall fans, window extractor fans, ceiling fans, and ventilation fans with AC motors rated 125W or lower. Keyboards include all computer peripheral keyboard equipment except for numeric keyboards. As for lighting sources, in the past only straight fluorescent tubes were accepted for recycling, and 4,676 tonnes of these lights were recycled in 2005. This regulation now includes circular fluorescent light tubes, energy-saving lights (including self-ballasted fluorescent lamps and spherical, spiral, or U-shaped compact fluorescents lamps), incandescent light bulbs (diameter at least 2.6 cm) and HID lamps (street lamps, stadium lights, fishing lights, vehicle headlights). Now most kinds of lights in everyday use are covered under this regulation.\n\nThe EPA indicates that from 1 July 2007, citizens can give fans, keyboards and lights to sanitation crews or recyclers. Manufacturers and importers of these items should register with the EPA Recycling Fund Management Board and begin reporting sale and import volumes as well as fees for collection, clearance and treatment. The EPA estimates that in the first year this measure will result in the recycling of 7 million keyboards (about 5,700 tonnes), 8.8 million fans (aobut 35,000 tonnes), and 1,600 tonnes of non-straight tubes. This equates to a total of 42,300 tonnes of recycled resources, and will prevent the release of 73 kg of mercury into the environment.", "content": "The EPA has announced that manufacturers and importers of electric fans keyboards, circular fluorescent light tubes, energy-saving lights, incandescent bulbs and high intensity discharge (HID) lamps are responsible for post-consumer collection, transport and treatment of these items. This regulation will take effect on 1 July 2007 for all above items except for HID lamps, which will be included in this regulation on 1 July 2008. The EPA estimates that in the first year 7 million keyboards (about 5,700 tonnes), 8.8 million fans (about 35,000 tonnes), and 1,600 tonnes of non-straight light tubes\/bulbs will be recycled. This equates to a total of 42,300 tonnes of recycled resources, and will prevent the release of 73 kg of mercury into the environment.\n\nThe EPA indicates that electronic and information technology (IT) products already listed as mandatory recyclables include televisions, refrigerators, air conditioners and heaters, clothes washing machines, computers, and printers. Approximately 81,860 tonnes of these items were recycled in 2005. To enhance the effectiveness of recycling and reuse efforts, the EPA announced on 20 September 2006 that manufacturers and importers of electric fans, keyboards, circular fluorescent light tubes, energy-saving lights, incandescent bulbs (over 2.6 cm in diameter) and high intensity discharge (HID) lamps are responsible for collection, clearance and treatment of these items. The regulation will take effect on 1 July 2007 for all items except for HID lamps, which will be included on 1 July 2008. \n\nIn the regulations, electric fans are specified as desk fans, freestanding fans, wall fans, window extractor fans, ceiling fans, and ventilation fans with AC motors rated 125W or lower. Keyboards include all computer peripheral keyboard equipment except for numeric keyboards. As for lighting sources, in the past only straight fluorescent tubes were accepted for recycling, and 4,676 tonnes of these lights were recycled in 2005. This regulation now includes circular fluorescent light tubes, energy-saving lights (including self-ballasted fluorescent lamps and spherical, spiral, or U-shaped compact fluorescents lamps), incandescent light bulbs (diameter at least 2.6 cm) and HID lamps (street lamps, stadium lights, fishing lights, vehicle headlights). Now most kinds of lights in everyday use are covered under this regulation.\n\nThe EPA indicates that from 1 July 2007, citizens can give fans, keyboards and lights to sanitation crews or recyclers. Manufacturers and importers of these items should register with the EPA Recycling Fund Management Board and begin reporting sale and import volumes as well as fees for collection, clearance and treatment. The EPA estimates that in the first year this measure will result in the recycling of 7 million keyboards (about 5,700 tonnes), 8.8 million fans (aobut 35,000 tonnes), and 1,600 tonnes of non-straight tubes. This equates to a total of 42,300 tonnes of recycled resources, and will prevent the release of 73 kg of mercury into the environment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Fans Keyboards and Lamps Designated as Recyclables", "position": "print\/V9\/V9-10" }, { "no": "1839", "title": "100000 Join Neighborhood Cleanup Event", "preview": "The EPA is actively promoting neighborhood cleanup activities and held an event on 16 September 2006 to mobilize businesses to clean up the environment within 50 meters of their workplace. Over 100000 people from all over Taiwan, including Taipei City, Taichung City, Taichung County, Kaohsiung City, Kaohsiung County and Chiayi City participated in the event. The activity drew an enthusiastic response from participants who voluntarily engaged in cleaning up their own living environments.\n\nCleanup of residential environments has been one of the main duties of the EPA since the promotion of a living environment improvement policy began in 2003. Reaffirming its determination to promote environmental protection work, this year the EPA has initiated the “Citizenry Mobilization for Residential Environment Cleanup Plan.” This kicked off on 16 September 2006 with an activity that mobilized businesses to clean up the environment within 50 meters of their workplace. The activity had an enormous following with over 100,000 enthusiastic participants throughout Taiwan. Colleagues of all central government agencies and local governments also participated in the event encouraging all residents to work together toward making a cleaner environment.\n\nAt dawn, environmental volunteers throughout Taiwan were led by their county or city leaders to kick off this cleanup event. In Taipei, a pledge rally was held at Huajiang Waterfowl Nature Park. In Taichung a pledge rally was held in front of the City Hall where the mayor signed an Environmental Cleanup Day resolution. Taichung County held a pledge rally along a hiking path near Sanding Mountain in Taiping City. Kaohsiung City held a beach cleanup event at Chijin Coastal Park as well as pledge rallies in front of public agency buildings. In Kaohsiung County, a pledge rally was held in front of the county building with the theme focusing on dengue control, and cleanup of dog feces and unkempt areas. Many people attended these rallies on that day to express concern for their living environment. \n\nEPA Minister Chang Kow-lung kicked off a street cleaning activity in Kaohsiung County, leading environmental volunteers to cleanup the environment adjacent to the athletic stadium. EPA Deputy Ministers Chang Tzi-chin and Lin Ta-hsiung attended other pledge rallies in Taipei City and Chiayi City, respectively, and personally helped out to pick up the garbage. All the local activities occurring throughout Taiwan were met with enthusiastic response from residents and many people voluntarily participated in the cleanup events.", "content": "The EPA is actively promoting neighborhood cleanup activities and held an event on 16 September 2006 to mobilize businesses to clean up the environment within 50 meters of their workplace. Over 100000 people from all over Taiwan, including Taipei City, Taichung City, Taichung County, Kaohsiung City, Kaohsiung County and Chiayi City participated in the event. The activity drew an enthusiastic response from participants who voluntarily engaged in cleaning up their own living environments.\n\nCleanup of residential environments has been one of the main duties of the EPA since the promotion of a living environment improvement policy began in 2003. Reaffirming its determination to promote environmental protection work, this year the EPA has initiated the “Citizenry Mobilization for Residential Environment Cleanup Plan.” This kicked off on 16 September 2006 with an activity that mobilized businesses to clean up the environment within 50 meters of their workplace. The activity had an enormous following with over 100,000 enthusiastic participants throughout Taiwan. Colleagues of all central government agencies and local governments also participated in the event encouraging all residents to work together toward making a cleaner environment.\n\nAt dawn, environmental volunteers throughout Taiwan were led by their county or city leaders to kick off this cleanup event. In Taipei, a pledge rally was held at Huajiang Waterfowl Nature Park. In Taichung a pledge rally was held in front of the City Hall where the mayor signed an Environmental Cleanup Day resolution. Taichung County held a pledge rally along a hiking path near Sanding Mountain in Taiping City. Kaohsiung City held a beach cleanup event at Chijin Coastal Park as well as pledge rallies in front of public agency buildings. In Kaohsiung County, a pledge rally was held in front of the county building with the theme focusing on dengue control, and cleanup of dog feces and unkempt areas. Many people attended these rallies on that day to express concern for their living environment. \n\nEPA Minister Chang Kow-lung kicked off a street cleaning activity in Kaohsiung County, leading environmental volunteers to cleanup the environment adjacent to the athletic stadium. EPA Deputy Ministers Chang Tzi-chin and Lin Ta-hsiung attended other pledge rallies in Taipei City and Chiayi City, respectively, and personally helped out to pick up the garbage. All the local activities occurring throughout Taiwan were met with enthusiastic response from residents and many people voluntarily participated in the cleanup events.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "100000 Join Neighborhood Cleanup Event", "position": "print\/V9\/V9-10" }, { "no": "1833", "title": "Regulations on Waste Electric Electronic and IT Products Integrated", "preview": "Four years have passed since promulgation of Methods and Facility Standards for Recycling Storage, Clearance and Treatment (回收貯存清除處理方法及設施標準) for waste electric, electronic products and information technology products. With continual developments in electronic and IT products, current measures and standards have gradually fallen behind in their ability to completely regulate the treatment of waste electronics and IT products. In the interest of more effectively promoting reuse of resources and in light of similarities between electronics and IT products as well as identical treatment equipment and methods, regulations on treatment methods for these two categories of waste materials have been merged. Providing more comprehensive management over recycling, storage, clearance and treatment of waste electronics and IT products, the EPA has drafted the new Methods and Facilities Standards for Waste Electronic and IT Product Recycling, Storage, Clearance and Treatment (廢電子電器暨廢資訊物品回收貯存清除處理方法及設施標準), promulgated on 22 August 2006. It is hoped that suggestions from all circles are extensively drawn upon on to make the waste electronic and IT product recycling, storage, clearance and treatment system more sound and complete.", "content": "Four years have passed since promulgation of Methods and Facility Standards for Recycling Storage, Clearance and Treatment (回收貯存清除處理方法及設施標準) for waste electric, electronic products and information technology products. With continual developments in electronic and IT products, current measures and standards have gradually fallen behind in their ability to completely regulate the treatment of waste electronics and IT products. In the interest of more effectively promoting reuse of resources and in light of similarities between electronics and IT products as well as identical treatment equipment and methods, regulations on treatment methods for these two categories of waste materials have been merged. Providing more comprehensive management over recycling, storage, clearance and treatment of waste electronics and IT products, the EPA has drafted the new Methods and Facilities Standards for Waste Electronic and IT Product Recycling, Storage, Clearance and Treatment (廢電子電器暨廢資訊物品回收貯存清除處理方法及設施標準), promulgated on 22 August 2006. It is hoped that suggestions from all circles are extensively drawn upon on to make the waste electronic and IT product recycling, storage, clearance and treatment system more sound and complete.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Regulations on Waste Electric Electronic and IT Products Integrated", "position": "print\/V9\/V9-09" }, { "no": "1829", "title": "Manufacture Import, and Sale of Batteries with Excessive Mercury Restricted", "preview": "The EPA indicates that from 1 September 2006 manufacturers and importers of dry cell batteries must submit testing reports showing that mercury levels are below 5 ppm before they manufacture or import batteries. Manufacturers importers and vendors may not sell or give away batteries for which EPA approval documents have not been obtained. From the date of promulgation, EPA inspectors will make rounds at stores, night markets, and street vendors to check whether approval has been granted for the batteries being sold. Vendors selling batteries not approved for sale according to this regulation will be fined from NT$1,200 to NT$6,000. The fine for manufacturers or importers failing to obtain approved documents ranges from NT$60,000 to NT$300,000, and the EPA may require batteries to be recalled from the market. To protect their own rights and interests, vendors are encouraged to visit the EPA’s website (http:\/\/211.20.123.92\/9412hg\/) to check whether their products have been approved for sale.", "content": "The EPA indicates that from 1 September 2006 manufacturers and importers of dry cell batteries must submit testing reports showing that mercury levels are below 5 ppm before they manufacture or import batteries. Manufacturers importers and vendors may not sell or give away batteries for which EPA approval documents have not been obtained. From the date of promulgation, EPA inspectors will make rounds at stores, night markets, and street vendors to check whether approval has been granted for the batteries being sold. Vendors selling batteries not approved for sale according to this regulation will be fined from NT$1,200 to NT$6,000. The fine for manufacturers or importers failing to obtain approved documents ranges from NT$60,000 to NT$300,000, and the EPA may require batteries to be recalled from the market. To protect their own rights and interests, vendors are encouraged to visit the EPA’s website (http:\/\/211.20.123.92\/9412hg\/) to check whether their products have been approved for sale.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Manufacture Import and Sale of Batteries with Excessive Mercury Restricted", "position": "print\/V9\/V9-09" }, { "no": "1823", "title": "Complete Sorting Zero Waste Goals Met Ahead of Schedule", "preview": "In action for two years now the EPA’s “Complete Sorting of Garbage for Zero Waste Taskforce Action Plan” has attained its recycling and waste reduction goals ahead of schedule. This plan has increased the recycling rate from 17.89% to 26.35% and the food waste recycling rate from 2.19% to 7.15%. Average per capita daily garbage collection volume has decreased from 1.143 kg in 1997 to 0.620 kg in June 2006, marking a new record for waste reduction in Taiwan.\n\n \n\nAiming to promote complete sorting of garbage and the Zero Waste policy, the EPA initiated the “Complete Sorting for Zero Waste Taskforce Action Plan” in 2004. Now into the second year of this three-year plan, statistics and figures are showing marked achievements in terms of increased recycling, reuse and waste reduction. Original targets have already been reached ahead of schedule.\n\nThe EPA indicates that the “Waste Management Plan Evaluation and Vision” approved by the Executive Yuan in December 2003, gave rise to the “Three-Year Action Plan for the Complete Sorting of Garbage for Zero Waste,” which commenced in 2004. Now already into the second year, this three-year plan combined with the “Mandatory Garbage Sorting Plan,” have achieved great progress in terms of increasing recycling and reuse rates. The national overall recycling volume has reached 1,017,900 tonnes in June 2006 for a recycling rate of 26.35%, up 8.46 percentage points from the 2003 rate of 17.89%. Meanwhile, a total of 276,400 tonnes of food waste have been recycled for a recycling rate of 7.15%, up 4.96 percentage points from the 2003 rate of 2.19%. These achievements have met the 2007 reduction goals set in the “Garbage Treatment Plan Evaluation and Vision” approved by the Executive Yuan in December 2003. \n\nIn addition to these outstanding achievements in recycling and reusing resources, the nation’s average per capita volume of garbage collected per day has decreased from 1.143 kg to 0.620 kg in less than a decade from 1997 to June 2006, marking a record low. In the same period, the rate of properly treated garbage has risen from 76.97% to 99.69% marking a record high. All data indicates that the Complete Sorting for Zero Waste policy is showing initial signs of success. However, the EPA is not entirely satisfied at these results and will continue to promote garbage reduction and recycling. This will reduce the need for building new garbage treatment facilities and will steer Taiwan on the right track to sustainable development as resource recycling becomes second nature to citizens.", "content": "In action for two years now the EPA’s “Complete Sorting of Garbage for Zero Waste Taskforce Action Plan” has attained its recycling and waste reduction goals ahead of schedule. This plan has increased the recycling rate from 17.89% to 26.35% and the food waste recycling rate from 2.19% to 7.15%. Average per capita daily garbage collection volume has decreased from 1.143 kg in 1997 to 0.620 kg in June 2006, marking a new record for waste reduction in Taiwan.\n\n \n\nAiming to promote complete sorting of garbage and the Zero Waste policy, the EPA initiated the “Complete Sorting for Zero Waste Taskforce Action Plan” in 2004. Now into the second year of this three-year plan, statistics and figures are showing marked achievements in terms of increased recycling, reuse and waste reduction. Original targets have already been reached ahead of schedule.\n\nThe EPA indicates that the “Waste Management Plan Evaluation and Vision” approved by the Executive Yuan in December 2003, gave rise to the “Three-Year Action Plan for the Complete Sorting of Garbage for Zero Waste,” which commenced in 2004. Now already into the second year, this three-year plan combined with the “Mandatory Garbage Sorting Plan,” have achieved great progress in terms of increasing recycling and reuse rates. The national overall recycling volume has reached 1,017,900 tonnes in June 2006 for a recycling rate of 26.35%, up 8.46 percentage points from the 2003 rate of 17.89%. Meanwhile, a total of 276,400 tonnes of food waste have been recycled for a recycling rate of 7.15%, up 4.96 percentage points from the 2003 rate of 2.19%. These achievements have met the 2007 reduction goals set in the “Garbage Treatment Plan Evaluation and Vision” approved by the Executive Yuan in December 2003. \n\nIn addition to these outstanding achievements in recycling and reusing resources, the nation’s average per capita volume of garbage collected per day has decreased from 1.143 kg to 0.620 kg in less than a decade from 1997 to June 2006, marking a record low. In the same period, the rate of properly treated garbage has risen from 76.97% to 99.69% marking a record high. All data indicates that the Complete Sorting for Zero Waste policy is showing initial signs of success. However, the EPA is not entirely satisfied at these results and will continue to promote garbage reduction and recycling. This will reduce the need for building new garbage treatment facilities and will steer Taiwan on the right track to sustainable development as resource recycling becomes second nature to citizens.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Complete Sorting Zero Waste Goals Met Ahead of Schedule", "position": "print\/V9\/V9-09" }, { "no": "1820", "title": "Battery Recycling Clearance, Treatment Fee Rates and Subsidy Rates Adjusted", "preview": "Until now subsidy rates for recycling, clearance and treatment of spent batteries have primarily applied to businesses that export batteries for treatment in other countries. In response to the growing number of domestic battery treatment plants and domestic applications for treatment subsidies, the EPA has revised battery recycling, clearance and treatment fee rates and subsidy rates. Rates have been adjusted in nine categories and these changes are expected to affect 1,000 businesses. The revised rates took effect upon promulgation on 1 September 2006.\n\nGrowing environmental awareness in Taiwan in recent years has helped to ingrain recycling concepts, causing a steady annual increase in the number of batteries collected for recycling. In the past, Taiwan had no battery treatment factories and all spent batteries were exported to other countries for treatment. As a result, existing recycling, clearance and treatment subsidy fee rates are only applicable to businesses exporting batteries for treatment. In response to the growing number of battery treatment plants in Taiwan and their requests to apply for subsidies, the EPA has made a comprehensive review of the current fee rates and subsidy rates for recycling, clearance and treatment of spent batteries. These rates have been adjusted in a recent revision. \n\nThe revision was made according to rules in the Waste Disposal Act (廢棄物清理法). After review by the EPA’s Recycling Fund Management Board, the draft revision was sent to the EPA for internal review and further discussion. A conference was then convened inviting related businesses to attend, and related data in the draft revision were updated based on internal recommendations. After the Recycling Fund Management Board reached consensus on the final draft, the fee rate and subsidy rate for recycling, clearance and treatment of spent batteries was confirmed and settled. The revision is expected to affect the rights and interests of some 1,000 domestic businesses involved in treatment of spent batteries. \n\nAdjustments were made to 9 of the existing 15 battery categories. The revision is scheduled to take effect from 1 September 2006.", "content": "Until now subsidy rates for recycling, clearance and treatment of spent batteries have primarily applied to businesses that export batteries for treatment in other countries. In response to the growing number of domestic battery treatment plants and domestic applications for treatment subsidies, the EPA has revised battery recycling, clearance and treatment fee rates and subsidy rates. Rates have been adjusted in nine categories and these changes are expected to affect 1,000 businesses. The revised rates took effect upon promulgation on 1 September 2006.\n\nGrowing environmental awareness in Taiwan in recent years has helped to ingrain recycling concepts, causing a steady annual increase in the number of batteries collected for recycling. In the past, Taiwan had no battery treatment factories and all spent batteries were exported to other countries for treatment. As a result, existing recycling, clearance and treatment subsidy fee rates are only applicable to businesses exporting batteries for treatment. In response to the growing number of battery treatment plants in Taiwan and their requests to apply for subsidies, the EPA has made a comprehensive review of the current fee rates and subsidy rates for recycling, clearance and treatment of spent batteries. These rates have been adjusted in a recent revision. \n\nThe revision was made according to rules in the Waste Disposal Act (廢棄物清理法). After review by the EPA’s Recycling Fund Management Board, the draft revision was sent to the EPA for internal review and further discussion. A conference was then convened inviting related businesses to attend, and related data in the draft revision were updated based on internal recommendations. After the Recycling Fund Management Board reached consensus on the final draft, the fee rate and subsidy rate for recycling, clearance and treatment of spent batteries was confirmed and settled. The revision is expected to affect the rights and interests of some 1,000 domestic businesses involved in treatment of spent batteries. \n\nAdjustments were made to 9 of the existing 15 battery categories. The revision is scheduled to take effect from 1 September 2006.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Battery Recycling Clearance Treatment Fee Rates and Subsidy Rates Adjusted", "position": "print\/V9\/V9-09" }, { "no": "1814", "title": "Single Portal for Reporting Air Water, Waste, and Toxics Underway", "preview": "Different permit application methods for pollutant discharges involving air water, waste, and toxic chemical substances have impeded the EPA from effectively integrating management in the past. This year (2006) the EPA is integrating the websites of these services in hopes of launching a single portal for all relevant industries by the end of the year. This website will allow inquiries into common baseline data to facilitate management of pollutants.\n\nIn the past, permit application methods were different for air pollution, water pollution, waste, and toxic chemical substances. Some required filing out a paper form while others offered downloadable application forms that could be printed out. As a result, industries often had to rewrite the same information. This also required different reviewing agencies, each of which stored databases on their own computers so that basic data on air, water, waste, and toxic substances were not only different but were also filed in a different format making it hard to integrate information. Also, as there was no basis for comparison of data, environmental protection controls had become susceptible to loopholes. The EPA has thus begun this year (2006) to integrate permit application websites for air pollution, water pollution, waste, and toxic substances, so that all industries can apply through one unified portal by the end of this year. This will allow searches of common baseline data to facilitate management. The EPA further plans that by the end of 2007, the integrated database website will automatically generate related permit information related to air pollution, water pollution, waste and toxic substances. Companies will no longer need to fill out duplicate applications and will be able to apply for permits and report pollution output through one comprehensive website.\n\nCompanies’ actual reports on output of water pollution, air pollution, waste, and toxic substances will be integrated into one information management system called the Environment Permit System (EPS). This will save businesses the hassle of repeatedly filling out the same baseline data and will allow searches into volume of raw materials used, production output, and generation of air pollution, wastewater, waste, and toxic chemical substances. The new system is expected to facilitate factory internal operations and proper treatment of waste materials. Environmental authorities can also use the EPS to search for relationships between each company’s own data on output of air pollution, wastewater, waste and toxic substances and the actual reports on how they handled those waste products. This information can be crosschecked with their permits; if a discrepancy occurs an onsite inspection can be made and penalties issued. This measure is anticipated to effectively intimidate businesses from illegally handling pollutants, as well as achieve optimal results in streamlining government and benefiting the public.", "content": "Different permit application methods for pollutant discharges involving air water, waste, and toxic chemical substances have impeded the EPA from effectively integrating management in the past. This year (2006) the EPA is integrating the websites of these services in hopes of launching a single portal for all relevant industries by the end of the year. This website will allow inquiries into common baseline data to facilitate management of pollutants.\n\nIn the past, permit application methods were different for air pollution, water pollution, waste, and toxic chemical substances. Some required filing out a paper form while others offered downloadable application forms that could be printed out. As a result, industries often had to rewrite the same information. This also required different reviewing agencies, each of which stored databases on their own computers so that basic data on air, water, waste, and toxic substances were not only different but were also filed in a different format making it hard to integrate information. Also, as there was no basis for comparison of data, environmental protection controls had become susceptible to loopholes. The EPA has thus begun this year (2006) to integrate permit application websites for air pollution, water pollution, waste, and toxic substances, so that all industries can apply through one unified portal by the end of this year. This will allow searches of common baseline data to facilitate management. The EPA further plans that by the end of 2007, the integrated database website will automatically generate related permit information related to air pollution, water pollution, waste and toxic substances. Companies will no longer need to fill out duplicate applications and will be able to apply for permits and report pollution output through one comprehensive website.\n\nCompanies’ actual reports on output of water pollution, air pollution, waste, and toxic substances will be integrated into one information management system called the Environment Permit System (EPS). This will save businesses the hassle of repeatedly filling out the same baseline data and will allow searches into volume of raw materials used, production output, and generation of air pollution, wastewater, waste, and toxic chemical substances. The new system is expected to facilitate factory internal operations and proper treatment of waste materials. Environmental authorities can also use the EPS to search for relationships between each company’s own data on output of air pollution, wastewater, waste and toxic substances and the actual reports on how they handled those waste products. This information can be crosschecked with their permits; if a discrepancy occurs an onsite inspection can be made and penalties issued. This measure is anticipated to effectively intimidate businesses from illegally handling pollutants, as well as achieve optimal results in streamlining government and benefiting the public.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Single Portal for Reporting Air Water Waste, and Toxics Underway", "position": "print\/V9\/V9-08" }, { "no": "1762", "title": "30000 Join Nationwide Spring Beach Cleanup", "preview": "Annual spring beach cleanup events took place nationwide this year kicking off with an opening ceremony on 29 April 2006. An estimated 30,000 environmental volunteers, enthusiastic citizens, environmentalists, students, soldiers, coast guard patrolmen in the nation’s 21 coastal counties and municipalities teamed up for this major beach cleanup event. To set the tone for this volunteer cleanup event as well as set a motivational example, EPA Deputy Minister Lin Ta-hsiung led a group of EPA colleagues on 21 May 2006 to participate in the Taoyuan County beach cleanup.", "content": "Annual spring beach cleanup events took place nationwide this year kicking off with an opening ceremony on 29 April 2006. An estimated 30,000 environmental volunteers, enthusiastic citizens, environmentalists, students, soldiers, coast guard patrolmen in the nation’s 21 coastal counties and municipalities teamed up for this major beach cleanup event. To set the tone for this volunteer cleanup event as well as set a motivational example, EPA Deputy Minister Lin Ta-hsiung led a group of EPA colleagues on 21 May 2006 to participate in the Taoyuan County beach cleanup.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Others", "titlename": "30000 Join Nationwide Spring Beach Cleanup", "position": "print\/V9\/V9-06" }, { "no": "1652", "title": "8000 Enterprises Required to Report Waste Flow Online", "preview": "The EPA has stipulated that from 1 December 2005 over 8,000 enterprises that generate construction waste, infectious industrial waste and hazardous industrial waste will be required to file an online report within three months (by 28 February 2006), including their industrial waste clearance and disposal plan, a review of raw materials, products, and waste generated in their plants, plans detailing appropriate waste treatment methods, and the review by the inspecting organization. Each company shall undertake proper clearance and disposal of all generated waste based on the inspecting organization’s review. The competent environmental authority will then inspect and compare the volume of generated waste against the volume recorded for clearance and disposal to forestall illegal dumping incidents. This new regulation targets an estimated 3.97 million tonnes of industrial waste. [Please see EPM Vol.8, Issue 10 for details]", "content": "The EPA has stipulated that from 1 December 2005 over 8,000 enterprises that generate construction waste, infectious industrial waste and hazardous industrial waste will be required to file an online report within three months (by 28 February 2006), including their industrial waste clearance and disposal plan, a review of raw materials, products, and waste generated in their plants, plans detailing appropriate waste treatment methods, and the review by the inspecting organization. Each company shall undertake proper clearance and disposal of all generated waste based on the inspecting organization’s review. The competent environmental authority will then inspect and compare the volume of generated waste against the volume recorded for clearance and disposal to forestall illegal dumping incidents. This new regulation targets an estimated 3.97 million tonnes of industrial waste. [Please see EPM Vol.8, Issue 10 for details]", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "8000 Enterprises Required to Report Waste Flow Online", "position": "print\/V8\/V8-12" }, { "no": "1583", "title": "9000 More Companies’ Industrial Waste Under Stricter Control", "preview": "Extending control over the flow of industrial waste and increasing effectiveness of controls the EPA is revising regulations to require 8,931 more companies to submit industrial waste clearance and disposal plans. The revisions are expected to take effect as of 1 November 2005. The following revisions will be made:\n\n1) The definition of medical organizations subject to the industrial waste clearance and disposal measures has been changed from “medical organizations permitted to house over ten beds” to “hospitals, dialysis clinics and clinics with over three departments.”\n\n2) The threshold has been changed for the slaughterhouse industry.\n\n3) The threshold has been changed for agricultural and “other industries’” hazardous waste.\n\n(4) The threshold has been changed for reuse organizations.\n\nOther industries newly included under controls: power suppliers, printing plate makers, printers, agricultural product wholesale markets, industrial waste joint clearance and disposal organizations, companies with medium to small scale waste incinerators, colleges or academic institute laboratories that generate hazardous industrial waste, film developers with fully automated developing equipment, drycleaners, environmental analysis organizations and some construction companies.", "content": "Extending control over the flow of industrial waste and increasing effectiveness of controls the EPA is revising regulations to require 8,931 more companies to submit industrial waste clearance and disposal plans. The revisions are expected to take effect as of 1 November 2005. The following revisions will be made:\n\n1) The definition of medical organizations subject to the industrial waste clearance and disposal measures has been changed from “medical organizations permitted to house over ten beds” to “hospitals, dialysis clinics and clinics with over three departments.”\n\n2) The threshold has been changed for the slaughterhouse industry.\n\n3) The threshold has been changed for agricultural and “other industries’” hazardous waste.\n\n(4) The threshold has been changed for reuse organizations.\n\nOther industries newly included under controls: power suppliers, printing plate makers, printers, agricultural product wholesale markets, industrial waste joint clearance and disposal organizations, companies with medium to small scale waste incinerators, colleges or academic institute laboratories that generate hazardous industrial waste, film developers with fully automated developing equipment, drycleaners, environmental analysis organizations and some construction companies.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "9000 More Companies Industrial Waste Under Stricter Control", "position": "print\/V8\/V8-08" }, { "no": "1582", "title": "Tracking the Waste Flow of the Printing Dyeing and Pigment Industry", "preview": "The EPA will strengthen auditing and guidance over waste flow and waste treatment in the printing dyeing and pigment industry. In 2004, this industry reported 130,000 tonnes of general industrial waste and 12,000 tonnes of hazardous industrial waste. Of this, paint, dye, and pigment manufacturers accounted for 15,000 tonnes of general industrial waste and over 2,000 tonnes of hazardous industrial waste. Among the waste products generated by printing, dyeing and finishing plants includes sludge from textiles, which the Ministry of Economic Affairs has listed as a reusable material. This sludge can be used as raw material for organic fertilizer (restricted to textile sludge from cotton\/wool spinning and ginning industries), raw material for artificial aggregates, or fuel for brick kilns, cement kilns, or boilers.", "content": "The EPA will strengthen auditing and guidance over waste flow and waste treatment in the printing dyeing and pigment industry. In 2004, this industry reported 130,000 tonnes of general industrial waste and 12,000 tonnes of hazardous industrial waste. Of this, paint, dye, and pigment manufacturers accounted for 15,000 tonnes of general industrial waste and over 2,000 tonnes of hazardous industrial waste. Among the waste products generated by printing, dyeing and finishing plants includes sludge from textiles, which the Ministry of Economic Affairs has listed as a reusable material. This sludge can be used as raw material for organic fertilizer (restricted to textile sludge from cotton\/wool spinning and ginning industries), raw material for artificial aggregates, or fuel for brick kilns, cement kilns, or boilers.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Tracking the Waste Flow of the Printing Dyeing and Pigment Industry", "position": "print\/V8\/V8-07" }, { "no": "1547", "title": "Environment Day: Over 1300 Volunteers Pledge to Patrol Rivers", "preview": "On World Environment Day June 5, the EPA held a river patrol volunteer pledge activity on the shore of the Tanshui River in Bali, Taipei County. Executive Yuan Premier Frank Hsieh called on the citizenry to join efforts to protect water resources and work toward a mutually beneficial relationship between humans and the environment.\n\nOne of the largest river patrol volunteer pledge activities to take place in northern Taiwan was held on Environment Day, 5 June 2005, in Bali, Taipei County. The “Local Love for Rivers and Oceans Volunteer Patrol Pledge” activity was jointly held by the EPA and the Taipei County government. Premier Frank Hsieh and Acting Minister Tsay Ting-kuay led over 1,300 representatives of river patrols in Taiwan’s 25 counties and cities to challenge polluters.\n\nThe Premier stressed during his opening remarks that his reference to the concept of coexistence means not only harmony between political parities but more importantly refers to symbiosis between humans and nature. Hsieh expressed hope that more citizens get involved in activities to protect water resources. Hsieh pointed out that Taiwan’s rivers have suffered heavy pollution in the past and recalled when river water in Kaohsiung City was so black that it could be used to write calligraphy. Owing to the government’s persistent efforts in remediation, river water quality has steadily improved in recent years.\n\nThe EPA proposed adding Environment Day as a national holiday in the first draft of the Basic Environment Act in 1998. When the Act took effect in 2002 it was decided that this national holiday would coincide with the UN’s World Environment Day on June 5. Environment Day is a day for the nation’s citizens, companies and all levels of government to embody environmental protection concepts and show mutual concern for all environmental issues. On this year’s Environment Day, the EPA and the Taipei County government specially invited the nation’s river patrol volunteers to Bali, Taipei County, to participate in the “Local Love for Rivers and Oceans Volunteer Patrol Pledge” as a way of showing the mutual resolve of government and citizens to defend the rivers and oceans.\n\nThe Executive Yuan ratified the EPA’s “River and Ocean Water Quality Protection and Improvement Plan” in 2004. This plan allocates NT$6 billion from 2005 to 2007 toward river remediation, and integrates communities and schools to establish volunteer river patrols. The patrols assist in investigating illegal pollution discharge and encourage the public to adopt local water quality purification facilities.", "content": "On World Environment Day June 5, the EPA held a river patrol volunteer pledge activity on the shore of the Tanshui River in Bali, Taipei County. Executive Yuan Premier Frank Hsieh called on the citizenry to join efforts to protect water resources and work toward a mutually beneficial relationship between humans and the environment.\n\nOne of the largest river patrol volunteer pledge activities to take place in northern Taiwan was held on Environment Day, 5 June 2005, in Bali, Taipei County. The “Local Love for Rivers and Oceans Volunteer Patrol Pledge” activity was jointly held by the EPA and the Taipei County government. Premier Frank Hsieh and Acting Minister Tsay Ting-kuay led over 1,300 representatives of river patrols in Taiwan’s 25 counties and cities to challenge polluters.\n\nThe Premier stressed during his opening remarks that his reference to the concept of coexistence means not only harmony between political parities but more importantly refers to symbiosis between humans and nature. Hsieh expressed hope that more citizens get involved in activities to protect water resources. Hsieh pointed out that Taiwan’s rivers have suffered heavy pollution in the past and recalled when river water in Kaohsiung City was so black that it could be used to write calligraphy. Owing to the government’s persistent efforts in remediation, river water quality has steadily improved in recent years.\n\nThe EPA proposed adding Environment Day as a national holiday in the first draft of the Basic Environment Act in 1998. When the Act took effect in 2002 it was decided that this national holiday would coincide with the UN’s World Environment Day on June 5. Environment Day is a day for the nation’s citizens, companies and all levels of government to embody environmental protection concepts and show mutual concern for all environmental issues. On this year’s Environment Day, the EPA and the Taipei County government specially invited the nation’s river patrol volunteers to Bali, Taipei County, to participate in the “Local Love for Rivers and Oceans Volunteer Patrol Pledge” as a way of showing the mutual resolve of government and citizens to defend the rivers and oceans.\n\nThe Executive Yuan ratified the EPA’s “River and Ocean Water Quality Protection and Improvement Plan” in 2004. This plan allocates NT$6 billion from 2005 to 2007 toward river remediation, and integrates communities and schools to establish volunteer river patrols. The patrols assist in investigating illegal pollution discharge and encourage the public to adopt local water quality purification facilities.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Environment Day: Over 1300 Volunteers Pledge to Patrol Rivers", "position": "print\/V8\/V8-06" }, { "no": "1528", "title": "40000 Participate in National Beach Clean-up", "preview": "The EPA’s 2005 annual beach clean-up event kicked off on the afternoon of April 30 at 98 locations on the coasts of Taiwan. This is the first time since the EPA began carrying out environmental clean up and maintenance in coastal areas that all counties cities and townships along the coastline joined in simultaneously to broaden the scope of this annual beach clean-up. Premier Hsieh showed up in person to preside over the activity in Jinshan Township at a beach on the northern cape of Taiwan, where over 3,000 people from all walks of life including central and local government staff, foreign residents, environmental volunteers and citizens helped pick up trash. An estimated 40,000 people participated nationwide, and thanks to the many environmental volunteers, devoted citizens, environmentalists, students, soldiers, and coast guards, the beaches of Taiwan have taken on a new clean face.", "content": "The EPA’s 2005 annual beach clean-up event kicked off on the afternoon of April 30 at 98 locations on the coasts of Taiwan. This is the first time since the EPA began carrying out environmental clean up and maintenance in coastal areas that all counties cities and townships along the coastline joined in simultaneously to broaden the scope of this annual beach clean-up. Premier Hsieh showed up in person to preside over the activity in Jinshan Township at a beach on the northern cape of Taiwan, where over 3,000 people from all walks of life including central and local government staff, foreign residents, environmental volunteers and citizens helped pick up trash. An estimated 40,000 people participated nationwide, and thanks to the many environmental volunteers, devoted citizens, environmentalists, students, soldiers, and coast guards, the beaches of Taiwan have taken on a new clean face.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Sanitation", "titlename": "40000 Participate in National Beach Clean-up", "position": "print\/V8\/V8-05" }, { "no": "1523", "title": "Over 6000 Entities Required to Report Waste Online", "preview": "On July 1 the EPA promulgated a revision requiring 6000 entities that generate waste types commonly found in illegal dumping incidents (such as construction waste, infectious industrial waste and hazardous industrial waste) to submit online reports detailing the trajectories of industrial waste clearance vehicles. The purpose is to ensure the appropriate clearance and disposal of waste generated by these entities and prevent environmental pollution from careless dumping of such wastes. Entities subject to this new regulation include construction companies, hospitals, labs of junior colleges or academic institutes that generate hazardous industrial waste, photo developing shops with fully automated developing equipment, drycleaners, environmental analysis organizations, plate makers for printing, printers and terminal markets for agricultural products.", "content": "On July 1 the EPA promulgated a revision requiring 6000 entities that generate waste types commonly found in illegal dumping incidents (such as construction waste, infectious industrial waste and hazardous industrial waste) to submit online reports detailing the trajectories of industrial waste clearance vehicles. The purpose is to ensure the appropriate clearance and disposal of waste generated by these entities and prevent environmental pollution from careless dumping of such wastes. Entities subject to this new regulation include construction companies, hospitals, labs of junior colleges or academic institutes that generate hazardous industrial waste, photo developing shops with fully automated developing equipment, drycleaners, environmental analysis organizations, plate makers for printing, printers and terminal markets for agricultural products.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Over 6000 Entities Required to Report Waste Online", "position": "print\/V8\/V8-04" }, { "no": "1519", "title": "Industrial Park Pollution Controls Target Steel Petrochemical, Construction Industries", "preview": "Petrochemicals steel, cement, fabrics and papermaking industries are largely concentrated in southern and central Taiwan. These traditional industries consume enormous amounts of energy and generate large amounts of pollution, making them some of the top emitters of carbon dioxide. To expedite greenhouse gas reductions, the EPA has focused on controlling pollution emissions of these target industries.\n\nGreenhouse effect mitigation measures are set forth in the Kyoto Protocol, which finally took effect on February 16 to extend controls over 55% of emissions from 55 nations. In essence this environmental treaty is the drive behind comprehensive adjustments in many nations’ energy structures, industrial policies, and energy conservation initiatives. The EPA’s Southern Branch Bureau of Environmental Investigation (BEI) indicates that although Taiwan is not a signatory nation of the Kyoto Protocol, given Taiwan’s role as member of the global village as well as the current state of international industrial competition, it has become imperative to find ways to reduce carbon dioxide and greenhouse gas emissions. Adjustments in energy structure and industrial policy are tasks that require long term planning. Immediate response measures call for controlling air pollution emissions of specific industries.\n\nThe Southern Regional BEI indicates that five traditional industries—petrochemicals, steel, cement, fabrics, and papermaking—are backbone industries in Taiwan in terms of output value, however these industries have high energy consumption rates, are high polluting and are the number one domestic emitters of carbon dioxide. The petrochemical industry accounts for 25% of all industrial emissions in Taiwan. Renda and Linyuan industrial parks in southern Taiwan harbor a high density of petrochemical firms and emit a large amount of carbon dioxide and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).\n\nThe global demand for steel has increased greatly since last year, triggering in a rise in steel industry output. Southern Taiwan is a focal region for domestic steel production. Apart from China Steel Corp, which handles the entire manufacture process from raw material to end product, there are still numerous medium to small scale peripheral steel industries in industrial parks near the ocean. The pollution generated by these industries during production cannot be overlooked as increases in production capacity or negligence of pollution prevention work usually result in increased environmental loading.\n\nThe Southern BEI has therefore focused on waste incinerators, steel, petrochemical, cement, and construction industries this year, carrying out inspections of emission stacks, control of airborne roadway dust, and detection of leaky equipment in the hopes of effectively controlling pollution, raising air quality, and providing the public with a sound living environment.", "content": "Petrochemicals steel, cement, fabrics and papermaking industries are largely concentrated in southern and central Taiwan. These traditional industries consume enormous amounts of energy and generate large amounts of pollution, making them some of the top emitters of carbon dioxide. To expedite greenhouse gas reductions, the EPA has focused on controlling pollution emissions of these target industries.\n\nGreenhouse effect mitigation measures are set forth in the Kyoto Protocol, which finally took effect on February 16 to extend controls over 55% of emissions from 55 nations. In essence this environmental treaty is the drive behind comprehensive adjustments in many nations’ energy structures, industrial policies, and energy conservation initiatives. The EPA’s Southern Branch Bureau of Environmental Investigation (BEI) indicates that although Taiwan is not a signatory nation of the Kyoto Protocol, given Taiwan’s role as member of the global village as well as the current state of international industrial competition, it has become imperative to find ways to reduce carbon dioxide and greenhouse gas emissions. Adjustments in energy structure and industrial policy are tasks that require long term planning. Immediate response measures call for controlling air pollution emissions of specific industries.\n\nThe Southern Regional BEI indicates that five traditional industries—petrochemicals, steel, cement, fabrics, and papermaking—are backbone industries in Taiwan in terms of output value, however these industries have high energy consumption rates, are high polluting and are the number one domestic emitters of carbon dioxide. The petrochemical industry accounts for 25% of all industrial emissions in Taiwan. Renda and Linyuan industrial parks in southern Taiwan harbor a high density of petrochemical firms and emit a large amount of carbon dioxide and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).\n\nThe global demand for steel has increased greatly since last year, triggering in a rise in steel industry output. Southern Taiwan is a focal region for domestic steel production. Apart from China Steel Corp, which handles the entire manufacture process from raw material to end product, there are still numerous medium to small scale peripheral steel industries in industrial parks near the ocean. The pollution generated by these industries during production cannot be overlooked as increases in production capacity or negligence of pollution prevention work usually result in increased environmental loading.\n\nThe Southern BEI has therefore focused on waste incinerators, steel, petrochemical, cement, and construction industries this year, carrying out inspections of emission stacks, control of airborne roadway dust, and detection of leaky equipment in the hopes of effectively controlling pollution, raising air quality, and providing the public with a sound living environment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Industrial Park Pollution Controls Target Steel Petrochemical Construction Industries", "position": "print\/V8\/V8-04" }, { "no": "1492", "title": "Tracking and Monitoring of 1375 Polluted Farmlands", "preview": "The EPA has carried out prompt investigation of sites suspected or reported to have soil and groundwater pollution. So far 25 industrial sites and 1375 farmlands have been listed as control sites. To safeguard citizens’ health, the EPA will continue to track and monitor soil pollution sites and expedite improvement work.\n\nAccording to EPA statistics, 25 industrial sites and 1,375 farmlands throughout Taiwan currently exceed soil and groundwater pollution control standards. The EPA dispatches inspectors to make random patrols of these soil and groundwater pollution sites and ensure prompt improvements are made.\n\nThe Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act stipulates that once land is found to have exceeded soil and groundwater pollution control standards, the local environmental protection bureau (EPB) is required to announce the area as a pollution control site and proceed with follow-up pollution improvement work. This includes guaranteeing food safety for consumers by preventing the cultivation of food crops, raising livestock, and drinking or using groundwater from polluted farmlands where improvement measures have not been completed. So far no cases of inappropriate cultivation have been discovered. \n\nThrough joint monitoring by the EPA’s Soil and Groundwater Remediation Fund Management Board and the Bureau of Environmental Inspection, already 931 parcels (approximately 219 hectares) of polluted farmland in Changhua County and Hsinchu City have completed improvement measures and controls have been lifted. Other areas including Taoyuan County, Taichung County, Kaohsiung County, Tainan County and Tainan City are actively carrying out pollution improvement work and some farmlands have already completed examinations.\n\nApart from tracking and supervising polluted farmland sites, the EPA will also continue to oversee other cases involving gas filling stations, large scale petrochemical storage sites, and industrial pollution, ensuring that industry owners adopt the necessary response measures and follow through with pollution inspection and improvement work to prevent pollution from spreading. Currently only Taiwan Styrene Monomer Corporation’s Kaohsiung Plant and Changhua County’s Simen Gas Station have already completed improvements and have been removed from the list of control sites.", "content": "The EPA has carried out prompt investigation of sites suspected or reported to have soil and groundwater pollution. So far 25 industrial sites and 1375 farmlands have been listed as control sites. To safeguard citizens’ health, the EPA will continue to track and monitor soil pollution sites and expedite improvement work.\n\nAccording to EPA statistics, 25 industrial sites and 1,375 farmlands throughout Taiwan currently exceed soil and groundwater pollution control standards. The EPA dispatches inspectors to make random patrols of these soil and groundwater pollution sites and ensure prompt improvements are made.\n\nThe Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act stipulates that once land is found to have exceeded soil and groundwater pollution control standards, the local environmental protection bureau (EPB) is required to announce the area as a pollution control site and proceed with follow-up pollution improvement work. This includes guaranteeing food safety for consumers by preventing the cultivation of food crops, raising livestock, and drinking or using groundwater from polluted farmlands where improvement measures have not been completed. So far no cases of inappropriate cultivation have been discovered. \n\nThrough joint monitoring by the EPA’s Soil and Groundwater Remediation Fund Management Board and the Bureau of Environmental Inspection, already 931 parcels (approximately 219 hectares) of polluted farmland in Changhua County and Hsinchu City have completed improvement measures and controls have been lifted. Other areas including Taoyuan County, Taichung County, Kaohsiung County, Tainan County and Tainan City are actively carrying out pollution improvement work and some farmlands have already completed examinations.\n\nApart from tracking and supervising polluted farmland sites, the EPA will also continue to oversee other cases involving gas filling stations, large scale petrochemical storage sites, and industrial pollution, ensuring that industry owners adopt the necessary response measures and follow through with pollution inspection and improvement work to prevent pollution from spreading. Currently only Taiwan Styrene Monomer Corporation’s Kaohsiung Plant and Changhua County’s Simen Gas Station have already completed improvements and have been removed from the list of control sites.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil & Groundwater", "titlename": "Tracking and Monitoring of 1375 Polluted Farmlands", "position": "print\/V8\/V8-02" }, { "no": "1483", "title": "Domestic Wastewater Killing Rivers EPA Steps Up Enforcement", "preview": "Statistics show that 55% of Taiwan’s river pollution is caused by domestic wastewater – the number one culprit of Taiwan’s polluted rivers. The EPA announced the enforcement of regulations calling for sharp reductions and source reductions of domestic wastewater nationwide. Violators could face a maximum fine of NT$600000.\n\nEPA statistics show that domestic wastewater generated by the average household is the main source of pollution in Taiwan’s rivers, accounting for 50% of all pollution, followed by industrial wastewater at 24% and livestock effluent at 26%. Although the nation’s domestic wastewater treatment facilities have a normal operation rate of 83%, still nearly 20% are unable to effectively treat wastewater. \n\nThe EPA states that public sewers currently reach less than 12% of residencies in Taiwan, and thus domestic wastewater treatment primarily relies on individual community wastewater treatment facilities. While sound construction and management of such facilities are compatible with public wastewater sewer systems, improper operation and management could be even less effective than conventional septic tanks.\n\nAs for those communities not currently up to standard in domestic wastewater treatment, the EPA stresses that reinforced control and inspection at the current stage is primarily focused on those communities that already possess facilities, yet are unwilling to engage in normal operations.\n\nThe EPA said for instance that for a community with one hundred households, monthly operation fees of domestic wastewater treatment facilities would cost each owner only NT$42—cheaper than a bowl of beef noodles. However, once a community’s wastewater does not conform to effluent standards, they are subject to fines from NT$60,000 to 600,000 according to the Water Pollution Control Act. It is thus in the best interest of citizens to pay minimal maintenance fees rather than risk heavy fines.", "content": "Statistics show that 55% of Taiwan’s river pollution is caused by domestic wastewater – the number one culprit of Taiwan’s polluted rivers. The EPA announced the enforcement of regulations calling for sharp reductions and source reductions of domestic wastewater nationwide. Violators could face a maximum fine of NT$600000.\n\nEPA statistics show that domestic wastewater generated by the average household is the main source of pollution in Taiwan’s rivers, accounting for 50% of all pollution, followed by industrial wastewater at 24% and livestock effluent at 26%. Although the nation’s domestic wastewater treatment facilities have a normal operation rate of 83%, still nearly 20% are unable to effectively treat wastewater. \n\nThe EPA states that public sewers currently reach less than 12% of residencies in Taiwan, and thus domestic wastewater treatment primarily relies on individual community wastewater treatment facilities. While sound construction and management of such facilities are compatible with public wastewater sewer systems, improper operation and management could be even less effective than conventional septic tanks.\n\nAs for those communities not currently up to standard in domestic wastewater treatment, the EPA stresses that reinforced control and inspection at the current stage is primarily focused on those communities that already possess facilities, yet are unwilling to engage in normal operations.\n\nThe EPA said for instance that for a community with one hundred households, monthly operation fees of domestic wastewater treatment facilities would cost each owner only NT$42—cheaper than a bowl of beef noodles. However, once a community’s wastewater does not conform to effluent standards, they are subject to fines from NT$60,000 to 600,000 according to the Water Pollution Control Act. It is thus in the best interest of citizens to pay minimal maintenance fees rather than risk heavy fines.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Domestic Wastewater Killing Rivers EPA Steps Up Enforcement", "position": "print\/V8\/V8-02" }, { "no": "1473", "title": "One Two, Three – Recycling is Easy!", "preview": "To educate the public on the Compulsory Garbage Sorting Policy which took effect on 1 January 2004, EPA Minister Juu-En Chang and CTS General Manager Jiang Hsia made an appearance in an educational commercial. The two geared up in baseball uniforms and stepped up to the plate, asking citizens to help the Compulsory Garbage Sorting Policy hit a homerun every time. The commercial draws on the nation's hottest sport of baseball as the background with Minister Chang cracking three line drives, one after another, symbolizing the three categories of waste. Jiang Hsia played the role of sportscaster. Helping citizens remember to separate trash into three categories—resources, food scraps and general waste—the EPA has come up with the phrase, \"One, two, three, recycling is easy.\" Citizens are hoped to not only pick up on this catchy slogan but also put the words into action.", "content": "To educate the public on the Compulsory Garbage Sorting Policy which took effect on 1 January 2004, EPA Minister Juu-En Chang and CTS General Manager Jiang Hsia made an appearance in an educational commercial. The two geared up in baseball uniforms and stepped up to the plate, asking citizens to help the Compulsory Garbage Sorting Policy hit a homerun every time. The commercial draws on the nation's hottest sport of baseball as the background with Minister Chang cracking three line drives, one after another, symbolizing the three categories of waste. Jiang Hsia played the role of sportscaster. Helping citizens remember to separate trash into three categories—resources, food scraps and general waste—the EPA has come up with the phrase, \"One, two, three, recycling is easy.\" Citizens are hoped to not only pick up on this catchy slogan but also put the words into action.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "One Two Three – Recycling is Easy!", "position": "print\/V8\/V8-01" }, { "no": "1444", "title": "Tightened Auditing of Recycling Clearance and Disposal Fees", "preview": "To an increasingly serious degree corporations are failing to pay recycling, clearance and disposal fees in full. Over the past few years, industry has racked up a cumulative debt of over NT$2.2 billion in terms of unpaid recycling, clearance and disposal fees. The EPA has decided to promptly strengthen auditing of businesses to put into practice the polluter pays principle, as well as honest reporting and equitable payment principles.\n\nTargeting products, packaging, and containers that are not easy to collect and dispose of, or have recycle or reuse value (such as drinks, cars, batteries, etc.), the Waste Disposal Act stipulates that manufacturers and importers of such materials must report waste amounts and pay a recycling, clearance and disposal fee. \n\nThe EPA indicates that over the last six years as of the end of July this year (2004), the number of businesses subject to this regulation has increased from 6,400 to over 9,500. The EPA screens out and takes firm action on businesses suspected of underreporting fee payments, as well as audits financial accounts of business volume and import volume. Nearly 3,000 corporations have been found underreporting their waste data in the last few years. This accounts for NT$2.25 billion of uncollected fees. So far NT$1.44 billion of this has been recovered and the remaining amount is still being collected and investigated.\n\nThe EPA explains that without exception, those businesses that have already been asked to pay overdue fines yet are not willing to pay, will be strictly dealt with according to law. In dealing with unlawful companies or their representatives, local administrative offices under the Ministry of Justice have taken strict measures to demand fee payments within a certain deadline, distraining bank accounts, seizing and auctioning property, restricting relocation, or even detaining those responsible until fees are paid. \n\nFrom now to the end of March 2005, the EPA is entrusting a certified accounting agency to audit the business volume and import volume of at least 1,150 companies, and screen those suspected of seriously falling short of payments. These companies will be subject to longer on-site audits. Such measures are necessary to protect the fairness of the fee system and to broaden the framework for fee collection.\n\nThe EPA advises corporations to stop trusting their luck, because once found guilty of underpaying mandatory fees, they will not only be required to pay the missing amount, but also will be fined as much as three times that amount. The EPA will also release each company’s tax information to investigation organizations to facilitate strict inspections based on tax records.", "content": "To an increasingly serious degree corporations are failing to pay recycling, clearance and disposal fees in full. Over the past few years, industry has racked up a cumulative debt of over NT$2.2 billion in terms of unpaid recycling, clearance and disposal fees. The EPA has decided to promptly strengthen auditing of businesses to put into practice the polluter pays principle, as well as honest reporting and equitable payment principles.\n\nTargeting products, packaging, and containers that are not easy to collect and dispose of, or have recycle or reuse value (such as drinks, cars, batteries, etc.), the Waste Disposal Act stipulates that manufacturers and importers of such materials must report waste amounts and pay a recycling, clearance and disposal fee. \n\nThe EPA indicates that over the last six years as of the end of July this year (2004), the number of businesses subject to this regulation has increased from 6,400 to over 9,500. The EPA screens out and takes firm action on businesses suspected of underreporting fee payments, as well as audits financial accounts of business volume and import volume. Nearly 3,000 corporations have been found underreporting their waste data in the last few years. This accounts for NT$2.25 billion of uncollected fees. So far NT$1.44 billion of this has been recovered and the remaining amount is still being collected and investigated.\n\nThe EPA explains that without exception, those businesses that have already been asked to pay overdue fines yet are not willing to pay, will be strictly dealt with according to law. In dealing with unlawful companies or their representatives, local administrative offices under the Ministry of Justice have taken strict measures to demand fee payments within a certain deadline, distraining bank accounts, seizing and auctioning property, restricting relocation, or even detaining those responsible until fees are paid. \n\nFrom now to the end of March 2005, the EPA is entrusting a certified accounting agency to audit the business volume and import volume of at least 1,150 companies, and screen those suspected of seriously falling short of payments. These companies will be subject to longer on-site audits. Such measures are necessary to protect the fairness of the fee system and to broaden the framework for fee collection.\n\nThe EPA advises corporations to stop trusting their luck, because once found guilty of underpaying mandatory fees, they will not only be required to pay the missing amount, but also will be fined as much as three times that amount. The EPA will also release each company’s tax information to investigation organizations to facilitate strict inspections based on tax records.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Tightened Auditing of Recycling Clearance and Disposal Fees", "position": "print\/V7\/V7-11" }, { "no": "1442", "title": "Persistent Organic Pollutants (Dioxin) Conference—Sources Monitoring, and Controls", "preview": "The “Persistent Organic Pollutants (Dioxin) Conference—Sources Monitoring, and Controls” sponsored by the EPA and co-sponsored by the Center for Environmental Safety And Health Technology Development (ITRI) and the National Central University’s Graduate Institute of Environmental Engineering was held on October 14. Among those invited to attend were five experts from the US EPA: Mr. Robert Hall (Chief, Air Pollution Technology Branch), Dr. Brain K. Gullett (Acting Branch Chief, Office of Science Policy in Washington D. C., US EPA), Dr. Chun Wai, Lee (Senior Engineer, Office of Research and Development, National Risk Management Research Laboratory (NRMRL)), Mr. Jeffrey V. Ryan (Senior Scientist, NRMRL) and Mr. Joseph Wood (Senior Scientist & Engineer). The forum discussed the production and history of dioxin in addition to other topics based on the US’ experience, including how to use cement furnaces to treat hazardous industrial waste and methods for the continuous monitoring of dioxin. The director of the National Central University’s Graduate Institute of Environmental Engineering delivered a talk entitled: “Important Issues Concerning Combustion Generated POPs in Taiwan.”", "content": "The “Persistent Organic Pollutants (Dioxin) Conference—Sources Monitoring, and Controls” sponsored by the EPA and co-sponsored by the Center for Environmental Safety And Health Technology Development (ITRI) and the National Central University’s Graduate Institute of Environmental Engineering was held on October 14. Among those invited to attend were five experts from the US EPA: Mr. Robert Hall (Chief, Air Pollution Technology Branch), Dr. Brain K. Gullett (Acting Branch Chief, Office of Science Policy in Washington D. C., US EPA), Dr. Chun Wai, Lee (Senior Engineer, Office of Research and Development, National Risk Management Research Laboratory (NRMRL)), Mr. Jeffrey V. Ryan (Senior Scientist, NRMRL) and Mr. Joseph Wood (Senior Scientist & Engineer). The forum discussed the production and history of dioxin in addition to other topics based on the US’ experience, including how to use cement furnaces to treat hazardous industrial waste and methods for the continuous monitoring of dioxin. The director of the National Central University’s Graduate Institute of Environmental Engineering delivered a talk entitled: “Important Issues Concerning Combustion Generated POPs in Taiwan.”", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Persistent Organic Pollutants (Dioxin) Conference-Sources Monitoring and Controls", "position": "print\/V7\/V7-11" }, { "no": "1426", "title": "2500 Citizens Participate in World Water Quality Monitoring Day", "preview": "The EPA has invited citizens to participate in the Second World Water Quality Monitoring Day activities from September 18 to October 18. Over 440 groups with over 2500 people joined in this year’s water quality monitoring activity. EPA Administrator Juu-En Chang notes that last year over 20 countries participated in this global event. Over 160 groups representing 1,600 people in Taiwan teamed up with this international water quality monitoring initiative last year. This year’s results were fruitful as well, attesting to the eager involvement and concern for water resources by more and more citizens. The results of this year’s monitoring can be found online at www.epa.gov.tw\/monitoring\/wmd\/0615.html.", "content": "The EPA has invited citizens to participate in the Second World Water Quality Monitoring Day activities from September 18 to October 18. Over 440 groups with over 2500 people joined in this year’s water quality monitoring activity. EPA Administrator Juu-En Chang notes that last year over 20 countries participated in this global event. Over 160 groups representing 1,600 people in Taiwan teamed up with this international water quality monitoring initiative last year. This year’s results were fruitful as well, attesting to the eager involvement and concern for water resources by more and more citizens. The results of this year’s monitoring can be found online at www.epa.gov.tw\/monitoring\/wmd\/0615.html.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "2500 Citizens Participate in World Water Quality Monitoring Day", "position": "print\/V7\/V7-11" }, { "no": "1370", "title": "Typhoon Strikes Hard EPA Helps With Disaster Recovery", "preview": "Typhoon Mindulle brought a southwest air current that unleashed incessant downpours causing landslides and severe erosion in central and southern Taiwan. Assisting the nation with disaster recovery and drinking water supply in affected areas, the EPA Administrator and Deputy Administrator went to central and southern Taiwan, respectively, to see what could be done at the disaster areas and ensure that emergency response measures were put into effect.\n\nDevastated areas in central and southern Taiwan where Typhoon Mindulle left its mark are in desperate need of recovery. Since the onslaught of the typhoon on June 30, the EPA has established an emergency response task force and dispatched personnel to the Central Disaster Response Center to provide appropriate response. County and city environmental protection bureaus (EPBs) were immediately told to await orders for dealing with local disaster conditions and follow through with preparatory work such as waste clean up and disposal, environmental sanitation, and random testing of drinking water quality.\n\nDue to the copious amount of rain brought by this typhoon, many areas in western Taiwan experienced serious flooding. The EPA made an emergency announcement on July 3, informing local EPBs to continue to pay close attention to the effects of the downpour on the nation’s incinerators (of which nineteen are in operation and eight are still under construction) and landfills. Upon investigation, one landfill in Hualien County was reported to have flooded and in Taichung County, the lower portion of a dike along the Dajia River was torn away by rushing water just one kilometer upstream of the Houli Incinerator. The team of dispatched EPA personnel reported the condition of the broken dike to the Water Resources Agency and requested the Ministry of National Defense to mobilize emergency repairs.\n\nTyphoon Mindulle left central Taiwan in a grave state of disaster, EPA Administrator Chang Juu-en went to Taichung on July 5 to inspect the Houli Incinerator. It turned out that the flooded Dajia River destroyed 300 meters of an old protecting embankment in front of the incineration plant, requiring emergency repair to ensure the safety of the plant. It is vital that the functioning of the Houli Incinerator is unimpeded as it is responsible for handling a large volume of disaster waste in the greater Taichung area. Upon inspection of the area on July 4, Premier Yu directed the Water Resources Agency (MOEA) to ensure the safety of the incineration plant by piling up breakwaters through the night.\n\nAdministrator Chang expressed his sympathy with the construction workers for their toil, and contacted the Central Emergency Response Center, requesting the Water Resources Agency to extend full support in blocking the flow. The first priority was to build an emergency breakwater where the roadway leading to the plant had washed out. The EPA then provided complete funding for emergency procurements to build a second road to enter the plant. Chang also indicated the need to pipe in tap water aboveground within two days and asked all personnel to continually pay close attention to the status of the downpour. The EPA aided the Taichung County Government in leasing private trucks, cranes and manpower to expedite waste clearance work. In areas where waste cannot be cleared away due to damaged roadways, the EPA will provide assistance to construct temporary sanitary landfills depending on local needs. \n\nAdministrator Chang made on on-site inspection of the water purification plant in Fengyuan to get an understanding of the status of drinking water supply for the Greater Taichung Area. Fengyuan’s water supply plant reported unpredictable turbidity of its source water, ranging between 7000-8000NTU, due to the unceasing deluge of rain. The tap water company indicated that emergency response measures had caused a reduced water supply of 150 thousand tons per day on average – about one quarter the level of normal operation. Turbidity levels must fall below 1000NTU before the company can consider resuming normal water supply.\n\nEPA Deputy Administrator Ting-Kuei Tsay meanwhile went to southern Taiwan to check on the status of environmental clean up work. Tsay inspected flooded areas along the coast in Pingtung County on July 5 to ensure effective cleanup and recovery, commending Donggang Township and Linbian Township for their rapid response in appropriately handling disaster recovery. In response to the large amount of driftwood scattered all over the beach in front of the jetty in Chifeng Village, Linbian Township, Tsay promptly instructed the Pingtung County EPB to assist the Township government in appropriately handling cleanup and disposal, for which the EPA will provide financial assistance.", "content": "Typhoon Mindulle brought a southwest air current that unleashed incessant downpours causing landslides and severe erosion in central and southern Taiwan. Assisting the nation with disaster recovery and drinking water supply in affected areas, the EPA Administrator and Deputy Administrator went to central and southern Taiwan, respectively, to see what could be done at the disaster areas and ensure that emergency response measures were put into effect.\n\nDevastated areas in central and southern Taiwan where Typhoon Mindulle left its mark are in desperate need of recovery. Since the onslaught of the typhoon on June 30, the EPA has established an emergency response task force and dispatched personnel to the Central Disaster Response Center to provide appropriate response. County and city environmental protection bureaus (EPBs) were immediately told to await orders for dealing with local disaster conditions and follow through with preparatory work such as waste clean up and disposal, environmental sanitation, and random testing of drinking water quality.\n\nDue to the copious amount of rain brought by this typhoon, many areas in western Taiwan experienced serious flooding. The EPA made an emergency announcement on July 3, informing local EPBs to continue to pay close attention to the effects of the downpour on the nation’s incinerators (of which nineteen are in operation and eight are still under construction) and landfills. Upon investigation, one landfill in Hualien County was reported to have flooded and in Taichung County, the lower portion of a dike along the Dajia River was torn away by rushing water just one kilometer upstream of the Houli Incinerator. The team of dispatched EPA personnel reported the condition of the broken dike to the Water Resources Agency and requested the Ministry of National Defense to mobilize emergency repairs.\n\nTyphoon Mindulle left central Taiwan in a grave state of disaster, EPA Administrator Chang Juu-en went to Taichung on July 5 to inspect the Houli Incinerator. It turned out that the flooded Dajia River destroyed 300 meters of an old protecting embankment in front of the incineration plant, requiring emergency repair to ensure the safety of the plant. It is vital that the functioning of the Houli Incinerator is unimpeded as it is responsible for handling a large volume of disaster waste in the greater Taichung area. Upon inspection of the area on July 4, Premier Yu directed the Water Resources Agency (MOEA) to ensure the safety of the incineration plant by piling up breakwaters through the night.\n\nAdministrator Chang expressed his sympathy with the construction workers for their toil, and contacted the Central Emergency Response Center, requesting the Water Resources Agency to extend full support in blocking the flow. The first priority was to build an emergency breakwater where the roadway leading to the plant had washed out. The EPA then provided complete funding for emergency procurements to build a second road to enter the plant. Chang also indicated the need to pipe in tap water aboveground within two days and asked all personnel to continually pay close attention to the status of the downpour. The EPA aided the Taichung County Government in leasing private trucks, cranes and manpower to expedite waste clearance work. In areas where waste cannot be cleared away due to damaged roadways, the EPA will provide assistance to construct temporary sanitary landfills depending on local needs. \n\nAdministrator Chang made on on-site inspection of the water purification plant in Fengyuan to get an understanding of the status of drinking water supply for the Greater Taichung Area. Fengyuan’s water supply plant reported unpredictable turbidity of its source water, ranging between 7000-8000NTU, due to the unceasing deluge of rain. The tap water company indicated that emergency response measures had caused a reduced water supply of 150 thousand tons per day on average – about one quarter the level of normal operation. Turbidity levels must fall below 1000NTU before the company can consider resuming normal water supply.\n\nEPA Deputy Administrator Ting-Kuei Tsay meanwhile went to southern Taiwan to check on the status of environmental clean up work. Tsay inspected flooded areas along the coast in Pingtung County on July 5 to ensure effective cleanup and recovery, commending Donggang Township and Linbian Township for their rapid response in appropriately handling disaster recovery. In response to the large amount of driftwood scattered all over the beach in front of the jetty in Chifeng Village, Linbian Township, Tsay promptly instructed the Pingtung County EPB to assist the Township government in appropriately handling cleanup and disposal, for which the EPA will provide financial assistance.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Typhoon Strikes Hard EPA Helps With Disaster Recovery", "position": "print\/V7\/V7-07" }, { "no": "1307", "title": "“Complete Sorting Zero Waste Action Year” Seminar", "preview": "The EPA convened the “Complete Sorting Zero Waste Action Year” Seminar in Taichung City on March 4. All directors of local environmental protection bureaus (EPBs) attended along with division chiefs of related divisions and township hall sanitation crew captains. Former Taipei City EPB Director and current Executive Yuan Secretary-General Liu Shi-fang (劉世芳) was invited as a special guest to encourage participants. To promote sustainable use of resources and complement the international trend toward “Zero Waste,” the EPA reiterated during this seminar that source reductions and resource recycling are the main concepts embodied in the new policy on waste management. It is hoped that all environmental protection personnel do their utmost to assist with the promotion of this new policy.", "content": "The EPA convened the “Complete Sorting Zero Waste Action Year” Seminar in Taichung City on March 4. All directors of local environmental protection bureaus (EPBs) attended along with division chiefs of related divisions and township hall sanitation crew captains. Former Taipei City EPB Director and current Executive Yuan Secretary-General Liu Shi-fang (劉世芳) was invited as a special guest to encourage participants. To promote sustainable use of resources and complement the international trend toward “Zero Waste,” the EPA reiterated during this seminar that source reductions and resource recycling are the main concepts embodied in the new policy on waste management. It is hoped that all environmental protection personnel do their utmost to assist with the promotion of this new policy.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Complete Sorting Zero Waste Action Year seminar", "position": "print\/V7\/V7-04" }, { "no": "1276", "title": "6000 Water Quality Monitoring Tests Underway This Year", "preview": "The EPA is already embarking on the third year of a comprehensive water quality monitoring program. This year’s implementation target is to carry out 6000 rounds of water quality sampling and monitoring at testing stations island-wide, and gather 100,000 sets of substantial water quality monitoring data. The goals are to build up an environmental water body water quality monitoring database, update monitoring data on a regular basis, and make all of this information easily searchable and open to the public.\n\nSince 2002, the EPA Department of Environmental Monitoring and Information Management has taken over the overall planning of environmental water quality monitoring for five classes of water bodies: rivers, reservoirs, groundwater, ocean waters, and ocean recreation waters. Each year requires around NT$30 million in special program funds allocated by the Department of Water Quality Protection. The implementation schedule of this plan has been slated for 2002 to December 2004 and is designated as part of the Department of Water Quality Protection’s “Taiwan Area River Basin and Ocean Management Program, Part I” (台灣地區河川流域及海洋經營管理方案第一期計畫). A second part of this plan will also be implemented in 2005.\n\nEnvironmental water quality monitoring affairs primarily include planning water quality monitoring sites, drawing up monitoring plans, on-site sampling, laboratory test analysis, compilation of monitoring data, review, analysis and posting online. This work is divided up among the Department of Water Quality Protection, the Soil and Groundwater Remediation Fund Management Board, the Bureau of Environmental Inspection, the Environmental Analysis Laboratory and the Department of Environmental Monitoring and Information Management.\n\nThe 2004 Environmental Water Quality Monitoring Program principally handles monthly and seasonal routine sampling and monitoring of all environmental water bodies to establish the following environmental water quality monitoring information:\n\n1. Monthly sampling and monitoring at 301 monitoring stations along 83 riverways\n\n2. Seasonal sampling and monitoring at 111 monitoring points in 57 reservoirs\n\n3. Seasonal sampling and monitoring at 431 regional groundwater wells\n\n4. Seasonal sampling and monitoring at 97 monitoring points in 17 ocean waters\n\n5. Sampling and monitoring at 10 recreational ocean waters from June to September\n\n \n\nThe 2004 water quality monitoring plan aims to carry out 6,000 sampling and monitoring tests throughout the year at stations in northern, central and southern Taiwan. Test results will provide information on the status of pollution in various water bodies, which is necessary for making further assessments. Items tested include lengths of river pollution, the proportion of (each class of) water bodies that meet water quality standards, and reservoir eutrophication levels in order to establish trends of changes in water body water quality over a long term.\n\nThe expected outcome of this plan is to complete 6,000 water quality monitoring tests, and use the estimated 100,000 sets of substantial data gathered during these tests to build a comprehensive environmental water body water quality monitoring database. Regular updates on the latest monitoring data will be added to this database, and all information will be made available and searchable to the public over the Internet.\n\nFor more information, please call 02-23117722 ext. 2313", "content": "The EPA is already embarking on the third year of a comprehensive water quality monitoring program. This year’s implementation target is to carry out 6000 rounds of water quality sampling and monitoring at testing stations island-wide, and gather 100,000 sets of substantial water quality monitoring data. The goals are to build up an environmental water body water quality monitoring database, update monitoring data on a regular basis, and make all of this information easily searchable and open to the public.\n\nSince 2002, the EPA Department of Environmental Monitoring and Information Management has taken over the overall planning of environmental water quality monitoring for five classes of water bodies: rivers, reservoirs, groundwater, ocean waters, and ocean recreation waters. Each year requires around NT$30 million in special program funds allocated by the Department of Water Quality Protection. The implementation schedule of this plan has been slated for 2002 to December 2004 and is designated as part of the Department of Water Quality Protection’s “Taiwan Area River Basin and Ocean Management Program, Part I” (台灣地區河川流域及海洋經營管理方案第一期計畫). A second part of this plan will also be implemented in 2005.\n\nEnvironmental water quality monitoring affairs primarily include planning water quality monitoring sites, drawing up monitoring plans, on-site sampling, laboratory test analysis, compilation of monitoring data, review, analysis and posting online. This work is divided up among the Department of Water Quality Protection, the Soil and Groundwater Remediation Fund Management Board, the Bureau of Environmental Inspection, the Environmental Analysis Laboratory and the Department of Environmental Monitoring and Information Management.\n\nThe 2004 Environmental Water Quality Monitoring Program principally handles monthly and seasonal routine sampling and monitoring of all environmental water bodies to establish the following environmental water quality monitoring information:\n\n1. Monthly sampling and monitoring at 301 monitoring stations along 83 riverways\n\n2. Seasonal sampling and monitoring at 111 monitoring points in 57 reservoirs\n\n3. Seasonal sampling and monitoring at 431 regional groundwater wells\n\n4. Seasonal sampling and monitoring at 97 monitoring points in 17 ocean waters\n\n5. Sampling and monitoring at 10 recreational ocean waters from June to September\n\n \n\nThe 2004 water quality monitoring plan aims to carry out 6,000 sampling and monitoring tests throughout the year at stations in northern, central and southern Taiwan. Test results will provide information on the status of pollution in various water bodies, which is necessary for making further assessments. Items tested include lengths of river pollution, the proportion of (each class of) water bodies that meet water quality standards, and reservoir eutrophication levels in order to establish trends of changes in water body water quality over a long term.\n\nThe expected outcome of this plan is to complete 6,000 water quality monitoring tests, and use the estimated 100,000 sets of substantial data gathered during these tests to build a comprehensive environmental water body water quality monitoring database. Regular updates on the latest monitoring data will be added to this database, and all information will be made available and searchable to the public over the Internet.\n\nFor more information, please call 02-23117722 ext. 2313", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "6000 Water Quality Monitoring Tests Underway This Year", "position": "print\/V7\/V7-02" }, { "no": "1252", "title": "Firms Awarded for Achievements in Waste Disposal Recycling and Reuse", "preview": "The EPA held the first award ceremony for the “2002 Award for Outstanding Performance in Industrial Waste Clearance and Disposal and Resource Reduction, Reuse and Recycling” on December 1. A total of 26 companies participated this year, and awards were granted in five categories. Nine companies received the top awards and four companies received second place awards. For details on each company’s achievements, please call (02)2753-2895. The registration deadline for the 2003 Awards is the end of January 2004. The EPA welcomes enthusiastic participation from all industries in this event.", "content": "The EPA held the first award ceremony for the “2002 Award for Outstanding Performance in Industrial Waste Clearance and Disposal and Resource Reduction, Reuse and Recycling” on December 1. A total of 26 companies participated this year, and awards were granted in five categories. Nine companies received the top awards and four companies received second place awards. For details on each company’s achievements, please call (02)2753-2895. The registration deadline for the 2003 Awards is the end of January 2004. The EPA welcomes enthusiastic participation from all industries in this event.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste Mangement", "titlename": "Firms Awarded for Achievements in Waste Disposal Recycling and Reuse", "position": "print\/V6\/V6-12" }, { "no": "1228", "title": "2000 Waste Clearance Vehicles to Install GPS Next Year", "preview": "Since 2002 the EPA began introducing GPS equipment to aid in the tracking and control of industrial waste flow. The obligation to install GPS equipment has received widespread cooperation among industries and implementation results have been quite good so far. In addition to recently listing the second group of industries required to install GPS equipment, including waste clearance vehicles, the EPA will successively announce the third, fourth and fifth industry groups from the middle to the end of next year. By the end of next year, 2,000 waste clearance vehicles will be outfitted with GPS equipment.\n\nSince last year, the EPA began introducing GPS equipment to reinforce the tracking and control of industrial waste flow. The EPA regularly tracks 260 waste clearance vehicles and has achieved an installation rate of 100%. Due to the intimidating nature of real-time tracking, no violations have been recorded to date. In light of such ideal implementation results, the EPA is now pushing to complete installation of GPS equipment on the second group of waste clearance vehicles before the end of February 2004. This measure will result in a total of 1,000 waste clearance vehicles under monitoring.\n\nThe EPA indicated that its real-time tracking system employs the global positioning system (GPS), which is capable of recording moving vehicles and reporting the data and has already been extensively used for dispatching vehicles, preventing theft, tracking, and for vehicle navigation systems. The EPA began introducing applications of GPS technology since December 2002. As results have been considerably good, the scope of control has now been broadened with the announcement of the second group of vehicles required to install GPS equipment. This will extend strengthened controls over approximately 700 waste clearance vehicles that carry infectious industrial waste, hazardous sludge, hazardous dust and ash, incinerator fly ash and incinerator bottom residue.\n\nThe EPA pointed out several special items regarding the specifications of the clearance vehicle tracking system for this second group of vehicles. To begin with, transmission of positioning data will be handled by advanced and mature GPRS wireless online communications technology. This will enable instantaneous transmission of data on each clearance vehicle’s moving trajectory via Internet, unique in that it can maintain the connection at all times. Moreover, these improved communications systems provide excellent quality and their cost has gone down significantly. Communications fees in the past have been as high as NT$10,000 per installation per month. The new technology only entails an average cost of NT$300~600. This not only results in largely reduced cost for industries but also increases the effectiveness of controls over waste flow.\n\nFurthermore, this data system transmits information to the EPA every thirty seconds, enabling the EPA to check the moving position of GPS equipped vehicles via computer. The EPA thus has immediate command over waste flow at all times and when vehicles enter sensitive areas such as water sources, the computer will promptly emit a warning signal so that control personnel can track subsequent movements. In addition, as part of its service to the waste clearance industry and vehicle manufacturers, the EPA has set up a special web page on the EPA’s control center’s website which provides various relevant information. Vehicles applying to enter this control system are required to undergo an examination in advance; the examination results are then posted in this special web page for industries to refer to when making their selection.\n\nThe EPA has already established a system that requires industries to fill out waste clearance report forms in advance to describe the waste flow, and requires that delivery forms remain with the vehicle at all times. In addition, the EPA announced in 2002 that the first group of hazardous waste liquid clearance vehicles should install GPS equipment that complies with EPA standards. Moreover, those vehicles must first pass an examination before they can begin clearance operations. In the future, those industries that do not comply with regulations in installing real-time tracking systems will be subject to fines ranging from NT$60,000 to NT$300,000.\n\nFor more information, please call 02-2311-7722 ext. 2980", "content": "Since 2002 the EPA began introducing GPS equipment to aid in the tracking and control of industrial waste flow. The obligation to install GPS equipment has received widespread cooperation among industries and implementation results have been quite good so far. In addition to recently listing the second group of industries required to install GPS equipment, including waste clearance vehicles, the EPA will successively announce the third, fourth and fifth industry groups from the middle to the end of next year. By the end of next year, 2,000 waste clearance vehicles will be outfitted with GPS equipment.\n\nSince last year, the EPA began introducing GPS equipment to reinforce the tracking and control of industrial waste flow. The EPA regularly tracks 260 waste clearance vehicles and has achieved an installation rate of 100%. Due to the intimidating nature of real-time tracking, no violations have been recorded to date. In light of such ideal implementation results, the EPA is now pushing to complete installation of GPS equipment on the second group of waste clearance vehicles before the end of February 2004. This measure will result in a total of 1,000 waste clearance vehicles under monitoring.\n\nThe EPA indicated that its real-time tracking system employs the global positioning system (GPS), which is capable of recording moving vehicles and reporting the data and has already been extensively used for dispatching vehicles, preventing theft, tracking, and for vehicle navigation systems. The EPA began introducing applications of GPS technology since December 2002. As results have been considerably good, the scope of control has now been broadened with the announcement of the second group of vehicles required to install GPS equipment. This will extend strengthened controls over approximately 700 waste clearance vehicles that carry infectious industrial waste, hazardous sludge, hazardous dust and ash, incinerator fly ash and incinerator bottom residue.\n\nThe EPA pointed out several special items regarding the specifications of the clearance vehicle tracking system for this second group of vehicles. To begin with, transmission of positioning data will be handled by advanced and mature GPRS wireless online communications technology. This will enable instantaneous transmission of data on each clearance vehicle’s moving trajectory via Internet, unique in that it can maintain the connection at all times. Moreover, these improved communications systems provide excellent quality and their cost has gone down significantly. Communications fees in the past have been as high as NT$10,000 per installation per month. The new technology only entails an average cost of NT$300~600. This not only results in largely reduced cost for industries but also increases the effectiveness of controls over waste flow.\n\nFurthermore, this data system transmits information to the EPA every thirty seconds, enabling the EPA to check the moving position of GPS equipped vehicles via computer. The EPA thus has immediate command over waste flow at all times and when vehicles enter sensitive areas such as water sources, the computer will promptly emit a warning signal so that control personnel can track subsequent movements. In addition, as part of its service to the waste clearance industry and vehicle manufacturers, the EPA has set up a special web page on the EPA’s control center’s website which provides various relevant information. Vehicles applying to enter this control system are required to undergo an examination in advance; the examination results are then posted in this special web page for industries to refer to when making their selection.\n\nThe EPA has already established a system that requires industries to fill out waste clearance report forms in advance to describe the waste flow, and requires that delivery forms remain with the vehicle at all times. In addition, the EPA announced in 2002 that the first group of hazardous waste liquid clearance vehicles should install GPS equipment that complies with EPA standards. Moreover, those vehicles must first pass an examination before they can begin clearance operations. In the future, those industries that do not comply with regulations in installing real-time tracking systems will be subject to fines ranging from NT$60,000 to NT$300,000.\n\nFor more information, please call 02-2311-7722 ext. 2980", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "2000 Waste Clearance Vehicles to Install GPS Next Year", "position": "print\/V6\/V6-11" }, { "no": "1215", "title": "“Water Water Taiwan”Event Promotes Sustainable Water Resources", "preview": "The “Taiwan’s Challenge: Rivers and Ocean” event was unveiled on August 22 during the 2003 Science Week. President Chen Shui-bian delivered the opening speech remarking that efforts are still being made today to recover Taiwan’s natural scenic beauty from the severe damage inflicted in the past by people with short-sighted motives looking for quick profit. Chen reaffirmed that the concept of sustainable development is the first and foremost principle to be implemented in government policy planning and construction in Taiwan henceforth. “Water Water Taiwan” was the theme of this year’s Science Week activities, and a special exhibit will be showcased at six museums in five locations throughout Taiwan from now until October 19. The exhibit stresses concepts of sustainability and has special displays on the watersheds of the Tanshui River, the Dajia River and the Kaoping River. The website for the activity is http:\/\/www.fhps.tp.edu.tw\/WATER\/index.htm", "content": "The “Taiwan’s Challenge: Rivers and Ocean” event was unveiled on August 22 during the 2003 Science Week. President Chen Shui-bian delivered the opening speech remarking that efforts are still being made today to recover Taiwan’s natural scenic beauty from the severe damage inflicted in the past by people with short-sighted motives looking for quick profit. Chen reaffirmed that the concept of sustainable development is the first and foremost principle to be implemented in government policy planning and construction in Taiwan henceforth. “Water Water Taiwan” was the theme of this year’s Science Week activities, and a special exhibit will be showcased at six museums in five locations throughout Taiwan from now until October 19. The exhibit stresses concepts of sustainability and has special displays on the watersheds of the Tanshui River, the Dajia River and the Kaoping River. The website for the activity is http:\/\/www.fhps.tp.edu.tw\/WATER\/index.htm", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Water Water Taiwan Event Promotes Sustainable Water Resources", "position": "print\/V6\/V6-09" }, { "no": "1207", "title": "Hau Visits Germany Invites Companies to Set Up in Environmental Technology Parks", "preview": "EPA Administrator Hau Lung-bin (郝龍斌) led a delegation in late August to Germany to meet with the German Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology and the German Federal Ministry for the Environment Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety to better understand Germany’s environmental policy, economic trends and concepts of sustainable development, as well as to introduce the development status of Taiwan’s environmental technology parks to German authorities. Delegation members included EPA Department of Waste Management Director Chen Hsiung-wen (陳雄文), EPA Office of Science and Technology Director Roam Gwo-dong (阮國棟), and representatives of the German Trade Office in Taipei and the Industry Technology and Research Institute. The delegation stopped in Berlin, Munich and Frankfurt to observe local environmental protection technology industry, and held a briefing in Munich to invite German businesses to set up in Taiwan’s environmental technology parks.", "content": "EPA Administrator Hau Lung-bin (郝龍斌) led a delegation in late August to Germany to meet with the German Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology and the German Federal Ministry for the Environment Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety to better understand Germany’s environmental policy, economic trends and concepts of sustainable development, as well as to introduce the development status of Taiwan’s environmental technology parks to German authorities. Delegation members included EPA Department of Waste Management Director Chen Hsiung-wen (陳雄文), EPA Office of Science and Technology Director Roam Gwo-dong (阮國棟), and representatives of the German Trade Office in Taipei and the Industry Technology and Research Institute. The delegation stopped in Berlin, Munich and Frankfurt to observe local environmental protection technology industry, and held a briefing in Munich to invite German businesses to set up in Taiwan’s environmental technology parks.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "international cooperation", "titlename": "Hau Visits Germany Invites Companies to Set Up in Environmental Technology Parks", "position": "print\/V6\/V6-09" }, { "no": "1170", "title": "AmCham ECCT Give Advice on Taiwan’s Environmental Protection Policies", "preview": "The Council for Economic Development and Planning Executive Yuan, on June 10 convened the first session of a coordination meeting with the European Chamber of Commerce Taipei regarding recommendations for years 2002 and 2003, inviting ECCT representatives and officials from various departments in the Executive Yuan. Several different topics were addressed during this meeting. ECCT representatives pointed out that 80% of the environmental problems addressed in the previous discussion had already been resolved. After the meeting, the EPA asked all related departments to submit reports on their status and current activities before the end of June. The EPA then plans to invite AmCham and ECCT representatives to another meeting in July to discuss issues relevant to soil and groundwater remediation, industrial waste disposal and the degree of transparency of regulations so that both sides can resolve any discrepancies.", "content": "The Council for Economic Development and Planning Executive Yuan, on June 10 convened the first session of a coordination meeting with the European Chamber of Commerce Taipei regarding recommendations for years 2002 and 2003, inviting ECCT representatives and officials from various departments in the Executive Yuan. Several different topics were addressed during this meeting. ECCT representatives pointed out that 80% of the environmental problems addressed in the previous discussion had already been resolved. After the meeting, the EPA asked all related departments to submit reports on their status and current activities before the end of June. The EPA then plans to invite AmCham and ECCT representatives to another meeting in July to discuss issues relevant to soil and groundwater remediation, industrial waste disposal and the degree of transparency of regulations so that both sides can resolve any discrepancies.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "AmCham ECCT Give Advice on Taiwan s Environmental Protection Policies", "position": "print\/V6\/V6-07" }, { "no": "1119", "title": "Restaurants to Receive Up to NT$40000 to Purchase Reusable Tableware", "preview": "The EPA now provides a special subsidy for storefront restaurants as a method to achieve waste reduction and encourage the public to use reusable tableware. Restaurants that comply with subsidy requirements can apply with the EPA for subsidies of up to NT$40000 for the purchase of reusable tableware or for employing a dishwashing service. Applications for this subsidy will be accepted till the end of June. \n\nSince the implementation of the second stage of restrictions on the use of tableware, the EPA has announced subsidy guidelines for businesses that switch over to reusable tableware. The goal is to help businesses adapt to the policy and reduce the impact that it has on citizens. It is anticipated that subsidization of a portion of costs will encourage restaurants to switch over to reusable tableware and lower costs of equipment, dishes, and dishwashing services. This will help achieve the goals laid out in the plastic disposable dishes restriction policy. \n\nThe EPA indicated that any business (including restaurants, snack outlets, ice shops, breakfast shops, etc.) that complies with the subsidy guidelines can apply with the EPA for subsidization toward purchasing reusable tableware or hiring a dishwashing service. Upon obtaining approval, each restaurant is eligible for allowances up to NT$40,000. The application deadline is June 30, and subsidies will be available on a first come first serve basis until the NT$10 million budget reserved for this purpose is used up.\n\nThis plan comprises of two types of subsidies. One type of subsidy is for restaurants that have purchased reusable tableware or washing equipment after October 2002. These restaurants are eligible for a 20% allowance towards the cost of those purchased items, up to a total allowance of NT$40,000. The other type of subsidy is for operators that have commissioned a dishwashing service. These businesses can apply for 1 month's compensation of dishwashing fees, also up to a total allowance of NT$40,000.\n\nAt the same time, restaurants that have received subsidies from the EPA are required to give their word that they will thoroughly wash dishes with sterilization products and methods. They must also promise to eliminate, within one year, the use of plastic (or polystyrene) disposable tableware when serving customers. Violators must return the entire subsidy amount received. Restaurants that take the lead in using reusable chopsticks and spoons will be given priority when handing out subsidies.\n\nThe EPA emphasizes that the main purpose of this policy is to reduce waste, rather than have operators switch over to any particular alternate material for dishes. The EPA has provided the above-mentioned measures and asks operators to promptly apply as subsidies are only available on a first come first serve basis. Application information can be found on the EPA website at www.epa.gov.tw\/bag. Questions can also be directed to the toll-free line at 0800-085717 or to 02-2370-5888 ext. 3600.", "content": "The EPA now provides a special subsidy for storefront restaurants as a method to achieve waste reduction and encourage the public to use reusable tableware. Restaurants that comply with subsidy requirements can apply with the EPA for subsidies of up to NT$40000 for the purchase of reusable tableware or for employing a dishwashing service. Applications for this subsidy will be accepted till the end of June. \n\nSince the implementation of the second stage of restrictions on the use of tableware, the EPA has announced subsidy guidelines for businesses that switch over to reusable tableware. The goal is to help businesses adapt to the policy and reduce the impact that it has on citizens. It is anticipated that subsidization of a portion of costs will encourage restaurants to switch over to reusable tableware and lower costs of equipment, dishes, and dishwashing services. This will help achieve the goals laid out in the plastic disposable dishes restriction policy. \n\nThe EPA indicated that any business (including restaurants, snack outlets, ice shops, breakfast shops, etc.) that complies with the subsidy guidelines can apply with the EPA for subsidization toward purchasing reusable tableware or hiring a dishwashing service. Upon obtaining approval, each restaurant is eligible for allowances up to NT$40,000. The application deadline is June 30, and subsidies will be available on a first come first serve basis until the NT$10 million budget reserved for this purpose is used up.\n\nThis plan comprises of two types of subsidies. One type of subsidy is for restaurants that have purchased reusable tableware or washing equipment after October 2002. These restaurants are eligible for a 20% allowance towards the cost of those purchased items, up to a total allowance of NT$40,000. The other type of subsidy is for operators that have commissioned a dishwashing service. These businesses can apply for 1 month's compensation of dishwashing fees, also up to a total allowance of NT$40,000.\n\nAt the same time, restaurants that have received subsidies from the EPA are required to give their word that they will thoroughly wash dishes with sterilization products and methods. They must also promise to eliminate, within one year, the use of plastic (or polystyrene) disposable tableware when serving customers. Violators must return the entire subsidy amount received. Restaurants that take the lead in using reusable chopsticks and spoons will be given priority when handing out subsidies.\n\nThe EPA emphasizes that the main purpose of this policy is to reduce waste, rather than have operators switch over to any particular alternate material for dishes. The EPA has provided the above-mentioned measures and asks operators to promptly apply as subsidies are only available on a first come first serve basis. Application information can be found on the EPA website at www.epa.gov.tw\/bag. Questions can also be directed to the toll-free line at 0800-085717 or to 02-2370-5888 ext. 3600.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Restaurants to Receive Up to NT$40000 to Purchase Reusable Tableware", "position": "print\/V6\/V6-03" }, { "no": "1114", "title": "Individuals Organizations, and Communities Awarded for Dedication to Environment", "preview": "The EPA held an award ceremony on February 20 honoring outstanding individuals organizations, volunteers, EPB employees, environmental protection professionals, and model environmental communities whose exceptional contributions during 2002 made a positive impact toward protecting the environment. Ten organizations were honored for their dedicated efforts toward environmental protection and for coordinating with communities to carry out environmental protection work.", "content": "The EPA held an award ceremony on February 20 honoring outstanding individuals organizations, volunteers, EPB employees, environmental protection professionals, and model environmental communities whose exceptional contributions during 2002 made a positive impact toward protecting the environment. Ten organizations were honored for their dedicated efforts toward environmental protection and for coordinating with communities to carry out environmental protection work.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Individuals Organizations and Communities Awarded for Dedication to Environment", "position": "print\/V6\/V6-03" }, { "no": "1103", "title": "NT$3000 Car Recycling Incentive Continues in 2003", "preview": "The EPA announced the 2003 incentive reward amounts for recycling discarded motor vehicles: a recycling incentive of NT$3000 will be awarded for discarded cars and a NT$1,000 incentive will be given for discarded motorcycles. Motor vehicle owners who have completed discarded vehicle processing procedures according to regulations are eligible for receiving award incentives by sending application documents to P.O. Box 3257, Taipei. The incentive award will be issued upon review and authorization by the EPA.", "content": "The EPA announced the 2003 incentive reward amounts for recycling discarded motor vehicles: a recycling incentive of NT$3000 will be awarded for discarded cars and a NT$1,000 incentive will be given for discarded motorcycles. Motor vehicle owners who have completed discarded vehicle processing procedures according to regulations are eligible for receiving award incentives by sending application documents to P.O. Box 3257, Taipei. The incentive award will be issued upon review and authorization by the EPA.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recyling", "titlename": "NT$3000 Car Recycling Incentive Continues in 2003", "position": "print\/V6\/V6-02" }, { "no": "1092", "title": "“Sustainable Taiwan Beautiful Earth“ Promotion Activity", "preview": "In order to promote the Second Stage of the Plastic Shopping Bag and Plastic Disposable Dishes Use Restriction Policy (第二階段購物用塑膠袋與塑膠類免洗餐具限用政策) on December 29, 2002 the EPA sponsored the “Sustainable Taiwan, Beautiful Island” promotional activity. EPA Administrator Dr. Lung-bin Hau received help from other notable figures in attendance as they revealed a beautiful Earth sculpture by tearing down plastic shopping bags and polystyrene dishes covering the Earth prop on stage. This was a symbolic action signaling the commencement of the second stage of the policy and the EPA’s determination to protect the environment.", "content": "In order to promote the Second Stage of the Plastic Shopping Bag and Plastic Disposable Dishes Use Restriction Policy (第二階段購物用塑膠袋與塑膠類免洗餐具限用政策) on December 29, 2002 the EPA sponsored the “Sustainable Taiwan, Beautiful Island” promotional activity. EPA Administrator Dr. Lung-bin Hau received help from other notable figures in attendance as they revealed a beautiful Earth sculpture by tearing down plastic shopping bags and polystyrene dishes covering the Earth prop on stage. This was a symbolic action signaling the commencement of the second stage of the policy and the EPA’s determination to protect the environment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Sustainable Taiwan Beautiful Earth Promotion Activity", "position": "print\/V6\/V6-01" }, { "no": "1030", "title": "President Commends Environmentally-Active Schools Teachers and Students", "preview": "President Chen Shui-bian (陳水扁) commended schools teachers and students that have actively promoted environmental protection during 2002 at a reception held on September 19. President Chen praised those individuals whose everyday enthusiasm for environmental protection has achieved exceptional results. A total of 25 students, 33 teachers and 30 schools at all levels were honored for their active support of environmental protection at this reception.\n\nCAPTION: President Chen Shui-bian (center) commends students for their environmental protection achievements.", "content": "President Chen Shui-bian (陳水扁) commended schools teachers and students that have actively promoted environmental protection during 2002 at a reception held on September 19. President Chen praised those individuals whose everyday enthusiasm for environmental protection has achieved exceptional results. A total of 25 students, 33 teachers and 30 schools at all levels were honored for their active support of environmental protection at this reception.\n\nCAPTION: President Chen Shui-bian (center) commends students for their environmental protection achievements.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "President Commends Environmentally-Active Schools Teachers and Students", "position": "print\/V5\/V5-10" }, { "no": "890", "title": "NT$ 200000 Top Prize for Environmental Bag Design", "preview": "Scheduled to begin immediately the EPA’s environmental shopping bag design contest will offer an unshared first-place award of NT$ 200,000, and Administrator Hau has appealed to citizens to come up with their best ideas for the environment. This activity is being carried out in conjunction with the Use-Restrictions on Plastic Shopping Bags (購物用塑膠袋限制使用), which will be enforced by the EPA starting on July 1st. To call attention to the environmental concept of reuse, all designs entered in the contest must meet the conditions of low production cost, durability under repeated use, attractive and appealing styling, water-resistance and washability, large capacity, easy loading, and convenient carrying. Designs must also take into consideration feasibility of manufacturing and mass production.", "content": "Scheduled to begin immediately the EPA’s environmental shopping bag design contest will offer an unshared first-place award of NT$ 200,000, and Administrator Hau has appealed to citizens to come up with their best ideas for the environment. This activity is being carried out in conjunction with the Use-Restrictions on Plastic Shopping Bags (購物用塑膠袋限制使用), which will be enforced by the EPA starting on July 1st. To call attention to the environmental concept of reuse, all designs entered in the contest must meet the conditions of low production cost, durability under repeated use, attractive and appealing styling, water-resistance and washability, large capacity, easy loading, and convenient carrying. Designs must also take into consideration feasibility of manufacturing and mass production.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "NT$ 200000 Top Prize for Environmental Bag Design", "position": "print\/V5\/V5-02" }, { "no": "836", "title": "Waste Top Grievance Among More than 100000 Environmental Complaints", "preview": "EPA statistics reveal that the nation’s environmental authorities received a total of 102200 environmental complaints in 2000. Of these, complaints about waste and environmental sanitation accounted for the largest number—32,875 (32.17%). The second-largest category consisted of noise pollution complaints (26,158; 25.59%); the EPA has decided to revise laws to facilitate resolution of noise pollution incidents.\n\nThe EPA announced the 2000 White Paper on the Handling of Environmental Complaints on October 9th. This white paper explains the EPA’s policies for dealing with environmental complaints and analyzes complaint statistics. A total of 102,200 complaints were accepted by environmental authorities in 2000; this works out to an average of 46 complaints for every 10,000 persons in Taiwan, or one complaint every 5.1 minutes.\n\nThe EPA’s analysis classifies environmental complaints according to type of pollution. Waste and environmental sanitation was the largest category on the basis of its 32,875 complaints (32.17%), and waste-related complaints predominated in all of Taiwan’s 14 cities and counties. This shows that waste and environmental sanitation is the environmental problem eliciting the most universal concern among the general public. In the waste subcategory, the dumping of refuse in public areas and the dumping of abandoned vehicles were the most common problems. As for general environmental sanitation complaints, the most common problems were pollution from poultry and livestock, vehicular pollution and the catching of stray dogs, in that order.\n\nNoise pollution complaints, the second-largest category, numbered 26,158 (25.59%). Foul odors, with 24,087 complaints (23.57%), was the third-largest category. Taken together, noise and foul odors thus accounted for 49% of all environmental complaints. Since foul odors and noise pollution incidents occur at indefinite times, and also involve sensory perception, it can be difficult to confirm violations. Progress in stamping out these forms of pollution has thus fallen far short of the public’s expectations, causing widespread dissatisfaction. The EPA has therefore decided to strengthen control of “disturbing noise” and “adjacent noise” in the new Noise Control Standards for Public or Private Facilities (公私場所噪音管制標準); these standards will be applicable to public or private persons or facilities that may produce noise. Air pollution complaints (not including foul odors), which numbered 11,091 (10.85%), constituted the fourth-largest category. Water pollution complaints numbered 7,498 (7.3%) and constituted the fifth-largest category. Due to the rapid growth in foul odor and waste problems (including general environmental sanitation problems), efforts must be taken in the future to stop them from eroding the quality of life.\n\nStatistics on pollution sources reveal that industry was the largest source, and accounted for 27.59% of all pollution incidents in 2000. General residential pollution (25.6%) and commercial pollution (16.61%) were respectively in second and third place. While industrial pollution problems have again jumped ahead of general residential pollution problems, the two are still roughly equal in importance. This indicates that as the members of the public demand an increasingly high quality of life, they are less willing to put up with pollution from their neighbors. This situation has prompted environmental authorities to simultaneously impose strict controls on both industrial pollution sources and the polluting activities of the general public.\n\nBy geographical area, Taipei City accounted for the greatest number of pollution complaints—24,485 (23.96%)—and was followed by Taipei County with 14,629 complaints (14.31%). The Greater Taipei region therefore accounts for 38.27% of all environmental complaints. Changhua County was third with 7,679 complaints, Taoyuan County was in fourth with 6,024 complaints and Kaohsiung was fifth with 5,895 complaints. These statistics tell us that pollution incidents are most common in urban areas with a high population density.\n\nThe environmental problems that elicited the most public concern in industrialized cities and counties were waste gases and foul odors from factories, wastewater effluent from enterprises, random dumping and burning in stagnant air conditions. The problems that drew the most concern in urban areas were urban noise, construction noise and vibrations, smoke from restaurant stove hoods and busses, motorcycle exhaust and waste gases. The main problems in ordinary cities and counties were random dumping and burning in stagnant air conditions, open-air burning and livestock and poultry odors. These results were generally consistent with the distribution of complaints.\n\nThe EPA asserts that it will continue to strive for the improvement of its handling of environmental complaints. The public can use the EPA’s 24-hour environmental complaint hotline (0800-066666), e-mail, letters, or deliver their complaints in person. The EPA guarantees absolute confidentiality.", "content": "EPA statistics reveal that the nation’s environmental authorities received a total of 102200 environmental complaints in 2000. Of these, complaints about waste and environmental sanitation accounted for the largest number—32,875 (32.17%). The second-largest category consisted of noise pollution complaints (26,158; 25.59%); the EPA has decided to revise laws to facilitate resolution of noise pollution incidents.\n\nThe EPA announced the 2000 White Paper on the Handling of Environmental Complaints on October 9th. This white paper explains the EPA’s policies for dealing with environmental complaints and analyzes complaint statistics. A total of 102,200 complaints were accepted by environmental authorities in 2000; this works out to an average of 46 complaints for every 10,000 persons in Taiwan, or one complaint every 5.1 minutes.\n\nThe EPA’s analysis classifies environmental complaints according to type of pollution. Waste and environmental sanitation was the largest category on the basis of its 32,875 complaints (32.17%), and waste-related complaints predominated in all of Taiwan’s 14 cities and counties. This shows that waste and environmental sanitation is the environmental problem eliciting the most universal concern among the general public. In the waste subcategory, the dumping of refuse in public areas and the dumping of abandoned vehicles were the most common problems. As for general environmental sanitation complaints, the most common problems were pollution from poultry and livestock, vehicular pollution and the catching of stray dogs, in that order.\n\nNoise pollution complaints, the second-largest category, numbered 26,158 (25.59%). Foul odors, with 24,087 complaints (23.57%), was the third-largest category. Taken together, noise and foul odors thus accounted for 49% of all environmental complaints. Since foul odors and noise pollution incidents occur at indefinite times, and also involve sensory perception, it can be difficult to confirm violations. Progress in stamping out these forms of pollution has thus fallen far short of the public’s expectations, causing widespread dissatisfaction. The EPA has therefore decided to strengthen control of “disturbing noise” and “adjacent noise” in the new Noise Control Standards for Public or Private Facilities (公私場所噪音管制標準); these standards will be applicable to public or private persons or facilities that may produce noise. Air pollution complaints (not including foul odors), which numbered 11,091 (10.85%), constituted the fourth-largest category. Water pollution complaints numbered 7,498 (7.3%) and constituted the fifth-largest category. Due to the rapid growth in foul odor and waste problems (including general environmental sanitation problems), efforts must be taken in the future to stop them from eroding the quality of life.\n\nStatistics on pollution sources reveal that industry was the largest source, and accounted for 27.59% of all pollution incidents in 2000. General residential pollution (25.6%) and commercial pollution (16.61%) were respectively in second and third place. While industrial pollution problems have again jumped ahead of general residential pollution problems, the two are still roughly equal in importance. This indicates that as the members of the public demand an increasingly high quality of life, they are less willing to put up with pollution from their neighbors. This situation has prompted environmental authorities to simultaneously impose strict controls on both industrial pollution sources and the polluting activities of the general public.\n\nBy geographical area, Taipei City accounted for the greatest number of pollution complaints—24,485 (23.96%)—and was followed by Taipei County with 14,629 complaints (14.31%). The Greater Taipei region therefore accounts for 38.27% of all environmental complaints. Changhua County was third with 7,679 complaints, Taoyuan County was in fourth with 6,024 complaints and Kaohsiung was fifth with 5,895 complaints. These statistics tell us that pollution incidents are most common in urban areas with a high population density.\n\nThe environmental problems that elicited the most public concern in industrialized cities and counties were waste gases and foul odors from factories, wastewater effluent from enterprises, random dumping and burning in stagnant air conditions. The problems that drew the most concern in urban areas were urban noise, construction noise and vibrations, smoke from restaurant stove hoods and busses, motorcycle exhaust and waste gases. The main problems in ordinary cities and counties were random dumping and burning in stagnant air conditions, open-air burning and livestock and poultry odors. These results were generally consistent with the distribution of complaints.\n\nThe EPA asserts that it will continue to strive for the improvement of its handling of environmental complaints. The public can use the EPA’s 24-hour environmental complaint hotline (0800-066666), e-mail, letters, or deliver their complaints in person. The EPA guarantees absolute confidentiality.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Supervision Evaluation & Dispute Resolution", "titlename": "Waste Top Grievance Among More than 100000 Environmental Complaints", "position": "print\/V4\/V4-11" }, { "no": "826", "title": "Feature Article: Reduction Recycling and Reuse Guide New Waste Management Policy", "preview": "The passage of revisions to the Waste Disposal Act by the Legislative Yuan on October 4 immediately made the EPA the target of media attention. EPA statistics indicate that waste and environmental sanitation complaints were the most common type of environmental complaints last year (2000) showing that waste disposal has become one of the most urgent problems of daily life in citizens’ minds. Addressing this situation, the EPA has already presented improvement measures aimed at reducing the burden on the environment and disturbance to the public. As a follow-up to our interview with the Director General of the Bureau of Air Quality Protection and Noise Control in our last issue (EPM Vol. IV, Issue 10), in this issue we discuss a matter of keen public concern—waste disposal—with Bureau of Waste Management Director General Horng-guang Leu.\n\nDirector General Horng-guang Leu Talks About Waste Management\n\nDirector General Horng-guang Leu (呂鴻光) of the Bureau of Waste Management (廢棄物管理處) first shed light on the current state of affairs by explaining that today’s waste disposal policies and ideas are significantly different from those of ten years ago. As an example, while environmental protection personnel were seen as playing the role of “environmental cops” in the past due to their heavy reliance on investigations and injunctions, they now place more emphasis on helping the public resolve waste problems, assisting city and county governments, and advising firms on waste disposal solutions. In addition, long-term waste disposal policies are being brought in line with the principles of reduction, recycling and reuse. Like a kind nanny, the EPA is painstakingly tending to Taiwan’s environment and making sure it is not destroyed by waste.\n\nPromulgated by the President on October 24, the passage of the revised Waste Disposal Act (廢棄物清理法修正案) (see article on page 3) has declared to the world that the country’s waste disposal work has entered a new era. Director General Leu noted, however, that the passage of the revised Act is just a starting point. In this article, Taiwan’s waste disposal undertakings and policies will be discussed from the angle of the following four aspects: (1) the Follow-on Waste Disposal Plan (垃圾處理後續方案), (2) recycling and reuse policies, (3) the revised Waste Disposal Act and (4) the National Industrial Waste Management and Disposal Plan (全國事業廢棄物管制清理方案).\n\nI. The Follow-on Waste Disposal Plan\n\nBefore mentioning the Follow-on Waste Disposal Plan, the much-publicized Waste Disposal Plan (垃圾處理方案) must first be discussed. As for why a Follow-on Waste Disposal Plan is necessary at all, Director General Leu pointed out that waste disposal work has concentrated on two tasks over the past decade: One of these has been achieving a satisfactory waste disposal rate, and the other has been instituting landfill disposal and incineration as primary and secondary means of disposal respectively. And since the disposal rate has risen past 90% over the last ten years, and new incinerators have steadily come on line, waste disposal per se is no longer a big problem. On the other hand, these goals no longer reflect contemporary environmental protection needs, and we can therefore say that the Waste Disposal Plan has completed its mission for this period in time. This is why the EPA is proceeding with the introduction of the Follow-on Waste Disposal Plan, which will be sent to the Executive Yuan for approval by the end of the year.\n\nThe first notable feature of the Follow-on Waste Disposal Plan is its attention to incinerator ash disposal and reuse. While Taiwan is not currently able to emulate Tokyo’s no-waste policy goal, greater efforts will be made to reuse ash that has been subjected to intermediate treatment. One specific goal will be the acquisition of reuse technology for making ash into highway divider blocks, etc. A second notable feature is the acknowledgement that the privatization of waste disposal represents an inevitable trend in Taiwan. The EPA is currently promoting the construction and operation of final waste disposal sites through BOT and BOO arrangements, and hopes that the government will approve a range of incentives encouraging local governments and firms to participate in the construction of waste disposal facilities. The EPA also hopes that privatization will overcome the problem of existing waste disposal sites’ inability to engage in inter-area disposal and cooperation. A third feature is emphasis on waste reduction, recycling and reuse. Vigorous implementation of waste reduction and recycling work over the past three years has yielded excellent results (see EPM Vol. IV, Issue 10). Besides continuing to implement this policy in the future, the EPA will also additionally promote reuse. Following the final confirmation of an “incineration first” waste disposal policy, 12 cities and counties have already built incinerators. While the EPA is encouraging other cities and counties to follow suit, a variety of factors have fostered resistance to incinerator construction. Director General Leu stressed that the EPA will make continued efforts to defuse resistance with an attitude of helping the public resolve waste disposal problems.\n\nII. The Resource Recycling and Reuse Act\n\nThe draft Resource Recycling and Reuse Act (資源回收再利用法) was approved by the Executive Yuan in September, and has been sent to the Legislative Yuan for review. The completion of this legislation will represent a major step forward in the recycling and sustainable reuse of resources. The existing Waste Disposal Act, said Director General Leu, first defines useful “materials” as “waste,” and then calls for recycling and reuse. In contrast, the Resource Recycling and Reuse Act defines useful materials as “renewable resources” to distinguish them from “waste.” While the current system emphasizes compulsory requirements and end-of-pipe controls, more stress will be placed on source management and the establishment of incentive and guidance mechanisms, with the ultimate goal of realizing a recycling-conscious society. As a good example, the EPA is in the midst of promoting the establishment of a “Recycling Demonstration Zone” for recycling enterprises in the Changpin Industrial Park (see article on page 8).\n\nIII. Revised Waste Disposal Act\n\nImportant measures in the revised Waste Disposal Act include: First, the establishment of emergency waste disposal mechanisms, second, the establishment of diversified industrial waste disposal methods and, thirdly, the implementation of management mechanisms for industrial waste (see article on page 3 for the content of these measures). In yet another big project, the EPA now plans to revise the related regulations of the Waste Disposal Act in order to implement new waste disposal measures. The EPA, as part of this effort, has thus far listed regulations to be augmented, revised, discarded or announced. There are a total of 40 regulations among these, including the Waste Disposal Act Enforcement Rules and the Regulations Governing the Levying of General Waste Collection and Treatment Fees.\n\nIn the past industrial waste was disposed of by either the producer itself, or by a local government sanitation crew or a contracting disposal firm, noted Director General Leu, and the use of contracting disposal firms was the most common. But due to the uneven quality of disposal firms and the country’s overly strict licensing requirements, much industrial waste was not disposed of in an appropriate manner. After diversified disposal methods are established in line with the revised Act, as long as a disposal facility has been established by or under the guidance of the authorities in charge of the target industry, or by a state-run enterprise appointed by the central competent authorities, that facility may be hired to dispose of industrial waste. This diversification of disposal methods will help effectively resolve the country’s industrial waste problem.\n\nIV. The National Industrial Waste Management and Disposal Plan\n\nApproved by the Executive Yuan on January 17 of this year, the National Industrial Waste Management and Disposal Plan puts the EPA in charge of planning, assigning duties, coordinating and implementing the disposal of ordinary industrial waste, and makes the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) responsible for the disposal of hazardous industrial waste and the establishment of disposal facilities. The plan’s main goal is to strengthen the source management of industrial waste and track its flow, better grasp the quality and quantity of industrial waste and strengthen auditing and control of industrial waste. The EPA already completed a comprehensive quantitative\/qualitative survey of industrial waste and forecasts of quantities of different types of waste generated in the next ten years. It is now requesting the competent authorities in charge of target enterprises to complete the establishment of emergency industrial waste storage facilities by December of this year.\n\nIn a few final remarks concerning the offshore disposal of waste, Director General Leu stated that while the EPA still prohibits the shipping of general waste to overseas disposal sites, firms in nations such as France (for PCB-containing waste) or the US (for hazardous sludge) may be commissioned to dispose of hazardous industrial waste that cannot be handled in Taiwan. This disposal must be conducted in accordance with the Basel Convention. In the future the EPA will work together with customs authorities to stamp out the illicit export of waste.\n\nPlan for the Establishment of Industrial Waste Final Disposal Sites\n\nA shift is underway in Taiwan from sanitation landfills to incinerators. By next year (2002), after 21 large waste incinerators have been completed and are operating, 5,600 kilotons of incinerator ash will be generated every day, and this ash must be adequately disposed of. But since almost one-half (49.4%) of existing landfills will be full in less than two years, locally established landfills will be hard pressed to resolve the growing problem of incinerator ash. Moving to deal with this situation, the EPA has decided to commit close to NT$6 billion in funds over the next three years to promote the construction of final disposal sites.\n\nIn accordance with the National Industrial Waste Management and Disposal Plan, the EPA has drafted the Plan for Encouraging State-run and Private Enterprises to Construct and Operate Final Disposal Sites for General Industrial Waste (including Municipal Solid Waste Incinerator Ash) and the Plan for the Emergency Establishment of Final Disposal Sites for Industrial Waste (including Municipal Solid Waste Incinerator Ash) (see EPM Vol. IV, Issues 4 and 7).\n\nAs the EPA continues to encourage state-run and private organizations to construct final disposal sites, these plans will target the 12 cities and counties that have already built incinerators, plus the other seven cities and counties that have proposed construction plans. Taichung, Hsinchu City, Tainan County, and Taipei County have proposed BOO plans, Taichung County and Chiayi County have proposed BOT plans, and Tainan City has proposed a publicly built and operated facility.\n\nAs required by the operating guidelines announced and implemented in September, local governments are encouraged to build waste disposal facilities via BOT and BOO approaches. In addition, the government should hire a technology consulting organization to perform preliminary planning and the sponsoring local government must pledge guaranteed amounts of general waste (including sludge and nonflammable waste) and incinerator ash. In accordance with subsidy guidelines implemented on Oct. 4, 2001, the EPA shall subsidize the cost of disposing of guaranteed amounts of waste. Other regulations, including those governing hiring of contractors, are being revised in consultation with local environmental protection bureaus, and are expected to be completed in the very near future (see table).\n\nThe EPA forecasts that general industrial waste final disposal sites with a total capacity of 7.16 million kilotons and waste incinerator ash landfills with a total capacity of 3.58 million kilotons will be completed by the end of 2003. The EPA is pleased that the passage of the revised Act has led to the diversification of industrial waste disposal mechanisms.\n\nTurning to the Plan for the Emergency Establishment of Final Disposal Sites for Industrial Waste, although 13 final disposal sites have been constructed by state-run and private organizations, only six are still in operation, and these are insufficient to meet real needs. To shorten construction time, the EPA has joined forces with the MOEA and the Taiwan Sugar Corporation to jointly implement this plan (see EPM Vol. IV, Issue 7). Taiwan Sugar Corporation is currently carrying out planning and EIA work, and the EPA and Taiwan Sugar are taking active steps to reach out to and explain their plans to citizens living in the vicinity of planned sites. According to this plan, the EPA will complete 60 hectares of final disposal sites for general industrial waste during the first stage (to December 2002) and add another 90 hectares during the second stage.\n\nOverview of Final Disposal Site Construction Plan Drafting Efforts\n\n \n Document Name\n Status \n \n1\n Guidelines for Encouraging State-run and Private Enterprises to Construct and Operate Final Disposal Sites for General Industrial Waste\n Completed\n \n2\n Subsidy Guidelines for Encouraging State-run and Private Enterprises to Construct and Operate Final Disposal Sites for General Industrial Waste\n Completed\n \n3\n Preliminary Operating Standards for Encouraging Private Enterprises to Construct and Operate Final Disposal Sites for General Industrial Waste\n In revision\n \n4\n Contractor Hiring Regulations for Encouraging Private Enterprises to Construct and Operate Final Disposal Sites for General Industrial Waste\n In revision\n \n5\n Equipment and Installation Standards for Encouraging State-run and Private Enterprises to Construct and Operate Final Disposal Sites for General Industrial Waste\n In revision\n \n6\n Operating and Maintenance Standards for Encouraging State-run and Private Enterprises to Construct and Operate Final Disposal Sites for General Industrial Waste\n In revision\n \n7\n Contractor Hiring Documents and Sample Investment Contract for Encouraging State-run and Private Enterprises to Construct and Operate Final Disposal Sites for General Industrial Waste\n In revision\n \n8\n Scoring Items, Evaluation Standards and Appraisal Method Regulations and Examples for Encouraging State-run and Private Enterprises to Construct and Operate Final Disposal Sites for General Industrial Waste\n In revision\n \n9\n Technical Consulting Organization Selection Notes\n Completed\n \n10\n Advance Notice Information for County and City Governments Conducting a Formal Call for Tender\n Completed", "content": "The passage of revisions to the Waste Disposal Act by the Legislative Yuan on October 4 immediately made the EPA the target of media attention. EPA statistics indicate that waste and environmental sanitation complaints were the most common type of environmental complaints last year (2000) showing that waste disposal has become one of the most urgent problems of daily life in citizens’ minds. Addressing this situation, the EPA has already presented improvement measures aimed at reducing the burden on the environment and disturbance to the public. As a follow-up to our interview with the Director General of the Bureau of Air Quality Protection and Noise Control in our last issue (EPM Vol. IV, Issue 10), in this issue we discuss a matter of keen public concern—waste disposal—with Bureau of Waste Management Director General Horng-guang Leu.\n\nDirector General Horng-guang Leu Talks About Waste Management\n\nDirector General Horng-guang Leu (呂鴻光) of the Bureau of Waste Management (廢棄物管理處) first shed light on the current state of affairs by explaining that today’s waste disposal policies and ideas are significantly different from those of ten years ago. As an example, while environmental protection personnel were seen as playing the role of “environmental cops” in the past due to their heavy reliance on investigations and injunctions, they now place more emphasis on helping the public resolve waste problems, assisting city and county governments, and advising firms on waste disposal solutions. In addition, long-term waste disposal policies are being brought in line with the principles of reduction, recycling and reuse. Like a kind nanny, the EPA is painstakingly tending to Taiwan’s environment and making sure it is not destroyed by waste.\n\nPromulgated by the President on October 24, the passage of the revised Waste Disposal Act (廢棄物清理法修正案) (see article on page 3) has declared to the world that the country’s waste disposal work has entered a new era. Director General Leu noted, however, that the passage of the revised Act is just a starting point. In this article, Taiwan’s waste disposal undertakings and policies will be discussed from the angle of the following four aspects: (1) the Follow-on Waste Disposal Plan (垃圾處理後續方案), (2) recycling and reuse policies, (3) the revised Waste Disposal Act and (4) the National Industrial Waste Management and Disposal Plan (全國事業廢棄物管制清理方案).\n\nI. The Follow-on Waste Disposal Plan\n\nBefore mentioning the Follow-on Waste Disposal Plan, the much-publicized Waste Disposal Plan (垃圾處理方案) must first be discussed. As for why a Follow-on Waste Disposal Plan is necessary at all, Director General Leu pointed out that waste disposal work has concentrated on two tasks over the past decade: One of these has been achieving a satisfactory waste disposal rate, and the other has been instituting landfill disposal and incineration as primary and secondary means of disposal respectively. And since the disposal rate has risen past 90% over the last ten years, and new incinerators have steadily come on line, waste disposal per se is no longer a big problem. On the other hand, these goals no longer reflect contemporary environmental protection needs, and we can therefore say that the Waste Disposal Plan has completed its mission for this period in time. This is why the EPA is proceeding with the introduction of the Follow-on Waste Disposal Plan, which will be sent to the Executive Yuan for approval by the end of the year.\n\nThe first notable feature of the Follow-on Waste Disposal Plan is its attention to incinerator ash disposal and reuse. While Taiwan is not currently able to emulate Tokyo’s no-waste policy goal, greater efforts will be made to reuse ash that has been subjected to intermediate treatment. One specific goal will be the acquisition of reuse technology for making ash into highway divider blocks, etc. A second notable feature is the acknowledgement that the privatization of waste disposal represents an inevitable trend in Taiwan. The EPA is currently promoting the construction and operation of final waste disposal sites through BOT and BOO arrangements, and hopes that the government will approve a range of incentives encouraging local governments and firms to participate in the construction of waste disposal facilities. The EPA also hopes that privatization will overcome the problem of existing waste disposal sites’ inability to engage in inter-area disposal and cooperation. A third feature is emphasis on waste reduction, recycling and reuse. Vigorous implementation of waste reduction and recycling work over the past three years has yielded excellent results (see EPM Vol. IV, Issue 10). Besides continuing to implement this policy in the future, the EPA will also additionally promote reuse. Following the final confirmation of an “incineration first” waste disposal policy, 12 cities and counties have already built incinerators. While the EPA is encouraging other cities and counties to follow suit, a variety of factors have fostered resistance to incinerator construction. Director General Leu stressed that the EPA will make continued efforts to defuse resistance with an attitude of helping the public resolve waste disposal problems.\n\nII. The Resource Recycling and Reuse Act\n\nThe draft Resource Recycling and Reuse Act (資源回收再利用法) was approved by the Executive Yuan in September, and has been sent to the Legislative Yuan for review. The completion of this legislation will represent a major step forward in the recycling and sustainable reuse of resources. The existing Waste Disposal Act, said Director General Leu, first defines useful “materials” as “waste,” and then calls for recycling and reuse. In contrast, the Resource Recycling and Reuse Act defines useful materials as “renewable resources” to distinguish them from “waste.” While the current system emphasizes compulsory requirements and end-of-pipe controls, more stress will be placed on source management and the establishment of incentive and guidance mechanisms, with the ultimate goal of realizing a recycling-conscious society. As a good example, the EPA is in the midst of promoting the establishment of a “Recycling Demonstration Zone” for recycling enterprises in the Changpin Industrial Park (see article on page 8).\n\nIII. Revised Waste Disposal Act\n\nImportant measures in the revised Waste Disposal Act include: First, the establishment of emergency waste disposal mechanisms, second, the establishment of diversified industrial waste disposal methods and, thirdly, the implementation of management mechanisms for industrial waste (see article on page 3 for the content of these measures). In yet another big project, the EPA now plans to revise the related regulations of the Waste Disposal Act in order to implement new waste disposal measures. The EPA, as part of this effort, has thus far listed regulations to be augmented, revised, discarded or announced. There are a total of 40 regulations among these, including the Waste Disposal Act Enforcement Rules and the Regulations Governing the Levying of General Waste Collection and Treatment Fees.\n\nIn the past industrial waste was disposed of by either the producer itself, or by a local government sanitation crew or a contracting disposal firm, noted Director General Leu, and the use of contracting disposal firms was the most common. But due to the uneven quality of disposal firms and the country’s overly strict licensing requirements, much industrial waste was not disposed of in an appropriate manner. After diversified disposal methods are established in line with the revised Act, as long as a disposal facility has been established by or under the guidance of the authorities in charge of the target industry, or by a state-run enterprise appointed by the central competent authorities, that facility may be hired to dispose of industrial waste. This diversification of disposal methods will help effectively resolve the country’s industrial waste problem.\n\nIV. The National Industrial Waste Management and Disposal Plan\n\nApproved by the Executive Yuan on January 17 of this year, the National Industrial Waste Management and Disposal Plan puts the EPA in charge of planning, assigning duties, coordinating and implementing the disposal of ordinary industrial waste, and makes the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) responsible for the disposal of hazardous industrial waste and the establishment of disposal facilities. The plan’s main goal is to strengthen the source management of industrial waste and track its flow, better grasp the quality and quantity of industrial waste and strengthen auditing and control of industrial waste. The EPA already completed a comprehensive quantitative\/qualitative survey of industrial waste and forecasts of quantities of different types of waste generated in the next ten years. It is now requesting the competent authorities in charge of target enterprises to complete the establishment of emergency industrial waste storage facilities by December of this year.\n\nIn a few final remarks concerning the offshore disposal of waste, Director General Leu stated that while the EPA still prohibits the shipping of general waste to overseas disposal sites, firms in nations such as France (for PCB-containing waste) or the US (for hazardous sludge) may be commissioned to dispose of hazardous industrial waste that cannot be handled in Taiwan. This disposal must be conducted in accordance with the Basel Convention. In the future the EPA will work together with customs authorities to stamp out the illicit export of waste.\n\nPlan for the Establishment of Industrial Waste Final Disposal Sites\n\nA shift is underway in Taiwan from sanitation landfills to incinerators. By next year (2002), after 21 large waste incinerators have been completed and are operating, 5,600 kilotons of incinerator ash will be generated every day, and this ash must be adequately disposed of. But since almost one-half (49.4%) of existing landfills will be full in less than two years, locally established landfills will be hard pressed to resolve the growing problem of incinerator ash. Moving to deal with this situation, the EPA has decided to commit close to NT$6 billion in funds over the next three years to promote the construction of final disposal sites.\n\nIn accordance with the National Industrial Waste Management and Disposal Plan, the EPA has drafted the Plan for Encouraging State-run and Private Enterprises to Construct and Operate Final Disposal Sites for General Industrial Waste (including Municipal Solid Waste Incinerator Ash) and the Plan for the Emergency Establishment of Final Disposal Sites for Industrial Waste (including Municipal Solid Waste Incinerator Ash) (see EPM Vol. IV, Issues 4 and 7).\n\nAs the EPA continues to encourage state-run and private organizations to construct final disposal sites, these plans will target the 12 cities and counties that have already built incinerators, plus the other seven cities and counties that have proposed construction plans. Taichung, Hsinchu City, Tainan County, and Taipei County have proposed BOO plans, Taichung County and Chiayi County have proposed BOT plans, and Tainan City has proposed a publicly built and operated facility.\n\nAs required by the operating guidelines announced and implemented in September, local governments are encouraged to build waste disposal facilities via BOT and BOO approaches. In addition, the government should hire a technology consulting organization to perform preliminary planning and the sponsoring local government must pledge guaranteed amounts of general waste (including sludge and nonflammable waste) and incinerator ash. In accordance with subsidy guidelines implemented on Oct. 4, 2001, the EPA shall subsidize the cost of disposing of guaranteed amounts of waste. Other regulations, including those governing hiring of contractors, are being revised in consultation with local environmental protection bureaus, and are expected to be completed in the very near future (see table).\n\nThe EPA forecasts that general industrial waste final disposal sites with a total capacity of 7.16 million kilotons and waste incinerator ash landfills with a total capacity of 3.58 million kilotons will be completed by the end of 2003. The EPA is pleased that the passage of the revised Act has led to the diversification of industrial waste disposal mechanisms.\n\nTurning to the Plan for the Emergency Establishment of Final Disposal Sites for Industrial Waste, although 13 final disposal sites have been constructed by state-run and private organizations, only six are still in operation, and these are insufficient to meet real needs. To shorten construction time, the EPA has joined forces with the MOEA and the Taiwan Sugar Corporation to jointly implement this plan (see EPM Vol. IV, Issue 7). Taiwan Sugar Corporation is currently carrying out planning and EIA work, and the EPA and Taiwan Sugar are taking active steps to reach out to and explain their plans to citizens living in the vicinity of planned sites. According to this plan, the EPA will complete 60 hectares of final disposal sites for general industrial waste during the first stage (to December 2002) and add another 90 hectares during the second stage.\n\nOverview of Final Disposal Site Construction Plan Drafting Efforts\n\n \n Document Name\n Status \n \n1\n Guidelines for Encouraging State-run and Private Enterprises to Construct and Operate Final Disposal Sites for General Industrial Waste\n Completed\n \n2\n Subsidy Guidelines for Encouraging State-run and Private Enterprises to Construct and Operate Final Disposal Sites for General Industrial Waste\n Completed\n \n3\n Preliminary Operating Standards for Encouraging Private Enterprises to Construct and Operate Final Disposal Sites for General Industrial Waste\n In revision\n \n4\n Contractor Hiring Regulations for Encouraging Private Enterprises to Construct and Operate Final Disposal Sites for General Industrial Waste\n In revision\n \n5\n Equipment and Installation Standards for Encouraging State-run and Private Enterprises to Construct and Operate Final Disposal Sites for General Industrial Waste\n In revision\n \n6\n Operating and Maintenance Standards for Encouraging State-run and Private Enterprises to Construct and Operate Final Disposal Sites for General Industrial Waste\n In revision\n \n7\n Contractor Hiring Documents and Sample Investment Contract for Encouraging State-run and Private Enterprises to Construct and Operate Final Disposal Sites for General Industrial Waste\n In revision\n \n8\n Scoring Items, Evaluation Standards and Appraisal Method Regulations and Examples for Encouraging State-run and Private Enterprises to Construct and Operate Final Disposal Sites for General Industrial Waste\n In revision\n \n9\n Technical Consulting Organization Selection Notes\n Completed\n \n10\n Advance Notice Information for County and City Governments Conducting a Formal Call for Tender\n Completed", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Reduction Recycling and Reuse Guide New Waste Management Policy", "position": "print\/V4\/V4-11" }, { "no": "722", "title": "Textile Manufacturing Sludge Food Processing Waste, and Waste Rubber Added to List of Articles Allowed for Reuse", "preview": "In order to encourage resource reuse the EPA recently announced amendments to regulations concerning industrial waste reuse categories and management methods. Textile manufacturing sludge, food processing waste, and waste rubber have been included in the scope of the regulations. Once these amended regulations are officially promulgated, the items listed above can be recycled and reused.", "content": "In order to encourage resource reuse the EPA recently announced amendments to regulations concerning industrial waste reuse categories and management methods. Textile manufacturing sludge, food processing waste, and waste rubber have been included in the scope of the regulations. Once these amended regulations are officially promulgated, the items listed above can be recycled and reused.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Textile Manufacturing Sludge Food Processing Waste and Waste Rubber Added to List of Articles Allowed for Reuse", "position": "print\/V4\/V4-04" }, { "no": "715", "title": "Feature: Newly Appointed Administrator Dr. Lung-Bin Hau, Emphasizes Results and Enforcement", "preview": "Dr. Lung-Bin Hau has been appointed to the post of EPA Administrator. Working from his personal beliefs as an environmentalist and with his respect for professionalism Dr. Hau hopes that in the short-term he can dissipate the public's current dissatisfaction with environmental protection. In the long run Dr. Hau aims to ensure that Taiwan will always have green mountains and clear water.\n\nUnder the watchful eyes of Taiwan's citizens, the Executive Yuan recently completed a partial reorganization of the government's Cabinet. As part of the reorganization, the post of EPA Administrator was filled by former Legislator Dr. Lung-Bin Hau (郝龍斌). The official handover was completed on March 7, under the supervision of Minister without portfolio Chen Chin-huang (陳錦煌), when Administrator in waiting Lung-Bin Hau received the EPA seal from the hands of departing Administrator Edgar Lin.\n\nDuring the ceremony, Minister Chen joked that the EPA was a \"fire-pit.\" In response, Dr. Hau said that EPA employees have long been working in the fire-pit and that by jumping in today he would simply be feeling what they had felt for a long time, and that he hoped to help the EPA be like a phoenix reborn from the flames. \n\nIn stepping down as EPA Administrator, Edgar Lin said that, \"I am moved by Administrator Hau's courage in taking on this position.\" Lin pointed out that over the last ten months he has built a comprehensive environmental protection infrastructure and given priority back to protecting the environment. Lin stated that by working on these foundations, and with Hau's professionalism and dedication, he had the utmost confidence that Hau would succeed as Administrator.\n\nAddressing the former Administrator, Hau said that although Lin would be leaving his post at the EPA, environmental protection has been his lifelong pursuit and that Lin would always be the \"Father of Environmentalism\" in Taiwan. As for himself, Hau stated that from this day forward he was part of the EPA and formally a member of the environmental family. The new Administrator further stressed that although Taiwanese are very diverse, with different political and social backgrounds, all Taiwanese have a common cause – the environment – and a common love for this island.\n\nAdministrator Hau also stated that he would work to give the citizens of Taiwan a clean land, and that all of his thoughts and energy would be devoted to ensuring environmental quality. The Administrator stated his resolve to draw on help from environmental agencies, environmental groups and academic circles in the short-run to help Taiwan's citizens learn to cherish the environment and dispel their dissatisfaction with the current situation. In the long-run Hau aims to ensure that Taiwan always has green mountains and clear water.\n\nAt an Executive Yuan press conference shortly afterwards Hau emphasized that only strict enforcement of the law can put an end to illegal activities. Pollution in Taiwan is caused by those unlawful citizens who flagrantly disregard environmental laws, he said, and it is clear from the MV Amorgos oil spill that no matter what the fine or how large the restoration effort they cannot fully compensate for environmental destruction. For this reason, only preventative measures can ensure that Taiwan's environment stays clean and pollution free.\n\nIn response to media questions about the Fourth Nuclear Power Plant, Administrator Hau pointed out that resuming construction is already Executive Yuan policy and that Premier Chang Chun-hsiung (張俊雄) has made it clear that all future activities will be carried out in accordance with the law. For this reason, whether or not to perform another environmental impact assessment (EIA) is a legal and not a political question. In other words, unless significant changes occur to the construction of the Fourth Nuclear Power Plant and there is a legal need for another EIA, the EPA will focus its efforts on strict oversight of the project.\n\nIn a report delivered during his first meeting with top EPA officials on March 12, Administrator Hau stressed efficiency and stated that during any serious pollution incident the EPA should always be on the frontline. Problems should be dealt with swiftly and environmental laws strictly enforced using all of the government authority granted to the EPA.\n\nAfter hearing key work reports from the respective EPA bureaus, Dr. Hau formulated the following directions for his administration:\n\n1. In terms of personnel, because the EPA completed a large scale reorganization in February for the time being efforts will be made to keep personnel stable;\n\n2. Before accepting this post Administrator Hau stated that within six months he would turn in a \"good report card.\" He hopes that in the short-term all EPA departments can take active measures to let the public feel that progress is being made. Towards this goal, each department must turn in 1-month, 3-month, and 6-month improvement plans. They must also work full steam to raise administrative efficiency and digitize environmental work;\n\n3. The EPA will identify 10 threats to Taiwan's environment as well as paths to improvement and assess their feasibility;\n\n4. Ministry of Economic Affairs plans to dissolve water quality protection status for the Tseng-wen River would remove the legal basis to ban hog rearing there. Administrator Hau stated that from the EPA's position hog rearing is detrimental to water quality protection so the EPA will use its full strength to implement the ban, while at the same time undertaking active communication and coordination with other appropriate government agencies.\n\n5. The people of Taiwan are very concerned with the continued handling of the MV Amorgos incident. Administrator Hau will speed up progress on this issue and establish two expert taskforces, one to deal with oil pollution cleanup and the other to handle compensation matters, including compensation for damages, ecological destruction and ecosystem rehabilitation. The two taskforces will be headed respectively by the EPA's Secretary General, Yeong-Ren Chen and Deputy Administrator Ta-Hsiung Lin.", "content": "Dr. Lung-Bin Hau has been appointed to the post of EPA Administrator. Working from his personal beliefs as an environmentalist and with his respect for professionalism Dr. Hau hopes that in the short-term he can dissipate the public's current dissatisfaction with environmental protection. In the long run Dr. Hau aims to ensure that Taiwan will always have green mountains and clear water.\n\nUnder the watchful eyes of Taiwan's citizens, the Executive Yuan recently completed a partial reorganization of the government's Cabinet. As part of the reorganization, the post of EPA Administrator was filled by former Legislator Dr. Lung-Bin Hau (郝龍斌). The official handover was completed on March 7, under the supervision of Minister without portfolio Chen Chin-huang (陳錦煌), when Administrator in waiting Lung-Bin Hau received the EPA seal from the hands of departing Administrator Edgar Lin.\n\nDuring the ceremony, Minister Chen joked that the EPA was a \"fire-pit.\" In response, Dr. Hau said that EPA employees have long been working in the fire-pit and that by jumping in today he would simply be feeling what they had felt for a long time, and that he hoped to help the EPA be like a phoenix reborn from the flames. \n\nIn stepping down as EPA Administrator, Edgar Lin said that, \"I am moved by Administrator Hau's courage in taking on this position.\" Lin pointed out that over the last ten months he has built a comprehensive environmental protection infrastructure and given priority back to protecting the environment. Lin stated that by working on these foundations, and with Hau's professionalism and dedication, he had the utmost confidence that Hau would succeed as Administrator.\n\nAddressing the former Administrator, Hau said that although Lin would be leaving his post at the EPA, environmental protection has been his lifelong pursuit and that Lin would always be the \"Father of Environmentalism\" in Taiwan. As for himself, Hau stated that from this day forward he was part of the EPA and formally a member of the environmental family. The new Administrator further stressed that although Taiwanese are very diverse, with different political and social backgrounds, all Taiwanese have a common cause – the environment – and a common love for this island.\n\nAdministrator Hau also stated that he would work to give the citizens of Taiwan a clean land, and that all of his thoughts and energy would be devoted to ensuring environmental quality. The Administrator stated his resolve to draw on help from environmental agencies, environmental groups and academic circles in the short-run to help Taiwan's citizens learn to cherish the environment and dispel their dissatisfaction with the current situation. In the long-run Hau aims to ensure that Taiwan always has green mountains and clear water.\n\nAt an Executive Yuan press conference shortly afterwards Hau emphasized that only strict enforcement of the law can put an end to illegal activities. Pollution in Taiwan is caused by those unlawful citizens who flagrantly disregard environmental laws, he said, and it is clear from the MV Amorgos oil spill that no matter what the fine or how large the restoration effort they cannot fully compensate for environmental destruction. For this reason, only preventative measures can ensure that Taiwan's environment stays clean and pollution free.\n\nIn response to media questions about the Fourth Nuclear Power Plant, Administrator Hau pointed out that resuming construction is already Executive Yuan policy and that Premier Chang Chun-hsiung (張俊雄) has made it clear that all future activities will be carried out in accordance with the law. For this reason, whether or not to perform another environmental impact assessment (EIA) is a legal and not a political question. In other words, unless significant changes occur to the construction of the Fourth Nuclear Power Plant and there is a legal need for another EIA, the EPA will focus its efforts on strict oversight of the project.\n\nIn a report delivered during his first meeting with top EPA officials on March 12, Administrator Hau stressed efficiency and stated that during any serious pollution incident the EPA should always be on the frontline. Problems should be dealt with swiftly and environmental laws strictly enforced using all of the government authority granted to the EPA.\n\nAfter hearing key work reports from the respective EPA bureaus, Dr. Hau formulated the following directions for his administration:\n\n1. In terms of personnel, because the EPA completed a large scale reorganization in February for the time being efforts will be made to keep personnel stable;\n\n2. Before accepting this post Administrator Hau stated that within six months he would turn in a \"good report card.\" He hopes that in the short-term all EPA departments can take active measures to let the public feel that progress is being made. Towards this goal, each department must turn in 1-month, 3-month, and 6-month improvement plans. They must also work full steam to raise administrative efficiency and digitize environmental work;\n\n3. The EPA will identify 10 threats to Taiwan's environment as well as paths to improvement and assess their feasibility;\n\n4. Ministry of Economic Affairs plans to dissolve water quality protection status for the Tseng-wen River would remove the legal basis to ban hog rearing there. Administrator Hau stated that from the EPA's position hog rearing is detrimental to water quality protection so the EPA will use its full strength to implement the ban, while at the same time undertaking active communication and coordination with other appropriate government agencies.\n\n5. The people of Taiwan are very concerned with the continued handling of the MV Amorgos incident. Administrator Hau will speed up progress on this issue and establish two expert taskforces, one to deal with oil pollution cleanup and the other to handle compensation matters, including compensation for damages, ecological destruction and ecosystem rehabilitation. The two taskforces will be headed respectively by the EPA's Secretary General, Yeong-Ren Chen and Deputy Administrator Ta-Hsiung Lin.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Others", "titlename": "Newly Appointed Administrator Dr. Lung-Bin Hau Emphasizes Results and Enforcement", "position": "print\/V4\/V4-04" }, { "no": "708", "title": "An Introduction to the New EPA Administrator Dr. Lung-Bin Hau", "preview": "Prior to his appointment as EPA Administrator Dr. Hau was twice elected as a member of the Legislative Yuan in 1996 and 1999. During his 5-year tenure as Legislator he devoted himself to medical care and sanitation affairs to safeguard public health. He advocated passage of the Health Food Control Act, and introduced the concept of \"medical savings accounts\" into amendments of the National Health Insurance Act. In addition, Dr. Hau was very concerned with constitutional reform. He requested the Council of Grand Justices to interpret important constitutional controversies, such as; whether or not the Vice President should be able to concurrently serve as Premier of the Executive Yuan; the provincial government's status as a public juristic person; and the ability of National Assembly members to extend their own tenures.\n\nIn the period from March 2000 to March 2001, Dr. Hau served as convener of the National Campaign and Development Committee of the New Party. Dr. Hau took the lead in cooperating with the KMT and the DPP to amend the Constitution to reduce the power of the National Assembly. He also successfully mediated a meeting between President Chen and opposition parties leaders, which reduced political tension after the 2000 presidential election. After the ruling DPP announced a stop to construction of the Fourth Nuclear Power Plant, Dr. Hau again mediated a meeting of leaders from the KMT, the People First Party and the New Party. The meeting led to establishment of a communication mechanism, an alliance of opposition parties, and later, resumption of the construction process.\n\nBorn in Taiwan, Dr. Hau holds a B.S. in Agricultural Chemistry from National Taiwan University and a Ph.D. in Food Science from the University of Massachusetts. From 1984 to 1996 he was an Associate Professor and later a Professor at the National Taiwan University Institute of Food Science, where he focused his teaching and research on the areas of food safety, food chemistry, lipid chemistry, nutrition chemistry, food radiation and food processing. His contributions in food science research were well recognized and received the Madam Chiang Hsu Lian-Tsang Food Science Award, the National Science Council Excellent Research Award, and the Atomic Energy Council Excellent Research Award.\n\nIn addition to his academic writings, Dr. Hau has authored two books: The New Road, and Healthy Diet Go Go Go. The latter was a domestic best-seller in the nonfiction category for 1999.", "content": "Prior to his appointment as EPA Administrator Dr. Hau was twice elected as a member of the Legislative Yuan in 1996 and 1999. During his 5-year tenure as Legislator he devoted himself to medical care and sanitation affairs to safeguard public health. He advocated passage of the Health Food Control Act, and introduced the concept of \"medical savings accounts\" into amendments of the National Health Insurance Act. In addition, Dr. Hau was very concerned with constitutional reform. He requested the Council of Grand Justices to interpret important constitutional controversies, such as; whether or not the Vice President should be able to concurrently serve as Premier of the Executive Yuan; the provincial government's status as a public juristic person; and the ability of National Assembly members to extend their own tenures.\n\nIn the period from March 2000 to March 2001, Dr. Hau served as convener of the National Campaign and Development Committee of the New Party. Dr. Hau took the lead in cooperating with the KMT and the DPP to amend the Constitution to reduce the power of the National Assembly. He also successfully mediated a meeting between President Chen and opposition parties leaders, which reduced political tension after the 2000 presidential election. After the ruling DPP announced a stop to construction of the Fourth Nuclear Power Plant, Dr. Hau again mediated a meeting of leaders from the KMT, the People First Party and the New Party. The meeting led to establishment of a communication mechanism, an alliance of opposition parties, and later, resumption of the construction process.\n\nBorn in Taiwan, Dr. Hau holds a B.S. in Agricultural Chemistry from National Taiwan University and a Ph.D. in Food Science from the University of Massachusetts. From 1984 to 1996 he was an Associate Professor and later a Professor at the National Taiwan University Institute of Food Science, where he focused his teaching and research on the areas of food safety, food chemistry, lipid chemistry, nutrition chemistry, food radiation and food processing. His contributions in food science research were well recognized and received the Madam Chiang Hsu Lian-Tsang Food Science Award, the National Science Council Excellent Research Award, and the Atomic Energy Council Excellent Research Award.\n\nIn addition to his academic writings, Dr. Hau has authored two books: The New Road, and Healthy Diet Go Go Go. The latter was a domestic best-seller in the nonfiction category for 1999.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Others", "titlename": "An Introduction to the New EPA Administrator Dr. Lung-Bin Hau", "position": "print\/V4\/V4-04" }, { "no": "679", "title": "A Talk With ”Factor Four” Author Dr. Ernst Ulrich von Weizs?cker", "preview": "At the urging of Administrator Lin on December 10 the EPA held the ”Factor Four Seminar – the Resource Efficiency Revolution” at Taipei's International Conference Center. At the event keynote speaker Dr. von Weizs?cker, author of ”Factor Four” and member of the German Parliament, addressed domestic industry leaders, public representatives and top academics. The discussion revolved around raising Taiwan's resource efficiency, environmental quality, and international competitiveness.Natural resources are not inexhaustible and how we consume them now impacts the wealth of future generations. The critical question then becomes, how can industry create business opportunities out of raising resource efficiency and ”making more with less?” To help Taiwan prepare to meet the challenges of the new millennium, EPA Administrator Edgar Lin invited the author of worldwide bestseller ”Factor Four,” Dr. Ernst Ulrich von Weizs?cker, to visit Taiwan. Lin organized a discussion session between Dr. von Weizs?cker and legislators, renowned experts and industry leaders from Taiwan.”Factor Four” is a report by the Club of Rome, to which Dr. von Weizs?cker belongs. During his speech, Dr. von Weizs?cker discussed another Club of Rome book, ”The Limits to Growth,” which was published in 1972. The book used computer models to show that continued growth under the current industrial model would lead to continuous global destruction. Dr. von Weizs?cker's observations show that today we are moving ever closer towards the end forecast in this model. Twenty years later, the Club of Rome's latest report proposes a new path to the future that is both upbeat and feasible. In the face of limited natural resources, the new path attempts to find a way to maintain current levels of prosperity (not waste) without destroying the environment.Dr. von Weizs?cker points out that current standard uses of natural resources are overly wasteful. For example in the United States 93% of natural resource inputs are not incorporated in the products that go to market and 80% of commercial products are used once and then thrown away. Unfortunately, even the remaining 20% of products are not used to the end of their lifespan. During the production and consumption processes, a huge quantity of natural resources are needlessly wasted. Wasted resources are not fully utilized, have no benefit for society, and in fact are responsible for worsening environmental quality and generating toxic materials that move through all natural mediums to pollute our environment.Dr. von Weizs?cker emphasizes that full, efficient use of nature's resources can generate four times the value obtained under current methods of use, thus ”Factor Four.” Based on this concept the amount of resources consumed by humans on this planet could be reduced by 1\/2 while still doubling prosperity! Going the factor four path resolves the double bind posed by trying to preserve current quality of life while worrying about future resource deficiencies.Edgar Lin spoke on the incredible waste of energy produced by electric plants. When lighting a lightbulb at current levels of efficiency, 70% of the energy required is simply wasted during transmission from the plant before it even reaches the lightbulb. Furthermore, only 10% of the remaining 30% is actually converted into light, which is to say that only 3% of the total energy is actually used while the rest is wasted during transmission. Lin pointed out that this type of waste in production or consumption can only be cured by raising the efficiency of resource use. Lin believes that the ”efficiency revolution” will turn environmental protection measures from a major cost into a key source of profit.Administrator Lin believes that the concepts outlined in ”Factor Four” have already gained widespread acceptance in advanced nations, leading to a new form of ”natural” capitalism. Looking at Taiwan, Lin believes that Taiwan's industries can lower management costs and improve competitiveness by integrating factor four concepts into their management models, fully utilizing resources, encouraging employee innovation and raising resource productivity. Such companies will solidify their advantage in domestic markets and be ready to jump into the international markets that will be opened with Taiwan's accession to the WTO.", "content": "At the urging of Administrator Lin on December 10 the EPA held the ”Factor Four Seminar – the Resource Efficiency Revolution” at Taipei's International Conference Center. At the event keynote speaker Dr. von Weizs?cker, author of ”Factor Four” and member of the German Parliament, addressed domestic industry leaders, public representatives and top academics. The discussion revolved around raising Taiwan's resource efficiency, environmental quality, and international competitiveness.Natural resources are not inexhaustible and how we consume them now impacts the wealth of future generations. The critical question then becomes, how can industry create business opportunities out of raising resource efficiency and ”making more with less?” To help Taiwan prepare to meet the challenges of the new millennium, EPA Administrator Edgar Lin invited the author of worldwide bestseller ”Factor Four,” Dr. Ernst Ulrich von Weizs?cker, to visit Taiwan. Lin organized a discussion session between Dr. von Weizs?cker and legislators, renowned experts and industry leaders from Taiwan.”Factor Four” is a report by the Club of Rome, to which Dr. von Weizs?cker belongs. During his speech, Dr. von Weizs?cker discussed another Club of Rome book, ”The Limits to Growth,” which was published in 1972. The book used computer models to show that continued growth under the current industrial model would lead to continuous global destruction. Dr. von Weizs?cker's observations show that today we are moving ever closer towards the end forecast in this model. Twenty years later, the Club of Rome's latest report proposes a new path to the future that is both upbeat and feasible. In the face of limited natural resources, the new path attempts to find a way to maintain current levels of prosperity (not waste) without destroying the environment.Dr. von Weizs?cker points out that current standard uses of natural resources are overly wasteful. For example in the United States 93% of natural resource inputs are not incorporated in the products that go to market and 80% of commercial products are used once and then thrown away. Unfortunately, even the remaining 20% of products are not used to the end of their lifespan. During the production and consumption processes, a huge quantity of natural resources are needlessly wasted. Wasted resources are not fully utilized, have no benefit for society, and in fact are responsible for worsening environmental quality and generating toxic materials that move through all natural mediums to pollute our environment.Dr. von Weizs?cker emphasizes that full, efficient use of nature's resources can generate four times the value obtained under current methods of use, thus ”Factor Four.” Based on this concept the amount of resources consumed by humans on this planet could be reduced by 1\/2 while still doubling prosperity! Going the factor four path resolves the double bind posed by trying to preserve current quality of life while worrying about future resource deficiencies.Edgar Lin spoke on the incredible waste of energy produced by electric plants. When lighting a lightbulb at current levels of efficiency, 70% of the energy required is simply wasted during transmission from the plant before it even reaches the lightbulb. Furthermore, only 10% of the remaining 30% is actually converted into light, which is to say that only 3% of the total energy is actually used while the rest is wasted during transmission. Lin pointed out that this type of waste in production or consumption can only be cured by raising the efficiency of resource use. Lin believes that the ”efficiency revolution” will turn environmental protection measures from a major cost into a key source of profit.Administrator Lin believes that the concepts outlined in ”Factor Four” have already gained widespread acceptance in advanced nations, leading to a new form of ”natural” capitalism. Looking at Taiwan, Lin believes that Taiwan's industries can lower management costs and improve competitiveness by integrating factor four concepts into their management models, fully utilizing resources, encouraging employee innovation and raising resource productivity. Such companies will solidify their advantage in domestic markets and be ready to jump into the international markets that will be opened with Taiwan's accession to the WTO.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "A Talk With Factor Four Author Dr. Ernst Ulrich von Weizs?cker", "position": "print\/V4\/V4-01" }, { "no": "657", "title": "EPA to Offer NT$3000 Subsidy for Electric Bicycles", "preview": "The EPA has announced plans to offer subsidies of NT$3000 per vehicle for the purchase of electric bicycles for the year 2001. Subsidies are limited to one bicycle per person. By subsidizing the purchase of electric bicycles the EPA seeks to encourage the public to shift to low-pollution transportation devices, thereby reducing air pollution.\n\nIn order to encourage the public to increase its use of low-pollution vehicles, the EPA has completed the draft Method for Providing Subsidies for the Purchase of Electric Bicycles (新購電動輔助自行車補助辦法). Starting next year, the EPA will set aside funds to provide subsidies for the purchase of electric bicycles that meet the Chinese National Standard for Electric Bicycles (CNS 14126). The subsidy will target Taiwanese citizens purchasing vehicles for domestic use. Each citizen may apply once for a subsidy of NT$ 3,000 for a vehicle purchase.\n\nThe Bureau of Air Quality Protection & Noise Control stated that drafting of the Method for Providing Subsidies for the Purchase of Electric Bicycles has already reached its final stages. Once a legal basis has been established under the Air Pollution Control Act the new regulation can be issued. Implementation could potentially begin as quickly as January 1, 2001. Under new the Administrative Procedures Law all subsidy plans developed by the government must have a clear grounding in the relevant mother law before implementation can begin. As a result, the Bureau is currently working with the Legislative Assembly to make the necessary revisions to the Air Pollution Control Act and expects to complete the changes by the end of this year.\n\nSince electric bicycles do not require motor vehicle registration, the EPA has requested manufacturers to imprint an identification number in an easily visible location on the body of the bicycle (similar to the system currently used for automobile engines). The identification number will help to facilitate tracking subsidy awards. Manufacturers have expressed their willingness to accommodate the EPA’s request. Electric bicycles currently sell in the range of NT$18,000-20,000, approximately NT$5,000 higher than traditional bicycles. This has led to limited consumer interest in the vehicles. The EPA believes that promoting the use of electric bicycles can lead to significant improvements in air quality and has therefore decided to provide subsidies to make the vehicles more price competitive.\n\nElectric bicycles are bicycles that have installed a battery powered motor. Since the bicycles do not emit any pollution they are considered a “green product.” However, like electric scooters, electric bicycles face shortcomings related to their batteries. Current batteries can only store enough energy for 20-30 kilometers of driving. The EPA, however, believes this range is sufficient for a short distance transportation vehicle.", "content": "The EPA has announced plans to offer subsidies of NT$3000 per vehicle for the purchase of electric bicycles for the year 2001. Subsidies are limited to one bicycle per person. By subsidizing the purchase of electric bicycles the EPA seeks to encourage the public to shift to low-pollution transportation devices, thereby reducing air pollution.\n\nIn order to encourage the public to increase its use of low-pollution vehicles, the EPA has completed the draft Method for Providing Subsidies for the Purchase of Electric Bicycles (新購電動輔助自行車補助辦法). Starting next year, the EPA will set aside funds to provide subsidies for the purchase of electric bicycles that meet the Chinese National Standard for Electric Bicycles (CNS 14126). The subsidy will target Taiwanese citizens purchasing vehicles for domestic use. Each citizen may apply once for a subsidy of NT$ 3,000 for a vehicle purchase.\n\nThe Bureau of Air Quality Protection & Noise Control stated that drafting of the Method for Providing Subsidies for the Purchase of Electric Bicycles has already reached its final stages. Once a legal basis has been established under the Air Pollution Control Act the new regulation can be issued. Implementation could potentially begin as quickly as January 1, 2001. Under new the Administrative Procedures Law all subsidy plans developed by the government must have a clear grounding in the relevant mother law before implementation can begin. As a result, the Bureau is currently working with the Legislative Assembly to make the necessary revisions to the Air Pollution Control Act and expects to complete the changes by the end of this year.\n\nSince electric bicycles do not require motor vehicle registration, the EPA has requested manufacturers to imprint an identification number in an easily visible location on the body of the bicycle (similar to the system currently used for automobile engines). The identification number will help to facilitate tracking subsidy awards. Manufacturers have expressed their willingness to accommodate the EPA’s request. Electric bicycles currently sell in the range of NT$18,000-20,000, approximately NT$5,000 higher than traditional bicycles. This has led to limited consumer interest in the vehicles. The EPA believes that promoting the use of electric bicycles can lead to significant improvements in air quality and has therefore decided to provide subsidies to make the vehicles more price competitive.\n\nElectric bicycles are bicycles that have installed a battery powered motor. Since the bicycles do not emit any pollution they are considered a “green product.” However, like electric scooters, electric bicycles face shortcomings related to their batteries. Current batteries can only store enough energy for 20-30 kilometers of driving. The EPA, however, believes this range is sufficient for a short distance transportation vehicle.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "EPA to Offer NT$3000 Subsidy for Electric Bicycles", "position": "print\/V1\/V3-18" }, { "no": "561", "title": "In 1999 Small Steps Toward Improving River Quality", "preview": "The EPA has completed the 1999 report on river water quality. Of 50 major rivers seriously polluted sections decreased by 1.5%, and unpolluted river sections increased by 2%, demonstrating small progress in improving river water quality. These results also show the initial effects of recent pollution remediation measures.\n\n According to the 1999 report on water quality monitoring in Taiwan's 50 major rivers, water quality is better than the previous four years. Conditions observed in the report include: in comparison with 1995, 42.9 km of seriously polluted river-length has been improved to moderately polluted or unpolluted, a 1.4% improvement; and unpolluted river-lengths since 1995 have increased 60.3 km, a 2% improvement.\n\n Monitoring results from the 1999 report show that of 50 major rivers, 14 have seen increase in the length of unpolluted river, the entire reach of 12 rivers are unpolluted, and 36 rivers have no seriously polluted sections.\n\n The EPA noted that in addition to industrial wastewater, municipal wastewater discharged without proper treatment in a sewage system is another major source of pollution to Taiwan's 50 major rivers. The EPA has already begun to coordinate with city and county governments to improve pollution source management for rivers with relatively poor water quality. The EPA has expressed that to cure the root of river pollution, river basin based remediation plans are needed. Upstream efforts should concentrate on proper management to nurture water sources, preserve soil and protect watersheds. Middle and downstream work should focus on control of pollution sources and setting reasonable and effective strategies and measures to reduce pollution emissions. \n\n In addition, to strengthen the management of river water quality, the EPA has formulated river basin management plans which have been sent to the Executive Yuan for approval. The plan includes auditing and assisting city and county governments to strengthen river basin remediation, select rivers which are important water resources or with relatively serious pollution, actively promote the construction of sewage systems and enactment of pollution source controls, monitor river water quality, improve trash disposal, and carry out educational promotion efforts. These items are aimed at improving the environmental quality of Taiwan's water bodies, and to reach specific goals laid out in the National Environmental Protection Plan. Such goals include ensuring the sustainable use of river water resources, provision of safe drinking water for 17,000,000 people, providing proper irrigation water for 250,000 hectares of farm land, improving the water quality of urban river-lengths, and creating an additional 0.5 square meters of green space for each person in Taiwan.", "content": "The EPA has completed the 1999 report on river water quality. Of 50 major rivers seriously polluted sections decreased by 1.5%, and unpolluted river sections increased by 2%, demonstrating small progress in improving river water quality. These results also show the initial effects of recent pollution remediation measures.\n\n According to the 1999 report on water quality monitoring in Taiwan's 50 major rivers, water quality is better than the previous four years. Conditions observed in the report include: in comparison with 1995, 42.9 km of seriously polluted river-length has been improved to moderately polluted or unpolluted, a 1.4% improvement; and unpolluted river-lengths since 1995 have increased 60.3 km, a 2% improvement.\n\n Monitoring results from the 1999 report show that of 50 major rivers, 14 have seen increase in the length of unpolluted river, the entire reach of 12 rivers are unpolluted, and 36 rivers have no seriously polluted sections.\n\n The EPA noted that in addition to industrial wastewater, municipal wastewater discharged without proper treatment in a sewage system is another major source of pollution to Taiwan's 50 major rivers. The EPA has already begun to coordinate with city and county governments to improve pollution source management for rivers with relatively poor water quality. The EPA has expressed that to cure the root of river pollution, river basin based remediation plans are needed. Upstream efforts should concentrate on proper management to nurture water sources, preserve soil and protect watersheds. Middle and downstream work should focus on control of pollution sources and setting reasonable and effective strategies and measures to reduce pollution emissions. \n\n In addition, to strengthen the management of river water quality, the EPA has formulated river basin management plans which have been sent to the Executive Yuan for approval. The plan includes auditing and assisting city and county governments to strengthen river basin remediation, select rivers which are important water resources or with relatively serious pollution, actively promote the construction of sewage systems and enactment of pollution source controls, monitor river water quality, improve trash disposal, and carry out educational promotion efforts. These items are aimed at improving the environmental quality of Taiwan's water bodies, and to reach specific goals laid out in the National Environmental Protection Plan. Such goals include ensuring the sustainable use of river water resources, provision of safe drinking water for 17,000,000 people, providing proper irrigation water for 250,000 hectares of farm land, improving the water quality of urban river-lengths, and creating an additional 0.5 square meters of green space for each person in Taiwan.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "In 1999 Small Steps Toward Improving River Quality", "position": "print\/V3\/V3-12" }, { "no": "554", "title": "1999 Noise Complaint Statistics Show Taipei Noisiest Penghu Quietest", "preview": "On May 3 2000 the EPA released its analysis of noise complaints filed in 1999. The results show that Taipei City recorded the largest number of complaints, at 6,559 cases, with second place held by Tapei County, at 4,696 cases. Overall, the total number of complaints increased by 14.3% over 1998 levels. 70% of all cases were filed in urban areas, indicating that city noise is a high area of public concern. 65% of all complaints were in response to noise from factories and amusement\/leisure spots.", "content": "On May 3 2000 the EPA released its analysis of noise complaints filed in 1999. The results show that Taipei City recorded the largest number of complaints, at 6,559 cases, with second place held by Tapei County, at 4,696 cases. Overall, the total number of complaints increased by 14.3% over 1998 levels. 70% of all cases were filed in urban areas, indicating that city noise is a high area of public concern. 65% of all complaints were in response to noise from factories and amusement\/leisure spots.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Noise Control", "titlename": "1999 Noise Complaint Statistics Show Taipei Noisiest Penghu Quietest", "position": "print\/V3\/V3-12" }, { "no": "548", "title": "In Support of Earth Day EPA Promotes Tree Planting Activity", "preview": "In support of the 30th anniversary of Earth Day the EPA, the Ministry of Education and other organizations are promoting a tree planting activity. As part of this effort, elementary school course materials on tree planting have been developed. To assist with the dissemination of these course materials, \"seed teachers\" are being trained in the delivery of the materials.\n\nApril 22 marked the 30th anniversary of the first Earth Day. Across the globe, 180 countries and 4,500 organizations put on festivals and activities. As part of Earth Day activities in Taiwan, the EPA, the Ministry of Education, the Council of Agriculture and several public groups organized a program to disseminate \"Plant Trees to Save Water\" environmental education materials. Workshops to train \"seed teachers\" in the dissemination of the materials is also part of the agenda. \n\nThis series of educational materials was developed to promote the concepts of tree planting and environmental beautification. Domestically, these materials are ground-breaking. The education materials themselves support the Ministry of Education most recent nine-year course curriculum. Environmental awareness and education have been combined together. In the future, through seed teachers, this set of materials will be introduced to other teachers. The materials are intended to be part of educational activities. In this way, the seeds of environmental awareness will be planted in all elementary schools throughout Taiwan.\n\nSince 1992, the EPA, MOE, COA and several other agencies have jointly promoted the activity entitled, \"Plant 20 Million Trees to Save Taiwan's Water Resources.\" Every year different major tree related activities are arranged in hopes of arousing greater social support for protection and rebuilding forests.\n\nIn addition, supporting courses where students can observe the growth of plants and trees, the EPA and other agencies have promoted \"Grow up with a tree\" activities. With the assistance of academics, a complete set of tree planting educational materials have been developed. These materials introduce children to and promote protection of forests and trees and concern for the environment. Such teaching materials also help school children get started in tree planting and conservation activities from an early age. \n\nThe Ministry of Education indicated that \"Planting Trees to Save Water Resources\" is one of the most important environmental education activities. Through the continued promotion of this activity, people are awakened to the beauty of Taiwan and the importance of protecting trees, forests, water resources and the wider environment. And, the compilation of educational materials can help further environmental education at the primary level. It can also offer elementary school teachers a reference for teaching environmental issues and awareness.", "content": "In support of the 30th anniversary of Earth Day the EPA, the Ministry of Education and other organizations are promoting a tree planting activity. As part of this effort, elementary school course materials on tree planting have been developed. To assist with the dissemination of these course materials, \"seed teachers\" are being trained in the delivery of the materials.\n\nApril 22 marked the 30th anniversary of the first Earth Day. Across the globe, 180 countries and 4,500 organizations put on festivals and activities. As part of Earth Day activities in Taiwan, the EPA, the Ministry of Education, the Council of Agriculture and several public groups organized a program to disseminate \"Plant Trees to Save Water\" environmental education materials. Workshops to train \"seed teachers\" in the dissemination of the materials is also part of the agenda. \n\nThis series of educational materials was developed to promote the concepts of tree planting and environmental beautification. Domestically, these materials are ground-breaking. The education materials themselves support the Ministry of Education most recent nine-year course curriculum. Environmental awareness and education have been combined together. In the future, through seed teachers, this set of materials will be introduced to other teachers. The materials are intended to be part of educational activities. In this way, the seeds of environmental awareness will be planted in all elementary schools throughout Taiwan.\n\nSince 1992, the EPA, MOE, COA and several other agencies have jointly promoted the activity entitled, \"Plant 20 Million Trees to Save Taiwan's Water Resources.\" Every year different major tree related activities are arranged in hopes of arousing greater social support for protection and rebuilding forests.\n\nIn addition, supporting courses where students can observe the growth of plants and trees, the EPA and other agencies have promoted \"Grow up with a tree\" activities. With the assistance of academics, a complete set of tree planting educational materials have been developed. These materials introduce children to and promote protection of forests and trees and concern for the environment. Such teaching materials also help school children get started in tree planting and conservation activities from an early age. \n\nThe Ministry of Education indicated that \"Planting Trees to Save Water Resources\" is one of the most important environmental education activities. Through the continued promotion of this activity, people are awakened to the beauty of Taiwan and the importance of protecting trees, forests, water resources and the wider environment. And, the compilation of educational materials can help further environmental education at the primary level. It can also offer elementary school teachers a reference for teaching environmental issues and awareness.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "In Support of Earth Day EPA Promotes Tree Planting Activity", "position": "print\/V3\/V3-11" }, { "no": "498", "title": "Quality of Life Ratings for Taipei Kaohsiung Raised", "preview": "In its annual survey of the most livable cities in Asia Asia Week magazine significantly raised the ranking of both Taipei and Kaohsiung. The EPA indicated that due to appropriately targeted environmental improvement programs, the environmental factor of the magazine’s ranking has greatly increased. This development has confirmed the success of Taiwan’s implementation of environmental protection policy.\n\nSince 1996, Asia Week magazine (published by CNN) has been ranking the most livable cities in Asia. In 1996, out of 40 major Asian cities, Taipei was ranked outside of the top ten. In 1997, Taipei moved into tenth position, and one year later, it jumped to fifth place. In the recently published results for 1999, however, Taipei was listed as the second most livable city in Asia. Kaohsiung has also been moving up the list, from fourteenth place in 1998 to eleventh place in 1999.\n\nThe report accompanying the ranking pointed out that the air quality of the greater Taipei region had clearly improved. Several years ago, the deplorable state of traffic conditions in Taiwan’s capital city made mobility into a test of patience. Rat infested heaps of rubbish obstructed sidewalks and air quality seemed to deteriorate daily. Taipei has turned the corner, however. Air quality has clearly improved, sidewalks are clean, and the amount of green space has dramatically increased.\n\nAccording to Asia Week’s report, clean air, a vibrant economy, beautiful scenery, and abundant points of interest are the main criteria for selecting the “most livable cities.” To develop an objective and comprehensive indicator, eight factors were considered and given varying weights. These included economic opportunity (15%), quality of education (15%), environmental quality (15%), health care (15%), communications and transportation (10%), personal safety (10%), affordability of housing (10%), and recreational opportunities (10%).\n\nThe EPA indicated that the environmental quality factor includes the following elements: total suspended particles, concentration of sulfur oxides (SOX), and the ratio of wastewater treatment capacity to population size. The weighting of this factor was set at 15%. Despite the rapid growth of Taiwan’s economy, air quality has been improving year-to-year due to the effective implementation of control measures. Pollutants for which concentration levels have been reduced the most include SOX and particulates. This development contributed greatly to the boosted livability ranking of both Taipei and Kaohsiung. \n\nAccording to EPA monitoring data, concentrations of particulate pollutants in Taipei’s air were already fairly low, and over the past four years, levels have dropped 9% further (from 56 ug\/M3 to 51 ug\/M3). SOX levels have declined 33%, from 9 parts-per-billion (ppb) to 6 ppb. Air quality in Kaohsiung has also been improving. Particulate levels have fallen 16%, from 92 ug\/M3 to 77 ug\/M3, and SOX levels have declined from 20 ppb to 13 ppb, a drop of 35%.\n\nEPA data suggests that the largest sources of particulate pollutants in Taipei include construction activities, road dust, oily smoke from restaurants and motor vehicles. SOX pollution mostly comes from vehicle emissions and industrial activities. Sources of particulate pollutants in Kaohsiung are similar to those in Taipei, although the cement and steel industries also contribute. Sources of SOX pollution in Taiwan’s major southern city include steel manufacturing, power generation, and petroleum refining operations.\n\nIn response to local variations in air pollution type and quantity, the EPA has been implementing improvement policies targeting specific air quality regions. In addition to deepening analysis of local pollution sources, more precisely calibrated control measures have also been undertaken. This approach has clearly resulted in significant achievements. And, as demonstrated by the higher rankings of Taipei and Kaohsiung in Asia Week’s survey, appropriate policies can concurrently enhance both environmental quality and economic development.", "content": "In its annual survey of the most livable cities in Asia Asia Week magazine significantly raised the ranking of both Taipei and Kaohsiung. The EPA indicated that due to appropriately targeted environmental improvement programs, the environmental factor of the magazine’s ranking has greatly increased. This development has confirmed the success of Taiwan’s implementation of environmental protection policy.\n\nSince 1996, Asia Week magazine (published by CNN) has been ranking the most livable cities in Asia. In 1996, out of 40 major Asian cities, Taipei was ranked outside of the top ten. In 1997, Taipei moved into tenth position, and one year later, it jumped to fifth place. In the recently published results for 1999, however, Taipei was listed as the second most livable city in Asia. Kaohsiung has also been moving up the list, from fourteenth place in 1998 to eleventh place in 1999.\n\nThe report accompanying the ranking pointed out that the air quality of the greater Taipei region had clearly improved. Several years ago, the deplorable state of traffic conditions in Taiwan’s capital city made mobility into a test of patience. Rat infested heaps of rubbish obstructed sidewalks and air quality seemed to deteriorate daily. Taipei has turned the corner, however. Air quality has clearly improved, sidewalks are clean, and the amount of green space has dramatically increased.\n\nAccording to Asia Week’s report, clean air, a vibrant economy, beautiful scenery, and abundant points of interest are the main criteria for selecting the “most livable cities.” To develop an objective and comprehensive indicator, eight factors were considered and given varying weights. These included economic opportunity (15%), quality of education (15%), environmental quality (15%), health care (15%), communications and transportation (10%), personal safety (10%), affordability of housing (10%), and recreational opportunities (10%).\n\nThe EPA indicated that the environmental quality factor includes the following elements: total suspended particles, concentration of sulfur oxides (SOX), and the ratio of wastewater treatment capacity to population size. The weighting of this factor was set at 15%. Despite the rapid growth of Taiwan’s economy, air quality has been improving year-to-year due to the effective implementation of control measures. Pollutants for which concentration levels have been reduced the most include SOX and particulates. This development contributed greatly to the boosted livability ranking of both Taipei and Kaohsiung. \n\nAccording to EPA monitoring data, concentrations of particulate pollutants in Taipei’s air were already fairly low, and over the past four years, levels have dropped 9% further (from 56 ug\/M3 to 51 ug\/M3). SOX levels have declined 33%, from 9 parts-per-billion (ppb) to 6 ppb. Air quality in Kaohsiung has also been improving. Particulate levels have fallen 16%, from 92 ug\/M3 to 77 ug\/M3, and SOX levels have declined from 20 ppb to 13 ppb, a drop of 35%.\n\nEPA data suggests that the largest sources of particulate pollutants in Taipei include construction activities, road dust, oily smoke from restaurants and motor vehicles. SOX pollution mostly comes from vehicle emissions and industrial activities. Sources of particulate pollutants in Kaohsiung are similar to those in Taipei, although the cement and steel industries also contribute. Sources of SOX pollution in Taiwan’s major southern city include steel manufacturing, power generation, and petroleum refining operations.\n\nIn response to local variations in air pollution type and quantity, the EPA has been implementing improvement policies targeting specific air quality regions. In addition to deepening analysis of local pollution sources, more precisely calibrated control measures have also been undertaken. This approach has clearly resulted in significant achievements. And, as demonstrated by the higher rankings of Taipei and Kaohsiung in Asia Week’s survey, appropriate policies can concurrently enhance both environmental quality and economic development.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Others", "titlename": "Quality of Life Ratings for Taipei Kaohsiung Raised", "position": "print\/V3\/V3-08" }, { "no": "477", "title": "Organic Tin MTBE and Others to be Listed as Toxic Chemicals", "preview": "The EPA is accelerating the listing of toxic chemical substances. The first two rounds of listing were announced in quick succession while third is awaiting announcement and the fourth round was just recently put forth. This round included listings of chemical substances such as organic forms of tin and MTBE. Once this round has been formally announced, the total number of substances listed as toxic will surpass 250.\n\n \n\nFourth Round Listing of Toxic Chemical Substances (Draft)\n \nChemical Name\n CAS. No.\n Toxicity Classification\n \n4,4'-Bisphenol A\n 80-05-7\n I\n \n1,2-Dichloropropane\n 78-87-5\n I\n \nHexachloroethane\n 67-72-1\n I\n \nHexachloro-1,3-butadiene\n 87-68-3\n I\n \nBeryllium\n 7440-41-7\n II\n \np-Chloro-o-toluidine\n 95-69-2\n II\n \nDimethylcarbamyl chloride\n 79-44-7\n II\n \nStyrene oxide\n 96-09-3\n II\n \n1,2,3-Trichloro-propane\n 96-18-4\n II\n \nFluorine\n 7782-41-4\n III\n \nPhosphine\n 7803-51-2\n III\n \nPhosphorous trichloride\n 7719-12-2\n III\n \nThiosemicarbazide \n 79-19-6\n III\n \n1,1-Dichloroethylene\n 75-35-4\n IV\n \n2,4-Dichlorophenol\n 120-83-2\n IV\n \nDichlorobromo methane\n 75-27-4\n IV\n \nDicyclo-pentadiene\n 77-73-6\n IV\n \nHydrazine\n 302-01-2\n IV\n \nMethyl tert-butyl ether\n 1634-04-4\n IV\n \nOrganic Forms of Tin (specific chemicals currently being identified)\n \n I\n \n\n \n\nTo accelerate the pace of listing toxic chemical substances, on December 24 1999, the EPA announced two rounds of toxics, totaling 64 different kinds of toxic chemical substances. A third round is going through announcement procedures, and the EPA further proposed a fourth new round at the end of the December. The fourth round includes 20 categories and more than 75 different kinds of chemical substances, such as organic forms of tin and MTBE (see accompanying table).\n\nOfficials in the EPA’s Bureau of Environmental Sanitation and Toxic Chemicals Control have indicated that of these substances, MTBE (Methyl tert-butyl ether), most commonly used as a gasoline additive, is a suspected carcinogen, and several countries are currently looking into finding substitutes. On April first of 1999, the governor of the U.S. state of California, for example, has ordered that it be phased out by December 31, 2002. To this effect, California has initiated a large scale campaign that would completely remove MTBE from gasoline sold in that state.\n\nBecause MTBE has not yet been proven to be a carcinogen, however, the EPA has only classified it as a Class IV chemical substance, but has not placed any controls on its usage. Officials have stated that if the toxicity of MTBE is confirmed, the EPA will then consider reclassifying it as a Class II chemical substance.\n\nOther notable chemical substances to be listed in this round are organic forms of tin. Research coming out of Germany and other countries suggests that not only are organic forms of tin endocrine disrupters in the human body, they also have serious adverse impacts on marine ecosystems. As a result, in November of 1999 the International Marine Organization (IMO) announced that beginning in 2003, organic forms of tin will be prohibited from use as additives in ship hull paint. Moreover, by 2008 ships will be required to remove all paint containing organic forms of tin.\n\nIn response to these international moves, the EPA has decided to list organic forms of tin as toxic chemical substances. Because these substances accumulate in biological organisms, they have been listed as Class I chemical substances. Although organic tin is the blanket term commonly used, initial estimates indicate that there are more than 55 different kinds of organic tin.\n\nOther chemicals targeted in this round include hydrazine, a suspected toxic used in the dyestuffs industry, and fluorine, commonly used as a tooth decay preventative. The former substance will given a Class IV status, and the latter will be listed as Class III due to its acute toxicity.\n\nAfter initial selection of the substances for listing, the EPA convened a public hearing on January 4. In the past, the EPA has listed toxic chemicals using their scientific names but has had difficulty identifying the commonly used names of many chemicals. To enhance the clarity of listings, the EPA hopes that during the public hearing, firms that use listed chemicals can provide the common Chinese names of such chemicals. These will then be used as the basis for their listing. \n\nToxics Bureau officials have further noted that once the fourth round of listings has been announced, the total number of control substances in Taiwan will exceed 250. At this speed of listing, the EPA has already fulfilled the commitment it made to the Legislative Yuan to accelerate the rate at which toxic chemicals are brought under control. The next phase of EPA plans will be to step-up enforcement of regulations for listed toxic chemicals, so it is unlikely that there will be another large scale listing of new chemicals in the near future.", "content": "The EPA is accelerating the listing of toxic chemical substances. The first two rounds of listing were announced in quick succession while third is awaiting announcement and the fourth round was just recently put forth. This round included listings of chemical substances such as organic forms of tin and MTBE. Once this round has been formally announced, the total number of substances listed as toxic will surpass 250.\n\n \n\nFourth Round Listing of Toxic Chemical Substances (Draft)\n \nChemical Name\n CAS. No.\n Toxicity Classification\n \n4,4'-Bisphenol A\n 80-05-7\n I\n \n1,2-Dichloropropane\n 78-87-5\n I\n \nHexachloroethane\n 67-72-1\n I\n \nHexachloro-1,3-butadiene\n 87-68-3\n I\n \nBeryllium\n 7440-41-7\n II\n \np-Chloro-o-toluidine\n 95-69-2\n II\n \nDimethylcarbamyl chloride\n 79-44-7\n II\n \nStyrene oxide\n 96-09-3\n II\n \n1,2,3-Trichloro-propane\n 96-18-4\n II\n \nFluorine\n 7782-41-4\n III\n \nPhosphine\n 7803-51-2\n III\n \nPhosphorous trichloride\n 7719-12-2\n III\n \nThiosemicarbazide \n 79-19-6\n III\n \n1,1-Dichloroethylene\n 75-35-4\n IV\n \n2,4-Dichlorophenol\n 120-83-2\n IV\n \nDichlorobromo methane\n 75-27-4\n IV\n \nDicyclo-pentadiene\n 77-73-6\n IV\n \nHydrazine\n 302-01-2\n IV\n \nMethyl tert-butyl ether\n 1634-04-4\n IV\n \nOrganic Forms of Tin (specific chemicals currently being identified)\n \n I\n \n\n \n\nTo accelerate the pace of listing toxic chemical substances, on December 24 1999, the EPA announced two rounds of toxics, totaling 64 different kinds of toxic chemical substances. A third round is going through announcement procedures, and the EPA further proposed a fourth new round at the end of the December. The fourth round includes 20 categories and more than 75 different kinds of chemical substances, such as organic forms of tin and MTBE (see accompanying table).\n\nOfficials in the EPA’s Bureau of Environmental Sanitation and Toxic Chemicals Control have indicated that of these substances, MTBE (Methyl tert-butyl ether), most commonly used as a gasoline additive, is a suspected carcinogen, and several countries are currently looking into finding substitutes. On April first of 1999, the governor of the U.S. state of California, for example, has ordered that it be phased out by December 31, 2002. To this effect, California has initiated a large scale campaign that would completely remove MTBE from gasoline sold in that state.\n\nBecause MTBE has not yet been proven to be a carcinogen, however, the EPA has only classified it as a Class IV chemical substance, but has not placed any controls on its usage. Officials have stated that if the toxicity of MTBE is confirmed, the EPA will then consider reclassifying it as a Class II chemical substance.\n\nOther notable chemical substances to be listed in this round are organic forms of tin. Research coming out of Germany and other countries suggests that not only are organic forms of tin endocrine disrupters in the human body, they also have serious adverse impacts on marine ecosystems. As a result, in November of 1999 the International Marine Organization (IMO) announced that beginning in 2003, organic forms of tin will be prohibited from use as additives in ship hull paint. Moreover, by 2008 ships will be required to remove all paint containing organic forms of tin.\n\nIn response to these international moves, the EPA has decided to list organic forms of tin as toxic chemical substances. Because these substances accumulate in biological organisms, they have been listed as Class I chemical substances. Although organic tin is the blanket term commonly used, initial estimates indicate that there are more than 55 different kinds of organic tin.\n\nOther chemicals targeted in this round include hydrazine, a suspected toxic used in the dyestuffs industry, and fluorine, commonly used as a tooth decay preventative. The former substance will given a Class IV status, and the latter will be listed as Class III due to its acute toxicity.\n\nAfter initial selection of the substances for listing, the EPA convened a public hearing on January 4. In the past, the EPA has listed toxic chemicals using their scientific names but has had difficulty identifying the commonly used names of many chemicals. To enhance the clarity of listings, the EPA hopes that during the public hearing, firms that use listed chemicals can provide the common Chinese names of such chemicals. These will then be used as the basis for their listing. \n\nToxics Bureau officials have further noted that once the fourth round of listings has been announced, the total number of control substances in Taiwan will exceed 250. At this speed of listing, the EPA has already fulfilled the commitment it made to the Legislative Yuan to accelerate the rate at which toxic chemicals are brought under control. The next phase of EPA plans will be to step-up enforcement of regulations for listed toxic chemicals, so it is unlikely that there will be another large scale listing of new chemicals in the near future.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance Management", "titlename": "Organic Tin MTBE and Others to be Listed as Toxic Chemicals", "position": "print\/V3\/V3-07" }, { "no": "468", "title": "Reporting of Shipping Manifest Mandated for Land Ocean and Air Transport of Toxic Chemicals", "preview": "After revision of the Regulations Governing Transportation of Toxic Chemical Substances the EPA recently announced revisions to the format the shipping manifest for toxic chemical substances. The EPA pointed out that in the past report of the shipping manifest was only required for rail or road transport. In the future the expanded reporting scope will include air, ocean and pipeline transport. In addition, to support tracking controls for toxic chemicals, on the new shipping manifest the shipper will be required to fill in detail the origination and destination of the shipment.", "content": "After revision of the Regulations Governing Transportation of Toxic Chemical Substances the EPA recently announced revisions to the format the shipping manifest for toxic chemical substances. The EPA pointed out that in the past report of the shipping manifest was only required for rail or road transport. In the future the expanded reporting scope will include air, ocean and pipeline transport. In addition, to support tracking controls for toxic chemicals, on the new shipping manifest the shipper will be required to fill in detail the origination and destination of the shipment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance Management", "titlename": "Reporting of Shipping Manifest Mandated for Land Ocean and Air Transport of Toxic Chemicals", "position": "print\/V3\/V3-06" }, { "no": "463", "title": "Halon Fire Extinguishers Banned for Import Beginning January 1 2000", "preview": "To support international efforts to protect the ozone layer the EPA recently announced a new regulation which will ban the import of chemical fire extinguishers using Halon 1301, 1211 and 2402, beginning January 1, 2000.", "content": "To support international efforts to protect the ozone layer the EPA recently announced a new regulation which will ban the import of chemical fire extinguishers using Halon 1301, 1211 and 2402, beginning January 1, 2000.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Halon Fire Extinguishers Banned for Import Beginning January 1 2000", "position": "print\/V3\/V3-06" }, { "no": "460", "title": "EPA to Install High Speed Electric Charging Stations In Taipei Hsinchu, and Kaohsiung", "preview": "This year the EPA has made extensive efforts to promote the use of electric motorcycles. Statistics show that as of September total sales of electric motorcycles exceeded 6000. Of these 4,964 were awarded subsidies after an initial investigation. The EPA has already commissioned the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) to carry out an initial assessment of high speed recharge technology and a demonstration project. It is estimated that before March 2000 Taipei, Hsinchu and Kaohsiung will all have installed high speed recharge stations.", "content": "This year the EPA has made extensive efforts to promote the use of electric motorcycles. Statistics show that as of September total sales of electric motorcycles exceeded 6000. Of these 4,964 were awarded subsidies after an initial investigation. The EPA has already commissioned the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) to carry out an initial assessment of high speed recharge technology and a demonstration project. It is estimated that before March 2000 Taipei, Hsinchu and Kaohsiung will all have installed high speed recharge stations.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "EPA to Install High Speed Electric Charging Stations In Taipei Hsinchu and Kaohsiung", "position": "print\/V3\/V3-06" }, { "no": "191", "title": "EPA Conducts Over 3000 Air Pollution Technical Assistance Cases", "preview": "The EPA has continued to assist firms with air pollution source improvements. Over the past two years more than 3,000 technical assistance cases were conducted. A large proportion of them were in control equipment construction and repair, and control equipment operation and maintenance. Firms carrying out improvements or those that have not submitted an improvement plan will be listed for future control and auditing.\nTo help firms improve their pollution emissions and to change the perception that environmental authorities perform only a disciplinary role, the EPA has assisted firms with carrying out pollution improvements since EPA Administrator Tsai Hsung-Hsiung took office. In terms of air pollution control, the EPAs Air Quality Protection and Noise Control Bureau has promoted the Stationary Pollution Source Improvement Assistance and Control Plan since July, 1997.", "content": "The EPA has continued to assist firms with air pollution source improvements. Over the past two years more than 3,000 technical assistance cases were conducted. A large proportion of them were in control equipment construction and repair, and control equipment operation and maintenance. Firms carrying out improvements or those that have not submitted an improvement plan will be listed for future control and auditing.\nTo help firms improve their pollution emissions and to change the perception that environmental authorities perform only a disciplinary role, the EPA has assisted firms with carrying out pollution improvements since EPA Administrator Tsai Hsung-Hsiung took office. In terms of air pollution control, the EPAs Air Quality Protection and Noise Control Bureau has promoted the Stationary Pollution Source Improvement Assistance and Control Plan since July, 1997.\nOf 3,002 cases of technical assistance conducted over two years ending in June, 1998, 2,422 required performance of improvement measures. Among them, 571 had submitted and initiated a pollution improvement plan, 395 had completed but not submitted a plan and 1,493 had not completed a plan. Municipal\/county environmental authorities have urged the latter group to complete and submit their improvement plans. The required improvement measures fall into the following categories:\n\n1.Control equipment operation and maintenance\n2.Control equipment construction and repair.\n3.On-site environmental management improvement.\n4.Manufacturing process equipment operation and maintenance.\n5.Manufacturing process improvement assistance.\n6.Manufacturing process equipment construction and repair.\n7.Other technical or assistance services.\n\nThe combined area control equipment construction and repair and on-site environmental management improvement accounted for a large proportion of the improvement plans (see table).\nCommon problems were identified over the course of conducting the cases and in 1997, the EPA began to address them by engaging in pollution control technology research and development (R&D) work. To help firms solve pollution emission problems the EPA has already held 40 meetings that explain pollution technology and demonstrate pollution control equipment. By 1998, the following pollution control technologies had been developed:\n\n1.Economical organic waste absorption and emission system technology.\n2.Dye and ceramic manufacturing industry air pollution optimum volume reduction technology.\n3.Development odor and organic gas processing technology.\n4.Cement industry nitrogen oxide (NOx) control technology estimate integration.\n5.Small- and medium-scale incinerator microscopic toxics control technology.\n6.Industrial NOx reduction filter technology.\n7.Synthetic leather PU dimethylformamide (DMF) recycling technology.\n\nThe EPA will keep tracking the 1,493 companies that have not completed or are carrying out a pollution improvement plan and municipal\/county environmental authorities will continue pressing them to complete their improvement work.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "EPA Conducts Over 3000 Air Pollution Technical Assistance Cases", "position": "print\/V2\/V2-02" }, { "no": "134", "title": "OECD EU States Prohibited from Shipping Hazardous Waste to Other States", "preview": "Waste Management　　The Basel Convention on the Control of Tranboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal was adopted in 1989 and entered into force on 5 May 1992. This global environmental treaty strictly regulates the transboundary movements", "content": "Waste Management　　The Basel Convention on the Control of Tranboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal was adopted in 1989 and entered into force on 5 May 1992. This global environmental treaty strictly regulates the transboundary movements of hazardous wastes. On February 23 to 27 1998, the Fourth Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Basel Convention (hereinafter referred to as the “Convention”) was held in Kuching, Malaysia.Attendees from Taiwan included representatives from the Industrial Development Bureau and Board of Foreign Trade (both under the auspices of the Ministry of Economic Affairs), as well as the EPA. After 5 days of discussion among representatives from parties to the convention, several important decisions were made. The following is an overview:I) Waste Item Lists A and B, developed by a Technical Working Group, were approved and formally established as Annexes to the Convention. Their content includes the following:1.List A: Established as Annex VIII to the Convention. Any waste material included on List A will be considered hazardous waste and controlled by the Convention. This list includes 59 items.2.List B: Established as Annex IX to the Convention. Any waste material included on List B will not be controlled by the Convention. This list includes 53 items.This series of decisions forms the basis for executing decision III\/1 (made during the Third Meeting of the Conference of the Parties in 1995). From December 31, 1997, the transboundary movement of any List A waste material from countries listed in Annex VII of the Convention to countries not listed in Annex VII is prohibited. Annex VII countries include OECD and European Committee member states and Liechtenstein.II) Parties to the Convention are strongly urged to execute decision III\/1 as soon as possible. The resolution stipulates that OECD and EU member states and Liechtenstein can no longer move hazardous waste included on List A to countries outside of these regions.III) The contents of Annex VII may not be amended prior to the execution of decision III\/1 by parties to the Convention. Dissenting nations, including Israel, Monaco, and Slovenia, requested that they be added to the list of countries in Annex VII.IV) Nuclear waste material shall continue to be regulated according to International Atomic Energy Association (IAEA) management guidelines, and will not conflict with the contents of the Convention.According to EPA Bureau of Solid Waste Control officials, the resolution means that all hazardous waste materials included in List A that are generated by OECD and EU member states and Liechtenstein cannot be shipped to Taiwan. Whereas the resolution is beneficial to the protection of Taiwan’s environment, it will negatively affect companies that import hazardous waste for use as secondary raw material.In response to the convention, officials indicated that over the short-term, the MOEA should strengthen guidance to industries related to hazardous waste import in order to soften the potential economic impact. In support of the resolution, the list of hazardous items under local import controls and related regulatory controls should be amended. Over the long-term, the MOEA should strengthen assistance to local industries so that they eliminate reliance on foreign waste material for use as raw materials. The resulting greater reliance on locally produced waste material should benefit local resource waste recycling activities.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "OECD EU States Prohibited from Shipping Hazardous Waste to Other States", "position": "print\/V1\/V1-10" }, { "no": "34", "title": "Hazardous Waste Import Export, and Transshipment Regulations Promulgated", "preview": "Toxic Substance 　The cross-border transfer of hazardous waste is gradually receiving more attention these days. So that Taiwan's regulations governing the import and export of hazardous waste adhere more closely to the spirit of the Basel Convention the", "content": "Toxic Substance Management　　The cross-border transfer of hazardous waste is gradually receiving more attention these days. So that Taiwan's regulations governing the import and export of hazardous waste adhere more closely to the spirit of the Basel Convention the EPA promulgated the Hazardous Industrial Waste Import, Export, and Transshipment Management Regulations on August 13. These new regulations have replaced the Hazardous Industrial Waste Import-Export Permit Regulations.A Bureau of Solid Waste Control official stated that Taiwan already has had regulations in place restricting the import and export of hazardous industrial waste, but none governing the transshipment of hazardous wastes by other countries through Taiwan's ports. Additional stipulations have therefore been added in order to protect Taiwan's environment.The newly promulgated regulations stipulate that anything declared by the EPA to be a hazardous industrial waste can be imported, exported, transshipped, or passed through customs only with proper authorization. To clarify the scope of the restrictions, the EPA has divided the substances declared to be hazardous industrial waste into two categories. Those listed as Type 1 may not be imported into Taiwan.As for Type 2 hazardous industrial wastes, importers must possess a Class A Waste Disposal Permit or have a factory certified for recycling and reuse capability. Certification of recycling and reuse capability will be determined by the EPA in consultation with the authorities governing the main targeted industries.The new regulations generally continue using the import\/export application procedures stipulated in the old regulations. The new regulations, however, require that companies applying to export Type 1 hazardous industrial waste must present additional documents not included in the old regulations: the contract between the exporter and an importer in the accepting country, and documents from the government of the accepting country granting permission. The requirements for applicants to export Class 2 hazardous industrial waste are not as stringent.The new controls over transshipment and customs passage stipulate which documents are required for application. Transshipment is limited to vessel-to-vessel transfer that does not involve ground transport to another harbor. The new regulations apply to the import, export, and transshipment of hazardous industrial wastes between Taiwan and Mainland China, as well as to wastes transported by air.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Hazardous Waste Import Export and Transshipment Regulations Promulgated", "position": "print\/V1\/V1-03" }, { "no": "26", "title": "As New Premier Takes Office EPA Specifies Four Key Activities", "preview": "General Policy　　During his fist day in office September 1st, the new Premier set out the guiding principles of his administration. To members of the Cabinet, Premier Siew emphasized the importance of an active government that strives to enhance public", "content": "General Policy　　During his fist day in office September 1st, the new Premier set out the guiding principles of his administration. To members of the Cabinet, Premier Siew emphasized the importance of an active government that strives to enhance public peace of mind and boldly faces new challenges. He further highlighted his administration's commitment to instituting business-style management, engendering esprit de corps, and boosting public morality. With his principles defined, Premier Siew then asked all bureaus and agencies in the Cabinet to report on key activities to be implemented by year's end.In line with the new Premier's policies, EPA Administrator, Hsung-Hsiung Tsai stated on September 2nd that, in addition to the work already being undertaken by the EPA, the following activities will be given greater emphasis:1. removal of waste automobiles within 48 hours2. implementation of the \"Four-in-One\" recycling plan3. promotion of large-scale incinerator construction and privatization4. improvement of emissions from diesel \"inkfish,\" i.e. vehicles that belch thick diesel exhaust (this item includes fuel quality control activities)Administrator Tsai further indicated that to realize Premier Siew's concept of business-style management, each key activity will be assigned to an appointed project manager. These managers will be responsible for overall planning and promotion of each of the activities. They will also be required to demonstrate concrete achievements within six months.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "As New Premier Takes Office EPA Specifies Four Key Activities", "position": "print\/V1\/V1-03" }, { "no": "17", "title": "Four Appliances One Computer Recycling Program Publicly Announced", "preview": "Recycling　　New recycling regulations currently under development will require manufacturers of computers televisions, refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners to pay into a resource recycling, collecting, and processing fund. The required amount will be proportional to total product sales. More details will be announced in subsequent notifications.", "content": "Recycling　　New recycling regulations currently under development will require manufacturers of computers televisions, refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners to pay into a resource recycling, collecting, and processing fund. The required amount will be proportional to total product sales. More details will be announced in subsequent notifications.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Four Appliances One Computer Recycling Program Publicly Announced", "position": "print\/V1\/V1-02" }, { "no": "11", "title": "A Word from Gwo-Dong Roam Director General of the Bureau of Water Quality Protection", "preview": "Water Quality　　In-line with the \"polluter pays\" principle the EPA plans to use economic incentives for both firms and households to reduce the amount of wastewater pollutants discharged. The EPA has recently", "content": "Water Quality　　In-line with the \"polluter pays\" principle the EPA plans to use economic incentives for both firms and households to reduce the amount of wastewater pollutants discharged. The EPA has recently established regulations concerning water pollution control fees and will submit them to the Executive Yuan for approval by the end of August. If approval is granted, local authorities will begin collecting water pollution control fees beginning July 1, 1998.The water pollution control fee will be charged to households according to the amount of tap water used. For every cubic meter of water, each household will be charged NT$2.2. Business enterprises (including both industry and livestock farmers) and public sewage treatment facilities will be charged according to the concentration of wastewater pollutants. .Environmental authorities will base discharge fees on one of the following indicators: chemical oxygen demand (COD), suspended solids (SS), or heavy metal content. Businesses will have to pay NT$790 for every 50kg of COD, or for every 1000kg of SS, or for every unit of heavy metal (depending on the characteristics of the heavy metal in question).For example, if a factory produces 50 tons of wastewater per day and the discharged pollution is 200mg\/l COD, then the factory will be required to pay a fee of NT$60,000 per year. The EPA expects that the total amount collected through the discharge fees will be between NT$5 to 11 billion per year (NT$ 1.2 to 4.2 billion from industry, NT$440 million to 2.1 billion from livestock farms, and NT$3.5 to 4.7 billion from households). It needs to be emphasized that this money will be used exclusively for water pollution control and water quality improvement activities.We have identified the following two programs as the most effective ways to use the collected funds:1. Improve drinking water quality through better management of drinking water sources such as upstream rivers and reservoirs. Activities would include restricting the usage area surrounding water sources and controlling the amount of pollution entering such sources. These activities are necessary to safeguard the quality of drinking water for 14 million people.2. Increase the sewage treatment rate through constructing public sewers and building wastewater treatment plants and interceptor facilities. We intend to increase the sewer hook-up rate to 40% of the population and, as a result, achieve a 25% reduction in the amount of river pollution by the year 2009.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "A Word from Gwo-Dong Roam Director General of the Bureau of Water Quality Protection", "position": "print\/V1\/V1-02" }, { "no": "2", "title": "Eco-label to Be Privatized Internationalized", "preview": "Eco-labeling　　Since the inception of the Green Mark in 1992 criteria for 41 product categories have been set, and 431 products have been approved to display the Green Mark emblem. The Green Mark eco-label", "content": "Eco-labelingSince the inception of the Green Mark in 1992 criteria for 41 product categories have been set, and 431 products have been approved to display the Green Mark emblem. The Green Mark eco-label system has until now been under the direction of the Green Mark Review Committee with members appointed by the Administrator of the EPA. The committee was in charge of setting the criteria by which a product would qualify for the Green Mark label, and of conferring and revoking it. The Industrial Technology Research Institute's (ITRI) Center for Pollution Control Technology was commissioned to carry out administration and other details of implementation.The steady rise in popularity of \"green consumerism\" is giving companies an increasingly strong motive to pursue eco-labels. To meet this demand at a time when administrative units are facing a personnel crunch, the EPA plans to accelerate the privatization of Green Mark review. This policy was ratified by the Executive Yuan at the end of 1996.EPA officials have indicated that after privatization, the original eco-label framework will continue for a brief time. However, the private organization that is commissioned will eventually set up its own review committee to handle Green Mark review activities. Once the new committee has stabilized, the EPA will consider privatizing all review and citation responsibilities.In order to cooperate with the EPA's privatization policy, ITRI has donated funds to establish the Environment and Development Foundation. In hopes that it may build on its resources and experience in promoting the Green Mark, ITRI will also make a bid to continue as the Green Mark implementation body under the new plan. Ning Yu, Director of ITRI’s Center for Pollution Control Technology, predicts that by handing over Green Mark review to a private organization, Green Mark application time can be cut to one to two months from the current three to four months.Many countries are actively participating in the development and promotion of the IS014000 series of environmental management system standards. Coupled with the trend toward international free trade, this means that if Taiwan's Green Mark is to be incorporated into ISO 14000, international cooperation is an inescapable policy direction. The EPA has therefore worked through ITRI to aggressively push for international multilateral recognition of the Green Mark. These efforts will reduce the possibility of trade disputes arising over internationally incompatible eco-labeling systems.According to the EPA, Taiwan and Canada have already come to an understanding on the documentation and processes for reciprocal recognition. Once privatization of Taiwan's scheme is complete, the two countries can initiate formal mutual recognition of eco-labeled products on a trial basis. The most likely products will be recycled office automation paper, recycled stationery, mercury-free batteries, and water-soluble paint. Taiwan and Canada have remarkably similar criteria for each of these product categories.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Eco-labeling", "titlename": "Eco-label to Be Privatized Internationalized", "position": "print\/V1\/V1-01" }, { "no": "3357", "title": "EIA Requirement Considered for Carbon Capture and Storage Projects", "preview": "EIA EIA Requirement Considered for Carbon Capture and Storage Projects \nEIA EIA Requirement Considered for Carbon Capture and Storage Projects", "content": "EIA Requirement Considered for Carbon Capture and Storage Projects \nOn 21 January 2010 the EPA announced that carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology is one of the international options for carbon reduction. Considering that CCS might produce environmental impacts, such as leakage, geological safety, groundwater pollution, etc., there should be appropriate measures to prevent or reduce the environmental impacts caused by CCS projects. On 17 September 2015, the EPA preannounced that an environmental impact assessment has to be done for any CCS projects in accordance to Article 5 Paragraph 1 Item 11 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act. Related information and details can be accessed on the EPA’s website http:\/\/ivy5.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "EIA", "titlename": "EIA Requirement Considered for Carbon Capture and Storage Projects", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-10" }, { "no": "3356", "title": "Green Lifestyle Handbook Published", "preview": "ecolabeling Green Lifestyle Handbook Published", "content": "Green Lifestyle Handbook Published \nIn response to the theme of 2015 World Environment Day “Seven Billion Dreams One Planet, Consume with Care,” the EPA collaborated with the Consumer Protection Committee to publish the Green Lifestyle Handbook. The handbook provides a variety of tips and suggestions for being environmentally friendly in all six domains of everyday life: food, clothing, accommodation, transport, education and entertainment. For example, the handbook gives guidance on reducing the use of single-use products, practicing energy saving, wise consumption, etc. The EPA hopes that the general public can read and carry out the suggestions in the handbook, so that they can protect their own consumer rights while being environmentally friendly at the same time. The handbook is on the website for download (http:\/\/www.epa.gov.tw\/lp.asp?ctNode=31646&CtUnit=1436&BaseDSD=7&mp=epa).", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "ecolabeling", "titlename": "Green Lifestyle Handbook Published", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-10" }, { "no": "3355", "title": "EIA Requirement Considered for Carbon Capture and Storage Projects", "preview": "EIA EIA Requirement Considered for Carbon Capture and Storage Projects", "content": "EIA Requirement Considered for Carbon Capture and Storage Projects \nOn 21 January 2010 the EPA announced that carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology is one of the international options for carbon reduction. Considering that CCS might produce environmental impacts, such as leakage, geological safety, groundwater pollution, etc., there should be appropriate measures to prevent or reduce the environmental impacts caused by CCS projects. On 17 September 2015, the EPA preannounced that an environmental impact assessment has to be done for any CCS projects in accordance to Article 5 Paragraph 1 Item 11 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act. Related information and details can be accessed on the EPA’s website http:\/\/ivy5.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "EIA", "titlename": "EIA Requirement Considered for Carbon Capture and Storage Projects", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-10" }, { "no": "3354", "title": "EPA Assists Local Governments in Incinerating Crops from Polluted Land and Compensating Farmers’ Losses", "preview": "Soil and Groundwater EPA Assists Local Governments in Incinerating Crops from Polluted Land and Compensating Farmers’ Losses", "content": "EPA Assists Local Governments in Incinerating Crops from Polluted Land and Compensating Farmers’ Losses", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil and Groundwater", "titlename": "EPA Assists Local Governments in Incinerating Crops from Polluted Land and Compensating Farmer Losses", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-10" }, { "no": "3353", "title": "Minister Wei Visits Dengue Fever Epidemic Areas", "preview": "Environmental Sanitation Minister Wei Visits Dengue Fever Epidemic Areas", "content": "Minister Wei Visits Dengue Fever Epidemic Areas \nIn September EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei visited the areas in Tainan City most affected by dengue fever. The visit aimed to assist the Tainan City Government in preventing the disease from spreading and to gain a better understanding of the control measures environmental personnel are implementing. Minister Wei also took the time to give words of encouragement to environmental personnel and personally supervised the elimination of mosquito breeding grounds. \nOn 13 September, a concerned Minister Wei met with the head of Tainan City Environmental Protection Bureau in Tainan City to discuss the area’s dengue fever control measures and current difficulties. The first stop of the minister’s visit was the hard-hit Central West District (1,058 cases) where he oversaw insecticides being sprayed and thanked first-line epidemic control personnel for their hard work. Minister Wei pointed out that although the emergency spraying of insecticides is useful, the best method of disease control is for local residents to actively maintain good sanitation around their homes and neighborhoods. The residents need to make totally sure that they remove all breeding grounds for mosquitoes, paying particular attention to places where water might accumulate. \nPotential breeding grounds are everywhere, since dengue fever vector mosquitoes can lay their eggs in any stagnant water. The female mosquitoes often lay their eggs in batches and the larvae can grow into mature mosquitoes in about one week. Moreover, unhatched eggs can remain dormant for up to one year. Thus it is imperative for residents in affected areas to look for any accumulated water in empty containers around their homes at least once a week, and to follow the EPA’s call to “Patrol, empty, cleanup, scrub”.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Sanitation", "titlename": "Minister Wei Visits Dengue Fever Epidemic Areas", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-10" }, { "no": "3352", "title": "Taiwan, US and Colombia Jointly Hold E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference", "preview": "Recycling Taiwan, US and Colombia Jointly Hold E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference", "content": "Taiwan, US and Colombia Jointly Hold E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference\nOn 24 September 2015, the 5th International E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference was jointly held by the governmental environment agencies of Taiwan, the USA, and Colombia. Forty-four delegates – from governments and non-profit organizations from 17 nations in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Oceania – met in Colombia’s capital Bogota to share their experiences of electronic waste management. \nTsu-Shou Cheng, Deputy Executive Secretary of the EPA's Recycling Fund Management Board, led Taiwan’s team of government personnel, academics, and experts. During his speech given at the opening ceremony on 21 September, Mr. Cheng pointed out that since 2011 the Taiwan EPA has been holding the International E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference and associated research activities as a part of the Taiwan-US environmental protection cooperation agreement. The conference brings together regional partners to discuss e-waste recycling management experiences and strategies. The workshops also serve as an international platform for Taiwan’s expertise and efficiency in recycling to be shared with other nations.\nThe conference followed the same basic format as previous ones, with the first day for reports from delegates on the development and current situation in e-waste management in their respective nations. The following three days were a continuation of the main topics from last year: Building and implementing the environmentally sound management (ESM) framework and exploring the best available technology for treating cathode ray tubes from waste television sets. \nIn April 2014, the EPA launched the International Environmental Partnership (IEP). As a part of this new plan, Taiwan will be sharing its knowledge and experience in environmental protection and the establishment of an effective resource recycling system with its partners. Taiwan will also be actively seeking to expand membership of the partnership so that member nations can work together in protecting the global environment. The conference in Colombia was partly a means to this end, and the four days of presentations and fruitful discussions hopefully would leave participants with greater capabilities to build effective e-waste treatment and recycling management regulatory systems when they return to their homelands.\nTaiwan, US and Colombia Jointly Hold E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference\nOn 24 September 2015, the 5th International E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference was jointly held by the governmental environment agencies of Taiwan, the USA, and Colombia. Forty-four delegates – from governments and non-profit organizations from 17 nations in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Oceania – met in Colombia’s capital Bogota to share their experiences of electronic waste management. \nTsu-Shou Cheng, Deputy Executive Secretary of the EPA's Recycling Fund Management Board, led Taiwan’s team of government personnel, academics, and experts. During his speech given at the opening ceremony on 21 September, Mr. Cheng pointed out that since 2011 the Taiwan EPA has been holding the International E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference and associated research activities as a part of the Taiwan-US environmental protection cooperation agreement. The conference brings together regional partners to discuss e-waste recycling management experiences and strategies. The workshops also serve as an international platform for Taiwan’s expertise and efficiency in recycling to be shared with other nations.\nThe conference followed the same basic format as previous ones, with the first day for reports from delegates on the development and current situation in e-waste management in their respective nations. The following three days were a continuation of the main topics from last year: Building and implementing the environmentally sound management", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Taiwan US and Colombia Jointly Hold E-waste Recycling Management Partnership Conference", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-10" }, { "no": "3351", "title": "The EPAs Response to the Volkswagen Scandal", "preview": "Air The EPA's Response to the Volkswagen Scandal", "content": "The EPA's Response to the Volkswagen Scandal\nIn the wake of the Volkswagen emissions duping scandal in the United States on 2 October 2015 Audi Volkswagen Taiwan Co. Ltd. issued a statement detailing the types and quantities of vehicles affected in Taiwan. Preliminary estimates put the figure at 17,744 vehicles, including those made by Audi, Volkswagen, and Skoda. \nThe EPA will take the following actions in response to the case: \n1. Providing the number of affected vehicles and the matters of concern to the vehicle owners:\na) Asking Volkswagen for a list of all affected vehicles and the names of the owners\nb) Requesting Volkswagen to recall all affected vehicles and make the necessary corrections \nc) Requesting Volkswagen to compensate affected Taiwan owners with the same package offered to owners in other nations \nd) Establishing a dedicated webpage – https:\/\/mobile.epa.gov.tw\/ – to collect information related to the case and suggestions from owners\n2. Gaining a clear picture of actual emission coefficients: \nThe EPA has adopted the US approach of conducting unannounced laboratory testing of samples from randomly-selected vehicles as required by law. The EPA is also employing its portable emission measurement system to measure emissions from vehicles on the road. The on-road measurement is expected to be completed by mid-October 2015. \n3. Penalties to be imposed upon Audi Volkswagen Taiwan: \na) As required by law the engine emissions certification for all of the affected vehicle types will be withdrawn and emissions testing for new vehicles of the same type (including those already in use) will be conducted. The allegations of fraud brought against Volkswagen will be referred to the Prosecutors Office for further investigation.\nb) Suitable penalties that accord with the Administrative Procedure Act and the Administrative Penalty Act are currently being discussed since Volkswagen Taiwan is suspected of fraud in the manner that it obtained emissions certification for vehicles imported and sold in Taiwan. The government is currently drawing up estimates of penalties based on the number of affected vehicles sold. \nc) Certification review for all Volkswagen vehicles involved in this fraud case is suspended and reviews for other Volkswagen vehicle models will be strengthened. \nVolkswagen vehicle owners can go to the EPA dedicated webpage, https:\/\/mobile.epa.gov.tw\/, to check whether or not their vehicle is affected. They can also check through the Audi Volkswagen Taiwan website, http:\/\/www.volkswagentaiwan.com.tw\/check\/, by entering the vehicle identification number found on their vehicle license. \nThe EPA is keen to point out that the affected vehicles can still be legally driven on all of Taiwan’s roads. The EPA will ask Audi Volkswagen Taiwan to submit a vehicle recall and improvement plan. Once the plan’s effectiveness, processes and timetable are approved by the EPA, the affected vehicles will be recalled for improvement and the vehicle owners will not have to bear any of the related costs.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "The EPA s Response to the Volkswagen Scandal", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-10" }, { "no": "3350", "title": "Water Pollution Control Permit Application Fee Standards Amended", "preview": "Water Water Pollution Control Permit Application Fee Standards Amended", "content": "Water Pollution Control Permit Application Fee Standards Amended \nOn 30 September 2015 the EPA amended and promulgated the Water Pollution Control Permit Application Fee Standards in response to the latest amendments to the Water Pollution Control Act. The Standards contain eight articles, and the amendments aim to make permit application review more practical, to streamline procedures and to enhance related management through amendments to the permit application review items and fee scales. \nThe Standards were first announced in 1994, in accordance with Article 67 Paragraph 2 of the Water Pollution Control Act. They were then revised three times, and the last amendments were made 11 years ago. The latest amendments are in response to the amendments to the Water Pollution Control Act and the newly-added regulations regarding permits and water control measures. The amendments make changes to items such as automated monitoring of water quality and quantity; permits for trial runs and functionality testing; expert reviews; online applications; risk assessment and management reports; and fee scales. \nIn addition to the existing provisions by which fees are set based on the class of dedicated sewage personnel required by the law, the latest amendments make the fees for the review process more reasonable by adding new fee scales for permit applications, amendments or extensions.\nAs stipulated in the Charges and Fees Act, review costs are calculated according to a number of factors, including the complexity of the documents, the information review procedures, the cost of maintaining and managing systems and facilities, manpower hours for review procedures, and price indexes. To simplify government administration and make life easier for the public, and to encourage the switch to online applications, the fees have been reduced for online applications. Enterprises that submit water pollution control permit applications along with applications to discharge effluent into soil or groundwater will only be charged the higher of the two fees so as to lighten their financial burden.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Water Pollution Control Permit Application Fee Standards Amended", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-10" }, { "no": "3349", "title": "Draft Amendments to Water Pollution Control Act Enforcement Rules Preannounced", "preview": "Water Draft Amendments to Water Pollution Control Act Enforcement Rules Preannounced", "content": "Draft Amendments to Water Pollution Control Act Enforcement Rules Preannounced \nDue to the amendments to the Water Pollution Control Act announced on 4 February 2015 and the collection of water pollution control fees beginning in October 2015 the EPA has preannounced corresponding amendments to the Water Pollution Control Act Enforcement Rules. \nThe main objectives of the amendments to the enforcement rules are as follows:\n? To amend the responsibilities of the central competent authorities according to actual practices \n? To clarify the constituent elements under Article 36 of the Water Pollution Control Act to facilitate enforcement by competent authorities of all levels \n? To clarify funding sources for the Water Pollution Control Fund, including allocation of a proportion of the fines collected from violators of the Water Pollution Control Act\nIn response to the stipulations concerning bypass discharges and diluted industrial effluent laid out in Article 18-1 of the Water Pollution Control Act, the Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations that the EPA has been implementing will henceforth be included in the enforcement rules. The management regulations cover requirements, functionality and operating standards for wastewater treatment facilities as well as bypass discharging.\nArticle 36 of the Water Pollution Control Act states that it is a crime for enterprises to discharge into soil, groundwater, or surface water, wastewater that contains substances harmful to human health in excess of the maximums stated in the Act. After close examination of the Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure, the EPA has drafted an amendment to the enforcement rules to clarify what exactly constitutes a criminal offence. The amendment aims to protect competent authorities from being sued and caught up in time-consuming rounds of verdicts and appeals. However, the EPA is keen to stress that industrial enterprises intentionally discharge effluent illegally through bypass channels will still be penalized to the full extent of the law. \nThere are a total of 24 articles in the draft of the amended regulations. The main points of the amendments are as follows:\n1) Amending the scope of the central competent authority’s control over water pollution prevention fees; adding stipulations governing permit issuance, management of water pollutants, and water quality and quantity analysis organizations by the central competent authority. \n2) Adding regulations regarding equipment, functionality and operation standards of wastewater pretreatment facilities, and regulations regarding bypass discharge previously in the Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations, in accordance with Article 18-1 of the Water Pollution Control Act.\n3) Expanding the scope to which each level of competent authority may entrust its authority and contract out tasks to other governmental agencies, corporations, and organizations in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act. \n4) Clarify the constituent elements of Article 36 of the Water Pollution Control Act, after referring to the Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure, to mitigate possible disputes and allow for better administration of the regulations. \n5) Eliminating the items that shall be stated on the operation improvement notice or document supplement\/correction notice, in accordance with the promulgation of the Water Pollution Control Act Violation Penalty Implementation Guidelines to ensure that improvements are made during the given period of time, adding penalties for cases where effluent quality worsens or if pollutant concentrations are higher than the time the improvement notice was issued.\n6) Setting a proportion of violation fines collected to be allocated to the Water Pollution Prevention Fund. \nDetails of the proposed amendments are published on the EPA webpage http:\/\/ivy5.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx .", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Draft Amendments to Water Pollution Control Act Enforcement Rules Preannounced", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-10" }, { "no": "3348", "title": "Climate Change Private Sector Opinions Gathered to Formulate Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act Bylaws", "preview": "Climate Change Private Sector Opinions Gathered to Formulate Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act Bylaws", "content": "Private Sector Opinions Gathered to Formulate Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act Bylaws", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Private Sector Opinions Gathered to Formulate Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act Bylaws", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-10" }, { "no": "3347", "title": "Draft Greenhouse Gas Offset Management Regulations Preannounced", "preview": "Climate Change Draft Greenhouse Gas Offset Management Regulations Preannounced", "content": "Draft Greenhouse Gas Offset Management Regulations Preannounced\nThe Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act was promulgated on 1 July 2015. In accordance with Article 22 of the Act and after referring to the Greenhouse Gas Offset Early Action Program Promotion Principles as well as previous program review experiences, the EPA has formulated a draft of the Regulations Regarding Greenhouse Gas Offset Program Management. These regulations are aimed to aid in the task of promoting voluntary emission reductions before the next stage of cap-and-trade emission control rolls out. \nTo encourage and provide incentives to Taiwan’s industrial enterprises to take early actions on greenhouse gas reduction, the EPA promulgated the Greenhouse Gas Offset Early Action Program Promotion Principles before the enforcement of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act. After the Act was passed into law the EPA drew up a draft of the Regulations Regarding Greenhouse Gas Offset Program Management in accordance with the stipulations and principles for an offset early action program laid out in the Act. The credits for the voluntary reductions will be recognized according to these regulations. \nThe draft of the regulations has 22 articles and 7 annexes. The main points are as follows:\n1. Legal basis and definition of terms\n2. Offset program application procedures and follow-up audits\n3. Registration and application criteria, documents required, and review standards\n4. Documents required and review standards for reduction methodology approval\n5. Offset program and reduction methodology review procedures, as well as reduction credit calculation and approval procedures\n6. Purposes of use for approved reduction credits\n7. Information that must accompany applications for greenhouse gas reduction credit accounts\n8. Regulations governing early action programs, offset programs and reduction methodologies approved before the implementation of these Regulations \n9. Code format for reduction credits\n10. Emission intensities for power generation, iron and steel industry, semiconductor manufacturing, thin film transistor liquid crystal display manufacturing, and cement industry", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Draft Greenhouse Gas Offset Management Regulations Preannounced", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-10" }, { "no": "3346", "title": "World-renowned Climate Scientist Praises Taiwan’s Carbon Reduction Achievements", "preview": "Climate Change World-renowned Climate Scientist Praises Taiwan’s Carbon Reduction Achievements", "content": "World-renowned Climate Scientist Praises Taiwan’s Carbon Reduction Achievements \nClimate scientist Professor Hans Joachim Schellnhuber – an advisor to German Chancellor Angela Merkel and a member of the Earth League composed of leading scientists and economists – was recently invited by the EPA to a conference held in Taiwan. In his presentation he called on the people of the world to look squarely at the inevitable disasters that climate change will bring. \nDuring the “Climate Change, Globalization vs. Localization” international press conference on 18 September 2015, Professor Schellnhuber stated that Taiwan’s voluntary formulation and passing into law of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act was highly laudable. He also referred to some of the latest research conducted by US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and raised the following seven personal viewpoints: \nGreenhouse gases will lead to higher sea levels and the spread of tropical diseases.\n? The ±2 ?C limit that is being widely discussed is the absolute upper limit that Earth can bear and ±1.5 ?C is the safer range we need to aim for. \n? Climate change policy-making involves ethics and generational justice.\n? Taiwan’s vigorous emissions reduction efforts should help in pushing China to join the emissions reduction agenda.\n? Raising energy efficiency will be a major factor for Taiwan to reach its emission reduction targets. \n? If current climate change trends continue, mean temperatures will increase by 8?C by 2300 and the world will no longer be fit for human habitation.\n? Professor Schellnhuber will personally declare his support in the international arena for Taiwan’s progress in emission reduction. \nEPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei pointed out that Taiwan passed the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act on 1 July 2015 to serve as the legal basis for relevant measures. The Act lays out Taiwan’s emission targets until 2050, and empowers the government to apply legally binding reduction strategies and economic instruments to be implemented by relevant ministries. Taiwan, along with other nations worldwide, also closely follows developments in climate treaty negotiations. In response to the Lima Call for Climate Change Action that calls on each nation to shoulder its emission-reduction responsibilities, on 17 September 2015 Premier Chi-Kuo Mao announced Taiwan’s intended nationally determined contributions (INDCs) to the world. It is hoped that this low-carbon roadmap will help to establish a win-win-win situation for the environment, economy and national security. \nProfessor Schellnhuber also outlined four other approaches that Taiwan can adopt to achieve its carbon reduction targets:\n? The large-scale rolling out of electric scooters to replace conventional gasoline motorcycles\n? The development of off-shore wind power\n? Replacing concrete with wood as a construction material\n? Influencing supply and demand from the consumption end", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "world-renowned Climate Scientist Praises Taiwans Carbon Reduction Achievements", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-10" }, { "no": "3345", "title": "Reducing Ozone-depleting Substances: Strategies and Results", "preview": "air Reducing Ozone-depleting Substances: Strategies and Results", "content": "Reducing Ozone-depleting Substances: Strategies and Results \nIn response to ozone depletion Taiwan voluntarily abides by the same Montreal Protocol restrictions as required for developed nations despite the fact that Taiwan is not a party to the Protocol. Taiwan has been actively participating in international organizations and the Meetings of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol to stay abreast of the latest trends in the control of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) and to demonstrate its commitment to international environmental conventions.\nTaiwan Regulations Related to Ozone-depleting Substances \nOn 19 June 2002, the EPA amended Article 30 of the Air Pollution Control Act to state that the central competent authority may: prohibit or restrict the substances listed in international treaties as causing air pollution; and prohibit or restrict the manufacture, import, export, sale, and use of products that are made of or filled with such substances. The central competent authority was also authorized to formulate all related management regulations. The EPA has thus been referring to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, and regularly updating and announcing the scope of Taiwan’s regulatory control over listed substances. \nTaiwan is currently following the Air Pollution Control Act, last amended on 30 May 2006, and is controlling the use of ozone-depleting substances through the Regulations Governing Chemical Substances Controlled by the Montreal Protocol announced on 4 May 2007, the Hydrochlorofluorocarbon Consumption Management Regulations amended and announced on 5 August 2009, and the Methylbromide Management Regulations announced on 21 May 2003. \nTaiwan’s ODS Reduction Strategies\nIn terms of concrete actions, after the Montreal Protocol took effect in 1989, the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) immediately established its Montreal Protocol Task Force for integration of relevant information and response planning. In 1991, the EPA asked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and the MOEA to jointly establish the EPA Montreal Protocol Task Force to integrate ozone layer protection work. \nConsidering the state of the ozone layer is closely connected with the greenhouse effect, the name of the task force has been changed several times and its responsibilities expanded to cover both protecting the ozone layer and mitigating climate change. Since 2008 the Climate Change and Energy Conservation, Carbon Reduction Task Force – under the National Council for Sustainable Development – has been working directly on responses to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Montreal Protocol. The task force has been convened by the EPA to integrate related work and coordinate relevant ministries. \nAlthough Taiwan is unable to be a signatory nation to the Montreal Protocol, it will continue to abide by the Protocol’s stipulations and work with developed nations to phase out the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances. Some of the measures in which the EPA has been actively involved as a primary coordinator include:\n1) International participation\n2) ODS elimination planning\n3) Information dissemination\n4) Formulating related legislation\n5) Providing incentives for ODS elimination\n6) Technological assistance\n7) Deterring illegal trade of ODS products\nODS Elimination Planning\nTaiwan has been following the Montreal Protocol to control the substances listed in Annexes A, B, C, and E of the Protocol. As early as 1993, a list of controlled substances was announced as part of the MOEA Industrial Development Bureau’s Working Guidelines for Chemicals Controlled under the Montreal Protocol. \nMore substances have been added to the Industrial Development Bureau’s list in accordance with the decisions of the Montreal Protocol. The list now comprises nine major categories. Category details, controlled substance names, chemical formulas and their ozone depletion potential (ODP) values can be found on the list. \nThe Montreal Protocol outlines different control measures for each group of chemicals based on production and consumption considerations: \nBaseline level – Calculated production or consumption level of a controlled substance for a designated year \nFreeze control period – Timetable according to which production or consumption level should not exceed the baseline level \nPercentage reduction – Timetable for percentage reductions from production or consumption baseline levels \nExemption conditions – Conditions for which a given chemical can be exempted from production or consumption controls \nTaiwan’s overall phase out agenda has been formulated according to Montreal Protocol stipulations for developed (Non-Article 5) nations and the factors mentioned above. Relevant reduction measures and targets are also based on the same criteria. \nODS Elimination Achievements\nOf all the substances controlled by the Montreal Protocol, Taiwan now only produces hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), which are listed in Group I of the Montreal Protocol’s Annex C. The timetable for freezing production of substances in this category became effective in 2004, and since then Taiwan has been controlling HCFC production levels in line with the Protocol requirements. Furthermore, the only company producing HCFCs in Taiwan, Formosa Plastics, stopped producing HCFC-141b and HCFC-142b in 2004, and further stopped producing HCFC-22 in June 2005. Taiwan has not produced any HCFCs or any other ODS since 2006. \nWith the persistent efforts of government and industry, Taiwan’s consumption of ozone-depleting substances also meets the requirements of the Montreal Protocol. In fact, some years prior to 1996, Taiwan’s consumption level of many of the controlled substances had met compliance with the Montreal Protocol’s stipulations. \nTaiwan’s 2014 ODS Consumption \nIn 2014, Taiwan’s total consumption of HCFCs was 158.483 ODP tonnes, which is below a level that satisfies the Montreal Protocol requirement to reduce the consumption to 25% of the baseline level, or 159. 539 ODP tonnes for Taiwan. The following is a brief breakdown of Taiwan’s ODS consumption statistics for 2014: \n? ODS production – Since 2006 Taiwan has not produced HCFCs or any other ODS\n? ODS imports – In 2014 Taiwan only imported HCFCs and methylbromide. The imported HCFCs included: 2,788.58 tonnes of HCFC-22 (153.372 ODP tonnes); 2 tonnes of HCFC-142b (0.13 ODP tonnes); 253 tonnes of HCFC-123 (5.06 ODP tonnes); 1 tonne of HCFC-124 (0.022 ODP tonnes); and 15.764 tonnes of HCFC-225 (0.394 ODP tonnes). In 2014, 31.573 tonnes of methylbromide was also imported, mainly for quarantine and pre-shipment (QPS) purposes.\n? ODS export – In 2014, Taiwan only exported 9 tonnes of HCFC-22 (0.495 ODP tonnes).\nPaying Close Attention to International ODS Control Trends\nIn addition to rigorously eliminating ODS, Taiwan is also paying close attention to trends related to the Montreal Protocol. The two major conferences that the Taiwan government sends delegations to every year are the Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol, and the Meeting of the Open-ended Working Group of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol. Since 1990, the competent authority has been inviting representatives from relevant ministries and industries to participate in these conferences so as to facilitate a better understanding of ODS related issues and trends. Taiwan has also been hosting a few large-scale international symposiums to bring together domestic and foreign government experts, industry representatives, and academia. Issues such as international control trends, national response strategies, and the development of alternative products and technologies are all discussed. Joining international organizations is another important way of helping to protect the Earth’s ozone layer. Since 1995 Taiwan’s Industrial Technology Research Institute has joined the International Cooperative for Environmental Leadership as well as the Alliance for Responsible Atmospheric Policy in order to work with the international community to protect the Earth’s environment and ozone layer.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Reducing Ozone-depleting Substances: Strategies and Results", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-10" }, { "no": "3344", "title": "Experiencing Clean Soil and Water through Transplanting Rice Seedlings", "preview": "soil and groundwater Experiencing Clean Soil and Water through Transplanting Rice Seedlings", "content": "Experiencing Clean Soil and Water through Transplanting Rice Seedlings \nOn 5 September 2015 the EPA held the Love the Land Eco Experience event. EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei and over 100 people who care deeply about the health of soil and groundwater took part in a rice seedling transplantation activity. The EPA is keen to promote soil and groundwater protection, an issue that plays a crucial part in daily life, through activities of traditional farming and ecosystem exploration. To encourage the public to cherish natural resources, the event also featured other activities such as a scarecrow-making contest and caring for potted crops to show the effects of soil types on plant growth. The EPA hopes that the event will plant the seed of soil and groundwater protection deep in the hearts of all those who participated.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "soil and groundwater", "titlename": "Experiencing Clean Soil and Water through Transplanting Rice Seedlings", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-09" }, { "no": "3343", "title": "Draft of Environmental Aircraft Noise Measurement Methods Preannounced", "preview": "Noise control Draft of Environmental Aircraft Noise Measurement Methods Preannounced", "content": "Draft of Environmental Aircraft Noise Measurement Methods Preannounced\nOn 21 January 2010 the EPA announced the Environmental Sound Level Standard to protect peace and quiet. In accordance with Article 20 Paragraph 3 of the Noise Control Act, the EPA also formulated the Environmental Noise Measurement Methods and preannounced that the draft of the Environmental Aircraft Noise Measurement Methods will be finalized and take effect on 15 February 2016. \nThe new measurement method uses a CNS 7129 type-1 noise meter (also called a sound level meter) that conforms to Taiwan’s national standards, or an IEC 61672 Class 1 noise meter that conforms to the International Electrotechnical Commission standards, to measure aircraft noise levels. The noise levels measured will be used to determine readings of aircraft noise indicators, such as day-night average sound level (DNL). The announced measuring methods will be applicable to facilities for monitoring non-stationary aircraft noise in the proximity of airports, and for measuring indoor DNL.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Noise control", "titlename": "Draft of Environmental Aircraft Noise Measurement Methods Preannounced", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-09" }, { "no": "3342", "title": "New Air Quality Modeling and Simulation Standards Take Effect in January 2016", "preview": "Air New Air Quality Modeling and Simulation Standards Take Effect in January 2016", "content": "New Air Quality Modeling and Simulation Standards Take Effect in January 2016\nThe EPA has announced the amendments to the Air Quality Model and Simulation Standards. The amendments and four appendices have been posted on the EPA website and will become effective on 1 January 2016. The main emphasis of the amendments is the strengthening of regulations governing simulation modeling in accordance with the addition of fine particulate matters in the Air Quality Standards, to improve the air quality model simulation system. The EPA hopes that pollution prevention will be enhanced through source control. In addition, the establishment of weather simulation evaluation standards and the tightening of air quality simulation evaluation standards have also been added to provide more accurate modeling results.\nThe EPA indicates that the Air Quality Modeling and Simulations Standards are intended to ensure that the emissions of new or modified stationary sources of pollution that reach a certain amount can be approved by the simulation models, and not exceed the allowed increment limits set for the air quality control zone where the pollution source is located, as well as the limits of adjacent control zones.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "New Air Quality Modeling and Simulation Standards Take Effect in January 2016", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-09" }, { "no": "3341", "title": "EPA Extends Electric Trailer Subsidy to All Large Wholesale Produce Markets Nationwide", "preview": "Air EPA Extends Electric Trailer Subsidy to All Large Wholesale Produce Markets Nationwide", "content": "EPA Extends Electric Trailer Subsidy to All Large Wholesale Produce Markets Nationwide \nTo replace conventional diesel trailers the EPA has been subsidizing operators at the Siluo Wholesale Produce Market in Yunlin County to purchase or convert their trailers to run on electricity. Based on the success of the pilot operation in Siluo, the EPA will soon extend the subsidy for the electric trailers to large wholesale produce markets around the country.\nWith the general public paying more attention to air quality, the EPA started working with the Industrial Technology Research Institute to promote electric trailers used in produce markets. Conventional trailers running on diesel fuel generate large amounts of fine particulate matters – which are not only an immediate hazard to human health, but also pollute produce during transport. Additionally, the loud noise of conventional diesel trailers may also cause hearing problems in the long term. For these reasons, the subsidies to the operators at the Siluo Wholesale Produce Market for purchasing and converting trailers will be widened by the EPA to large wholesale produce markets nationwide.\nA survey has shown that many large wholesale produce markets intend to transition to electric trailers, including the First Fruit and Vegetable Wholesale Market in Taipei City, the Sanchong Wholesale Produce Market in New Taipei City, Yilan Wholesale Produce Market in Yilan County, and the under-construction Banqiao Wholesale Produce Market in New Taipei City. Subsidy applications can now be submitted to the EPA by the local governments where the produce markets are located, and subsidies will be granted to qualified markets after evaluation.\nAccording to the survey done by ITRI, the total cost of using electric produce trailers is higher than that of using diesel ones. Taking Siluo Wholesale Produce Market as an example, the total cost of the batteries of the electric trailers is about NT$5,840 to NT$6,460 per month, while the total cost of diesel trailers is NT$4,000 to NT$6,100 per month. However, after receiving subsidies from the EPA, the total cost for users of electric trailers drops to between NT$2,340 and NT$3,260 per month. The subsidization pays dividends by preventing air pollution and safeguarding the health of personnel in the markets, as well as that of consumers of the produce. \nThe EPA points out that the Siluo Wholesale Produce Market is currently receiving two separate subsidies for electric trailers and batteries. Offering separate subsidies for trailers and batteries provides a better guarantee for the trailers, while the parallel battery swapping and recharging system will also solve the problem of the short range of the electric trailers. In addition to the subsidies for purchasing and converting trailers, the government is also offering a five-year subsidy for renting batteries for the trailers. Combining all the subsidies, over ten years the costs for users of electric trailers will be about the same as the costs for users of diesel trailers.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "EPA Extends Electric Trailer Subsidy to All Large Wholesale Produce Markets Nationwide", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-09" }, { "no": "3340", "title": "Amendments to Motorcycle Exhaust Emission Testing Station Regulations Preannounced", "preview": "Air Amendments to Motorcycle Exhaust Emission Testing Station Regulations Preannounced", "content": "Amendments to Motorcycle Exhaust Emission Testing Station Regulations Preannounced \nTo effectively control emissions from motorcycles and to strengthen the management of exhaust emission testing stations the EPA has preannounced amendments to the In-use Motorcycle Exhaust Emission Testing Station Establishment and Management Regulations.\nMotorcycle emission testing has been implemented for years, and as of the end of December 2014 there were 2,783 testing stations nationwide. In 2014, the EPA subsidized emission testing for 7.32 million motorcycles, an annual average of 2,634 vehicles for every testing station. The comprehensive testing station regulations encompass the installation criteria, facilities, computer software, and requirements for testing personnel. They also cover the issuance, revocation and cancellation of operating permits, inspection procedures, conditions for suspension of testing, training for testing personnel, certification for testing software, and inspection of testing stations. \nAfter examining how emissions testing has been administered in the past along with the current state of technological developments, the EPA has added a stipulation that old analysis instruments or instruments that seem to be giving abnormal readings should be sent to a designated testing institution. Other amendments designed to improve overall testing quality have also been added, including improvements in testing station maintenance, the maximum permissible amount of time for temporary cessation of operations, and certification procedures for testing station facilities.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Amendments to Motorcycle Exhaust Emission Testing Station Regulations Preannounced", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-09" }, { "no": "3339", "title": "Illegal Dumping of Oil Sludge Captured by Police and Environmental Authorities", "preview": "Waste Illegal Dumping of Oil Sludge Captured by Police and Environmental Authorities", "content": "Illegal Dumping of Oil Sludge Captured by Police and Environmental Authorities", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "llegal Dumping of Oil Sludge Captured by Police and Environmental Authorities", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-09" }, { "no": "3338", "title": "Draft of Installation and Monitoring Standards for Water Body Water Quality Monitoring Stations Preannounced", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring Draft of Installation and Monitoring Standards for Water Body Water Quality Monitoring Stations Preannounced", "content": "Draft of Installation and Monitoring Standards for Water Body Water Quality Monitoring Stations Preannounced \nThe EPA has preannounced the draft of the Installation and Monitoring Standards for Water Body Water Quality Monitoring Stations. The standards represent a clear set of regulations to cover the monitoring of water quality of surface water bodies with the exception of oceans. While drawing the draft standards, the EPA also gathered water quality data and ascertained trends – work needed for water pollution control. \nArticle 10 Paragraph 3 of the Water Pollution Control Act states that “Locations, items, and frequency of the water samplings shall be taken into consideration in accordance with the geographic characteristics of the watersheds, the quality and current condition of the water bodies, and shall also be revised regularly by competent authorities of all levels according to the water monitoring report of every year and the need for water pollution remediation as well. The central competent authority shall establish the monitoring stations and determine the monitoring criterion mentioned in Paragraph 1.” \nTo meet the aforementioned requirements, provide references for water pollution prevention policymaking, measure planning and benefit assessments, promote the accessibility and utilization of environmental data, and build a self-reinforcing framework for monitoring planning and management, the EPA has drawn up a draft of the Installation and Monitoring Standards for Water Body Water Quality Monitoring Stations. The standards also take into account the geographical and water quality properties of water bodies, as well as the principle of flexibility in their application. \nThe standards consist of nine articles, covering the following main points:\n1) Site selection procedures for water quality monitoring station and other relevant considerations (Article 2)\n2) Items to be tested and monitoring frequency for each type of water body (Article 4). \n3) Water bodies that have established management agencies according to other laws and whose water quality have been monitored will not need to establish monitoring stations in accordance to these standards. The competent authorities may commission the agencies that manage or use the water bodies to conduct water quality monitoring (Article 5). \n4) Monitoring data collected by such agencies should be published on their websites and also sent to the integrated platform of the central competent authority. All data should include a reference to the geographic location where it was collected (Article 6). \n5) For any monitoring results that show water quality failing to meet the Water Body Classifications and Water Quality Standards, to protect human health the competent authorities of all levels shall inform the relevant industry competent authorities within seven days after the results are published on the website (Article 7).", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "Draft of Installation and Monitoring Standards for Water Body Water Quality Monitoring Stations Preannounced", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-09" }, { "no": "3337", "title": "Forty-eight More Substances Announced as Harmful to Human Health", "preview": "Water Forty-eight More Substances Announced as Harmful to Human Health", "content": "Water Forty-eight More Substances Announced as Harmful to Human Health \nOn 31 August 2015 the EPA announced revisions to the Types of Substances Harmful to Human Health （有害健康物質之種類）adding 48 substances to the list to reduce the risks of wastewater polluting the environment.\nThe addition of the 48 hazardous substances strengthens the risk management of wastewater and reduces the potential risks of industrial wastewater polluting the environment. In the future, an enterprise will be prosecuted for criminal penalty if it discharges wastewater containing any of the 48 additional hazardous substances at concentrations higher than stated maximums into soil, groundwater or surface water.\nThe above amendments are a result of the revisions to the Water Pollution Control Act （水污染防治法）announced on 4 February 2015, that saw the announcement of types of hazardous substances moved to Article 36 Paragraph 3 of the act. The Types of Substances Harmful to Human Health had not been amended for over 12 years prior to February 2015. In addition, there have been a number of effluent standards formulated or announced for certain industries, adding several organic compounds and heavy metals to the effluent standards. The RCA Taiwan Ltd pollution case also clearly showed the damage that certain pollutants can do. The toxic and carcinogenic chemicals found in the raw materials used in manufacturing processes have been proven to have adverse impacts on human health. The previous list of hazardous substances was not adequate and needed to be revised to reduce the risk of wastewater polluting and accumulating in the environment.\nThe amendments have seen 48 substances of 30 types that are harmful to human health added, and five items have had their titles changed. There are now 95 substances of 60 types listed under Types of Substances Harmful to Human Health. The main points of the amendments are as follows: \n1) Following the title changes in effluent standards, the EPA has amended organic mercury to methyl mercury. The amendments also clearly indicate the chemicals classified as types of total organic phosphorus compounds, total aminomethyl-carbamates and herbicides. \n2) Indium, gallium and molybdenum have been designated as chemicals for specified manufacturing processes. Due to their harmful effects on human health they have also been added to the Types of Substances Harmful to Human Health list. \n3) A total of 40 toxic\/carcinogenic substances of 22 types that can impact human health have been added, including cobalt, beryllium, dichloromethane, trichloromethane, benzene, ethyl benzene, 1,2-dichloroethane, vinyl chloride, di-n-octyl phthalate (DNOP), diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), dimethyl phthalate (DMP), diethylphthalate (DEP), di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP), benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP), nitrobenzene, trichloroethylene, phenols, formaldehyde, total toxic organics, total trihalomethanes, carbon tetrachloride, 1,1-dichloroethene, dioxins, and 1,4-dichlorobenzene.\n4) After taking into account the RCA Taiwan pollution incident and the fact that the groundwater beneath the RCA factory was found to contain excessive levels of 1,1-dichloroethane, cis-1,2-dichloroethene and tetrachloroethene, the EPA has decided to list these three compounds under Types of Substances Harmful to Human Health as well. \nThe EPA points out that the amendments are intended to deter illegal acts with heavier punishments and to encourage enterprises to treat wastewater properly.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Forty-eight More Substances Announced as Harmful to Human Health", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-09" }, { "no": "3336", "title": "Systematic Tracking Enables Off-site Treatment of Contaminated Soil", "preview": "Soil and Groundwater Systematic Tracking Enables Off-site Treatment of Contaminated Soil\nSoil and Groundwater\nSystematic Tracking Enables Off-site Treatment of Contaminated Soil\n\nSoil and Groundwater\nSystematic Tracking Enables Off-site Treatment of Contaminated Soil", "content": "Soil and Groundwater \nSystematic Tracking Enables Off-site Treatment of Contaminated Soil\nLimited by site characteristics it is currently impossible for the soil at major parts of Taiwan’s polluted sites to be remediated on-site. To solve this problem, the EPA plans to commission licensed organizations to remove the polluted soil and treat it off-site. The soil transport and off-site remediation will be systematically followed. \nThe Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act（土壤及地下水污染整治法）has been in effect for over a decade. Surveys carried out nationwide have discovered a variety of contaminated sites, including factories, petrol stations and farmland. Due to site size and location, availability of remediation technology, time limits and remediation costs, most contaminated sites cannot be remediated on-site. The EPA therefore is planning to commission qualified organizations to remove polluted soil and treat it off-site. \nIn the past, contaminated soil remediation was included in the improvement plans for each of the sites and reviewed by local government environmental protection bureaus. However, the scope and requirement of such reviews varied from bureau to bureau. The EPA therefore rolled out a contaminated soil remediation review and approval mechanism to evaluate the technological capabilities of remediation organizations and better manage the follow-up inspection and audit. \nAlong with rolling out the new mechanism, the EPA has also announced and amended related guidelines that now include all of the requirements for off-site remediation. Since 1 July 2015, off-site remediation can only be done by organizations that are licensed to remove and treat the contaminated soil, or reuse it after remediation is completed. A list of such organizations has been published on the EPA soil and groundwater remediation webpage, http:\/\/sgw.epa.gov.tw\/public\/Default.aspx, for the convenience of owners of affected land. Through permit application reviews and follow-up operations such as inspections and audits, the environmental authorities are able to access operation records for enterprises conducting soil remediation. The use of systematic tracking now allows the EPA greater control over the movements of polluted soil once it leaves the site as well as greater leverage with remediation enterprises to ensure that they carry out their work in accordance with the approved measures. \nLicensed clearance and disposal organizations for contaminated soil can be found on the EPA remediation webpage, http:\/\/sgw.epa.gov.tw\/public\/Default.aspx.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "soil and groundwater", "titlename": "Systematic Tracking Enables Off-site Treatment of Contaminated Soil", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-09" }, { "no": "3335", "title": "EPA Continuing to Assist Local Governments against Dengue Fever", "preview": "Environmental Sanitation\nEPA Continuing to Assist Local Governments against Dengue Fever", "content": "EPA Continuing to Assist Local Governments against Dengue Fever\nTo help local governments prevent the further spread of dengue fever the EPA has drawn up a program of clean-up events to mobilize all citizens in the elimination of breeding grounds of vector mosquitoes. The main Mosquito Annihilation events will be held on weekends. The EPA is also actively educating the public on how to eliminate breeding grounds using the slogan “Patrol, empty, cleanse and scrub.” Districts particularly affected by the current outbreak have been provided with insecticides to destroy mosquito larvae in drains and gullies. \nThe EPA has also established the EPA Dengue Fever Vector Breeding Grounds Elimination Command Center. Meetings are held once a week with relevant agencies to analyze ongoing developments of the outbreak and adjust response actions to effectively assist local governments. \nSince March 2015, the EPA has been implementing its National Dengue Fever Breeding Grounds Multi-tier Inspection and Ranking Plan. The plan is formulated to assist local environmental protection bureaus conducting multi-tier mobilization to eliminate breeding grounds during the peak season from June to December. As of the end of July 2015, environmental agencies around Taiwan had mobilized 635,170 volunteer efforts resulting in the clearing of more than 1.92 million containers and the removal of more than 35,000 waste tires. \nIn addition, the inspectors from the EPA’s Northern, Central, and Southern Branches of the Bureau of Environmental Inspection have been conducting unannounced breeding grounds inspection in the areas affected by dengue fever. In any special municipality or county, once the number of dengue fever cases reaches 51 or more, unannounced inspections of vector mosquito breeding grounds will be launched in that city or county. A total of 8,149 inspections have been carried out in 17 districts in Tainan City（臺南市）and 12 districts in Kaohsiung City（高雄市）. Seventy-eight sites have been reported for having larvae of vector mosquitoes. With the start of the school year imminent, the inspectors will also be searching carefully for breeding grounds in and around school campuses. \nDengue fever has been particularly prevalent in Tainan City this year. The Tainan City Bureau of Environmental Protection has submitted its 2015 Tainan City Dengue Fever Vector Mosquito Breeding Ground Elimination and Outdoor Environment Clean-Up Plan to the EPA, and the EPA has given priority funding to Tainan City to support its efforts to eliminate breeding grounds in unused buildings and land. \nThe EPA has also set up a dengue fever information webpage on its website to provide information on types of breeding grounds (such as containers that accumulate water) and a checklist that people can refer to when eliminating mosquito breeding grounds. The EPA webpage links to the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) website, which also provides information on dengue fever prevention.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Sanitation", "titlename": "EPA Continuing to Assist Local Governments against Dengue Fever", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-09" }, { "no": "3334", "title": "EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Weis Visit to US Successfully Expands Long-term Environmental Cooperation", "preview": "International cooperation\nEPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei’s Visit to US Successfully Expands Long-term Environmental Cooperation", "content": "EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei’s Visit to US Successfully Expands Long-term Environmental Cooperation \nFrom 10-12 August 2015 EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei (魏國彥) visited the US to meet with US EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy. During his visit, Minister Wei also attended the first conference of the International Environmental Partnership and the Annual Meeting for the Taiwan-US environmental protection cooperation held in Washington, DC, as well as delivered a speech at the Wilson Center. Minister Wei’s visit brought forth meaningful exchanges of ideas on how to promote long-term interdisciplinary cooperation between Taiwan and the US.\nMeeting US EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy\nOn 11 August, Minister Wei, accompanied by Lyushun Shen（沈呂巡）, Taiwan’s Representative to the US, met with US EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy. Both Minister Wei and Administrator McCarthy commended the achievements of the International Environmental Partnership (IEP). They particularly noted the success of sharing environmental protection experiences with other nations in the region and even other global partners, considering that the Partnership was only launched in April 2014. They hoped that the IEP would lead to the establishment of more international networks that would facilitate the exchange of knowledge, technology and experience among environmental personnel. Both sides also promised to continue contributing to the IEP as Taiwan serves as the hub for establishing Asia-Pacific regional environmental protection networks. \nAfter the meeting, Minister Wei and Administrator McCarthy attended a workshop for the Cities Clean Air Partnership (CCAP), a project under the IEP. In addition to welcoming the representatives of almost 30 cities from more than 10 nations, Minister Wei and Administrator McCarthy also congratulated the eight cities that will start the paired programs on clean air, including Taipei City with Pasig of the Philippines, and Taichung City with San Jose, California, USA. \nAttending the First Conference of the International Environmental Partnership \nThe IEP was launched by Minister Wei under the witness of President Ma Ying-jeou（馬英九）and Administrator McCarthy. The purpose of the partnership is to develop greater bilateral and regional environmental cooperation based upon the cooperation between Taiwan and US EPAs, the two founding partners. \nThe first conference of the IEP was jointly held by the Taiwan and US EPAs in Washington, DC, on 10 August 2015. The conference discussed a wide range of cooperative projects covered by the IEP, including student air quality monitoring, eco-campus cooperation, the Cities Clean Air Partnership, technical assistance on soil remediation, the establishment of the Asia-Pacific atmospheric mercury monitoring information network, and the international electronic waste recycling management exchange platform. \nThe conference presented the achievements and future perspectives of the IEP to demonstrate successfully to the international community how a simple partnership with diverse cooperative measures can lead to significant improvements in the environment at the local, national, regional, and even global levels. \nThe conference was chaired by Jane Nishida, Assistant Administrator for International and Tribal Affairs of the US EPA. Minister Wei and Representative Shen also gave speeches to the audience of about one hundred delegates, which included Taiwan and US environmental officials, municipal representatives of several Asian nations and the US, scientific officers of various nations delegated to Washington, DC, as well as representatives of non-governmental organizations, academia and research institutions. \nAttending the Annual Meeting of the Taiwan-US Environmental Protection Technology Cooperative Agreement\nThis meeting was co-chaired by Minister Wei and the Assistant Administrator for International and Tribal Affairs of the US EPA, Jane Nishida. Participants reported on the focus, achievements, challenges and prospects of each project carried out under the 10th Implementing Arrangement of the Taiwan-US Environmental Protection Technology Cooperative Agreement. During the meeting it was suggested that both parties should promote bilateral cooperation for the following:\n? Using technologies such as online platforms to strengthen the implementation of bilateral or multilateral projects \n? Ways for turning activity or meeting documents into teaching materials\n? Holding events and activities with measurable outcomes and that have their own niche\n? Integrating events and activities that share similar themes\nMinister’s Speech at the Wilson Center\nMinister Wei was also invited – along with US EPA Assistant Administrator Jane Nishida and Bjarne Pedersen from Clean Air Asia – by the Washington think tank, the Wilson Center, to share how the CCAP is being implemented. In a speech titled Clearing the Skies in Asian Cities – New Taiwan-US Collaborative Programs, Minister Wei gave a brief history of Taiwan’s air quality improvement and fine particulate matter management strategies. He also outlined Taiwan’s successes in the fields of real-time air quality and atmospheric monitoring. \nInterviewed by International Press on Taiwan’s Environmental Work \nIn addition, Minister Wei was interviewed by the Washington Post, Bloomberg BNA, Sing Tao Daily, and a number of Taiwan’s media outlets. Minister Wei took the opportunity to speak about the achievements of environmental work in Taiwan, and the concepts behind and progress with the IEP. \nExpanding Environmental Cooperation with Relevant Organizations\nSince the start of the 10th Implementing Arrangement of the Taiwan-US Environmental Protection Cooperative Agreement and the launch of the IEP, Taiwan and the US have been cooperating more on promoting multilateral and regional environmental partnerships and exchanges, in addition to their bilateral cooperation. For the Taiwan EPA this new level of cooperation has brought a number of challenges. During his trip to the US, Minister Wei successfully made known Taiwan’s environmental achievements and laid the foundations for future cooperation with other US governmental agencies, academic institutions and think tanks that deal with environmental issues.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "International cooperation", "titlename": "EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Weis Visit to US Successfully Expands Long-term Environmental Cooperation", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-09" }, { "no": "3333", "title": "Ecolabeling Cycling Events Held for Public to Experience Green Products", "preview": "Ecolabeling Cycling Events Held for Public to ExperiencGreen Products", "content": "Cycling Events Held for Public to Experience Green Products\nTo encourage more enterprises to have their products issued with the Green Mark as well as encourage the public to purchase Green Mark labeled products, the EPA held a series of events for the public to experience environmentally friendly products first hand. “Gentle and Graceful Cycling” events were held in Taipei, Taichung and Kaohsiung on 15, 22, and 29 of August 2015, respectively. The cycling events were coupled with raffle draws, the prizes for which included Green Mark labeled products with a high degree of popularity on the market. In sum, the EPA aims to have the general public encounter more Green Mark products and green traveling, so as to promote green consumption and green living.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Ecolabeling", "titlename": "Cycling Events Held for Public to Experience Green Products", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-08" }, { "no": "3332", "title": "Fifteen Cities, Townships and Districts Receive Subsidies to Create High Quality Environment", "preview": "Environmental sanitation Fifteen Cities, Townships and Districts Receive Subsidies to Create High Quality Environment", "content": "Fifteen Cities, Townships and Districts Receive Subsidies to Create High Quality Environment\nFrom 2015 to 2018, the EPA is slated to subsidize 60 cities and townships in their efforts to build friendly\/pleasant living environments. On 4 August 2015, the EPA announced the communities that were granted the subsidies for 2016. A total of 15 cities and townships will each receive a subsidy of more than NT$10 million to create high quality environments imbued with local characteristics. \nTo encourage cities and counties nationwide to participate in the Friendly City\/County selection, EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei（魏國彥）sent a letter to all mayors and magistrates earlier in 2015. A total of 30 townships and districts recommended by 20 cities\/counties submitted proposals – a fierce competition not seen before. The selection process commenced in June 2015, and bidders were competing for subsidies of up to NT$60 million each. Volunteer mobilization capability, project themes and local development visions were the three major criteria for this year’s evaluation. In the end, 15 communities were awarded subsidies. Among these, five were awarded as top-notch and the other 10 as excellent.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental sanitation", "titlename": "Fifteen Cities Townships and Districts Receive Subsidies to Create High Quality Environment", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-08" }, { "no": "3331", "title": "Basic Environment Act Serves as Guidelines, Principles and Policies", "preview": "General Policy Basic Environment Act Serves as Guidelines, Principles and Policies", "content": "Basic Environment Act Serves as Guidelines, Principles and Policies\nAs there is a degree of misunderstanding about the nature of the Basic Environment Act（環境基本法）, the EPA is keen to point out that the act does not have priority status. The Basic Environment Act has the function of being a policy declaration and thus does not confer any specific rights or benefits to any party. It cannot be used as the legal basis for formulating specific laws or regulations, nor can it be used as the legal basis for local governments to create their autonomous regulations outside of central government control. \nThe EPA explains that reasons for adoption of the Basic Environment Act are to raise overall environmental quality, promote public health and welfare, protect natural resources and pursue sustainable development so as to protect the environment in general. The stipulations of the act are designed to be clear and forward-looking to guide future policymaking and formulation of regulations. \nIn Taiwan’s legal system, the Basic Environment Act is given legal support by Article 170 of the Constitution of the Republic of China（中華民國憲法）. However, the Central Regulation Standard Act（中央法規標準法）does not state that the basic acts take precedence over other laws and so the Basic Environment Act does not have priority status of any kind. The Basic Environment Act is seen by government officials as being a policy declaration, and thus does not confer any specific rights or benefits to any party. It cannot be used as the legal basis for formulating substantive laws or regulations. \nThe Basic Environment Act primarily serves as guidelines, principles and policies, but cannot be used as the legal basis for local governments to create autonomous regulations outside of central government control. It should be seen as providing basic principles, guidelines and policies for formulating regulations to cover matters pertaining to specified domains. Regulations governing the actual implementation of matters pertaining to specified domains can only be formulated by the central competent authority to become the legal basis for implementation.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Basic Environment Act Serves as Guidelines, Principles and Policies", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-08" }, { "no": "3330", "title": "US Eco-Campus Delegates Visit Taiwan for Environmental Education Exchanges", "preview": "Environmental Education US Eco-Campus Delegates Visit Taiwan for Environmental Education Exchanges", "content": "US Eco-Campus Delegates Visit Taiwan for Environmental Education Exchanges \nThe US-Taiwan Eco-Campus Partnership aims to foster partnerships between the US and Taiwan eco-schools to bring Taiwan schools closer to international trends. At present 36 of Taiwan’s eco-schools have forged partnerships with eco-schools in the US. It is estimated that by the end of 2015, the target of establishing 60 eco-school partnerships will be achieved. In July 2015, a delegation of US eco-school representatives visited Taiwan to gain a better picture of the Taiwan EPA’s environmental education policies on low-carbon and sustainable ecosystem preservation. They also took the opportunity to learn more about Taiwan’s indigenous cultures and share their experiences with people in Taiwan. The experience exchanges broadened local understanding of eco-schools and environmental education. \nThe US Eco-Campus delegation consisted of nine delegates and was led by Ms. Kim Martinez, Manager of Regional Education Programs at the US National Wildlife Federation (NWF). Other delegates included representatives of Edward White Elementary School, Seguin Elementary School and Emerson Elementary School in Texas; Griffin Elementary School and RPE STEM Museum Magnet School in Florida, and North Chevy Chase Elementary School in Maryland. During visits to eco-schools in New Taipei City（新北市）, Taitung County（臺東縣）, and Tainan City（臺南市）from 20-24 July, they exchanged experiences with their Taiwan counterparts, thus learning from each other and increasing mutual understanding. \nOn 20 July, the US delegation visited Changkeng Elementary School （長坑國小） in New Taipei City, which is the sister school of RPE STEM Museum Magnet School. Changkeng Elementary School joined the eco-schools program in 2014, and states its education principles as “Earth only, environmental justice, intergenerational welfare, and sustainable development.” The school has completed a program of greening its campus by planting shrubs as boundary walls, building an eco-corridor, a butterfly corridor, and an educational water garden. The school has also installed The Frog Family water-saving wash basins and solar and wind renewable energy systems. By bringing together various teaching resources, it has created a happy and environmentally friendly learning environment within the criteria of sustainability and the US-Taiwan Eco-Campus Partnership requirements. \nThe US Eco-Campus delegation also visited Bin-Mao Junior High School in Taitung County（臺東縣賓茂國中）; Junyi School for Innovative Learning in Taitung County （臺東縣均一國民中小學）; Nan-Hua Elementary School in Tainan City（臺南市南化國小）; Yong-An Elementary School in Tainan City（臺南市永安國小）; and the Affiliated Experimental Elementary School of National Chiayi University（國立嘉義大學附設實驗國小）. \nOf these schools, North Chevy Chase Elementary School – which is partnered with Nan-Hua Elementary School – was represented at the launching ceremony for the Taiwan-US Eco-Campus Partnership in March 2015. Ambassador Lyu-shun Shen（沈呂巡）, Taiwan’s representative to the US, was also invited to speak at the ceremony. The US delegation thus made a visit to Nanhua Elementary School so that the principal of North Chevy Chase Elementary School could visit the sister school in person to facilitate closer exchanges between the two. \nOn 22 July, the delegation visited Junyi School for Innovative Learning in Taitung County and met with school Chairman Stanley Yen（嚴長壽）and Principal Ching-Yu Huang（黃景裕）. Vice Principal Anthony Cluver made a 20-minute presentation on the concepts of environmental education practiced at Junyi School. Chairman Yen encouraged future opportunities for student exchange programs with US schools and hoped that US teachers would come to teach together in Taitung. Chairman Yen also urged the participants to pay more attention to the preservation of indigenous culture, which won the agreement of all the delegates. \nThe eco-school team at Junyi School also took this opportunity to discuss concepts of environmental education with their US delegates. Chairman Yen and Vice Principal Cluver led the delegation on a tour of their school to introduce green building design and curricula. For example, part of Junyi School’s curriculum includes outdoor exploration and uncovering tribe stories. Students in the class are encouraged to share tribe stories told to them by their family elders.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "US Eco-Campus Delegates Visit Taiwan for Environmental Education Exchanges", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-08" }, { "no": "3329", "title": "Joint Refuse Disposal Mechanism for Central Taiwan Launched", "preview": "Environmental Inspection\nJoint Refuse Disposal Mechanism for Central Taiwan Launched", "content": "Joint Refuse Disposal Mechanism for Central Taiwan Launched \nDue to various reasons some incineration plants in Taiwan are overloaded. Owing to Chinese New Year activities, Lantern Festival activities, scheduled or unscheduled shutting down of incinerators for maintenance, avian flu measures, and cases of receiving too much general industrial wastes, Changhua County （彰化縣）, Nantou County（南投縣）, Yunlin County （雲林縣）and Taichung City （臺中市）have experienced situations of having more waste than could be processed by their incineration plants. At one point, 40,000 tons of garbage were piled up in landfills waiting to be processed. In view of this problem, the EPA launched the joint refuse disposal mechanism for central Taiwan and coordinated incineration plants in other cities and counties to increase the rate of waste incineration. \nAs of 3 August 2015, a total of 25,000 tons of piled-up garbage had been cleared away. The piled-up garbage in Changhua County has all been disposed of, while Nantou County is incinerating it as scheduled. Taichung City and Yunlin County, on the other hand, are lagging behind. \nThe daily refuse incineration capacity for Yunlin County is 235 tons. The EPA has managed to increase it to 259 tons daily, which means that in addition to disposing of Yunlin’s daily maximum quota, there is still a 24-ton leeway for dealing with piled-up garbage. However, to thoroughly solve its garbage disposal problem from a long term point of view, the Yunlin County government needs to reconsider the necessity of inaugurating its refuse incineration plant in Linnei Township（林內鄉）.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Inspection", "titlename": "Joint Refuse Disposal Mechanism for Central Taiwan Launched", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-08" }, { "no": "3328", "title": "Recycling Cash for Recycling End-of-Life Vehicles", "preview": "Recycling Cash for Recycling End-of-Life Vehicles", "content": "Recycling Cash for Recycling End-of-Life Vehicles \nRecycling old cars and motorcycles that are sitting unused not only eliminates the need to pay fuel taxes but also rewards owners with a recycling incentive of NT$300-1000 cash. The EPA has set up a free resource recycling hotline, 0800-085-717, for vehicle owners to get information on how to recycle their vehicles through a licensed recycler in their area. \nTo encourage the recycling of end-of-life vehicles, the EPA is reminding the public that owners of cars over ten years old and motorcycles over seven years old are eligible for an EPA cash award if they have their vehicles legally recycled and reported as scrapped to the Motor Vehicles Office. This also saves owners the annual license plate tax and the fuel fee. \nThe EPA’s free recycling hotline, 0800-085-717, and website http:\/\/recycle.epa.gov.tw provide information on licensed vehicle recyclers around Taiwan. When owners contact the recyclers, they need to give their license plate number and ID card number for the recycler to register. Before scrapped vehicles are towed away, owners should make sure to get their license plates and their copy of the Motor Vehicle Recycling Control Manifest Form from the recycler. \nThe owner should then take the license plate – along with ID documents, seal stamp, and license plate – to the local branch of the Motor Vehicles Office to register the vehicle as scrapped and claim a cash incentive. For end-of-life cars over ten years old the award is NT$1,000; for end-of-life motorcycles over seven years old the award is NT$300. \nThe EPA also calls on citizens to report abandoned vehicles, taking note of license plates, vehicle maker and model, vehicle color and location. Vehicles without plates can be reported to the local environmental protection bureau; vehicles with plates can be reported to the local police. Reports in Hsinchu（新竹縣）, Chiayi （嘉義縣）and Penghu Counties （澎湖縣）can be made by calling 0800-085-717. Reports elsewhere in Taiwan can be made by calling the 1999 citizens’ hotline.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Cash for Recycling End-of-Life Vehicles", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-08" }, { "no": "3327", "title": "Subsidy Fee Rates for Recycling of TVs and Electric Fans Adjusted", "preview": "Recycling Subsidy Fee Rates for Recycling of TVs and Electric Fans Adjusted", "content": "Recycling Subsidy Fee Rates for Recycling of TVs and Electric Fans Adjusted \nTo reflect the true cost of recycling and stabilize the operating of the Resource Recycling Fund on 16 July 2015 the EPA announced amendments to the recycling subsidy fee rates for waste television sets and electric fans. The subsidy for waste TVs has fallen from NT$379.5 to NT$284 per unit, and the subsidy for waste electric fans has increased from NT$20 to NT$33 per unit. The amendments took effect on 1 August 2015. \nThe amendments to the subsidy fee rates for waste TVs and electric fans were made after a review of the actual costs of recycling, storing, clearance and disposal of e-waste, as well as the market value of renewable materials, the financial situation of the Resource Recycling Fund, and the degree to which these two products are currently being recycled. \nThe EPA would like to remind all organizations that receive government subsidies for the recycling of waste TVs and electric fans that from 1 August 2015 the new fee rates will be abided by for the review and approval of subsidies for the recycling of these two categories of products. Anyone with queries regarding the new rates can call the Resource Recycling Hotline at 0800-085717 or visit the EPA’s resource recycling website: http:\/\/recycle.epa.gov.tw.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Subsidy Fee Rates for Recycling of TVs and Electric Fans Adjusted", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-08" }, { "no": "3326", "title": "Ecolabeling Over 2 Million Eco-Labeled Thermo Mugs Sold in Taiwan", "preview": "Ecolabeling Over 2 Million Eco-Labeled Thermo Mugs Sold in Taiwan \nIn August 2011 the EPA announced the Green Mark criteria for reusable beverage containers. As of May 2015, Green Mark certification has been awarded to 78 such products, and over two million stainless steel thermo mugs issued with the Green Mark have been sold. It is becoming increasingly common to see residents in Taiwan carrying their own thermo mug. The corresponding reduction in disposable beverage bottles and packaging is having a beneficial effect upon the environment.", "content": "Over 2 Million Eco-Labeled Thermo Mugs Sold in Taiwan \nIn August 2011 the EPA announced the Green Mark criteria for reusable beverage containers. As of May 2015, Green Mark certification has been awarded to 78 such products, and over two million stainless steel thermo mugs issued with the Green Mark have been sold. It is becoming increasingly common to see residents in Taiwan carrying their own thermo mug. The corresponding reduction in disposable beverage bottles and packaging is having a beneficial effect upon the environment. \nThe Green Mark products have long been popular items in retail outlets. Recent surveys have revealed that manufacturers who gain eco-labeling accreditation for their products can increase their sales by up to 400%. Such products have clearly won public trust. \nThe criteria for reusable beverage container Green Mark certification are quite strict. For example, research has shown that long-term or high exposure to the endocrine disruptor bisphenol A affects the functioning of the liver and kidneys and has the potential to cause other health problems. Heavy metals have been proven to damage the brain, kidneys, and other organs. Thus, levels of bisphenol A and heavy metals in reusable beverage containers must meet migration test standards; and levels of phthalate ester plasticizers must meet the announced control values. In terms of raw materials, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polystyrene must not be used either. The EPA has also stipulated that packaging for the containers must be certified by third party agencies before the Green Mark certificate can be awarded. The Green Mark certification is only issued to products that meet strict criteria and are among the top 20-30% of all retailed products in terms of eco-friendliness. Not only do they have minimal impact upon the environment during their lifecycle, they also do not contain chemicals such as endocrine disruptors. \nMore and more consumers are choosing to buy Green Mark-labeled reusable beverage containers. It indicates that Taiwan’s consumers are becoming more environmentally aware. Using eco-labeled green products is good for the environment and good for public health. The EPA hopes that manufacturers and distributors will respond to the trend toward green consumption by doing more to promote eco-labeled products and their environmental benefits.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "ecolabeling", "titlename": "Over 2 Million Eco-Labeled Thermo Mugs Sold in Taiwan", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-08" }, { "no": "3325", "title": "Subsidy Regulations for Scrapping Two-stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Electric Bikes Announced", "preview": "Air Subsidy Regulations for Scrapping Two-stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Electric Bikes Announced\nThe EPA has finalized the amounts for subsidies designed to encourage the public to scrap their two-stroke motorcycles and\/or buy new two-wheel electric vehicles. The Regulations Governing Subsidies for Scrapping Two-Stroke Motorcycles and Buying New Two-wheel Electric Vehicles（淘汰二行程機車及新購電動二輪車補助辦法）were announced on 20 July 2015. The regulations integrated previous regulations governing subsidies for two-wheel electric vehicles including subsidies for: scrapping two-stroke motorcycles; scrapping two-stroke motorcycles and buying new electric scooters; buying new electric bicycles; and buying new electric-assisted bicycles. The various related subsidies previously provided through the air pollution control funds of local governments have also been integrated into the new regulations. \nAir Subsidy Regulations for Scrapping Two-stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Electric Bikes Announced\nThe EPA has finalized the amounts for subsidies designed to encourage the public to scrap their two-stroke motorcycles and\/or buy new two-wheel electric vehicles. The Regulations Governing Subsidies for Scrapping Two-Stroke Motorcycles and Buying New Two-wheel Electric Vehicles（淘汰二行程機車及新購電動二輪車補助辦法）were announced on 20 July 2015. The regulations integrated previous regulations governing subsidies for two-wheel electric vehicles, including subsidies for: scrapping two-stroke motorcycles; scrapping two-stroke motorcycles and buying new electric scooters; buying new electric bicycles; and buying new electric-assisted bicycles. The various related subsidies previously provided through the air pollution control funds of local governments have also been integrated into the new regulations.", "content": "Air Subsidy Regulations for Scrapping Two-stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Electric Bikes Announced", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Subsidy Regulations for Scrapping Two-stroke Motorcycles and Purchasing New Electric Bikes Announced", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-08" }, { "no": "3324", "title": "Waste Cooking Oil Becomes a Low-carbon Eco-friendly Energy Resource", "preview": "Waste Waste Cooking Oil Becomes a Low-carbon Eco-friendly Energy Resource \nSince the occurrence of contaminated cooking oil incidents the people of Taiwan have started to pay more attention to how waste cooking oil is disposed of. The EPA statistics indicate that from January-May 2015, a total of 25,603 tonnes of waste cooking oil were recycled, of which 15,964 tonnes, or 62%, were reused by organizations in Taiwan while 9,639 tonnes, or 38%, were exported to other nations. The main use for this waste oil domestically or exported – is to be converted into biodiesel.", "content": "Waste Cooking Oil Becomes a Low-carbon Eco-friendly Energy Resource \nSince the occurrence of contaminated cooking oil incidents the people of Taiwan have started to pay more attention to how waste cooking oil is disposed of. The EPA statistics indicate that from January-May 2015, a total of 25,603 tonnes of waste cooking oil were recycled, of which 15,964 tonnes, or 62%, were reused by organizations in Taiwan while 9,639 tonnes, or 38%, were exported to other nations. The main use for this waste oil domestically or exported – is to be converted into biodiesel. \nAccording to International Energy Agency (IEA) statistics, in 2012 biofuels accounted for 10% of global primary energy supply, second only to fossil fuels such as coal, petroleum and natural gas. The IEA estimates that total global production of biofuels will increase by 2.7% annually. The total global production of biodiesel has risen from 800 million liters in 2000 to 2.63 billion liters in 2013, a 33-fold increase. Taiwan began rolling out the use of biodiesel in 2004 as a part of the Ministry of Economic Affairs’ Green County plan. In 2007, environmental agencies – under the principle of not disturbing the existing waste cooking oil recycling system – began to encourage households, organizations, schools, major fast food chains and manufacturers of noodles and bean noodles to hand over their waste cooking oil to sanitary teams or licensed recyclers as resources for biodiesel. \nAccording to the data of the Bureau of Energy, Ministry of Economic Affairs, in 2010 – the year two percent of biodiesel was added into petroleum diesel (B2) instead of one percent (B1) in Taiwan – annual consumption of biodiesel reached 100,000 kiloliters. Of this amount, 96,000 kiloliters, representing revenue of NT$3 billion, was produced domestically. The use of this amount of biodiesel led to an estimated reduction of 260,000 tons of CO2 emissions. Waste cooking oil has thus been considered a valuable resource in Taiwan, and it is rarely dumped illegally or otherwise involved in environmental pollution incidents. \nAfter the food safety incidents of 2014, the issue of how to prevent waste cooking oil from entering food products has been of grave concern to Taiwan’s residents. In fact, Taiwan has mature technologies to convert waste cooking oil to biodiesel of significant economic value. An EPA survey revealed that from January-May 2015, Taiwan exported 5,794 tonnes of biodiesel to the UK, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia to be mixed with vehicle diesel. In terms of both manufacturing technology and quality, Taiwan’s biodiesel is clearly recognized by the international community. \nTaiwan’s people have a particular fondness for deep-fried food, which leads to the high per capita generation of waste cooking oil. It makes finding suitable ways to recycle the waste cooking oil very important. Since September 2014, the EPA has been strengthening its control over the management and disposal of waste cooking oil. Measures adopted included establishing a registry for waste cooking oil recyclers and issuing permits to them; enhancing the waste cooking oil reporting system; carrying out inspections and audits; and encouraging people and businesses to hand their waste cooking oil over to licensed recyclers. People who give their waste cooking oil to illegal operators will henceforth be fined, as will the illegal operators. \nThe EPA considers biodiesel to be an eco-friendly fuel due to its carbon reduction and low-pollution properties. The EPA will continue to discuss with local government environmental protection bureaus and private-sector refuse clearance organizations about converting their vehicles and machinery to biodiesel. The goal is to have locally produced waste cooking oil recycled and reused locally.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Waste Cooking Oil Becomes a Low-carbon Eco-friendly Energy Resource", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-08" }, { "no": "3323", "title": "Water Frequency of Electroplating Wastewater Inspections Increased to Protect Water Quality", "preview": "Water Frequency of Electroplating Wastewater Inspections Increased to Protect Water Quality", "content": "Wate Frequency of Electroplating Wastewater Inspections Increased to Protect Water Quality\n2015 has seen the EPA formulate the Electroplating Industry Pollution Source Control Plan. The plan aims to extend the EPA’s control over the electroplating industry so as to prevent the industry’s wastewater from causing further harm to aquatic environments. From 2014 until now inspections have resulted in the suspension of operations of 30 businesses, with 34 offenders being prosecuted. \nIn 2014, the EPA joined forces with the Changhua District Prosecutor’s Office（彰化地檢署）, the Seventh Special Police Corps（警政署保七總隊）, and the Environmental Protection Bureau of Changhua County（彰化縣）in a large-scale clampdown on illegal wastewater discharging by electroplating enterprises in Changhua. As of July 2015, 19 companies were ordered to halt operations and 28 people were charged with criminal offences by the Changhua District Prosecutor’s Office. The EPA hopes that stepping up inspections and clamping down on violations will effectively deter further illegal acts and thus significantly improve the quality of irrigation water. \nIn recent years, EPA surveys have established a clear connection between heavy metal contamination of farmland and the polluting of irrigation water sources by unscrupulous electroplating enterprises that illegally discharge wastewater. Most of Taiwan’s electroplating enterprises are situated in areas where they can use local drains or irrigation channels to discharge wastewater. Whenever electroplating enterprises illegally discharge untreated wastewater that contains toxic substances into such drainage systems, there is an immediate and considerable threat to the local environment, and farmland can even become polluted to the extent that food safety becomes a concern. \nThe implementation of the Electroplating Industry Pollution Source Control Plan involves adjustments to previous inspection methods. From 2014, the plan has drawn upon experience gained in Changhua in establishing a task force. The task force is drawn from the environmental protection bureaus of the 13 counties and cities that have electroplating enterprises and is supervised and assisted by branches of the EPA’s Bureau of Environmental Inspection. The task force screened a total of 311 enterprises suspected of improperly treating wastewater, and it has carried out 39 comprehensive factory inspections. The inspections are focused on illegal discharges, bypass discharges, and adequacy and proper use of wastewater treatment facilities. \nOperators that release effluent containing levels of hazardous substances exceeding the Effluent Standards （放流水標準）, discharge without permits, or use hidden pipes can be sentenced to up to five years in prison and NT$200,000-NT$15 million in fines according to Article 36 Paragraph 2 of the Water Pollution Control Act（水污染防治法）and Article 190-1 of the Criminal Code （刑法）. Violations that are not considered as criminal acts can lead to fines of NT$60,000-NT$6 million according to Article 45 Paragraph 1 of the Water Pollution Control Act.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Frequency of Electroplating Wastewater Inspections Increased to Protect Water Quality", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-08" }, { "no": "3322", "title": "Waste Management of Disposal and Transboundary Movement of Hazardous Industrial Waste", "preview": "Waste Management of Disposal and Transboundary Movement of Hazardous Industrial Waste \nUnder the concepts of sustainable materials management (SMM) and a circular society the EPA has been rigorously implementing the regulations of the Basel Convention, promoting the reduction of industrial waste at source as well as better manufacturing linkages. Looking to the future, the EPA is working with industries, academia and research institutes to develop hazardous waste recycling and technologies for reuse of resources, so as to overcome the difficulties of hazardous waste disposal.", "content": "Management of Disposal and Transboundary Movement of Hazardous Industrial Waste \nUnder the concepts of sustainable materials management (SMM) and a circular society the EPA has been rigorously implementing the regulations of the Basel Convention, promoting the reduction of industrial waste at source as well as better manufacturing linkages. Looking to the future, the EPA is working with industries, academia and research institutes to develop hazardous waste recycling and technologies for reuse of resources, so as to overcome the difficulties of hazardous waste disposal. \nLegal Basis\nIn the international community, the transboundary shipment of hazardous waste is conducted under the regulations of the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal. Taiwan’s legal framework for dealing with hazardous waste is also based on the Basel Convention. \nTaiwan has drawn up a system of industrial waste export and import controls in accordance with the Basel Convention. The control system includes formulating regulations in accordance with the Basel Convention; enhancing the training of customs, port and environmental personnel; and signing hazardous waste transboundary movement bilateral agreements. The main regulations include Article 38 of the Waste Disposal Act（廢棄物清理法）, the Management Regulations for the Import and Export of Industrial Waste（事業廢棄物輸入輸出管理辦法）, the Types of Industrial Waste Used As Industrial Raw Material（屬產業用料需求之事業廢棄物種類）, and the Categories of Industrial Waste and General Waste Prohibited from Importation（禁止輸入之事業廢棄物及一般廢棄物種類）.\nOrganizations wishing to import or export industrial waste must abide by the following procedures:\n1) Import: The waste disposal organization, or an organization that has obtained a reuse permit from the central industry competent authority, must apply to the local competent authority for an import permit. Once the written permit has been received, the waste can be loaded onto vessels in the exporting nation and imported to Taiwan. Hazardous industrial waste can only be imported by Grade A waste disposal organizations that have gained approval from the central competent authority. \n2) Export: The enterprise that generates the industrial waste or the clearance organization must apply to the local competent authority for an export permit. Once the written permit has been received, the shipment of waste can be reported to customs and exported. Hazardous industrial waste can only be exported by Grade A waste clearance organizations that have gained approval from the central competent authority. \nThe EPA has also established a website - http:\/\/basel.epa.gov.tw\/ - to provide information about the Basel Convention. \nThe major achievements of industrial waste management in 2014 were: \n1. Improving Industrial Waste Reduction and Reuse\nIn 2014, the EPA formulated the Industrial Waste Reuse Management Reference Manual that includes 75 categories of industrial waste that can be reused along with guidelines for handling the waste. In 2015, the EPA is revising the manual for five categories of waste in accordance with the amendments to the relevant regulations. The EPA will also continue to upgrade the Resource Reuse Management Information System so that it can handle online applications and review waste reuse permits and online reporting of operation records for products made from recycled materials. \n2. Controlling the Import\/Export of Industrial Waste\nIn 2014, the EPA reviewed 87 cases of industrial waste exportation. On 10 June 2014, the EPA announced the amendments to the Guidelines for Industrial Waste Import and Export Permit Application Review.\n3. Promoting Industrial Waste Reduction at Source and Better Manufacturing Linkages\na) In 2014, the EPA visited 15 plants involved in metal finishing, textile dyeing and finishing or printed circuit boards, and improved at-source waste reduction technology through experience sharing. \nB) The EPA has reviewed the control standards and waste flow controls through every stage in the lifecycle of industrial waste: production, storage, recycling, clearance, disposal, reuse and final disposal regulated by the Waste Disposal Act. \nC) The EPA has convened meetings with the relevant central industry competent authorities and local environmental protection bureaus to discuss the concepts of sustainable materials management and a circular society. \n4. Visits to Overseas Waste Disposal Organizations \nIn accordance with the volume and category of waste exported to South Korea and Singapore for disposal, the EPA selected two disposal organizations in each nation to visit along with their environmental authorities in December 2014. The EPA also collected and analyzed the waste management and waste export regulations of South Korea and Singapore. In addition, disposal methods, pollution control facilities as well as categories and volumes of waste from Taiwan that were actually treated at the four visited disposal organizations were also collected and compiled.\nLooking to the Future\nIn the future, Taiwan intends to adopt the following approaches to managing the import, export, and transit of hazardous waste: \n1. The EPA will keep close track of the developments of the Basel Convention and transboundary waste transportation management in various nations. EPA delegates will attend Basel Convention meetings as representatives of non-governmental organizations and work to establish better communication channels with other nations. The EPA will also continue to regularly review its hazardous waste management measures to remain in step with international practices. \n2. The EPA will continue to enhance the inspection and management of hazardous industrial waste, including inspections of pollution prevention measures taken by importers and offering of guidance to enterprises contracted to clear and dispose of hazardous industrial waste. In addition, the EPA will continue to promote the application of industrial waste reduction and cleaner manufacturing technologies in order to assist enterprises in reducing industrial waste.\n3. The EPA is encouraging the development of resource recycling industries, which will help alleviate the problem of hazardous waste disposal by promoting the establishment of industrial waste disposal plants under the guidance and control of the authorities. The development of technologies for recycling and reusing industrial waste is also being encouraged, so as to minimize risks due to the transboundary movement of industrial waste.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Management of Disposal and Transboundary Movement of Hazardous Industrial Waste", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-08" }, { "no": "3321", "title": "Climate Change Exhibition Opens in Changhua", "preview": "Climate Change Climate Change Exhibition Opens in Changhua", "content": "Climate Change Exhibition Opens in Changhua\nOn 25 June 2015 the Leading to a Future of Our Choice: Climate Change Exhibition, created by the EPA, opened in Xizhou Park （溪州公園）, Changhua County（彰化縣）. EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei（魏國彥）, Changhua County Magistrate Ming-Ku Wei（魏明谷), legislators Ru-Fen Cheng（鄭汝芬）and Su-Yueh Chen（陳素月）, and a number of foreign diplomats were also on hand to set the ball rolling. The exhibition lasted 16 days – from 25 June to 10 July – and aimed to encourage the general public to act together to protect the global environment and move toward a sustainable low-carbon future.\nThe exhibition, held jointly by the EPA and Changhua County government, aimed to close the urban-rural gap and raise awareness and understanding of climate change among the public in central Taiwan. The exhibition had three main themes: scientific illustrations on climate change, achievements of local low-carbon initiatives, and achievements of low-carbon community programs. The exhibition used vivid illustrations with easy to understand text to bring to life scientific knowledge of climate change so that children and adults alike could enjoy learning about the topic. Interpreters were also available for pre-arranged groups, making it a well worthwhile day out for families and student environmental field trips.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Climate Change Exhibition Opens in Changhua", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-07" }, { "no": "3320", "title": "International Conference Held to Share Experiences on Climate Change Adaptation", "preview": "Climate Change International Conference Held to Share Experiences on Climate Change Adaptation\nFrom 29 to 30 of June the EPA held the “2015 International Symposium on Climate Change: Actions toward a Common Future.” The symposium participants included climate change officers and experts from Japan, Peru, Taiwan, Thailand, the US, Vietnam, and major international organizations and think tanks. Aside from delivering presentations, the invited guests also shared their respective actions and visions in coping with climate change. More than two hundred people gathered to express their concerns about the latest global trends in climate change mitigation and adaptation.", "content": "International Conference Held to Share Experiences on Climate Change Adaptation\nFrom 29 to 30 of June the EPA held the “2015 International Symposium on Climate Change: Actions toward a Common Future.” The symposium participants included climate change officers and experts from Japan, Peru, Taiwan, Thailand, the US, Vietnam, and major international organizations and think tanks. Aside from delivering presentations, the invited guests also shared their respective actions and visions in coping with climate change. More than two hundred people gathered to express their concerns about the latest global trends in climate change mitigation and adaptation. \nEPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei（魏國彥）pointed out at the symposium that extreme weather was a crisis confronting all nations and that 2015 is a critical juncture for cohesive and concerted global action. At this point many nations have consented to map out their INDCs. Minister Wei said that Taiwan is likewise in the process of formulating its own INDC, which is regarded as a positive response to the Lima Call for Climate Action. Just this summer, on 15 June 2015, the Legislative Yuan of Taiwan passed the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act （溫室氣體減量及管理法）, which, in essence, was not only a mark of Taiwan’s determination to partake in the global drive toward carbon emission reduction, but also established a legal basis for the actual implementation of climate change policy. \nMs. Viktoria Lovenberg, Deputy Head of the European Economic and Trade Office, extended her congratulations on the passage of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act in Taiwan, and said it was ample indication of Taiwan’s dedication to the reduction of greenhouse gases. As the European Union has long-term strategies in pursuing a low-carbon future, it is quite willing to share its experiences with Taiwan, she stated. Mr. Mandeep Singh Gill, Head of the Prosperity Section of the British Office Taipei, concurred with Minister Wei in that 2015 was an important year for the global fight against climate change. The British Office Taipei particularly welcomed Taiwan’s passage of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act at this time, as the United Nations looks toward an international agreement on climate change at the end of this year in Paris. Climate change is a very serious challenge requiring every nation to partake in its solution, he said, and Taiwan’s adoption of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act was a milestone in Taiwan’s response to climate change. He concluded by expressing hope that the UK and Taiwan could expand their opportunities for future cooperation in this respect.\nThe delegates commenced their talks with the topics of the Global Environment Facility and the promotion of the international carbon market, then went on to discuss strategies for low carbon development as well as issues related to planning and preparation of INDC. On its part, the EPA expounded on the development of Taiwan’s climate change policy, and introduced the management strategies and implementation measures in Taiwan’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act. The EPA’s presentation not only helped the participants better understand Taiwan’s response to climate change, but also drew many precious insights and approaches for Taiwan to learn from. Further details about the symposium and other related information are available at a website dedicated to the event, http:\/\/unfccc.saveoursky.org.tw\/2015iccc\/.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "International Conference Held to Share Experiences on Climate Change Adaptation", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-07" }, { "no": "3319", "title": "Partnership for Low-carbon Technology Development Established to Combat GlobalWarming", "preview": "Climate Change Partnership for Low-carbon Technology Development Established to Combat Global Warming \nOn 23 June in Taipei the EPA held the 2015 International Conference on Carbon Reduction Strategies: Partnership for Low-carbon Technologies Development. A number of foreign experts were in attendance, including representatives from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), Germany’s Federal Environment Agency, the US EPA, Japan’s Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES), and the Global Carbon Capture and Storage Institute (GCCSI). The experts discussed topics related to worldwide trends in carbon reduction strategies, the establishment of international carbon reduction partnerships, and the development and current applications of carbon reduction technologies. They also established the Partnership for Low-carbon Technologies Development (PLCTD), which opens a new chapter in the development of regional partnerships in greenhouse gas reduction technologies.", "content": "Partnership for Low-carbon Technology Development Established to Combat Global Warming \nOn 23 June in Taipei the EPA held the 2015 International Conference on Carbon Reduction Strategies: Partnership for Low-carbon Technologies Development. A number of foreign experts were in attendance, including representatives from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), Germany’s Federal Environment Agency, the US EPA, Japan’s Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES), and the Global Carbon Capture and Storage Institute (GCCSI). The experts discussed topics related to worldwide trends in carbon reduction strategies, the establishment of international carbon reduction partnerships, and the development and current applications of carbon reduction technologies. They also established the Partnership for Low-carbon Technologies Development (PLCTD), which opens a new chapter in the development of regional partnerships in greenhouse gas reduction technologies. \nIn this opening speech, EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei（魏國彥）spoke of the importance of Taiwan’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act （溫室氣體減量及管理法）being passed by the Legislative Yuan on 15 June 2015. Many of the delegates, including those from Australia, Germany, and the US, congratulated Taiwan for passing the act and expressed high expectations for Taiwan’s greenhouse gas reduction efforts in the future. The presentations began with a talk by Dr. Robert Dixon – the Team Leader of the GEF’s Climate Change and Chemicals team – who spoke about carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies, cooperation, and financing. He explained that CCS accounts for about 20% of global investment portfolios in global climate change mitigation and that the success of CCS is now critically dependent on international cooperation and public support. He also pointed out that the continuing development of CCS technologies in the current stage requires lower operating costs and international or regional financing to support more R&D. \nExperts from Germany, Japan and the US all reported on current trends in global carbon reduction strategies. Head of the German Emissions Trading Authority at Germany’s Federal Environment Agency, J?rgen Landgrebe, said carbon trading will be a major policy tool for Germany to reach its climate target of becoming carbon neutral by the year 2050 (reducing carbon by 95%). Germany has stated its willingness to share its many years of experience in carbon trading management and technologies to help Taiwan with capacity and knowledge-building. Dr. Victor K. Der, the former Acting Assistant Secretary for Fossil Energy at the US Department of Energy and Global CCS Institute’s General Manager for North America, spoke about the strategic development of low-carbon technologies in the US and described to the audience a number of actual cases. The Chairman of Japan’s IGES, Hideyuki Mori, gave the final presentation in which he described his country’s major climate change mitigation policies, including the low-carbon Yokohama Smart City Project being rolled out by the Yokohama municipal government and some of Japan’s biggest corporations. \nThe conference delegates all expressed their commitment to enhancing the development of low-carbon technologies and international partnerships. All the experts and representatives of international organizations – from Australia, Germany, Japan, the Philippines, the USA and Vietnam – signed the PLCTD, agreeing to strengthen greenhouse gas reduction strategies and knowledge sharing and to seek out international cooperation on low-carbon technologies.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Partnership for Low-carbon Technology Development Established to Combat Global Warming", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-07" }, { "no": "3318", "title": "Kao-Ping Area Air Pollutant Cap-and-trade System Takes Effect", "preview": "Air Kao-Ping Area Air Pollutant Cap-and-trade System Takes Effect \nTo safeguard public health on 30 June 201, the EPA and the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) jointly announced the implementation of the Kao-Ping （高屏）Area Air Pollutant Total Quantity Control Plan. The EPA is keen to point out that enforcing overall caps is a brand new way of tackling air pollution in Taiwan, one that combines economic incentives and pollutant reduction. Implementation of the plan will result in expediting the air quality improvement in the Kaohsiung-Pingtung （高雄、屏東）area.", "content": "Kao-Ping Area Air Pollutant Cap-and-trade System Takes Effect \nTo safeguard public health on 30 June 201, the EPA and the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) jointly announced the implementation of the Kao-Ping （高屏）Area Air Pollutant Total Quantity Control Plan. The EPA is keen to point out that enforcing overall caps is a brand new way of tackling air pollution in Taiwan, one that combines economic incentives and pollutant reduction. Implementation of the plan will result in expediting the air quality improvement in the Kaohsiung-Pingtung （高雄、屏東）area. \nThe first stage of the Kao-Ping Area Air Pollutant Total Quantity Control Plan will last for three years. Existing factories in the area will first be required to apply for approval of their emission volumes, which will then become the baselines of the total quantity control system. If a factory’s approved emissions exceed the threshold set by the EPA, it must reduce its emissions by 5% within three years. Implementation of the plan also means that operators of factories that are newly established or whose equipment modifications reach a certain scale, must offset their increased emissions before the factory can be fitted out. These measures will ensure that emissions of air pollutants will be gradually reduced once the caps are enforced. \nImplementation of the caps will see the introduction of a system for trading emission volumes. Any enterprise that is able to adopt specific measures that reduce its air pollutant emissions by more than the designated emission reduction target will be able to either keep the amount reduced as credit for future use or sell it through the trading system to a newly established enterprise. This approach will not only encourage existing factories to actively make reductions but will also assist in transforming the structure of industry in the Kao-Ping area. \nIn addition to enforcing the total air pollutants quantity control, the EPA will also be accelerating the implementation of having all diesel vehicles fitted with particulate filters, establishing clean air zones, eliminating 2-stroke motorcycles from streets, and subsidizing the purchase of new two-wheel electric vehicles to improve air quality of the Kao-Ping area in multiple ways.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Kao-Ping Area Air Pollutant Cap-and-trade System Takes Effect", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-07" }, { "no": "3317", "title": "Heavier Fines Drafted for Seriously Polluted Effluent and Bypass Discharge", "preview": "Water Heavier Fines Drafted for Seriously Polluted Effluent and Bypass Discharge\nOn 2 July 2015 the EPA pre-announced draft amendments to the Penalty Standards for Fines for Violations of the Water Pollution Control Act （違反水污染防治法罰鍰額度裁罰準則）that will result in major adjustments to the way fines are calculated. Total fines for violators will now be calculated by assigning points to factors, such as the type and severity of the violation, the nature of the affected water body, the size of the enterprise or wastewater treatment system, and the number of days given for improvement. The points will then be added together and multiplied by the current base penalty value to arrive at the total amount to be fined.", "content": "Water Heavier Fines Drafted for Seriously Polluted Effluent and Bypass Discharge\nOn 2 July 2015 the EPA pre-announced draft amendments to the Penalty Standards for Fines for Violations of the Water Pollution Control Act （違反水污染防治法罰鍰額度裁罰準則）that will result in major adjustments to the way fines are calculated. Total fines for violators will now be calculated by assigning points to factors, such as the type and severity of the violation, the nature of the affected water body, the size of the enterprise or wastewater treatment system, and the number of days given for improvement. The points will then be added together and multiplied by the current base penalty value to arrive at the total amount to be fined. \nThe latest amendments to the Water Pollution Control Act （水污染防治法） were announced on 4 February 2015. To deter enterprises from engaging in illegal activities, such as discharging heavily polluted effluent bypass discharge, illegally diluting effluent, treating wastewater with inadequate facilities, or not operating wastewater treatment facilities in a normal manner, the maximum penalty imposable has been raised to NT$20 million. The maximum fines for any other violation that leads to actual pollution have also been increased tenfold to deter future illegal acts. \nIn response to the much heavier fines and to provide competent authorities with legal benchmarks to assist them in levying fines in proportion to the offence, the EPA has formulated amendments to the Penalty Standards for Fines for Violations of the Water Pollution Control Act. In the past, fines were calculated on the basis of the size or type of the polluting enterprise, the degree to which the discharged effluent exceeded pollution control maximums, the violator’s history of offences, and the nature of the waterbody or land environment affected. The new amendments also assign penalty points to the type and severity of the violation, the nature of the affected water body, the size of the enterprise or the wastewater treatment system, and the number of days given for improvement. A table showing appropriate application of the penalty points has also been formulated. The points are then added together and multiplied by the current base penalty value to give the total amount to be levied. For cases in which effluent only slightly exceeds stated control maximums, the fines are comparable with those in the pre-amended penalty standards. However, for serious cases, such as when bypass discharge or effluent pollutants exceed stated maximums by more than fivefold, the fines will be greatly increased. \nThe penalty system is based upon the principle of encouraging legal activities while heavily penalizing violations, with the rationale that heavy penalties will help protect the environment and allow businesses to compete fairly.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Heavier Fines Drafted for Seriously Polluted Effluent and Bypass Discharge", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-07" }, { "no": "3316", "title": "Two Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations Amended", "preview": "EIA Two Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations Amended \nTo round out the environmental impact assessment (EIA) system and align it with domestic needs the EPA has amended the Environmental Impact Assessment Act Enforcement Rules（環境影響評估法施行細則）and has completed the tenth amendment to the Working Standards for Development Activity Environmental Impact Assessments（環境影響評估作業準則）, both coming into effect on 3 July 2015. The main reason for the amendments is to clarify procedures for public participation in the EIA and to enhance the quality of EIA statements and their subsequent review, which should lead to better implementation of review conclusions to the benefit of all.", "content": "EIA Two Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations Amended \nTo round out the environmental impact assessment (EIA) system and align it with domestic needs the EPA has amended the Environmental Impact Assessment Act Enforcement Rules（環境影響評估法施行細則）and has completed the tenth amendment to the Working Standards for Development Activity Environmental Impact Assessments（環境影響評估作業準則）, both coming into effect on 3 July 2015. The main reason for the amendments is to clarify procedures for public participation in the EIA and to enhance the quality of EIA statements and their subsequent review, which should lead to better implementation of review conclusions to the benefit of all.\nThe amendments primarily aim to increase public participation and make procedures more open so that communications become more effective, constructive, and reasonable. The EPA would also like to see continuous two-way communications in the EIA process. The amendments further stipulate that when developers are conducting environmental surveys, they should give priority to using data published by the government, which will both enhance assessment accuracy and reduce the time to complete surveys. As for developers that voluntarily go onto the second stage EIA, or that proceed in accordance with Attachment 2 in Article 19 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act Implementation Standards, the format of the statements submitted for the first stage EIA will also be revised to improve review efficiency. \nThe amendments to the Environmental Impact Assessment Act Enforcement Rules comprise the amendments to 23 articles and the adding of two attachments, all aimed at raising environmental assessment efficiency and strengthening dialog between the public and industry competent authorities. The main amendments are as follows:\n1. Clearly define the responsibilities of government agencies on EIA review and supervisory \nGovernment agencies’ responsibilities pertaining to EIA review and supervision are clearly laid out as a list. This is because the public has different understandings and opinions of the industry competent authorities and may otherwise get confused as to whether the local government or the EPA is responsible for review of the EIA of particular development projects. \n2. Strengthen the role played by industry competent authorities\nIn the past, during the first stage of EIA, the industry competent authority merely passed on the EIA statements to the environmental agencies for review. However, the review process usually brings out many disputed points that are non-environmental in nature and yet are still expected to be dealt with by the members of the review committee. This results in long delays and some issues being dealt with inadequately, thus attracting strong criticisms. The EPA has thus amended the current regulations to stipulate that henceforth, upon receiving EIA statements from developers, industry competent authorities should first clarify which of the disputed points do not involve environmental regulations that the EPA is in charge of, and said authorities should also provide clear explanations of their policy and suggestions for the project in question. The statements can then be sent to the environmental agency for review. \n3. Fulfill public participation and information transparency expectations\nThe amendments also include additional clarifications on how public hearings should be held, how EIA statements should be made accessible or disclosed by the developers, how the environmental competent authority should determine the scope of review meetings, and how the public hearings and site surveys should be conducted by industry competent authorities. The EPA will be asking all local governments to adopt the EPA’s EIA management standards so that all EIA review information, whether reviewed by central or local governments, is accessible and transparent. \n4. Add the criteria for entering the second stage EIA\nIn the past, a second stage EIA was only carried out if the review committee considered that the development project could have a major impact on the environment. However, in order that the EPA and local government review committees can work with the same set of standards, the EPA has added a list to the guidelines to clarify which types of developmental activity should be subject to a second stage EIA. In addition, developers that wish to voluntarily conduct a second stage EIA must commit in writing to do so before the review committee has announced its first stage review decisions. Put simply, the second stage EIA will be carried out based on review results, listing and voluntary actions.\n5. Add regulations governing modifications to EIA statements\nRegulations and procedures have been made more clear and detailed regarding reporting the modification to the competent authority for future reference, forms that compare original and modified EIA statements, as well as analysis reports on differing environmental impacts.\n6. Add principle of recusal for review committee members \nThe EIA review process should always be fair and objective, and so it is required to add the principle of recusal into the organic regulations of the EPA’s and the local governments’ EIA review committees.\n7. Enhance EIA regulations\nAn enhanced definition of “development permit” and its validity and recognition procedures have been added. Regulations governing items that should be included in the EIA statements and response measures have also been added.\nDetails of the above amendments to the two sets of regulations are available on the EPA website. Of these, amendments to Article 5-1, Article 11-1, and Article 12 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act Enforcement Rules will come into effect six months from the day of announcement; all other revisions came into effect immediately upon announcement. The EPA will simultaneously amend the Working Standards for Developmental Activity Environmental Impact Assessments in accordance with the amendments to the Environmental Impact Assessment Act Enforcement Rules.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "EIA", "titlename": "Two Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations Amended", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-07" }, { "no": "3315", "title": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Act Enforcement Rules Preannounced", "preview": "Water Amendments to Water Pollution Control Act Enforcement Rules Preannounced", "content": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Act Enforcement Rules Preannounced\nDue to amendments to the Water Pollution Control Act（水污染防治法） announced on 4 February 2015 and the collection of water pollution control fees beginning in October 2015 the EPA has made corresponding amendments to the Water Pollution Control Act Enforcement Rules（水污染防治法施行細則）. The amendments were preannounced on 3 July 2015. \nThe main objectives of the amendments to the enforcement rules are as follows:\n? To amend the responsibilities that the central and local governments have toward collecting water pollution control fees\n? To clarify what constitutes a criminal violation under Article 36 of the Water Pollution Control Act to facilitate local government law enforcement\n? To clarify what part of the sources for the Water Pollution Control Fund come from certain proportions of fines collected from violations of these enforcement rules\nAt present, water pollution fees are collected by the central government and yet most of the money is earmarked for local governments to spend on tasks associated with preventing water pollution. The EPA has thus amended Articles 3 and 4 of the enforcement rules to clarify that local governments have the responsibility to assist in water pollution fee auditing, exhorting the payers to pay due payments, penalizing violators, implementing compulsory enforcement, and planning, managing and conducting fund use.\nArticle 36 of the Water Pollution Control Act states that it is a criminal violation for enterprises to discharge into soil, groundwater or surface water wastewater that contains hazardous substances in excess of the maximums stated in the act. After close examination of the Criminal Code（刑法）and the Code of Criminal Procedure（刑事訴訟法）, the EPA amended the enforcement rules to clarify the definition of a criminal offence so that the EPA will not be inundated with cases in the future and burdened with time-consuming rounds of verdicts and appeals.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Act Enforcement Rules Preannounced", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-07" }, { "no": "3314", "title": "Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act Promulgated on 1 July 2015", "preview": "Climate Change Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act Promulgated on 1 July 2015", "content": "Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act Promulgated on 1 July 2015 \nOn 1 July 2015 the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act（溫室氣體減量及管理法）was officially promulgated. It provides the legal basis for combating climate change and marks the beginning of a new era in carbon reduction efforts in Taiwan. The act has been passed before a new global climate agreement is expected to be reached at the 21st session of the Conference of the Parties (COP21) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), to be held in Paris from 30 November to 11 December 2015. It is especially of significance that Taiwan demonstrates its determination to respond to global carbon reduction actions and to take on its duty to protect the environment. The act is the first law in Taiwan that clearly authorizes the government to respond to climate change. It stipulates Taiwan’s carbon reduction target for the year 2050 and also lays out control targets in five-year stages based on measures that include economic incentives. Taiwan intends to move away from a free permits system for carbon emissions to one based on pricing and cap-and-trade. Reduction, adaptation, and green economic growth will be the three main axles of Taiwan’s climate change response efforts. \nThe Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act is composed of 34 articles in six chapters. It clearly apportions responsibilities among central government agencies, and also has mechanisms for including non-governmental participation and hierarchies of responsibility. The act states that the Executive Yuan is charged with bringing together central government agencies, civic groups and experts to formulate and review the allocation, integration and promotion of tasks related to greenhouse gas reduction and climate change adaptation. The act names the EPA as the central competent authority in this regard, and charges it with formulating national climate change response action guidelines and programs to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Each of the central industry competent authorities are also responsible for drawing up their own greenhouse gas emissions action plans and establishing partnerships with local governments to jointly implement carbon reduction and climate change adaptation schemes. \nThe act’s phased control targets and regular review mechanism are based upon those in the UK’s Climate Change Act 2008. Other reduction management tools in the act – such as greenhouse gas inventory reporting, auditing management, efficiency standards, and cap mechanism – are all current international practices and in line with international trends. The act also covers the three emission reduction potentials suggested by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC): technology, economy, and society. In terms of technology, the act gives government agencies clearly-defined responsibilities to promote reduction strategies on raising energy efficiency, energy saving, and developing renewable energy. In terms of economic potential, the act lays out the scope for a cap-and-trade system and leaves the door open to the eventual establishment of carbon taxes. Socially, the act calls for strengthening education and promotional campaigns to bring about positive changes in individual consumption behaviors, lifestyles, and social structure. \nThe EPA has set up a webpage dedicated to the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act on its official website (http:\/\/www.epa.gov.tw\/mp.asp?mp=ghgact), which will be continually updated for the public to peruse information related to the act. The EPA also intends to hold a series of educational public meetings to help explain the content of the act and will improve communication with all stakeholders. The EPA will draw up regulations regarding inventory reporting and auditing management as soon as possible so that there is no disparity between the act requirements and the measures currently implemented under the Air Pollution Control Act（空氣污染防制法）. The EPA will then begin formulating implementation rules and other measures to enhance the enforcement of the act. Hard work is needed if Taiwan is to build a cost-effective low-carbon economy, which the EPA also hopes will be built using cost-effective approaches that are effective for climate change mitigation and adaptation.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "climate change", "titlename": "Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act Promulgated on 1 July 2015", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-07" }, { "no": "3313", "title": "Taiwan’s Advances in Sediment Management", "preview": "Water Taiwan’s Advances in Sediment Management", "content": "Taiwan’s Advances in Sediment Management \nTo safeguard the quality of the sediment at the bottom of water bodies and thus protect public health the EPA has included sediment management in the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act（土壤及地下水污染整治法）. Several subsidiary regulations also have been strictly enforced. However, sediment management and the associated legal infrastructure are still in their infancy in Taiwan. Thus the EPA is diligently improving the relevant legal framework. To improve sediment management, the EPA will focus on integrating and compiling all information collected by various ministries related to sediment along with sediment risk assessment capacity building. \nSediment quality is directly related to environmental and ecosystem protection. The Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act states that sediment quality is to be regularly monitored for four types of water bodies: rivers, lakes, reservoirs and drainage\/irrigation channels. Although allowing sediment to build up at the bottom of water bodies does not pose a direct threat to human health, the long-term accumulation in sediment of pollutants from industrial activity has the potential to harm human health, since pollutants can have a magnified impact as they pass into living organisms in the food chain. Suitable management of polluted sediment that could directly or indirectly affect the quality of freshwater food is thus necessary. \nIn the past, polluted sediments have posed threats of different degrees to human health in Taiwan. A survey of polluted sediments in irrigation channels showed that many local factories had discharged wastewater that entered directly into agricultural irrigation channels, and in addition, effluents from hidden pipes also drained into such channels, resulting in produce being contaminated through polluted sediment. In 2001, a major incident involving farmlands in Yunlin County（雲林縣） becoming contaminated with heavy metals from polluted sediments clearly demonstrated the need for sediment quality management. \nLegal framework for sediment management\nAmendments to Article 6 Paragraph 6 of the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act announced on 3 February 2010 added the formulating, classified management and restriction use of the sediment quality indicators. The EPA has since announced a series of regulations – such as the Regulations Governing Classified Management and Use Restrictions of Sediment Quality Indicators（底泥品質指標之分類管理及用途限制辦法） and the Regulations Governing Submitting Sediment Test Reports for the Reference of Industry Competent Authorities（目的事業主管機關檢測底泥備查作業辦法）– as well as administrative guidelines such as the Guidelines for Writing Assessment Reports for Sediment Environmental Impact, Health Risks, Techniques, and Economic Benefits (底泥之環境影響與健康風險、技術及經濟效益評估報告撰寫指引) and the Guidelines for Writing Sediment Remediation Plans (底泥整治計畫撰寫指引). In January 2014, the EPA also began requiring industry competent authorities to submit reports on testing they have conducted on water bodies under their jurisdiction. \nThe most important sediment management work is the establishment of sediment quality determination criteria. Since sediments of different water bodies have varying impacts upon the environment, sediment effects on human health and the ecosystem cannot be determined by a single set of benchmarks. The EPA therefore consulted sediment management strategies of more advanced nations to formulate a set of quality indicators for preliminary screening of polluted sites. If the screening indicates that sediment and organisms might be contaminated, further risk assessments will be applied to determine the pollution potential followed by drawing up a suitable management or remediation plan.\nAt present, sediment quality survey and related technologies in Taiwan are still in the early stages of development, whereas in the US and EU, sediment management strategies are far more advanced. For example, for a report for the US Congress, the US EPA spent a considerable amount of resources and manpower to collect about 4.6 million data entries from more than 50,000 sites during the 1980s and 1990s. The US EPA later used the data to establish a sediment quality screening methodology and sediment screening benchmarks. In contrast, as of June 2015, Taiwan had only accumulated approximately 20,000 sediment quality data entries. Thus, after referring to the experience and methodologies of advanced nations and incorporating local environmental data, the EPA formulated the Regulations Governing Classified Management and Use Restrictions of Sediment Quality Indicators. \nThe aforementioned regulations have three main components: items and benchmarks; classified management; and use restrictions of the sediment quality indicators. The indicator items include heavy metals, pesticides, and organic compounds such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), dioxins, and plasticizers. For classified management, the sediment quality is graded as one of three grades. The industry competent authority will determine the improving measures and restrictions to be implemented according to the sediment quality grade to ensure environmental safety.\nTo fully implement the above regulations, the EPA – as authorized by Article 6 Paragraph 7 of the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act – has formulated the Regulations Governing Submitting Sediment Test Reports for the Reference of Industry Competent Authorities. The regulations stipulate that industry competent authorities must conduct regular sediment quality testing in all of the water bodies within their jurisdictions at least once every five years, and must submit test reports from the previous year to the EPA by 31 March at the latest. \nSediment quality management strategies\nTo protect environmental quality and safeguard public health, the EPA is continuously implementing sustainable sediment quality management and developing technologies that fit local environmental characteristics. The EPA’s sediment management has two major priorities: \n1) Management \n? Building a comprehensive regulatory infrastructure for sediment management\n? Integrating sediment data obtained by various ministries\n2) Technology Development\nBuilding local capacities for sediment risk assessment and selection of remediation sites.\nImplemented sediment management measures \nA general introduction to the regulatory approach to building a comprehensive sediment management system has been mentioned above. Some of the more specific measures being taken include: \n1) Integrating sediment data obtained by various ministries\nIn the past, Taiwan’s sediment survey program lacked systematic survey data. Following the EPA’s announcement of the aforementioned regulations and administrative guidelines, industry competent authorities must now test and report on sediment quality every six months. This will lead to the gradual accumulation of data on domestic sediment quality. Through data categorization, reordering and reduction, the continuously updated data fed into policymaking support systems will give government agencies a better understanding of changes and trends in sediment qualities. Linked with other environmental monitoring data, the computer modeling of water bodies can support decisions regarding suitable times to remove sediment or to conduct other management measures that may pose a threat to public health with better administrative effectiveness. \n2) Local sediment remediation risk management capacity building\nThe EPA is currently rolling out its sediment pollution risk assessment platform that allows for input from experts in related disciplines and combines data on the physical and chemical composition of sediment; environmental, ecosystem, and public health risks; economic cost-benefit assessments; sediment remediation techniques; and data platform building. The sediment pollution platform has been established with the following objectives in mind: \na) Assist in the sustainable management of sediment and development of assessment, management and remediation technology \nb) Build a foundation for local capacity building \nc) Establish an international cooperation mechanism to promote exchanges for sediment-related technologies and management \nIn the future, the EPA will seek local and international cooperation in promoting exchanges on sediment-related technology in order to cultivate local research talent and accelerate domestic sediment research, with the hope that Taiwan can become a regional hub for sediment R&D. The EPA is also working with environmental enterprises to apply some of the promising research results in sediment remediation and risk assessment methodologies. The EPA believes that cooperation between government, industry, and academia is the most effective way to solve the problems of polluted sediment.\nExpected Benefits and Overall Outlook\nSince the amendments to the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act in 2010, the phase-in of additional regulations and working principles has rounded out Taiwan’s sediment management system. Pollution survey and assessment technologies have also been developed to meet the requirements of a more complex system. Regular sediment monitoring, which will begin in the near future, should also create a new market for related products and services. However, rapid growth will also create problems in terms of personnel capacity building and technology development and promotion, all of which need to be addressed by the EPA. The EPA expects that the goals of sustainable sediment management and developing local technology will be reached through the establishment of a sediment management system, developing pollution assessment related technology and personnel capacity building.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Taiwan s Advances in Sediment Management", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-07" }, { "no": "3290", "title": "International Environmental Partnership Celebrates First Anniversary with High Achievements", "preview": "International cooperation International Environmental Partnership Celebrates First Anniversary with High Achievements", "content": "International cooperation International Environmental Partnership Celebrates First Anniversary with High Achievements", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "international cooperation", "titlename": "International Environmental Partnership Celebrates First Anniversary with High Achievements", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-05" }, { "no": "3312", "title": "Lunbei Main Drainage Water Purification Facility Inaugurated on Hsinhuwei River", "preview": "Water Lunbei Main Drainage Water Purification Facility Inaugurated on Hsinhuwei River", "content": "Lunbei Main Drainage Water Purification Facility Inaugurated on Hsinhuwei River \nThe EPA subsidized the Yunlin County（雲林縣） Government to construct water purification facilities at the Lunbei （崙背）Main Drainage on Hsinhuwei River （新虎尾溪）. The construction was inaugurated on 6 June 2015 and marked a step forward in the task of remediating Hsinhuwei River. The EPA will continue to pay close attention to the remediation of Yunlin’s rivers and work closely with the Yunlin government so that local residents can enjoy good quality river environments. \nHsinhuwei River is 49.8 km long and most of its water comes from Jhuoshuei River （濁水溪）. The Lunbei Main Drainage accounts for 13.6% of the pollution that passes into Hsinhuwei River. Effluent from a number of piggeries and various factories in the catchment area have caused sections of the river to be categorized as medium or even heavily polluted. In 2013 the EPA approved a subsidy of NT$48.78 million to Yunlin County Government for water purification works at the Lunbei Main Drainage on Hsinhuwei River which resulted in a gravel contact oxidation facility being constructed. This facility now treats 5,500 tonnes of wastewater per day, removing 154 kg of suspended solids and 69 kg of ammonia nitrogen, and reducing biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) by 115 kg, from the water daily. Since operations began, there has been a noticeable improvement in water quality in downstream sections of Hsinhuwei River.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Water Lunbei Main Drainage Water Purification Facility Inaugurated on Hsinhuwei River", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-06" }, { "no": "3311", "title": "Environmental Education E-Books Available Online", "preview": "Environmental Education Environmental Education E-Books Available Online", "content": "Environmental Education E-Books Available Online\nEnvironmental education ebooks published to mark the ongoing cooperation between the EPA and the National Library of Public Information, are now officially available online. As of the end of 2014, 32 complete books on subjects related to environmental education have been published by the EPA, covering topics such as air, water, waste, toxic chemicals, and environmental sanitation. The EPA invited the National Library of Public Information to create digital versions of these books and make them available on their ebook service platform for perusal by experts and scholars, students in tertiary education, and members of the public who have an interest in environmental protection. \nThe ebook service platform works in a similar way to a physical library. Each ebook can only be checked out to a limited number of readers at one time, and so if the ebook is not available the next borrower must wait for one to be returned. When the book expires, the platform will automatically return it to the library free of charge. The platform supports personal computers, tablets, and cellphones, and the quick and easy downloading allows the ebooks to be read almost immediately. There are six ways that ebooks can be borrowed through the platform and so users can choose the reading mode that suits them best and download books anywhere, anytime without having to worry about fines for overdue books. More details on borrowing, reading, and returning ebooks can be found on the National Library of Public Information website http:\/\/ebook.nlpi.edu.tw\/mp.asp?mp=1.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Environmental Education E-Books Available Online", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-06" }, { "no": "3310", "title": "Amendments to the Best Available Control Technology for Stationary Sources of Air Pollution Announced", "preview": "Air Amendments to the Best Available Control Technology for Stationary Sources of Air Pollution Announced", "content": "Amendments to the Best Available Control Technology for Stationary Sources of Air Pollution Announced\nTo effectively control air pollution in Class 3 control regions as well as the emissions of new or altered stationary sources whose emissions fail to meet standards in total quantity control zones, the EPA has reviewed and amended the Best Available Control Technology for Stationary Sources of Air Pollution. Amendments were announced on 26 May 2015, the main points of which are as follows: \n1. New air pollution control technologies and requirements for seven industries or commercially operated manufacturing processes including the power industry, the glass industry and wastewater treatment plants for petrochemical manufacturing were added. \n2. Requirements for seven manufacturing processes including steel sintering and arc furnace refinery were amended. \n3. Regulations on control technologies for the optoelectronics industry and storage yards were added. \n4. Flare towers were deleted as being a best available control technology for the petrochemical industry. \nWith the amendments in place, the EPA expects that the emission growth from newly established sources will be greatly reduced in the Class 3 control regions, and that the newly established sources will be required to adopt better control technologies to reduce air pollutants. For instance, to meet the criteria for the best available air pollution control technology for the power industry, the emission concentration of sulfur oxides have to drop to 25 ppm instead of the current 50 ppm, or the reduction rate has to reach 96% instead of the current 90%, a sharp 50% reduction in emissions. The EPA will continue to review the relevant control technologies for air pollutants in the future and adopt a rolling type evaluation process to amend its regulations on the best available control technologies. Detailed information about the current amendment can be accessed at the EPA website http:\/\/ivy5.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Amendments to the Best Available Control Technology for Stationary Sources of Air Pollution Announced", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-06" }, { "no": "3309", "title": "Promotional Campaign Launched for Chemical Safety on Campuses", "preview": "Toxic Substance Promotional Campaign Launched for Chemical Safety on Campuses", "content": "Promotional Campaign Launched for Chemical Safety on Campuses\nTo construct a toxin-free healthy living environment, the EPA collaborated with the Ministry of Education (MOE) to organize a series of campus events promoting chemical safety. The campaign aims to strengthen the safety and management of laboratories on university campuses by integrating knowledge of chemical substances and disaster prevention into lively teaching materials, and to deepen learners’ impressions through simulations and interactions. This campaign runs from May to November 2015 and will visit 20 universities in Taiwan. \nAlthough chemical substances bring convenience to people’s lives, knowledge of their safe use needs to be further strengthened. Universities normally use a smaller amount of toxic chemicals, but chemical substances come in great assortments and students are inexperienced in handling them. As a result, improper handling can wreak havoc and lead to environmental pollution. To strengthen response capability from the very source and reduce the risk of accidents, the EPA collaborated with the MOE to map out this year’s promotional program. The program includes an indoor and outdoor curriculum, coupled with drill exercises, lectures, training sessions, and so on. Well-trained professionals will visit campuses, and through case studies, film viewings, interactive games, emergency response equipment displays, outdoor simulations, and pamphlet distribution, will impart to students accurate and practical knowledge on the prevention of toxic chemical incidents. \nA total of 20 universities were selected to participate in the activity: nine in northern, six in central, and five in southern Taiwan. The participation of these universities not only will serve as models for campus promotions, but also encourage laboratory personnel to use toxic chemicals safely. Moreover, this promotional activity can raise the awareness of students and the general public regarding the hazards of toxic chemicals, reinforce the concepts and consensus for campus disaster prevention, and help improve overall campus environmental safety. The EPA expects that more than 2,000 people will attend this series of events. The kick-off activity was launched on 27 May 2015 at Fu Jen Catholic University and was attended by 250 participants from the EPA, the MOE, universities that are located in New Taipei City and industrial members of the toxic chemical substance accident joint prevention organizations.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Promotional Campaign Launched for Chemical Safety on Campuses", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-06" }, { "no": "3308", "title": "Licensed Operator Caught Treating Waste Illegally", "preview": "Waste Licensed Operator Caught Treating Waste Illegally", "content": "Licensed Operator Caught Treating Waste Illegally\nThe EPA’s Northern Branch of the Bureau of Environmental Inspection the New Taipei City Environmental Protection Bureau, the New Taipei District Prosecutor’s Office and the police recently uncovered a case of a licensed waste clearance operator who illegally treated waste mixed metals. A number of offenders were arrested in the act, and production and clearance equipment were confiscated. All those involved in the violation have been transferred for juridical investigation. \nOn 12 May 2015, a joint raid was conducted involving the EPA’s Northern Branch of the Bureau of Environmental Inspection, the Criminal Investigation Corps, the Luzhou Precinct of the New Taipei Police Department, and the New Taipei City Environmental Protection Bureau (EPB), under the command of New Taipei District Prosecutor’s Office. The raid uncovered an illegal disposal site in Linkou (林口), New Taipei City. The inspectors found that the operator – who had a class 2 waste clearance license – was accepting waste such as printed circuit boards, waste electronic parts and components, waste cables and wires and was illegally crushing, pulverizing, disassembling, and vibration washing and filtering to recover the mixed metals. The inspectors also discovered nearly 100 sacks of industrial sludge believed to contain copper that were lying outdoors on a slope near the plant. Industrial wastewater from the plant’s operations was also being willfully discharged into nearby surface water bodies, thus having a direct and indirect impact upon the surrounding environment. \nThree violators were caught in the act at the scene and 24 pieces of production and cleaning machines were confiscated. All of the people suspected of illegal acts were taken away by the Criminal Investigation Corps of New Taipei City Police Department for questioning on record. They were then charged with violating Article 14 of the Water Pollution Control Act and with criminal acts under Articles 41 and 46 of the Waste Disposal Act, then handed over to the New Taipei District Prosecutor’s Office for investigation. \nThe EPA stresses that it will continue to work closely and tirelessly with police and prosecutors in chasing down operators that illegally handle waste, and all other businesses that break environmental laws. The EPA-police-prosecutor joint raid regime will definitely not be halted, and environmental criminals should expect to continue to feel the full force of the law bearing down on them. Enterprises should thus ensure that they dispose of waste and treat wastewater produced in their manufacturing processes appropriately to stay on the right side of the law.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Licensed Operator Caught Treating Waste Illegally", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-06" }, { "no": "3307", "title": "Amendments to Waste Container Recycling Fee Rates Preannounced", "preview": "Recycling Amendments to Waste Container Recycling Fee Rates Preannounced", "content": "Amendments to Waste Container Recycling Fee Rates Preannounced", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Amendments to Waste Container Recycling Fee Rates Preannounced", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-06" }, { "no": "3306", "title": "EPA Publishes Results of First Seabed Waste Survey", "preview": "Water EPA Publishes Results of First Seabed Waste Survey", "content": "EPA Publishes Results of First Seabed Waste Survey\nBetween March and May 2015 the EPA conducted marine waste clean-up and disposal surveys at six ports that it had selected. The survey results showed that the main sources of marine waste are from the land, with waste being carried downstream by rivers or solid objects being thrown into the sea from the coast. The most common item was metal cans, followed by plastic bags, plastic bottles, and glass jars. \nWith the arrival of summer, coastal areas become popular destinations for people to go for leisure activities or just to cool off. To maintain the quality of beaches, environmental agencies and citizen groups have led the way in coastal cleanups. In addition to coastal waste, seabed waste and related issues such as its distribution, sources and environmental impacts also need to be investigated and tackled. To this end, the EPA implemented its Taiwan Marine Territory Waste Clearance and Disposal Survey Plan. \nThe large majority of marine waste comes from land-based sources, with waste being carried downstream by rivers or solid objects being thrown into the sea from along coastlines. In 2013, an EU marine waste research project used trawling nets to gather waste from the seabed of the eastern Mediterranean and the Black Sea. A total of 5,398 items were brought up by the nets, of which nearly half (49.6%) were plastic items, 8.7-22% were metal items, and 6-22% were glass or ceramic containers. Analysis revealed that plastic bags comprised 50% of the plastic waste, plastic bottles 17.5%, plastic film 13.5%, and fishing line and nets that were discarded by fishermen, 6.7%.\nIn 2014, Kenting National Park Headquarters（墾丁國家公園管理處）completed a clean-up of some sites in and around the park including Houbi Lake（後壁湖）, a nearby lagoon, the Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant water intake channel, and the eastern side of Nanwan Vision Stone (南灣眺石). The seabed waste recovered was 70% composed of fishing lines and nets, with plastic bags and metal cans each accounting for 10%. \nTo better understand the current seabed waste situation around Taiwan, from 22 March to 19 May 2015 the EPA selected six of Taiwan’s ports, river estuaries and areas with prominent cliffs in which to conduct the Taiwan Marine Territory Waste Clearance and Disposal Survey Plan. The surveys were carried out by teams of two divers each at Anping Port in Tainan （臺南安平港）, Beinan River （卑南溪） estuary, Lanyang River （蘭陽溪） estuary, Tamshui River （淡水河） estuary, Nanwan at Kenting （墾丁南灣）, and Jialeshui （佳樂水）, within a 10,000 m2 area of sea approximately 300 m from the coast. \nOverall, the seabed waste survey\/clean-up resulted in 24 items weighing a total of 17 kg being recovered. Among them, metal cans were the most common item, with a total of 11 collected. Other common items included plastic bags and bottles, and glass bottles and jars. Larger items such as waste tires, fishing nets and rubber tubes were also recovered.\nThe results of the surveys conducted at Anping Port, Beinan River estuary, Lanyang River estuary, and Tamshui River estuary showed there were no large amounts of trash on the seabed in and around these areas. This may be because the area surveyed at Anping does not see many visitors, while large waves often wash over the Beinan River, Lanyang River and Tamshui River estuary survey sites. In addition, the sandy seabeds of these sites also make it easier for the trash to be carried onto the shore by local currents. In contrast, at Kenting Nanwan and Jialeshui, coral reefs are prominent geological features and larger items such as used fishing nets, rubber tubing, and tires get caught on the jagged coral reefs. Of these, used fishing nets can end up spread out over a wide area of coral reef and pose a more serious threat to local ecosystems. \nThrough implementing the marine waste clearance and survey project, the EPA has been able to gain a preliminary overview of the seabed waste situation for the various types of seabed environments around Taiwan. As most marine waste originates inland or because of improper disposal in coastal areas, the EPA will continue to promote at-source management and waste reduction, and is also planning to subsidize local governments to carry out seabed clean-ups in 2016.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "EPA Publishes Results of First Seabed Waste Survey", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-06" }, { "no": "3305", "title": "Interministerial Control of Endocrine Disruptors Enters Sixth Year with Excellent Results", "preview": "Toxic Substance Interministerial Control of Endocrine Disruptors Enters Sixth Year with Excellent Results", "content": "Interministerial Control of Endocrine Disruptors Enters Sixth Year with Excellent Results\nEndocrine disruptors are distributed widely in many forms and they are impossible to be controlled with a single regulation or by a single government agency. In 2000 the EPA formulated its interministerial Endocrine Disruptor Management Plan, which allocates tasks for each ministry to carry out within its jurisdiction. The EPA will continue to work together with other ministries to implement the Endocrine Disruptor Management Plan, which provides for the continuous monitoring and control of such chemical substances, reviewing and strengthening related regulations, random testing of products, and public education. \nEndocrine disruptors can easily enter the human body through contact with the skin or ingestion. They have the ability to disrupt the human endocrine system and interfere with bio-regulatory processes. To protect public health from the threats posed by endocrine disruptors, in 2009 the Executive Yuan’s Consumer Protection Committee designated the EPA as the government agency responsible for overseeing the management of endocrine disruptors. In 2000, the EPA formulated its interministerial Endocrine Disruptor Management Plan to provide for the continuous monitoring of these chemical substances, and the control of their use and discharge into the environment. Part of the plan also calls for raising the quality of Green Building Materials and ensuring that retail consumer products meet national standards, in order to minimize the risk of people being exposed to endocrine disruptors. \nBecause they are distributed in many forms, endocrine disruptors are impossible to control with a single regulation or by a single government agency, either in Taiwan or overseas. Tasks that each ministry can carry out within their jurisdiction are allocated under the Endocrine Disruptor Management Plan. For example, the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) has authority over endocrine disruptors in food, food containers, and medical instruments; the Council of Agriculture (COA) controls pesticides, livestock feed, and agricultural products; the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) oversees commercial products in general; the Ministry of the Interior (MOI) controls construction materials; the Ministry of Finance controls hygiene standards for alcoholic beverages; and the EPA has authority over environmental agents, drinking water, and indoor air quality. All of the aforementioned ministries actively enforce the relevant regulations, educate the public on appropriate product use, and undertake random testing of products to ensure that they are safe to use.\nAs for controlling the use of endocrine-disrupting plasticizers, the MOHW has already formulated the Sanitation Standards for Food Utensils, Containers and Packaging that limits the residual amounts of lead, cadmium, and plasticizers permissible in plastic food containers. The MOEA’s Bureau of Standards, Metrology and Inspection has announced a list of tests that should be carried out on toys, as well as safety standards for children’s toys that limits the total amount of eight types of phthalate esters – di (2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), di-n-octyl phthalate (DNOP), benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP), diisononyl phthalate (DINP), diisodecyl phthalate (DIDP), diethyl phthalate (DEP), dimethyl phthalate (DMP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP) – and associated compounds to 0.1% w\/w. The EPA has also declared 26 types of phthalate esters (including DEHP) to be toxic chemical substances as defined by the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act. Nine of these phthalate esters are listed as Category 1 or Category 2 toxic chemicals, while 17 of them are in Category 4. Plasticizer maximums have also been added to the EPA’s eco-labeling standards.\nAs for environmental monitoring and testing, the EPA has conducted surveys of the distribution of phthalate esters and other endocrine disruptors in and around major rivers and has also conducted random testing of eco-labeled products. Testing agencies approved by the MOI carry out random testing for heavy metals and phthalate esters (plasticizers) in green building materials every three months. The MOEA also has a similar inspection and testing plan that targets retail products such as handheld lanterns, inflatable toys, rubber bands for DIY weaving, erasers, pencils with erasers, colored book protectors, drawing and coloring products, and children’s rainwear and rain boots. \nIn addition to the continuous implementation of the interministerial Endocrine Disruptor Management Plan, the EPA stressed that manufacturers should also fulfill their corporate social responsibilities, comply with the regulations and do their part to protect the environment and safeguard human health.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Interministerial Control of Endocrine Disruptors Enters Sixth Year with Excellent Results", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-06" }, { "no": "3304", "title": "Cherish the Earth and Consume with Care to Celebrate World Environment Day", "preview": "Environmental Education Cherish the Earth and Consume with Care to Celebrate World Environment Day", "content": "Cherish the Earth and Consume with Care to Celebrate World Environment Day \nTo echo the United Nations Environment Programme’s 2015 World Environment Day event on 30 May 2015 EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei（魏國彥）, the Magistrate of Yilan County （宜蘭縣） Tsung-Hsien Lin（林聰賢）, and legislators Chiu-chin Tien（田秋堇） and Ou-Po Chen （陳歐珀）arrived together at Neicheng Community（內城社區）in Yilan County to participate in the Cherish the Earth and Living a Green Life in Yilan event. As a part of the activities they all left a handprint symbolizing their pledge to “Cherish the Earth and Consume with Care.” Minister Wei took the opportunity to urge the public to think carefully about their consumption choices and to manage resources appropriately so that our resources can be used sustainably.\nMinister Wei pointed out at the event that the UN’s theme for 2015 World Environment Day was \"Seven Billion Dreams, One Planet, Consume with Care.\" He said that we only have one Earth but humankind is using resources excessively. He hoped that everyone could think a little more about their consumption choices to avoid creating more trash. He also said that natural resources such as water and air should be cherished more. \nDuring the event Minister Wei, Magistrate Lin, and local residents who participated in the event walked along the mountain path around the 100-year old canal to gain a greater understanding of how the residents of Neicheng Community protect resources and engage in traditional farming. The participants were also treated to a traditional meal prepared by local grandmothers to give them a taste of village culture. \nTaiwan is currently going through its worst drought in nearly a decade: twelve counties and cities have declared varying degrees of water restrictions, and irrigation for 43,000 hectares of farmland has been halted. The EPA hopes that the World Environment Day event will serve to remind people that natural resources are finite and will be depleted if they are not cherished. To prevent squandering of resources, each and every one of us should consume with care, which in itself is a form of environmental protection. Only through the combined efforts of all residents can the environment of Taiwan be protected.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Cherish the Earth and Consume with Care to Celebrate World Environment Day", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-06" }, { "no": "3303", "title": "Scientific Applications for Marine Pollution Control and Emergency Response", "preview": "Water Scientific Applications for Marine Pollution Control and Emergency Response", "content": "Scientific Applications for Marine Pollution Control and Emergency Response", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Scientific Applications for Marine Pollution Control and Emergency Response", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-06" }, { "no": "3302", "title": "EPA Commends Cities and Counties with Outstanding 2014 Remediation Achievements", "preview": "Soil & groundwater EPA Commends Cities and Counties with Outstanding 2014 Remediation Achievements", "content": "EPA Commends Cities and Counties with Outstanding 2014 Remediation Achievements \nThe EPA organized an award ceremony and site tour for Environmental Protection Bureaus with outstanding remediation performance in 2014. Minister Kuo-Yen Wei personally attended the ceremony and publicly commended the winners. \nTo evaluate the performance of local governments in soil and groundwater pollution remediation all 22 cities and counties in the nation were divided into three groups in accordance with their industrial profiles and business priorities and then evaluated accordingly. Of these, Kaohsiung City（高雄市）, Yilan County（宜蘭縣） and Taipei City（臺北市）were rated as “Excellent” in their performance, while New Taipei City（新北市）, Taoyuan City（桃園市）, Tainan City（臺南市）, Hsinchu County（新竹縣）, Chiayi County（嘉義縣）, Pingtung County（屏東縣）, Keelung City（基隆市）, Chiayi City（嘉義市） and Hualien County（花蓮縣） were rated as “Good.”", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil & groundwater", "titlename": "EPA Commends Cities and Counties with Outstanding 2014 Remediation Achievements", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-05" }, { "no": "3301", "title": "Operating Principles for Greenhouse Gas Analysis and Auditing Organizations Promulgated", "preview": "Climate change Operating Principles for Greenhouse Gas Analysis and Auditing Organizations Promulgated", "content": "Operating Principles for Greenhouse Gas Analysis and Auditing Organizations Promulgated", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate change", "titlename": "Operating Principles for Greenhouse Gas Analysis and Auditing Organizations Promulgated", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-05" }, { "no": "3300", "title": "Revisions to Control Thresholds for Stationary Air Pollution Sources Preannounced", "preview": "Air Revisions to Control Thresholds for Stationary Air Pollution Sources Preannounced", "content": "Revisions to Control Thresholds for Stationary Air Pollution Sources Preannounced\nTo continue improving air quality the EPA has reviewed the control thresholds of air pollutants and formulated amendments to reduce emissions of various air pollutants and fine particulate matters (PM2.5). The amendments took into consideration the current state of domestic air pollutant emissions along with analyses of economically viable and available technologies to arrive at reasonably lowered thresholds for emission volumes of newly established pollution sources. \nAs per the EPA, the main thrust of the draft amendments are to reduce the yearly allowable emission volume of particulate matters from 15 tons to 10 tons, sulfur oxides from 60 tons to 40 tons, nitrogen oxides from 40 tons to 25 tons, and volatile organic compounds from 30 tons to 10 tons. Once the amendments take effect, sources of 80% of the nation’s emissions will be controlled instead of the current 60%. The EPA hopes the amendments will push enterprises to consolidate their efforts on air pollutant reduction.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Revisions to Control Thresholds for Stationary Air Pollution Sources Preannounced", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-05" }, { "no": "3299", "title": "2015 Committee Meeting for Global Environmental Education Partnership Held in Taipei", "preview": "Environmental Education 2015 Committee Meeting for Global Environmental Education Partnership Held in Taipei", "content": "2015 Committee Meeting for Global Environmental Education Partnership Held in Taipei\nThe 2015 committee meeting for the Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP) was held by the EPA from 23-24 April in Taipei. The meeting was an opportunity for Taiwan and the US to work with their Asia Pacific partners toward further cooperation over promoting environmental education. The meeting was attended by environmental education experts and officials who shared their own experiences and successes in the field. The committee members also expressed their commitment to further cooperation to expedite the tasks of planning, promoting, nd implementing environmental education worldwide. ts, the government officials came from Japan, Taiwan, the US and Vietnam. Representatives of two major civil organizations, the North American Association for Environmental Education and the US National Wildlife Federation, were the other members of the GEEP committee in attendance. The meeting resulted in further steps being taken toward the formation of a task force, and in the clarification of the roles, responsibilities, and targets of the GEEP. The gathering also better enabled partner nations to formulate feasible and practical measures for the future. The delegates expressed the hope that their successful experiences in environmental education could lead to stronger regional cooperative ties in the field and be replicated all over the world, with the aim of raising environmental awareness.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "2015 Committee Meeting for Global Environmental Education Partnership Held in Taipei", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-05" }, { "no": "3298", "title": "Taiwan and US Hold Zero Waste Roundtable", "preview": "Waste Taiwan and US Hold Zero Waste Roundtable", "content": "Taiwan and US Hold Zero Waste Roundtable \nSince 2014 Taiwan and the US have been promoting the International Environmental Partnership (IEP) that acts as a platform through which Taiwan can share its successful experiences in the field of environmental protection with other nations. As a part of the partnership, on 23 April 2015 the EPA held the Zero Waste Roundtable to cement a consensus on future exchanges and facilitate cooperation between the two sides as they strive towards resource recycling and zero waste. \nEnvironmental concepts are gradually gaining ground worldwide and the demand for green manufacturing and consumption is rising correspondingly. Business models based on zero waste and sustainable development have already been adopted by many corporations to enhance their competitiveness. The Zero Waste Roundtable was thus well attended by representatives from Taiwan’s government, industry, and academia, as well as by Jane Nishida, the US EPA's Acting Deputy Assistant Administrator for International & Tribal Affairs, and Jared Blumenfeld, Administrator of US EPA Region 9. Persons of note from Taiwan included Professor Hwong-wen Ma （馬鴻文）from National Taiwan University（臺灣大學）, Associate Professor Chi-Feng Chen （陳起鳳）from Chinese Culture University（文化大學）, President Chung-Ren Chen（陳重仁）of the Taiwan Green Collar Association（台灣綠領協會）, Managing Director Engleong Goh （吳永亮）of BASF Taiwan, President Wang-Ping Ko （葛望平） of O’right （歐萊德公司）, and Director Ying-Bin Lu （呂穎彬） of the Green Energy and Environment Research Laboratories at the Industrial Technology Research Institute（工業技術研究院）. In addition to sharing zero waste approaches and achievments in Taiwan and the US, the delegates also exchanged views on forward-looking policies encompassing sustainable materials management and Cradle to Cradle design. \nOne of the topics discussed at the roundtable was Taiwan’s disposal of sludge and construction and demolition waste. The delegates agreed that more effort should be put into making such waste and similar resources reusable through ecological or industrial recycling in order to move toward the target of zero waste. The American delegates suggested that zero waste can be facilitated through scientific analysis and public education to help manufacturers and retailers gain a full understanding of how recycling processes work and how they can reduce waste at source, which will also increase their profits by reducing costs. The roundtable was also an opportunity for both sides to share waste management information, accelerate green technology exchanges and build new channels for cooperation.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Taiwan and US Hold Zero Waste Roundtable", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-05" }, { "no": "3297", "title": "Winners of the 2015 Environmental Care Design Contest Announced", "preview": "Environmental Education Winners of the 2015 Environmental Care Design Contest Announced", "content": "Winners of the 2015 Environmental Care Design Contest Announced\nThe EPA announced the winners of the 2015 Environmental Care Design Contest on 22 April 2015. The winning entries will enter Denmark’s Index: Award 2015. The EPA will also subsidize the top three winners to go to Denmark to share Taiwan’s experience in environmental design. \nThe theme of the 2015 Environmental Care Design Challenges for Sustainability, was closely related to that of the global Index: Award 2015, Design to Improve Life. In organizing this contest, the EPA aimed to let the participants cultivate an international outlook and converge with international trends. Altogether, there were 515 contest entries in the areas of industrial design, visual design and architectural design, of which 20 entries were selected as winners. The Taiwan EPA will nominate these winners to enter Denmark’s Index: Award 2015 international competition to promote international exchange and to further improve Taiwan’s achievements in innovative environmental education. \nThe first three winning entries were: Urban green energy recycling station, Hemisphere retaining wall drainage, and the Lighting hill—creative tour with self-generating lighting system. Five other pieces were recognized with an outstanding award. The first prize winner, the Urban green energy recycling station, created a self-sufficient energy symbiotic station by systematic planning of environmental factors and natural resources. It also proposed a new style of electricity generation by combining a vitality symbiotic system to bring together a floral market, a fair and a park to create a new living culture and space to satisfy urban residents’ need for a green lifestyle. \nTo expand the influence of the contest, the EPA also established an Internet platform through which online voting could be conducted, thus providing the general public a chance to participate in the event. A total of 153,829 people voted in i-voting to select the top three Internet Popularity Award winners. In addition, raffle prizes were drawn to pick out 30 lucky i-voters for their participation. \nThe EPA hopes that, through the joint participation of the general public, the promotion of environmental education can be more than just the cultivation of the concepts of environmental care. Moreover, by harboring the concept of sustainability and adopting multidisciplinary and comprehensive thinking, the public can meet local difficulties and global challenges brought about by climate chang", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Winners of the 2015 Environmental Care Design Contest Announced", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-05" }, { "no": "3296", "title": "Remediation Fund Research Projects Reach a New High in 2015", "preview": "Soil & Groundwater Remediation Fund Research Projects Reach a New High in 2015", "content": "Remediation Fund Research Projects Reach a New High in 2015\nIn 2015 the EPA continues to subsidize academic research bodies that are conducting soil and groundwater remediation research and a pilot study to encourage related R&D. Among the total of 53 proposals received for 2015, the EPA granted funding to 31 of them, the most ever to be Sapproved. \nince 2010 the EPA has been subsidizing academic research bodies to conduct soil and groundwater remediation research and pilot studies. Over the past four years 90 projects have been subsidized, including 70 research projects and 20 pilot studies. These projects are divided into four major categories: 21 investigation projects, 43 remediation projects, 7 evaluation projects and 19 projects on sediment. The total amount of the subsidies reached NT$110 million. The technology developed included the screening for oil leaks by laser-induced fluorescence, environmental forensics technology, bioremediation technology and electrokinetic remediation technology. The funded projects also studied environmental liability insurance mechanisms, emerging pollutants, and bioavailabilities of sediment-associated pollutants. \nThe subsidized research projects have yielded fruitful results, with 29 articles published in international journals and 18 patents being applied for or granted. One of the technologies developed has already been successfully transferred to industry, with another three cases being discussed with commercial enterprises. \nThe EPA is hopeful that 2015 will see a continuation of the excellent achievements of the previous years, and is keen to encourage other academic research bodies to participate. After a careful evaluation of the 53 proposals received this year, the EPA granted funding to 31 of them, the most ever approved in a single year. The EPA hopes that the open call for proposals will lead to more experts and academics joining in the research to further advance Taiwan’s soil and groundwater remediation technology.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil & Groundwater", "titlename": "Remediation Fund Research Projects Reach a New High in 2015", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-05" }, { "no": "3295", "title": "Urban Mining Creates Economic Value", "preview": "Waste Urban Mining Creates Economic Value", "content": "Urban Mining Creates Economic Value \nTo obtain 220 kg of gold 150,000 tonnes of ore must be mined and smelted. In contrast, extracting the same amount of gold from recycled cellphones would require processing only about 600 tonnes of the used devices, 250 times less the mass of raw ore required. Considering that electronic waste is increasing by 4~5% annually worldwide and that a comprehensive recycling system has been established in Taiwan, coping with the continuous growth of e-waste by recovering rare metals will bring great economic benefits. \nAccording to United Nations University statistics, the total weight of e-waste produced globally in 2014 was 41.8 million tonnes. This figure is increasing by 4~5% annually, and will reach an estimated 49.8 million tonnes by 2018. As e-waste contains heavy metals such as mercury, cadmium, and chromium, and other toxic chemicals such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and flame retardants, it must be treated carefully. However, the abundance of valuable resources in this type of waste means huge economic benefits can be reaped by recycling it effectively. The amount of global e-waste for 2014 will have contained NT$1.6 trillion worth of valuable recyclable materials including 300 tonnes of gold, 1,000 tonnes of silver, 100 tonnes of palladium, as well as copper, iron, aluminum, and plastics. \nTaiwan has formulated well-developed laws and regulations pertaining to recycling, beginning in 1997 with the 4-in-1 Resource Recycling Plan that integrated local communities, recyclers, local governments, and the Resource Recycling Fund into a working recycling system to encourage public participation. Waste electronic devices and information products are now sent to recycling plants where components of value are recovered and the parts that cannot be reused are given to licensed disposal operators for proper disposal. Statistics show that in 2014 around 140,000 tonnes of waste electronic devices and information technology products were treated at 21 licensed recycling stations around Taiwan. \nPeople in Taiwan are avid users of consumer electronics, and the EPA is thus actively asking government, industry, and research organizations to develop urban mining operations. The EPA is also encouraging members of the public to be thorough about recycling their e-waste through the various channels available (information on which can be found at the EPA website goo.gl\/YJTah). Giving e-waste to licensed recyclers who can extract precious resources such as gold, silver, and palladium not only stimulates the development of venous industries but also helps the government achieve its goal of sustainable resource circulation.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Urban Mining Creates Economic Value", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-05" }, { "no": "3294", "title": "Carbon Labeling Demonstration Enterprises Share Their Experiences", "preview": "Ecolabeling Carbon Labeling Demonstration Enterprises Share Their Experiences", "content": "Carbon Labeling Demonstration Enterprises Share Their Experiences\nTo promote product carbon labeling in 2014 the EPA selected one service and two lines of products as demonstration cases and provided the enterprises with the necessary guidance in carbon labeling. On 21 April 2015, the demonstration enterprises were invited to share their experiences. \nIn May 2010, the EPA began accepting applications for product carbon labeling, and as of 13 May 2015, the carbon labeling of 325 products from 85 enterprises have been certified. Following the increasing concern being given internationally to global warming and related issues, in recent years several nations have started to promote product carbon labeling, in addition to managing their greenhouse gas emissions via systematic audits of emission volumes. Taiwan strives to be at the forefront of such trends. After examining the system in place in the UK, the EPA rolled out its own product carbon labeling system, becoming the 11th nation in the world to do so. \nThe 2014 carbon label demonstration products focused on product lines and services that would hopefully catch the eye of consumers and become a topic of conversation. The demonstration products and services were as follows:\n1) Ten types of stainless steel shelves and racks manufactured by Testrite Group （特力屋集團） and Central Master Co., Ltd. （朝盟股份有限公司） Each item has a carbon footprint of 2.6~10 kg CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent).\n2) Three types of pure fermented soy sauces from Doyoubo Industry Co., Ltd.（六堆釀興業有限公司） Each bottle has a carbon footprint of 0.9-1 kg CO2e.\n3) The high-speed rail transportation service provided by the Taiwan High Speed Rail Corp. that has a carbon footprint of 38 g CO2e per passenger-kilometer. \nAll enterprises that have their product carbon labeling certified also promise to reduce the carbon footprint of their products in the future. Further reductions can be achieved by improving manufacturing processes, replacing outdated equipment, sourcing more raw materials locally, deploying energy-saving lighting and reducing resource consumption.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Ecolabeling", "titlename": "Carbon Labeling Demonstration Enterprises Share Their Experiences", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-05" }, { "no": "3293", "title": "Achievements of Asia-Pacific Atmospheric Mercury Monitoring Network Published", "preview": "Air Achievements of Asia-Pacific Atmospheric Mercury Monitoring Network Published", "content": "Achievements of Asia-Pacific Atmospheric Mercury Monitoring Network Published \nIn April 2014 the Taiwan and US EPAs established the Asia-Pacific Mercury Monitoring Network (APMMN) under the International Environmental Partnership (IEP). To mark the network’s first anniversary and make the achievements to date public, on 22 April 2015 the Taiwan and US EPAs held a conference to present the achievements for further discussion. \nThe main purpose of the conference was to present atmospheric mercury monitoring results in the Asia Pacific region and to discuss the outcomes of Taiwan assisting Southeast Asian nations to set up atmospheric mercury wet deposition sampling procedures. Taiwan has established a mercury monitoring information and technology sharing platform so that Southeast Asian nations can readily access monitoring data, monitoring station information, and information on standardized sampling. National Central University （中央大學）is also providing an atmospheric mercury wet deposition sample and information analysis service so that all stakeholders concerned can gain a better understanding of how atmospheric mercury monitoring is being conducted in the region. \nTowards delivering environmental education more effectively, the EPA also invited the faculty and students of National Central University to the symposium to give them the chance to participate in discussions on environmental protection and monitoring. The EPA hopes that such discussion will enhance students’ environmental monitoring knowledge and help build their capacity and influence on environmental matters. \nThe EPA is also keen to further promote the APMMN. To this end, the Taiwan and US EPAs will be expanding the mercury monitoring platform by offering a mercury monitoring consultation and training service and sharing the fruits of the Taiwan-US cooperation to strengthen multilateral mercury monitoring cooperation in the Asia Pacific region, in addition to enhancing Taiwan’s own mercury monitoring capacity.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Achievements of Asia-Pacific Atmospheric Mercury Monitoring Network Published", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-05" }, { "no": "3292", "title": "Central and Local Governments Join Forces to Protect Algal Reefs", "preview": "Water Central and Local Governments Join Forces to Protect Algal Reefs", "content": "Central and Local Governments Join Forces to Protect Algal Reefs\nTo protect Taoyuan’s（桃園）algal reefs – a special ecological feature of its coastline – since April 2012 the EPA and the Environmental Protection Bureau (EPB) of Taoyuan County (now Taoyuan City) have been jointly implementing the Taoyuan Algal Reef Pollution Source Inspection and Control Plan. In September of the same year the Taoyuan EPB also initiated the so-called Owl Inspection Operation, listing the 443 pollution sources located in the upper reaches of Taoyuan’s 11 river basins to be subject to pollution controls. Since then, a total of 4,882 inspections have been conducted, with 886 warnings issued, 15 enterprises forced to suspend operations, and operators of 8 enterprises placed under investigation.\nTo protect Taoyuan’s algal reefs, the EPA and the Taoyuan EPB have been jointly implementing an algal reef pollution source inspection and control plan since April 2012. In September 2012, the Taoyuan EPB also launched its Owl Inspection Operation, which involved listing the 443 pollution sources that lie in the upper reaches of Taoyuan’s 11 river basins for pollution control purposes. The 443 enterprises have been subjected to in-depth inspections and audits to ensure that pollution problems are being controlled to maintain water quality in Taoyuan’s rivers and the immediate coast. If instances of illegal discharges or wastewater treatment facilities not being properly employed are uncovered, factories may face suspension of operations and their operators may be reported for criminal investigation. \nSince April 2012, a total of 4,882 inspections have been conducted which led to 886 warnings being issued, 15 enterprises being forced to halt operations, and 8 enterprises being reported to the District Prosecutor’s Office for criminal investigation. The penalty fines amounted to NT$138.47 million. \nIn addition to conducting the inspection and control plan, the Owl Inspection Operation also involves more inspections during off-peak hours such as weekends and evenings. The operation also installed more automated monitoring equipment on susceptible sections of the river as well as at the effluent discharge outlets and at rainwater sewerage of factories previously responsible for major violations. The new regime has allowed immediate, in-depth inspections to be carried out once abnormal water quality is discovered, helping prevent further illegal discharges from unscrupulous factory operators. \nWater samples are also collected every week at river estuaries to test for changes in pH, temperature, electrical conductivity, and chemical oxygen demand (COD). Keeping a close eye on river water quality will allow for prompt adjustments to inspection strategies if necessary. Following the strengthening of inspection and penalty regimes, water quality test results for 2014 showed that although the proportion of heavily polluted river sections stayed the same at 6.8% for Laojie River（老街溪）, the proportion for Nankan River （南崁溪）fell from 26.5% to 16.9%. The results indicated a corresponding increase in unpolluted or lightly-polluted sections of the river. More recent water quality test results also showed that further improvements are under way.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Central and Local Governments Join Forces to Protect Algal Reefs", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-05" }, { "no": "3291", "title": "Sources of PM2.5 Emissions Published", "preview": "Air Sources of PM2.5 Emissions Published \nSources of PM2.5 Emissions Published", "content": "Air Sources of PM2.5 Emissions Published \nThe EPA has recently published on its website an air pollutant emissions inventory covering all of Taiwan’s pollution sources. Statistics show that in 2010 the total annual volume of primary PM2.5 emissions was 73855 tonnes, with the highest proportion, 23% or 16,865 tonnes, coming from industry. \nFine particulate matter (PM2.5) can be divided into primary PM2.5 – pollutants directly emitted by pollution sources – and secondary PM2.5. Secondary PM2.5 is formed when sulfur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ammonia, and other gaseous precursors undergo complex chemical reactions in the atmosphere. An accurate calculation of atmospheric PM2.5 must therefore account for both primary and secondary PM2.5. \nAccording to the air pollutant emissions inventory data (published on the EPA website http:\/\/teds.epa.gov.tw\/new_main2-0-1.htm), in 2010 the total annual primary PM2.5 emissions comprised 73,855 tonnes, with the highest proportion coming from industry (23%, or 16,865 tonnes). Total emissions of secondary PM2.5 precursors, SOx, reached 119,720 tonnes for the year, of which industrial activity accounted for 105,261 tonnes, or 88% of the total. Total emissions of NOx were 434,160 tonnes for the year, of which industrial activity contributed 176,100 tonnes, or 41% of the total. \nAs the diagram below indicates, the main sources of PM2.5 emissions nationwide are as follows: \n‧Dust from uncovered surfaces or raised by vehicles – 23%\n‧Road transportation – 22.7%\n‧Agriculture – 13.5%\n‧Restaurants – 8.5%\n‧Construction and mining – 7.2%\n‧Iron and steel production – 4.5%\n‧Power generation – 4%\n‧Chemical manufacturing – 2.8%\n‧Cement and premixed concrete – 2.3%\n‧Other – 11.4%\nThe statistics indicate that PM2.5 from industrial pollution sources (including power generation) account for 23% of the national total. These same sources also produce 41% of the nation’s NOx and 88% of the SOx.The EPA will thus continue to strengthen controls over said sources whenever pollution-prevention technology permits and call upon industry operators to implement air pollutant reduction measures. The EPA has also asked the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) – as the industry competent authority – to provide the necessary guidance to the industries concerned.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Sources of PM2.5 Emissions Published", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-05" }, { "no": "3290", "title": "", "preview": "", "content": "", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "", "titlename": "", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-05" }, { "no": "3289", "title": "Drinking Water Quality Testing Strengthened During Droughts", "preview": "Environmental Sanitation Drinking Water Quality Testing Strengthened During Droughts", "content": "Drinking Water Quality Testing Strengthened During Droughts\nWith drought conditions persisting to prevent the safety of drinking water from being affected by the low amounts of available water, since March 2015 the EPA has been strengthening the testing of public drinking water quality and inspecting pollution sources in major water supplying areas. The EPA also reminds the general public to boil drinking water during periods of water shortage and to not drink water from unknown sources. If saving water, stored water should be covered with a lid and water should not be stored for excessive periods of time. People should also be aware of water pumps during periods of water restrictions, in that negative pressure could build up in pipes and lead to contamination of water. Related information can be accessed on the EPA’s website (http:\/\/www.epa.gov.tw\/mp.asp?mp=dt). \nAlso since March 2015, in response to water quality problems stemming from water shortages, the EPA has enhanced water quality inspections for public drinking water, packaged water and water fountains. The EPA is also reinforcing the inspection of pollution sources in catchment areas of water supply reservoirs and water purification stations. In addition, to better assess any changes in water quality, the EPA has expanded the examination of water quality to include the rivers and reservoirs serving as primary water supply. For areas under water restrictions, the quality of tap water coming from purification stations, rivers and reservoirs are being monitored and the results are announced on the EPA’s website. Results from January and February showed no differences in water quality compared to the average of last year.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "environmental Sanitation", "titlename": "Drinking Water Quality Testing Strengthened During Droughts", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-04" }, { "no": "3288", "title": "EPA Exhibits its Recycling R&D Achievements", "preview": "EPA Exhibits its Recycling R&D Achievements \nOn 27 March 2015 the EPA held an exhibition to showcase the innovations produced from processed recycled waste. With a theme of resource regeneration and environmental design, the EPA showcased the research and development results from innovative designs it subsidized in 2014. The innovations created opportunities and harnessed the potential of discarded resources. The subsidy attracted experts from industry and academia in various fields to participate in the cause.", "content": "EPA Exhibits its Recycling R&D Achievements \nOn 27 March 2015 the EPA held an exhibition to showcase the innovations produced from processed recycled waste. With a theme of resource regeneration and environmental design, the EPA showcased the research and development results from innovative designs it subsidized in 2014. The innovations created opportunities and harnessed the potential of discarded resources. The subsidy attracted experts from industry and academia in various fields to participate in the cause.\nThe EPA expressed that Taiwan is continuously working on sustainable materials management. The government therefore formulated related regulations and management schemes to guide the consumption of materials towards being cyclical and sustainable. After reduction, recycling and appropriate disposal of waste, the upgrading of recycling technology and improvement of the quality of products made from recycled materials are becoming the best driving forces to reaching the goal of sustainable material consumption.\nThe innovations from the exhibition all showed promising results, despite being created from spent batteries, used household appliances, discarded liquid crystal displays (LCD) or empty plastic containers. Newly developed technologies have proven able to extract high purity, ever-valuable, rare earth metals and environmentally friendly catalysts, as well as fuels derived from solid waste. Through modifying manufacturing processes, high quality reground materials that provide the advantage of lower carbon emissions have been generated, which can then be used in thermal insulators, eco-friendly umbrella covers, shopping bags and garbage bags. Promising results have also been obtained from the evaluation of the potential of: making polymer films from used tires; gasification of Tetra Pak cartons for combustible gases; the development of aluminum recycling technology; and improvements in pollution control. \nThe EPA noted that the subsidized projects conducted in 2014 showed a progression from basic research and development to commercial products. These projects led to a total of six patent applications, six industry cooperation cases and six published articles. Through the exhibition, the EPA expected to encourage new R&D research and new innovations, by bringing together industry and academia to collaborate and develop new market opportunities. The EPA hopes that the subsidized projects will transform resource recycling into a more upgraded, high-quality and high-tech industry.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "recycling", "titlename": "EPA Exhibits its Recycling R&D Achievements", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-04" }, { "no": "3287", "title": "EPA Subsidizes Liouciou Township NT$10 Million for Waste Disposal", "preview": "waste EPA Subsidizes Liouciou Township NT$10 Million for Waste Disposal", "content": "EPA Subsidizes Liouciou Township NT$10 Million for Waste Disposal \nBecause of contract issues and budget constraints the off-shore Liouciou Township （琉球鄉） of Pingtung County （屏東縣） could not dispose of its garbage in a timely fashion, resulting in the piling up of mountains of refuse. To address the problem, the EPA allocated an annual subsidy of NT$10 million to help Liouciou Township ship the garbage to the main island for appropriate disposal. \nLocal newspapers reported that because Liouciou Township lacked funds to transport its garbage to be dealt with at the Kanding Incineration Plant （崁頂垃圾焚化廠）in Pingtung County, 850 tons of garbage had piled up on the island. Although waste disposal falls within the jurisdiction of local governments, as the central competent authority the EPA decided to provide funding, administrative and technical support to help Liouciou Township resolve its waste disposal problems. \nThe original garbage transport contract of Liouciou Township expired at the end of 2014. Due to the lack of a new contract, garbage kept piling up on the island and could not be dealt with efficiently. To help the local government solve its garbage disposal problem, on 16 March 2015 the EPA agreed to allocate annual funds of NT$10 million, and on 17-18 March conducted on-site inspections. The EPA instructed the Liouciou Township Office to immediately start garbage transport and incineration operations, while at the same time admonishing the local government to adopt a multi-year garbage transport contract, or to reserve the right to ship more waste than the disposal contract stated in case of the need to do so, in order to prevent a situation of being unable to transport garbage from occurring again. In addition, the EPA instructed the Liouciou Township Office to strengthen its disinfection and environmental maintenance work. \nThe Liouciou Township Office indicated that it was reviewing the paperwork and will put the contract for open bidding at the end of April. The EPA has also been in contact with the mayor of Liouciou Township to discuss the feasibility of integrating the procedures for budget review and open bidding. In the meantime, the Liouciou Township Office started to bundle its accumulated garbage and an emergency transport process was to be launched within three days. The EPA has requested the Environmental Protection Bureau of Pingtung County to dispatch personnel to supervise the disinfection and coverage of the transported garbage.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "EPA Subsidizes Liouciou Township NT$10 Million for Waste Disposal", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-04" }, { "no": "3286", "title": "Regulations Amended for Reviews of Recycling Organization Subsidy Applications", "preview": "Recycling Regulations Amended for Reviews of Recycling Organization Subsidy Applications", "content": "Regulations Amended for Reviews of Recycling Organization Subsidy Applications \nOn 6 May 2015 the EPA once again amended the Management Regulations for the Review of Applications for Recyclable Waste Recycling, Clearance, and Disposal Subsidies. The amendments aimed to simplify the review procedure in response to the two-stage review that entered force on 18 December 2014, in accordance with the amended Management Regulations for Recycling Enterprises Handling Regulated Recyclable Waste. With the latest amendments, the EPA will have a better grip on the efficiency of air pollution control facilities of enterprises. The amendments also make it easier for enterprises to apply for a subsidy to improve administrative performance. \nTo enhance the management of recycling enterprises that receive EPA subsidies, on 24 June 2013 the EPA announced amendments to the Management Regulations for the Review of Applications for Recyclable Waste Recycling, Clearance, and Disposal Subsidies. The amendments stipulate that registered recycling operators wishing to apply for EPA subsidies will have to submit operation plans and ongoing operation reports to the EPA so that the EPA can evaluate whether or not actual operations are in line with standards for recyclable waste recycling, storage, clearance and disposal methods and facilities, and whether or not the subsidies are enhancing operational capacity. \nTo simplify procedures in accordance with the 18 December 2014 revisions to the Management Regulations for Recycling Enterprises Handling Regulated Recyclable Waste, which state that disposal enterprises would undergo two-stage inspections, the EPA announced the following amendments to the Management Regulations for the Review of Applications for Regulated Recyclable Waste Recycling, Clearance, and Disposal Subsidies, on 6 March 2015:\n1) Keep definitions consistent: In the Management Regulations for Recycling Enterprises Handling Regulated Recyclable Waste, the definition of “hazardous substances” has been revised as “substances listed by the Standards for Defining Hazardous Industrial Waste as components generated by waste disposal processes.\n2) Specify the content of the operation plan: Enterprises that apply for government subsidies within six months of registering as a recycling operator may, with the permission of the central competent authority, be exempted from having to submit operation plans and follow-up reports.\n3) Enterprises that apply for government subsidies may first submit hard copy documents with the approval of the central competent authority. The related documents must be submitted online before a stated deadline. The amended regulations are published on the EPA website: http:\/\/ivy5.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Regulations Amended for Reviews of Recycling Organization Subsidy Applications", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-04" }, { "no": "3285", "title": "2014 Environmental Agents Inspection Results Released", "preview": "Environmental Sanitation 2014 Environmental Agents Inspection Results Released", "content": "2014 Environmental Agents Inspection Results Released\nOn 2 March 2015 the EPA released the results of its 2014 inspections of environmental agents on the market. A total of 31,280 products were inspected, of which 379 had incorrect information on their labels, resulting in a pass rate of 98.79%. In addition, 131 products were also tested for active ingredients, all of which passed. \nTo ensure that environmental agents being sold are all legal, and to prevent environmental agents from unknown sources from harming public health and the environment, every year the EPA draws up an Environmental Agent Inspection Plan for local government environmental protection bureaus to administer. Inspections and testing are conducted at irregular intervals and focus upon dollar stores, flower markets, traditional wet markets, pesticide and herbicide stores, grocery stores and night markets. The inspectors look for incorrect labeling, counterfeit products, and banned environmental agents. Random ingredient testing is also conducted. In addition, to ensure that the public is not buying greenwashed products, the EPA has requested manufacturers of self-claimed “natural” insect-repelling environmental agents to send in samples of their products and submit ingredient certificates and proofs of efficacy to confirm the effectiveness of ingredients. \nIn 2014, the EPA also uncovered 27 unregistered environmental agents being sold in shops around Taiwan. Upon being tested, three of these products were found to contain Mirex, a chemical compound banned by the EPA and listed as a persistent organic pollutant under the Stockholm Convention. Vendors of 20 other products – which were claimed to be natural pesticides or insect repellants, but which had not been approved by the EPA – were also fined and given deadlines to remove the products from shelves. \nTo strengthen control over illicit environmental agents entering Taiwan from overseas, the EPA has been keeping in close contact with the Customs Administration of the Ministry of Finance to ensure that all the shipments of environmental agents carry a permit or other certification issued by the EPA when going through customs clearance. Unapproved shipments will be immediately confiscated, and the Customs Administration will pass on importers’ details to the EPA, which will then instruct local government environmental protection bureaus to issue penalties. The EPA also releases news on illicit environmental agents every year, and urges the public to avoid buying online environmental agents from unknown sources. \nThe EPA is also consulting with owners of e-commerce platforms to strengthen controls by requiring that member vendors abide by the regulations forbidding the sale of illicit environmental agents. The platform owners have also modified their keyword search functions so that they are alerted to the sale of illicit environmental agents, and are better able to block such products from being displayed on their websites. The aforementioned measures constitute strong mechanisms that allow the EPA, local government environmental protection bureaus and customs officials to prevent illicit environmental agents from being sold in Taiwan. \nThe EPA is keen to emphasize that there are 731 types of general environmental agents that have been registered with the EPA. Gaining approval for these substances involves multiple checks and controls, and the EPA is urging the public not to turn their backs on these bona fide products by instead buying falsely-labeled products from untraceable sources. Consumers should always check the label of the environmental agent product that they are buying to ensure that it carries an EPA approval number. \nThe EPA has established an online environmental agent permit checking system at http:\/\/mdc.epa.gov.tw\/MDC\/search\/search_License.aspx, that allows consumers to type in the permit number on the label and immediately check whether or not a product is legally registered with the EPA. The system can also be used to identify which insect repellent products use natural ingredients as well as legally registered environmental agent vendors and disease vector control enterprises. The EPA has also established a website, http:\/\/mdc.epa.gov.tw\/EVagents\/EVSecurity\/EVIndex.aspx, to provide guidance on recognizing common household pests, along with principles for selecting and safely using environmental agents.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Sanitation", "titlename": "2014 Environmental Agents Inspection Results Released", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-04" }, { "no": "3284", "title": "EPA Supports Local Governments in Sustainable Operation of Public Bicycle Sharing System", "preview": "Air EPA Supports Local Governments in Sustainable Operation of Public Bicycle Sharing System", "content": "EPA Supports Local Governments in Sustainable Operation of Public Bicycle Sharing System", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "EPA Supports Local Governments in Sustainable Operation of Public Bicycle Sharing System", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-04" }, { "no": "3283", "title": "River Bank Dust Control Achievements for 2014", "preview": "Water River Bank Dust Control Achievements for 2014", "content": "River Bank Dust Control Achievements for 2014 \nAn interdepartmental effort throughout 2014 to control river bank dust produced commendable results. Monitoring stations near the Kaoping River（高屏溪）indicated that particulate matters (PM10) have been reduced by 48% while the daily values for river bank PM10>150 μg\/m3 also showed a large decline by other rivers.\nRiver bank dust control in 2014 was a joint effort between the EPA, the Ministry of Economic Affairs’ Water Resources Agency, the Council of Agriculture’s Forestry Bureau and local governments. The PM10 yearly average readings from monitoring stations near the Kaoping River（高屏溪）fell from 76.75 μg\/m3 in 2013 to 39.95 μg\/m3 in 2014, a decrease of 48%. The decreases for Beinan River（卑南溪）, Wu River（烏溪） and Zhuoshui River （濁水溪） were 3%~12%. There were also fewer days with PM10 exceeding 150 μg\/m3, going from 11 days in 2013 for the Zhoushui River area to 8 days in 2014. \nWhen northeast monsoons blow across Taiwan, dust from river banks is blown around, affecting the quality of life of riverside residents. Serious dust conditions along the banks of Dongluo River （東螺溪）, which is now called Old Zhuoshui River （舊濁水溪）, and XiluoRiver （西螺）, which is now called Zhuoshui River （濁水溪） were recorded in travel journals dating back to the Qing Dynasty. To improve the quality of the surrounding environment for local residents, the EPA has joined forces with the MOEA’s Water Resources Agency, the Council of Agriculture’s Forestry Bureau and local governments to implement a four-year river bank dust control program. \nSince 2012, the EPA has completed grading of fugitive dust conditions for six rivers and put in place control measures. In addition, the planning for model green corridors on four rivers has been completed; the Water Resources Agency has completed dust control engineering works on 2,660 hectares of land; the Forestry Bureau has planted and nurtured 1,131 hectares of windbreak forestry; and local governments have implemented river bank dust warnings, related education and environmental cleanup. Cooperation between the central and local governments has resulted in a significant decrease in the yearly average PM10 reading for 2014, with a correspondingly large decrease in dust-related complaints from the public. \nThe EPA points out that it will use community public announcement systems or news tickers on TV broadcasts to inform the public when the northeast monsoon is strong enough to cause serious problems related to river bank dust. The EPA is also urging riverside residents in particular to pay attention to all relevant alerts so that they can close their windows, reduce outdoor activities, and take other self-protective measures when the need arises. The EPA will continue to work with all of the agencies concerned to push forward with river bank dust control works to improve the quality of life of riverside residents.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "River Bank Dust Control Achievements for 2014", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-04" }, { "no": "3282", "title": "Cross-ministerial Action to Fight Air Pollution", "preview": "Air Cross-ministerial Action to Fight Air Pollution", "content": "Cross-ministerial Action to Fight Air Pollution\nGovernment ministries are joining forces to fight air pollution. On 20 March 2015 the EPA brought together the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC), the Ministry of the Interior (MOI), the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW), the Ministry of Education (MOE), and the Council of Agriculture for the first Air Pollutant Reduction Actions Supervisory Board, at which consultations were held on a draft of the National Air Pollution Reduction Action Program. The integration of ministerial air pollution reduction capabilities and the distribution of workload and responsibilities were also discussed. The new board shows that Taiwan’s government departments are committed to working together to improve the nation’s air quality. \nThe creation of air pollutants is intimately linked to energy consumption, industrial manufacturing, transportation, agricultural activity, construction, and general daily activities. Effective government air pollution reduction policy planning thus needs to account for the environment, energy generation, manufacturing, transportation, agriculture, education, construction, public health, and land use, hence the need for an interministerial body that can push for air pollution reduction actions. \nIn addition to the central government’s Air Pollutant Reduction Actions Board, an air pollution reduction taskforce has also been established in each of the Air Quality Zones of Central Taiwan, Yunlin-Chiayi-Tainan（雲嘉南）, and Kaohsiung-Pingtung（高屏）. The taskforces comprise personnel from central and local government agencies, academics, experts, local residents, and representatives of citizen groups. The board thus not only strengthens cooperation between central and local government but also affords citizen groups the chance to participate in the work of reducing air pollution. \nAfter two preparatory meetings, the first Air Pollutant Reduction Actions Board was formally convened on 20 March 2015. The increased communication and cooperation between ministries and between the central and local governments has created a new avenue for controlling and reducing air pollution, so as to improve air quality and protect public health.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Cross-ministerial Action to Fight Air Pollution", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-04" }, { "no": "3281", "title": "Air Quality Flags Piloted at Schools", "preview": "Air Quality Flags Piloted at Schools \nSince the implementation of the Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) Index from 1 October 2014 the EPA has been working with the Ministry of Education (MOE) to implement the School Air Quality Flag Pilot Plan. The plan is based on four warnings – indicated by colored flags – that are determined using a combination of the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) and the Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) Index.", "content": "Air Quality Flags Piloted at Schools \nSince the implementation of the Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) Index from 1 October 2014 the EPA has been working with the Ministry of Education (MOE) to implement the School Air Quality Flag Pilot Plan. The plan is based on four warnings – indicated by colored flags – that are determined using a combination of the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) and the Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) Index.\nTaiwan's School Air Quality Flag Pilot Plan is based upon the US School Flag Program and is being used by the EPA and MOE to educate teachers and students about the meaning of the air quality flags and how people can protect themselves against air pollution. Taiwan’s flags are of four colors – green, yellow, red and purple. Green indicates that regular activities can be conducted; yellow indicates that preliminary precautions should be taken; red indicates that medium level protective measures should be employed; purple indicates that emergency protective measures should be adopted. The color of flag to be flown each day is determined by PSI and PM2.5 Index readings. If readings of the two indices differ to the extent of indicating different colored flags, the higher reading will be used. \nA green flag indicates that regular activities can be conducted although staff and students with sensitive constitutions or medical conditions should be aware of how the air quality is affecting them physically. \nA yellow flag indicates that staff and students with cardiac or respiratory conditions should consider reducing physical activity, particularly outdoor activity, if they notice symptoms appearing. \nA red flag indicates the following:\n1) Students and kindergarten pupils should wear masks and goggles when exercising outdoors, depending on individual health conditions.\n2) Classroom windows should be kept shut to minimize exposure to poor quality air.\n3) Staff and students suffering from physical discomfort – particularly sore eyes, coughing, or sore throats – should consider reducing outdoor activities. \n4) Staff and students with sensitive constitutions should be proactive in personal health management and should consider reducing physical activity, particularly outdoor activity. \n5) Staff and students who are asthmatic may have to increase the frequency of inhaler use.\nA purple flag indicates the following:\n1) Students and kindergarten pupils should wear masks if they are outdoors.\n2) Classroom windows should be kept shut to minimize exposure to poor quality air.\n3) Staff and students suffering from physical discomfort – particularly sore eyes, coughing, or sore throats – should consider reducing physical exertion and outdoor activities. \n4) Staff and students with sensitive constitutions should be proactive in personal health management and should consider reducing physical activity, particularly outdoor activity. Staff and students who are asthmatic will probably have to increase the frequency of inhaler use.\n5) School authorities should take into account air quality conditions at any location selected for outdoor activities. Outdoor activities should be moved indoors or postponed if necessary. \n6) If air quality readings reach or exceed a PSI level of 300 or a PM2.5 level of 250.4 μg\/m3, all outdoor activities should be immediately halted and staff and students with sensitive constitutions should go to the school clinic or an air-conditioned area in order to safeguard their health.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Air Quality Flags Piloted at Schools", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-04" }, { "no": "3280", "title": "Water Pollution Control Fees to Be Collected from 1 May 2015", "preview": "Water Water Pollution Control Fees to Be Collected from 1 May 2015", "content": "Water Pollution Control Fees to Be Collected from 1 May 2015\nOn 31 March 2015 the EPA announced revisions to the Regulations Governing the Collection of Water Pollution Control Fees. Of the original 23 articles, 18 were amended, 2 were deleted and 2 new ones were added. The main purpose of the changes was to incorporate Legislative Yuan resolutions stating that livestock enterprises should start paying the said fees in the third year of implementation, and that enterprises that produce harmful substances should start paying fees in the first year of implementation instead of the fourth. The amendments also stipulate the starting date for collection of water pollution control fees to be 1 May 2015. \nTo gather the opinions of all interested parties, the EPA held four public hearings in December 2014. Lively discussions on the content of the regulations among experts from government, industry, academia and representatives of environmental organizations took place. Suggestions collected were taken into consideration by the EPA when drawing up the amendments. \nThe method for collecting the fees will be as follows:\n1) Targeted entities: From the first year of implementation, the targeted entities will include all enterprises except the livestock industry and operators of dedicated wastewater systems in industrial parks. From the third year livestock enterprises will be included, and from the fourth year households and operators of public sewage systems will also be required to pay the fees (see table below). \n2) Targeted substances and fee rates: The items for which fees will be collected include chemical oxygen demand (COD), suspended solids, lead, nickel, copper, total mercury, cadmium, total chromium, arsenic, cyanide compounds, and any other item designated and announced by the central competent authority. The fee rates for the first year have been set at NT$12.5\/kg for COD and between NT$625-31,250\/kg for lead and other harmful substances. \n3) Fee amount calculations: The amounts that enterprises and operators of dedicated wastewater systems in industrial parks will have to pay is calculated by multiplying the effluent quality by the above fee rates for each substance and then multiplying the volume of the effluent: fee = Σ (effluent quality x fee rate) i x effluent volume (i represents the quantity of each item for which fees are collected). \n4) Payment deadlines: The fees will be collected every six months. Affected enterprises will be required to report their calculations for the previous six months and pay water pollution control fees by the end of January and July every year. For the first year, the July deadline for reporting and payment has been put back three months to the end of October.\n5) Reporting methods: Reporting should be done online wherever possible, with written material being submitted when necessary. \n6) Preferential fee rates:\na) To reduce the impact on industry, the full fee rate will be implemented incrementally over a six-year period: The fee collected for the first year will be 50% of the calculated sum, and the full payment will be collected from the sixth year.\nb) To encourage polluters to reduce the amounts of pollution they produce, enterprises and operators of dedicated wastewater systems that are able to maintain the effluent quality at a certain level below the stated effluent standards will be given a fee dis-count of 20%~85% depending on the amount of pollution they reduce. \nThe EPA is keen to point out that it has intentionally simplified procedures and reduced water pollution control fee rates for the initial period to minimize the impact upon Taiwan’s enterprises. However, keeping in mind that reductions in effluent translates into reduced water pollution fees, enterprises are encouraged to respond to the new regime at the earliest by improving their wastewater treatment efficiency and reducing the amounts of pollutants discharged, and\/or by instigating water-reduction measures such as recycling and reuse. The fees that are paid will be used to prevent water pollution and protect and improve the water quality of Taiwan’s water bodies, thus creating a better and healthier living environment for all of Taiwan’s citizens.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Water Pollution Control Fees to Be Collected from 1 May 2015", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-04" }, { "no": "3279", "title": "Resource Recycling Measures and Achievements", "preview": "recycling Resource Recycling Measures and Achievements", "content": "Resource Recycling Measures and Achievements \nAiming to reach the goal of waste reduction and sustainable use of resources resource recycling has become a global trend. Since Taiwan began rolling out its four-in-one recycling measures, its recycling rate hit new highs of 55.59%, or 1.012 million tonnes, in 2014; meanwhile the daily per capita garbage collected was at an all-time low of 0.383 kg. The EPA will continue to work toward increasing resource efficiency and sustainable cyclical use of resources to attain its 2017 target of a recycling rate of 65%. \nThe EPA rolled out its Resource Recycling Policy Planning in 2011 after examining similar sustainable materials management plans of Japan, the Netherlands, the EU, and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The policy planning laid out five major strategies and 16 specific measures. Based on this policy planning, the EPA formulated the Promotion Plan for Sustainable Cyclical Utilization of Resources for implementation. \nOne of the major strategies laid out is to strengthen the functioning of the Recycling Fund, which will entail further integration of capacities and resources of the central and local governments and the private sector. A recycling rate target of 65% has also been set for 2017.\nFour-in-One Recycling Plan Bolsters Recycling Industry\nIn 1997, Taiwan began implementing the Four-in-One Recycling Plan. This involved modifying the operation of the Recycling Fund so that – in combination with communities, recyclers, and local governments – it could be put to more effective use of recycling resources and reducing waste. Taiwan’s recycling rate has been climbing rapidly from that year on. \nWith the implementation of the Four-in-One Recycling Plan and the corresponding formulation of related regulations and systems by the EPA, Taiwan’s recyclable waste is now recycled as it should be. The EPA requires recycling enterprises of a certain size or above to register with their local competent authority. As stipulated in the Management Regulations for the Review of Applications for Recyclable Waste Recycling, Clearance, and Disposal Subsidies, enterprises hoping to receive subsidies must apply to the EPA for subsidized entity status and undergo auditing and approval procedures. \nSome of the recycling measures that the EPA has rolled out – and the degree of success of such measures – are listed below: \n1. Improving the Management of Recycling Channels\nSince 1998 the EPA has been actively budgeting for subsidies for: operators of recycling trucks; storage facilities for recyclables; and, any other equipment needed by sanitation teams to facilitate recycling. Between 1998 and the end of January 2015, 2,645 recycling trucks have been bought to replace old vehicles. The EPA also conducts annual performance evaluation of all central and local agencies involved in order to improve overall efficiency and suggest ways for them to innovate as well as improve the image of the recycling industry.\nTo continue improving the image of the recycling industry, the EPA has raised environmental standards for recycling stations and individual recyclers. In 2014, the EPA provided such guidance to 812 recycling operators and 9,343 individual recyclers. The EPA also helped 222 citizens, of whom 37 were indigenous, to find work in the recycling industry under the Four-in-One Recycling Plan. \nIn addition, in 2014, 84 enterprises that received subsidies had Internet-connected closed circuit television (CCTV) and weighing equipment installed to enable authorities to monitor operations and audits conducted by third parties. Data from weighing equipment at the enterprises is transmitted directly online to authorities, reducing labor costs and increasing administrative efficiency. \n2. Enhancing Management of Enterprises Responsible for Regulated Recyclables\nAs of the end of January 2015, the EPA had listed and regulated 16,372 responsible enterprises and had undertaken audits and documentation for a reported recycling volume of 1,311,045 entries. \nTo make it easier for enterprises to pay recycling fees, since 1 January 2012, the EPA has added four major convenience store chains and the credit departments of farmers' and fishermen's associations as locations at which enterprises can pay recycling fees of under NT$20,000 (applicable to 80% of such enterprises). These locations have the advantage over conventional banks of staying open longer and not collecting additional transaction fees. Since implementation began in 2007, the number of fee-free payment locations has risen from 1,400 to over 10,000, an increase of 700%. Statistics show that as of the end of January 2015, a total of 41,378 payments of under NT$20,000 had been collected at these locations. Of these, convenience stores ac-counted for 19,774, or 47.79% of the total number of payments. \nAs for inspections and audits of responsible enterprises, from 2014 to the end of January 2015, the EPA conducted on-site inspections and audits of 2,642 recycling enterprises, uncovering approximately NT$222 million in shortfalls in fee payments. \n3. Promoting Recycling to Boost Achievements\nThe EPA has been employing TV news broadcasts, advertisements, and the Internet to enhance public awareness of recycling and to disseminate information for recycling and reuse. A hotline (0800-085717), a resource recycling website and an e-newspaper have all been set up to this end. From the beginning of 2014 to the end of January 2015, the EPA also subsidized 70 events held by citizen groups to promote recycling, which had a total attendance of 78,300. \n4. Subsidizing recycling related R&D\nIn 2014, the EPA set aside NT$20 million of its budget and announced that it was to be made available as research grants to public and private universities, research organizations and enterprises that are conducting research on recycling systems, technology, recycled material utilization or other innovative R&D. Last year, 14 projects from such entities were granted with a total of NT$18.676 million. In addition to research capacity building, such effort is helping to raise recycling and reuse rates and to increase the quality and value of recycled materials, thus bringing about the sustainable use of resources. \nWaste Reduction and Resource Recycling Bring Taiwan Closer to a Sustainable Recycling Society\nTaiwan’s resource recycling achievements have been excellent under the Four-in-One recycling system. Listed recyclables have reached 34 items across 13 categories. From 1997 to 2014 the recycling rate climbed from 5.88% to 55.59% and the average daily per capita refuse collected fell from 1.143 kg to 0.383 kg (see figure on page 2). This continuing trend indicates that the implementation of each stage of the Four-in-One Recycling Plan has been effective in reducing waste and raising recycling rates. \nAs for the recyclable waste that has been recycled each year through inspected and audited channels, this has risen from 288,000 tonnes in the initial period of Four-in-One recycling in 1997 to 1.01 million tonnes in 2014. This is due to increased public awareness, an increase in the number of items announced as being recyclable, and continued advance of recycling technologies. The climbing recycling rate is proof that resource recycling in Taiwan is on the right track. \nIn future, the EPA will continue to diligently promote the efficient and sustainable use of resources, while simultaneously reducing the volume of waste that requires final disposal. The EPA will also continue to work with manufacturers to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact, thereby boosting the competitiveness of Taiwan’s green industries with a view towards building a society based upon the sustainable use of resources.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "recycling", "titlename": "Resource Recycling Measures and Achievements", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-04" }, { "no": "3278", "title": "Draft of Operating Principles for Greenhouse Gas Analysis and Auditing Organizations Formulated", "preview": "Draft of Operating Principles for Greenhouse Gas Analysis and Auditing Organizations Formulated", "content": "Draft of Operating Principles for Greenhouse Gas Analysis and Auditing Organizations Formulated", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Analysis", "titlename": "Draft of Operating Principles for Greenhouse Gas Analysis and Auditing Organizations Formulated", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-03" }, { "no": "3277", "title": "2014 National Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report Published", "preview": "Climate Change 2014 National Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report Published", "content": "2014 National Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report Published", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "2014 National Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report Published", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-03" }, { "no": "3276", "title": "Taiwan’s Beauty Revealed in Booklet Beauty of Taiwan: Love for the Environment", "preview": "Environmental Education Taiwan’s Beauty Revealed in Booklet Beauty of Taiwan: Love for the Environment", "content": "Taiwan’s Beauty Revealed in Booklet Beauty of Taiwan: Love for the Environment \nThe Taiwan environmental organization Conservation Mothers Foundation（環保媽媽環境保護基金會） developed an environmental education plan and has won an EPA bid. The plan entails the publishing of a booklet of photos taken over the course of many years during environmental surveys done around Taiwan. Essays on the environment and ecosystem have been selected to accompany the photos all of which have been compiled into a booklet with the title Beauty of Taiwan: Love for the Environment（臺灣美好環境之愛）.\nAfter the Environmental Education Act （環境教育法）was promulgated in 2011, environmental education activities quickly took off. The EPA has since established a trove of environmental education projects and has openly sought the participation of citizens’ groups and experts in the hope of adding vitality and diversity to environmental education, and giving it deeper roots to develop thoroughly.\nIn 2014, the EPA openly sought environmental education material production projects from the public. The Conservation Mothers Foundation was inspired by the documentary film Beyond Beauty: Taiwan from Above（看見台灣）, which brought Taiwan’s environment to the attention of the public. The foundation therefore proposed to select some of the heart-stirring photos their members had taken through their work over the year. The images were originally published on the organization's website and Facebook account on a daily basis, along with short texts on various environmental topics. A booklet compiling the best selection of these photos with text was also proposed. The proposal obtained approval from the EPA and work on it started in mid-July 2014. \nThe photos in the booklet were taken during environmental surveys the Conservation Mothers Foundation started conducting in 2009, with the support of the EPA, to promote tidiness of the environment. By uploading photos of messy sites onto the EPA’s EcoLife website and ranking the tidiness of each township, the survey has received wide approval and has led to significant improvement in living environments over the last six years. On their trips deep into rural areas, the members of the foundation were moved by the diverse cultures, lifestyles and ecosystems, and recorded them with their cameras.\nThe booklet includes 210 accompanying texts covering a wide range of topics such as marine ecology, biodiversity, air, water, wastes, reduction at source, green consumption, endocrine disruptors, food safety, renewable energy, climate change, agriculture, green buildings, green economy, forests, soil, and eco-tourism. Not only does the booklet visually show the environmental issues that Taiwan faces, it raises environmental awareness through the accompanying essays.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Taiwans Beauty Revealed in Booklet Beauty of Taiwan: Love for the Environment", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-03" }, { "no": "3275", "title": "Management Regulations for Toxic Chemical Incident Response Vehicles Announced", "preview": "Toxic Substance Regulations for Toxic Chemical Incident Response Vehicles Announced", "content": "Management Regulations for Toxic Chemical Incident Response Vehicles Announced\nThe EPA and the Ministry of Transportation and Communications jointly announced the Management Regulations Governing Toxic Chemical Incident Response Vehicles（毒性化學物質災害事故應變車輛管理辦法） aimed at reducing the impact of toxic chemical incidents and safeguarding public health. The regulations stipulate that when a toxic chemical incident occurs, emergency response vehicles may have the right of way to the scene of the incident. The prerequisite for this is that the emergency response vehicles must be formally stationed in accordance with regulations. \nTo allow emergency response personnel for a toxic chemical incident to rush to the scene to carry out their duties, the EPA amended Article 24-1 of the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act （毒性化學物質管理法）on 11 December 2013. The amendment lifted some traffic restrictions on emergency response vehicles. For example, when responding on duty, an emergency response vehicle is not subject to speed limits; nor must it heed any traffic signs, markings or signals when it has its flashing lights and sirens turned on. In response to the amendment, the EPA jointly announced the Management Regulations Governing Toxic Chemical Incident Response Vehicles with the Ministry of Transportation and Communications on 11 February 2015. \nThe newly announced management regulations specify the identification marks, color recognition, basic equipment and usage, registration and license extension requirements of emergency response vehicles, as well as criteria for drivers. The motor vehicle supervision authorities are responsible for license plating issuance, duty management and supervision, and changing or cancellation of registration. The new regulations are intended to reduce the damage of toxic chemical incidents and safeguard the health of people involved.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Management Regulations for Toxic Chemical Incident Response Vehicles Announced", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-03" }, { "no": "3274", "title": "Revenue from Recycling of Household Appliances Tops NT$1.3 Billion in 2014", "preview": "Recycling Revenue from Recycling of Household Appliances Tops NT$1.3 Billion in 2014", "content": "Revenue from Recycling of Household Appliances Tops NT$1.3 Billion in 2014\nEPA statistics show that the total materials recycled from waste household appliances amounted to more than 80000 metric tons last year, creating revenue of NT$1.3 billion. In this respect, the waste electrical appliances can be deemed an urban mine. The EPA therefore urged the general public to recycle household appliances for the sake of carbon reduction and the sustainable use of resources.\nThe EPA points out that the proper recycling and processing of waste household appliances not only reduces carbon emissions and resource consumption, but also creates huge economic value. A national tally of waste electrical appliances, including TV sets, refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners and fans, shows that in 2014 more than 2,620,000 units totalling more than 100,000 metric tons were recycled. From that, about 80,000 tons of materials can be reused, worth a value of NT$1.3 billion. \nThe EPA reminds the general public not to dispose of waste electrical appliances carelessly. The EPA provides three channels for recycling: \n1. When purchasing new TV sets, refrigerators, washing machines and air conditioners, give the old ones to the vendors for free recycling and ask for a receipt, which can be used for a prize draw when registered online. \n2. When not purchasing new appliances, the public can dial the EPA’s resource recycling hotline at 0800-085717 or log onto the EPA’s resource recycling website at http:\/\/recycle.epa.gov.tw to inquire about or obtain the contact information for recycling organizations. \n3. Contact the local sanitation team to set up a time and place to put out waste electrical appliances for recycling. \nUnder the concepts of extended producer responsibility and sustainable materials management, recycling of waste household appliances can become a lucrative urban mine. Through urban mining, the EPA expects to achieve the goals of resource reuse, recycling and zero waste, thereby making contributions to energy saving and carbon reduction.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Revenue from Recycling of Household Appliances Tops NT$1.3 Billion in 2014", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-03" }, { "no": "3273", "title": "Restrictions on Mercury and Cadmium Content of Batteries to Be Tightened from 2016", "preview": "Waste Restrictions on Mercury and Cadmium Content of Batteries to Be Tightened from 2016", "content": "Restrictions on Mercury and Cadmium Content of Batteries to Be Tightened from 2016 \nThe EPA has announced revisions to the Restrictions on the Manufacture Import, and Sale of Dry Cell Batteries（限制乾電池製造、輸入及販賣）. Starting from 1 January 2016, the maximum permitted mercury content of non-button batteries will be 1 ppm and the maximum for cadmium content will be 20 ppm. In addition, from 1 January 2017, new restrictions will be imposed on button batteries with the maximum permitted mercury content set at 5 ppm and the maximum cadmium content set at 20 ppm.\nThe mercury and cadmium in dry batteries have the potential to cause serious pollution and harm organisms if leaked into the environment. If these heavy metals enter the human body they may accumulate and damage organs. To reduce the risk of such substances from batteries affecting the environment and public health, and also in response to international trends concerning extended producer responsibility, the EPA began restricting the heavy metal content of dry batteries in 2006, in accordance with Article 21 of the Waste Disposal Act（廢棄物清理法）.\nThe responsibility is on manufacturers and importers to determine the heavy metal content of any dry batteries that they wish to manufacture or import, and then obtain heavy metal content verification documents from the government. The control of the heavy metal content of dry batteries at source is aimed at reducing heavy metal pollution from spent battery incineration. It is also intended to reduce the heavy metal content in materials recovered and recycled from spent batteries, thus facilitating the recycling and reuse of such materials.\nAfter closely examining the trends in dry battery controls in Europe and United Nations Environment Programme publications, the EPA announced amendments to the Restrictions on the Manufacture, Import, and Sale of Dry Cell Batteries（限制乾電池製造、輸入及販賣）. The mercury content maximum values for cylindrical zinc-carbon batteries and alkaline batteries have been lowered from 5 ppm to 1 ppm, and a maximum value for cadmium of 20 ppm has been added. Three types of button battery – alkaline manganese dioxide, mercury oxide, and silver oxide – will henceforth also be subject to controls, with a maximum mercury content of 5 ppm and a cadmium maximum of 20 ppm being set for them. These amendments align Taiwan’s regulations with the latest EU standards, and will help prevent the use of high-mercury and high-cadmium dry batteries in Taiwan.\nThe EPA also reminds all manufacturers and importers of dry batteries that starting from 1 July 2015, they need to have the necessary verification applications submitted to their local government environmental protection bureaus, rather than the EPA, for review.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Restrictions on Mercury and Cadmium Content of Batteries to Be Tightened from 2016", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-03" }, { "no": "3272", "title": "Environmental Education Film on Taiwan’s Eco-Campus Program Available Online", "preview": "Environmental Education Film on Taiwan’s Eco-Campus Program Available Online", "content": "Film on Taiwan’s Eco-Campus Program Available Online\nThe EPA has recently completed the production of Eco-Campus an educational film to promote Taiwan’s Eco-Campus program and its certification application procedures to school authorities and the general public. Through this program, the EPA is assisting schools to raise environmental awareness, build capacity to take action and improve environmental courses. It would like to see environmental education grow from school curricula to active participation in international EcoCampus certification programs. The EPA is encouraging schools and the public to view or download the film by the same name, Eco-Campus, to witness and appreciate the green miracle that Taiwan’s Eco-Campuses are creating.\nAt the end of 2014 the world-renowned environmentalist Dr. Jane Goodall was interviewed as a part of the EPA’s film, Eco-Campus. She had high praise for Taiwan’s promotion of environmental education, particularly the Eco-Campus program, and spoke about how she has been visiting the nation since 1996 and has witnessed first-hand the great progress that it has made in the field of environmental education. She noted the significant number of schools that had joined the Eco-Campus program, and commended their efforts in ecological conservation and sustainable development education as truly inspiring. \nIn fact, Taiwan has long been actively participating in global environmental affairs. The EPA’s enthusiastic promotion of the Taiwan-USA Eco-Campus Partnership Program in recent years is one example. Through the documentary Eco-Campus, the EPA presents successful examples of school partnerships that other interested institutions can follow. The film also gives details on applying for international EcoCampus certification.\nThe Eco-Schools program, from which the EcoCampus certification scheme evolved, was formally launched in 1994 by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). The scheme is currently administered in over 40,000 schools in more than 60 nations where its certificates are recognized. To gain a certificate from the FEE, a school must implement seven common practices. Then successful applicants will be issued a green flag by the FEE to show that they are accredited eco-schools.\nThe Taiwan-USA Eco-Campus Partnership Program accreditation is somewhat different from the Eco-Schools program. The Taiwan-USA Eco-Campus program distinguishes Eco-Campuses into the three grades of Bronze, Silver and the highest honor, Green. As of January 2015, four schools in Taiwan have received the Eco-Campus certification: Sacred Heart High School for Girls （聖心女中）and Jian-An Elementary School （建安國小）in New Taipei City（新北市）, both certified as Green Eco-Campuses; Hu-Shan Elementary School in Tainan City（臺南市虎山國小）, certified as a Silver Eco-Campus; and Jinhu Junior High School in Kinmen County（金門縣金湖國中）, certified as a Bronze Eco-Campus.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Environmental Education Film on Taiwans Eco-Campus Program Available Online", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-03" }, { "no": "3271", "title": "EPA Minister Wei Visits Taoyuan City’s Mayor Cheng to Discuss Environmental Issues", "preview": "General Policy EPA Minister Wei Visits Taoyuan City’s Mayor Cheng to Discuss Environmental Issues", "content": "EPA Minister Wei Visits Taoyuan City’s Mayor Cheng to Discuss Environmental Issues \nTo deepen and support the environmental protection work of local governments on 6 February 2015, EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei （魏國彥） paid a visit to Mayor Wen-Tsan Cheng（鄭文燦）of Taoyuan City（桃園市）. A number of environmental issues, such as autonomous regulations on low-carbon, air pollution controls, river purification, water resources, soil, coastal clean-ups, and the Environmental Science and Technology Park were discussed in depth. EPA Minister Wei lauded Mayor Cheng for his efforts and expressed the hope that future cooperation between central and local governments would facilitate continuing progress in protecting the environment.\nAs Minister Wei pointed out, Taoyuan City has a good record of working closely with the central government on environmental tasks, such as the conservation of the Guanyin algal reef and wastewater treatment projects. Regarding river purification brought up by Mayor Cheng, Minister Wei promised to raise the issue with the Ministry of Economic Affairs’ Industrial Development Bureau and seek its assistance in solving the persistent problem of industrial waste water polluting Taoyuan’s rivers. For the third stage of soil remediation and regeneration in Taoyuan City, Minister Wei again promised to assist Taoyuan in carrying out graded control measures to effectively solve the soil contamination problem at its root. \nIn addition to bringing up the aforementioned environmental problems, Mayor Cheng also heartily thanked the central government for its support. Mayor Cheng particularly referred to the coastal clean-up as an especially tough task. He said that Taoyuan City will produce a white paper on coastal conservation within the next two years that will include a full report on coastal development and controls. Mayor Cheng also said that as Taoyuan City is a major center of industry, the administration would continue to work on regulations governing Taoyuan’s Autonomous Regulations on Low-carbon and on developing low-carbon solutions.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy\nGeneral Policy", "titlename": "EPA Minister Wei Visits Taoyuan Citys Mayor Cheng to Discuss Environmental Issues", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-03" }, { "no": "3270", "title": "Additional Air Quality Monitoring Stations Required for PM2.5 in Special Industrial Parks", "preview": "Air Additional Air Quality Monitoring Stations Required for PM2.5 in Special Industrial Parks\nTo strengthen controls over fine particulate matters (PM2.5) and protect public health the EPA has decided to enforce monitoring in four special industrial parks by requiring PM2.5 to be added to the list of air quality monitoring items. Among these four special industrial parks, three of them have had their monitoring facility installation plans approved by local environmental bureaus. Monitoring is expected to begin in May 2015 at the earliest.", "content": "Additional Air Quality Monitoring Stations Required for PM2.5 in Special Industrial Parks\nTo strengthen controls over fine particulate matters (PM2.5) and protect public health the EPA has decided to enforce monitoring in four special industrial parks by requiring PM2.5 to be added to the list of air quality monitoring items. Among these four special industrial parks, three of them have had their monitoring facility installation plans approved by local environmental bureaus. Monitoring is expected to begin in May 2015 at the earliest. \nPM2.5 controls have become a major international issue due to the serious impact of fine particulate matters on human health. In 2012, the EPA formulated PM2.5 air quality standards and a series of measures to strengthen control over pollution sources. The EPA also made air quality monitoring requirements for special industrial parks more rigorous by adding PM2.5 to the list of air quality monitoring items, demonstrating the EPA’s determination to enforce PM2.5 controls across the board. \nThe special industrial parks currently required to enhance air quality monitoring include the Sixth Naphtha Cracking Plant of Formosa Plastics（台塑六輕工業區）, Linhai Industrial Park（臨海工業區）, Linyuan Industrial Park（林園工業區）, and Southern Taiwan Science Park（南部科學園區）. The air quality monitoring facility installation plans of Linyuan Industrial Park, Southern Taiwan Science Park, and the Sixth Naphtha Cracking Plant of Formosa Plastics have been reviewed and approved by local environmental protection bureaus of the relevant jurisdictions. The monitoring for PM2.5 at these sites is expected to start in mid-May, early June and late November 2015, respectively. \nAir pollutant emissions from special industrial parks are quite often high-volume and of complex composition. Only through creating a dense network of monitoring stations that frequently monitor a complete range of pollutants is it possible to accurately assess the impact that emissions from special industrial parks have on air quality, and thus safeguard public health. In addition to monitoring for PM2.5, the stations also monitor for precursors of sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The data accumulated from these monitoring stations will also be useful in the future for air quality modeling that can be applied to assessing and strengthening controls over pollution sources and for formulating policies that aim to constantly improve Taiwan’s air quality. \nThe items that the EPA has designated for monitoring by the monitoring stations at the special industrial parks include PM10, PM2.5, SO2, NO, NO2, CO, O3, total hydrocarbons (THC), 54 ozone precursors, 52 harmful air pollutants, methanol, ethanol, 7 heavy metals, 8 acid\/alkaline gases, 6 malodorous pollutants such as sulfides and dioxins. \nIn response to the high public expectations concerning air quality monitoring stations in special industrial parks, the EPA requires certain special industrial parks to establish at least one air quality monitoring station in each city, town, village or district where it is located and on which it borders, plus another four air quality monitoring stations in suitable places. The targeted industries are involved in metal smelting, oil refining, petrochemical raw materials, paper pulp, cement, coking, and power generation from coal, oil or natural gas. \nOther special industrial parks not mentioned above should also establish at least four air quality monitoring stations in suitable places. These special industrial parks have over 25% of their total land occupied by special industries including industries of pesticide raw materials, resins, plastics, rubber, petrochemical intermediate materials, acid\/alkaline materials, semi-conductors, and optoelectronic materials and components.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Additional Air Quality Monitoring Stations Required for PM2.5 in Special Industrial Parks", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-03" }, { "no": "3269", "title": "Toxic Chemicals Management and POP Restrictions", "preview": "Toxic Substance Toxic Chemicals Management and POP Restrictions To minimize the long-term harmful effects of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in 2004 Taiwan began implementing a number of control measures, such as control at source, in accordance with the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants. Taiwan has since kept up to date with all new announcements regarding the list of controlled substances maintained by the Stockholm Convention, in response to changing trends in the use of POPs. Taiwan also regularly assesses their use domestically and enforces restrictions in order to reduce the risks to human health and the environment.", "content": "Toxic Chemicals Management and POP Restrictions", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Toxic Chemicals Management and POP Restrictions", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-03" }, { "no": "3268", "title": "EPA Marks Five Years of Promoting Energy Saving and Carbon Reduction Label", "preview": "climate change EPA Marks Five Years of Promoting Energy Saving and Carbon Reduction Label", "content": "EPA Marks Five Years of Promoting Energy Saving and Carbon Reduction Label\nTo recognize local governments for their efforts in promoting low-carbon lifestyles and to encourage corporations, citizen groups and local communities to take it upon themselves to implement energy saving and carbon reduction, on 23 January 2015 the EPA held a ceremony to award 2014’s top achievers for the Energy Saving and Carbon Reduction Label, as well as the local environmental agencies that performed well in promoting low-carbon lifestyles. The EPA has been promoting the Energy Saving and Carbon Reduction Label certification since 2009. The number of applicants has increased year-on-year from 30 in 2009 to the 614 applicants that have now been honored with the label. A list of all of the enterprises, organizations and communities that have won the Energy Saving and Carbon Reduction Label can be found on the EPA website http:\/\/ecolife.weatherrisk.com\/apply_ex5\/index.php\/awards.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "climate change", "titlename": "EPA Marks Five Years of Promoting Energy Saving and Carbon Reduction Label", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-02" }, { "no": "3267", "title": "2015 Resource Recycling Achievement Exhibition Held", "preview": "recycling 2015 Resource Recycling Achievement Exhibition Held", "content": "2015 Resource Recycling Achievement Exhibition Held\nOn 3 and 4 February 2015 the EPA organized the 2015 Resource Recycling Achievement Exhibition, to which environmental protection bureaus (EPBs) of 22 cities and counties were invited to participate. Members of the general public were able to enjoy a variety of resource recycling experiences at the exhibition, including: watching a micro-movie at the booth of the Miaoli County（苗栗縣）EPB; taking a stroll under the flame tree constructed by the Tainan City（臺南市）EPB from recycled paper and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles; bringing one’s own environmentally friendly cup to the booth of the Yunlin County（雲林縣）EPB to enjoy a free cup of aromatic Gukeng (古坑) coffee, or making a New Year wish under a prayer tree made with aluminum foil by the Taoyuan City（桃園市）EPB. The exhibition was replete with a wide assortment of games and activities to give the public hands-on experiences with recycling resources.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "recycling", "titlename": "2015 Resource Recycling Achievement Exhibition Held", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-02" }, { "no": "3267", "title": "Multi-stage Clearance Manifest Form Streamlines Waste Cooking Oil Flow Reporting", "preview": "waste Multi-stage Clearance Manifest Form Streamlines Waste Cooking Oil Flow Reporting", "content": "Multi-stage Clearance Manifest Form Streamlines Waste Cooking Oil Flow Reporting\nIn light of the realities that in the clearance of waste cooking oils many small clearance organizations tend to wait until waste cooking oil accumulates to a certain amount before turning it over to larger clearance, disposal, or recycling organizations, plus the fact that diverse situations of multi-stage clearance and storage abound, the EPA has amended its regulations concerning online reporting of waste cooking oils. The new regulations waive the need for waste cooking oil clearance organizations to send waste cooking oil to disposal organizations within 48 hours, while providing multi-stage clearance or storage manifest forms to report the flow of waste cooking oils.\nOn 10 December 2014, the EPA announced that it would expand its control of waste cooking oil producers. Fast food chains and restaurants whose capitalization exceed NT$25 million would be placed under control, along with food manufacturers and restaurants whose capitalization exceed NT$2.5 million, as well as hotels with more than 100 guest rooms. As of the end of 2014, these businesses are obliged to report on the flows of their waste cooking oil.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Multi-stage Clearance Manifest Form Streamlines Waste Cooking Oil Flow Reporting", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-02" }, { "no": "3266", "title": "Tracers Added to Waste Cooking Oil to Enhance Traceability", "preview": "Environmental Analysis Tracers Added to Waste Cooking Oil to Enhance Traceability", "content": "Tracers Added to Waste Cooking Oil to Enhance Traceability", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Analysis", "titlename": "Tracers Added to Waste Cooking Oil to Enhance Traceability", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-02" }, { "no": "3265", "title": "Singapore NGO Praises Achievements of Taiwan’s Volunteer Cleaners", "preview": "Environmental Education Singapore NGO Praises Achievements of Taiwan’s Volunteer Cleaners", "content": "Singapore NGO Praises Achievements of Taiwan’s Volunteer Cleaners\nOne of Singapore’s top community leaders has publicly praised Taipei saying that the city’s smart use of volunteer cleaners was something that Singapore could learn from. \nIn a letter published in The Straits Times, the General Secretary of the Singapore Kindness Movement, Dr. William Wan, stated that the New Year events in Singapore were getting messier, with large amounts of bottles, polystyrene cups, and cigarette packs littering the streets. He said that Taipei is much cleaner than Singapore, even though there are very few rubbish bins in public places. \nIn response to this news report, the EPA pointed out that since 2013 Taiwan has been promoting eco-friendly management for large-scale events. This has been evident at the Ho-Hai-Yan Rock Festival（貢寮音樂祭）, the Hsinchu Lantern Festival（新竹燈會）, the Yilan International Children's Folklore & Folkgame Festival（宜蘭童玩節）, and the Taipei International Dragon Boat Race（臺北龍舟競賽）. \nThere are many large-scale events held in Taiwan every year – some over a period of several days during national holidays, some just for one evening – and restoring the environment to its original state is always a lot of work for event organizers. The EPA has therefore drawn up a set of guidelines for the agencies that give instruction on the eco-friendly management of large events. The 50 guideline items include the formulation of refuse disposal plans, suitable ways of dealing with oily wastewater produced by food vendors, cleaning and sanitizing public and mobile toilets, and encouraging the public to bring their own eating utensils, cups, shopping bags and handkerchiefs. The EPA hopes that the guidelines will be of use to event organizers and local governments in organizing resource-efficient and eco-friendly events in the future. \nProtecting the environment is also a public duty, and to this end the EPA has been organizing environmental volunteer groups for the past 20 plus years. According to EPA statistics, there are 2,960 environmental volunteer groups with over 140,000 members nationwide. The work they do includes environmental education, river patrols, resource recycling, and other tasks related to energy saving and carbon reduction.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Singapore NGO Praises Achievements of Taiwans Volunteer Cleaners", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-02" }, { "no": "3264", "title": "Amendments to Regulations Governing Automated Continuous Air Pollution Monitoring for Stationary Sources Preannounced", "preview": "Air Amendments to Regulations Governing Automated Continuous Air Pollution Monitoring for Stationary Sources Preannounced", "content": "Amendments to Regulations Governing Automated Continuous Air Pollution Monitoring for Stationary Sources Preannounced \nTo facilitate a precise real-time understanding of air pollution emissions the EPA has preannounced draft amendments to the relevant regulations. More categories of manufacturers will become the subject of stationary pollution source restrictions, and the items that they will have to monitor have been stipulated. The EPA is keen to have public and private enterprises install automated continuous monitoring facilities that transmit monitoring data online in accordance with the law, and to ensure that they are properly maintained. \nThe EPA has reviewed and amended the Stationary Sources of Air Pollution Required to Install Automated Continuous Monitoring Facilities and Connect Online to the Competent Environmental Protection Authorities. The amendments will give environmental agencies more control over paper pulp manufacturing processes, industrial waste incineration processes, as well as air pollutant emissions of enterprises whose approved environmental impact assessment review decisions state that automated continuous monitoring facilities must be installed,\nThe main points of the amendments are as follows:\n1) Recycling boilers and lime kilns used in the manufacture of paper pulp have been added as facilities to be controlled. The regulations state that opacity, total reduced sulfur, oxygen and emission flow rates have to be monitored to give the competent authorities a better understanding of the actual pollution emissions from these sources. \n2) General and industrial waste incinerators for all industries that, according to the enterprise’s stationary pollution source operating permit, are allowed to burn over four tonnes but no more than ten tonnes of waste per hour, have also had controls added. The items that must be monitored include opacity, nitrogen oxide, hydrogen chloride, carbon monoxide, oxygen, and emission flow rates. This is expected to give the relevant competent authorities a fuller understanding of emissions from all incinerators of a certain size. \n3) Enterprises whose approved environmental impact assessment review decisions state that automated continuous monitoring facilities should be installed in accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment Act have been added as targets for controls. The items monitored must be those stated in the assessment’s review decisions so that relevant competent authorities can have a real-time understanding of air pollutant emissions from enterprises.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Amendments to Regulations Governing Automated Continuous Air Pollution Monitoring for Stationary Sources Preannounced\nAmendments to Regulations Governing Automated Continuous Air Pollution Monitoring for Stationary Sources Preannounced", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-02" }, { "no": "3263", "title": "Secondary Green Mark Certification Marks a Milestone for Green Consumption", "preview": "Ecolabeling Secondary Green Mark Certification Marks a Milestone for Green Consumption", "content": "Secondary Green Mark Certification Marks a Milestone for Green Consumption \nOn 15 January 2015 the EPA opened a new chapter in the promotion of eco-labeling in Taiwan with the issuance of the first Secondary Green Mark certification. In the future, manufacturers who obtain the Secondary Green Mark certification will be able to display the label on their products or packaging. The labeling of the Secondary Green Mark not only facilitates the marketing of qualified goods but also gives the public a greater selection of certified green products. The Secondary Green Mark marks another milestone in the development of green consumption in Taiwan. \nEnvironmental awareness is gaining ground in Taiwan, which in turn is stimulating manufacturers to make more green products. Products that are on the list of the announced product categories and that meet the criteria for the Green Mark are encouraged to apply for the Primary Green Mark, while products that are not on the list of the announced categories are encouraged to apply for the Secondary Green Mark. However, only a certificate rather than a designated mark will be issued to products that meet the Secondary Green Mark criteria. To help the public to recognize Secondary Green Mark products and thus promote the sale of these products, the EPA has designed a logo for the Secondary Green Mark — the Green Mark label with a “2” added to the lower right side — and registered it with the Intellectual Property Office of the Ministry of Economic Affairs. \nHousehold goods include any any number of things, and manufacturers who wish to apply for the Secondary Green Mark for their products must prove that their products have eco-friendly credentials superior to other similar products and meet one to three requirements of the Secondary Green Mark Environmental Requirements Assessment Standards. Thus, they should be low-polluting, compostable, biodegradable, disassemblable, recyclable, reusable, made of recycled materials or have extended lifecycles. They could also be manufactured from processes that use less resources or renewable energy, or they might create less waste, or consume less energy or water when in use. \nThe EPA stresses that the Secondary Green Mark does not indicate that the products are inferior in any way: the verification procedure for Secondary Green Mark certification is extremely rigorous. However, if a product meets one of the categories of the Primary Green Mark certification, the Secondary Green Mark certification cannot be applied for. In addition to evaluating the eco-friendly nature of the product, the EPA also requires that the company and its manufacturing premises abide by all of the relevant environmental regulations, which involves the EPA conducting manufacturing plant inspections to verify that the manufacturing process, the raw materials used and quality control mechanisms all meet legal requirements. Experience shows that it takes strict government controls to give consumers the confidence to buy green products. The government’s ultimate aim is to reduce the impact of consumption on the environment while encouraging manufacturers to create innovative new green products.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Ecolabeling", "titlename": "Secondary Green Mark Certification Marks a Milestone for Green Consumption", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-02" }, { "no": "3262", "title": "Constructed Wetlands Improve Water Quality and Revive Rivers", "preview": "Water Constructed Wetlands Improve Water Quality and Revive Rivers", "content": "Constructed Wetlands Improve Water Quality and Revive Rivers \nSince 2002 the EPA has been promoting constructed wetlands on some of Taiwan’s most polluted river sections. These wetlands use the power of nature – microorganisms, aqueous flora and fauna – to remove contaminants from the water, thus purifying it and conserving river ecosystems. As of 2014, 59 wetlands have been constructed around Taiwan that can treat up to 273,799 tonnes of wastewater daily. \nTo commemorate the signing of the Convention on Wetlands in Ramsar, Iran on 2 February 1971, the United Nations has designated 2 February to be World Wetlands Day. Many nations around the world use the day as an opportunity to hold wetland-related activities and educate citizens on the importance of conserving wetlands. In Taiwan, the Ministry of the Interior has been very active in driving forward interministerial cooperation to promote wetland construction and ecosystem conservation.\nThe Erren River （二仁溪） lies on the boundary between Tainan City （臺南市）and Kaohsiung City（高雄市）. Due to the negligence of long-standing industries on both banks of the river, over the years industrial effluent has seriously polluted its water. However, the EPA, local governments and citizen groups have been working hard to remediate the river. In 2000 the EPA stepped up inspections and enforcement of environmental regulations, and in 2007 the EPA subsidized the Kaohsiung City Government in its clean-up of the Baishalu （白砂崙）high riverbank area. Following successes with constructed wetlands in other areas, the EPA then also subsidized the construction of wetlands at Wanli（灣裡） and Taiye （太爺） by the Tainan City and Kaohsiung City governments, respectively. \nThe EPA also joined forces with a local environmental patrol team to increase patrols of the Erren River. The combined efforts of the EPA, the Tainan City Government, the Kaohsiung City Government, and citizen groups such as the Cieding Rafting Association （茄萣舢筏協會） have already led to a great improvement in the water quality of the river and its surrounding ecosystems. Water quality monitoring data of 2014 showed that the Erren River had moved from the “seriously polluted” category of former years to the “moderately polluted” category, and much more wildlife – such as mudskippers, fiddler crabs, snapping shrimps, and egrets – can now be seen in and around its waters. The river is now a fine example of what is possible when governments and citizens work together on an environmental project, and both the remediation process and the wealth of successes in ecological conservation make excellent material for environmental education courses.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Constructed Wetlands Improve Water Quality and Revive Rivers", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-02" }, { "no": "3261", "title": "Central and Local Governments Jointly Establish Taichung Air Pollution Reduction Taskforce", "preview": "Air Central and Local Governments Jointly Establish Taichung Air Pollution Reduction Taskforce", "content": "Central and Local Governments Jointly Establish Taichung Air Pollution Reduction Taskforce\nRecent problems with waste cooking oil and avian influenza have heightened EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei’s（魏國彥）concern for the environmental challenges that local governments face. As a result on 16 January 2015 Minister Wei visited the new mayor of Taichung City, Mr. Chia-Lung Lin（林佳龍）. They had in-depth discussions on the environmental issues affecting Taichung City and concurred on the need for better controls over air quality in the city. To this end, Minister Wei and Mayor Lin agreed to establish a Taichung Air Pollution Reduction Taskforce and expressed the hope that greater cooperation between central and local governments will lead to more specific measures to protect local environments. \nAs Minister Wei pointed out, although Taichung City is a Grade 2 Air Quality Control Zone, the EPA is still willing to plan and establish the Taichung Air Pollution Reduction Taskforce to maintain Taichung’s air quality. Citizen groups, experts and academics will be invited to join the team. The EPA will also set up more monitoring stations to monitor pollution from Taichung’s mobile pollution sources, so as to improve air quality of the area. \nMinister Wei also stated that many environmental problems cannot be dealt with by the central or local government acting alone. Many problems are regional in nature and thus need close cooperation and open channels of communication between central and local governments in order to be solved. \nMayor Lin expressed his thankfulness to Minister Wei for establishing the air pollution reduction board and the task force. He said this mechanism will facilitate dialogue on air pollution issues among central and local governments and the city’s residents, which will hopefully result in some specific targets being set. Mayor Lin also mentioned that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd （TSMC, 台灣積體電路製造股份有限公司） plans to build a foundry for 10-nanometer semiconductors at Dadu Mountain （大肚山） of Taichung City, saying that the investment was of major importance for Taichung, and that the corporation was very willing to participate in pollution reduction efforts. He also expressed the hope that the fruits of future cooperation between central and local governments would be readily visible to all.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Central and Local Governments Jointly Establish Taichung Air Pollution Reduction Taskforce", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-02" }, { "no": "3260", "title": "Patrolling Bird Flu Affected Areas to Enforce Disease Control and Carcass Burning", "preview": "Environmental Sanitation\nPatrolling Bird Flu Affected Areas to Enforce Disease Control and Carcass Burning", "content": "Patrolling Bird Flu Affected Areas to Enforce Disease Control and Carcass Burning\nIn response to the outbreak of avian influenza an interministerial Avian Influenza Emergency Response Taskforce was established, with the EPA in charge of assisting in the incineration of poultry carcasses and patrolling the affected areas to prevent carcasses from being dumped illegally. \nThe EPA has been working closely with local environmental protection bureaus to increase patrols and enforce restrictions in areas affected by avian influenza. River patrol teams and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have been deployed to conduct surveillance in the vicinity of poultry farms to ensure that no illegal dumping of carcasses occurs. Inspections of rendering plants have also been stepped up to prevent environmental contamination. Environmental agencies are also working closely with agricultural agencies to prevent the virus from spreading. \nUAV surveillance is being used for the first time by the EPA to prevent the dumping of poultry carcasses in Taisi Township （臺西鄉） and Sihhu Township （四湖鄉）in Yunlin County （雲林縣）, and Dacheng Township（大城鄉）in Changhua County （彰化縣）– all areas that have high densities of poultry farms. Four such dumping sites have been identified by aerial photography, and the EPA immediately notified local environmental protection bureaus to dispatch personnel to clean up the sites. \nFor disease control, it is important that carcasses of euthanized poultry be disposed of properly. At present, the birds that die suddenly are being sent to rendering plants with the capacity to handle up to 1,243 tonnes per day. Whenever this capacity is exceeded, refuse incinerators and government-run landfills are also employed to assist in disposing of the carcasses. If this added capacity is still insufficient, the local environmental protection bureaus can either go through the joint treatment system or the EPA to get assistance from other counties. As of 21 January 2015, six incineration plants in five cities or counties have been called upon to dispose of a total of 630.43 tonnes of birds that have died from avian flu. \nThe EPA also urges local environmental protection agencies to closely supervise sanitation squads to ensure that they do not touch any poultry or bird carcasses they may encounter while collecting refuse or carrying out other disease-prevention tasks without first putting on protective clothing. Poultry or other bird carcasses must also be placed inside suitable containers, which then must be sealed. Sanitation squad personnel who discover poultry or bird carcasses should inform both the local agricultural and environmental agencies so that both agencies can inspect the scene and create interdepartmental connections and a smooth-running disease control system.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Sanitation\nPatrolling Bird Flu Affected Areas to Enforce Disease Control and Carcass Burning", "titlename": "Patrolling Bird Flu Affected Areas to Enforce Disease Control and Carcass Burning", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-02" }, { "no": "3259", "title": "Water Pollution Control Act Amended", "preview": "Water Water Pollution Control Act Amended", "content": "Water Pollution Control Act Amended", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Water Pollution Control Act Amended", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-02" }, { "no": "3258", "title": "Advances in Environmental Analysis", "preview": "Environmental analysis Advances in Environmental Analysis", "content": "Advances in Environmental Analysis \nAlthough environmental analysis is not considered to be at the frontline of EPA operations it is still a cornerstone of the work of advancing environmental protection. The EPA’s Environmental Analysis Laboratory has thus made great efforts in recent years to obtain international laboratory accreditation and has so far been receiving high scores for all the parameters for which it has been assessed. Having an environmental laboratory of international standard not only raises Taiwan’s overall environmental analysis capabilities but also represents a step further toward guaranteeing the quality of Taiwan’s environmental analysis data. \nEnvironmental analysis is a vital link in environmental protection work. Valid and precise analysis data is the foundation for carrying out pollution inspection and controls environmental impact assessments, environmental quality monitoring, and for formulating environmental regulations. The EPA’s Environmental Analysis Laboratory (EAL) was established in January 1990 and was given the following responsibilities:\n? planning and performing environmental analysis \n? establishment of standard analysis methods\n? environmental analysis capacity building\n? environmental data quality assurance and quality control\n? management of public and private environmental analysis laboratories\n? provision of support to environmental agencies of all levels to meet their environmental analysis needs\nEAL has Earned International Accreditations for 61 Tests\nLaboratory accreditation is an evaluation process that relies upon a comprehensive set of working principles (ISO\/IEC 17025) and is carried out by an independent and objective third party accreditation body. The laboratory’s measurement capabilities, including calibrations and testing, are evaluated in accordance with an internationally accepted accreditation system to ensure that the quality of the laboratory’s data meets international norms. On 31 January 1995, the EAL obtained laboratory accreditation from the internationally recognized Australian National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA). \nThe EAL’s latest accreditation was evaluated by NATA in February 2014 and was awarded accreditations for 61 tests on air quality; water quality of effluent, drinking water, and groundwater; soil; and waste. \nTo ensure that environmental analysis is conducted in a sustainable manner, the EAL not only keeps a sharp eye on revisions to international laboratory accreditation standards and NATA accreditation criteria, but also employs its own management evaluation and internal audit mechanisms to continuously review its management operations and update its quality control manual. The most recent edition of the manual is thus taken as the highest authority on the working principles for conducting environmental analysis and related quality control and management. To ensure that the EAL keeps up to date with revisions to international accreditation standards and NATA’s re-assessment requirements, the EAL will continue to invite NATA to conduct on-site reassessments and will regularly participate in international inter-laboratory comparison programs. \nEPA Continues to Develop New Analysis Techniques\nLooking back on 2014, some of the emerging environmental analysis techniques that the EAL continued to adopt include:\n? online measurement of air pollutants using proton-transfer-reaction mass spectrometry (PTR-MS)\n? automatic green analysis technology using discrete analyzers \n? rapid screening for heavy metals in environmental media using total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) to obtain real-time forensic characteristics of samples of freshwater, seawater, sediment, toxic chemical substances and waste\n? cell line chemical toxicity analysis to assess the potential harm to human health from exposure to chemicals in environmental pollutants\n? effective screening for endocrine disrupters using cell line chemical toxicity analysis\n? pyrosequencing for environmental microbiome analysis \nSome other achievements of the EAL in the field of environmental analysis in 2014 included:\n1) The holding of 20 public hearings and review meetings on standard analysis methods which led to the addition of or amendments to 41 analysis methods in 2014. In addition, a total of 564 standard analysis methods have been announced to date. Details of these methods can be viewed and downloaded from the EAL web page http:\/\/www.niea.gov.tw\/default.asp.\n2) Management of Environmental Analysis Laboratories\na) Conducted 825 evaluations and 190 analysis laboratory permit application reviews, as well as 80 inspections of existing environmental analysis laboratories. \nb) Held four meetings with the affected enterprises: an environmental analysis laboratory operators meeting; a motor vehicle pollution analysis laboratory evaluation experts and operators meeting; a meeting for members of the Environmental Analysis Evaluation Committee, experts, and environmental analysis laboratory operators; and an end-of-year review and strategic planning meeting for management staff of environmental analysis laboratories. The topics of discussion were of relevance to environmental analysis laboratories and the opinions put forward by their representatives were all noted by the EAL, and will be incorporated into the EAL’s short-, mid-, and long-term management plans for analysis laboratories.\n3) Guidance for Local Government on Environmental Analysis \nThe EAL assisted the Pingtung County（屏東縣）Environmental Protection Bureau’s Environmental Analysis Laboratory in conducting Taiwan Accreditation Foundation（TAF, 全國認證基金會）capability tests.\n4) Administering environmental media analysis: A total of 4,481 samples were analyzed last year, bringing the running total to 52,408 tests. \n5) International accreditation for testing capability: The EAL continued to maintain its NATA accreditation and participated in six international comparison test – for dioxins, soil pesticides, effluent heavy metals, waste heavy metals, drinking water volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and drinking water microorganisms – with good results all around. \n6) Innovations and Improvements\na) All of the equipment and instruments bought or replaced in accordance with the New Era of Environmental Analysis Development Plan have been received and checked.\nb) The draft of the Nationwide Environmental Analysis Task Distribution Adjustment Plan has been revised according to the decisions of the policy brief.\nc) The Operating Rules for Environmental Sample Splitting（環境樣品分樣檢測作業規範）have been formulated for use by all relevant parties.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Analysis", "titlename": "Advances in Environmental Analysis", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-02" }, { "no": "3257", "title": "Uses of HCFCs Limited", "preview": "toxic substance Uses of HCFCs Limited", "content": "Achievements of National Implementation Plan under the Stockholm Convention Available Online", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "toxic substance", "titlename": "Uses of HCFCs Limited", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-01" }, { "no": "3256", "title": "LPG Subsidies for Automobiles Extended for Two Years", "preview": "Air LPG Subsidies for Automobiles Extended for Two Years", "content": "LPG Subsidies for Automobiles Extended for Two Years \nThe EPA announced the amended Article 3 of the Regulations Governing Subsidies for Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) for Motor Vehicles（降低車用液化石油氣售價補助辦法）which extended the subsidy deadline to 31 December 2016. In the amended article the method and amount of subsidy remain the same as before, which was based on the difference in selling price between octane 95 unleaded gasoline and the LPG for automobiles as of 31 December 2010 (tantamount to NT$12.7 per liter). Floating adjustments will be made on this base, and the maximum subsidy will be limited to NT$2 per liter.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "LPG Subsidies for Automobiles Extended for Two Years", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-01" }, { "no": "3254", "title": "PM2.5 Interpretations Added to Improve Air Quality Forecasts", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring PM2.5 Interpretations Added to Improve Air Quality Forecasts", "content": "PM2.5 Interpretations Added to Improve Air Quality Forecasts \nAir quality is closely related to people's health and quality of life. In view of this the EPA has integrated the Central Weather Bureau's weather forecasts with results from dynamic simulations of air quality tests. At 10:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. every day, the EPA releases air quality forecasts for the following three days. To enhance the operation of air quality forecasts, the text of the forecasts includes interpretations of readings for fine particulate matters, PM2.5. The EPA is also assessing the possibility of increasing the frequency of forecasts. The above measures are taken to ensure that the general public can have a clear idea of air quality changes at an early stage.\nStarting from October 2014, PM2.5 has been included in air quality forecasts. However, as the sources of fine particulate matters are many and the influence factors are varied, it is quite difficult to make a precise forecast. In order to enhance PM2.5 forecast capabilities, the EPA seeks to develop statistical analysis models and enhance the functions of dynamic simulations to improve the quality of forecasts and provide real time warnings of air quality changes.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "PM2.5 Interpretations Added to Improve Air Quality Forecasts", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-01" }, { "no": "3253", "title": "Export of Household Waste Cooking Oil to Come Under Control", "preview": "waste Export of Household Waste Cooking Oil to Come Under Control", "content": "Export of Household Waste Cooking Oil to Come Under Control", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Export of Household Waste Cooking Oil to Come Under Control", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-01" }, { "no": "3252", "title": "Methods and Facility Standards Governing the Storage, Clearance and Disposal of Waste Containers Amended", "preview": "waste Methods and Facility Standards Governing the Storage, Clearance and Disposal of Waste Containers Amended", "content": "Methods and Facility Standards Governing the Storage, Clearance and Disposal of Waste Containers Amended \nTo tackle the problem of logjams in waste container recycling channels, on 29 December 2014 the EPA an?nounced amendments to the Methods and Facility Standards Governing the Storage, Clearance and Disposal of Waste Containers（廢容器回收貯存清除處理方法及設施標準）. The amendments stipulate that whenever waste container recycling channels are potentially underperforming, waste containers can be sent to general waste incineration plants for incineration. This measure is intended to solve the problem of waste containers pil?ing up at recycling facilities.\nCurrent regulations stipulate that waste containers cannot be incinerated or landfilled without prior permission from the EPA. However, there are occasions when recycling facilities cease operating or have insufficient capacity to deal with large volumes of waste containers, thus creating logjams in recycling channels and cascading issues with large piles of unsightly and unhygienic waste containers causing public concern. \nTo address this problem, the EPA has amended Articles 7 and 8 of the Methods and Facility Standards Governing the Storage, Clearance and Disposal of Waste Containers so that if a waste container recycling facility stops operations for six months or longer, or if its recycling capacity does not reach 50% of its total capacity for the previous year leading to obstructed recycling channels, then waste containers can be sent directly to incinerators designated by the EPA for incineration without the need for permission. The EPA believes that this is the best way to ensure that waste container recycling and disposal channels remain unobstructed.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Methods and Facility Standards Governing the Storage, Clearance and Disposal of Waste Containers Amended", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-01" }, { "no": "3251", "title": "Trials of Waste Tires for Road Paving Planned in Taipei and Taoyuan in 2015", "preview": "recycling Trials of Waste Tires for Road Paving Planned in Taipei and Taoyuan in 2015", "content": "Trials of Waste Tires for Road Paving Planned in Taipei and Taoyuan in 2015 \nWaste tires can be used as road-surfacing materials thus extending their usefulness and adding a safe layer of protection to the roads. In order to show the ease and the environmental benefits of paving roads using asphalt rubberized with waste tires, the EPA, with the support of government engineering units, has formulated a plan to conduct road surfacing trials in Taipei City （臺北市）and Taoyuan City （桃園市）in 2015. Various param?eters will be monitored closely to judge how effective the technique is. \nRubberized asphalt road surfacing has been employed in the US, Japan, Europe, and China in recent years. In Taiwan, the technique has been used on the section of Route 1 in Miaoli County （苗栗縣）for the last ten years and has shown to be effective both in terms of stability and maintenance cost reduction. Rubberized asphalt also reduces road noise as well as generates less construction-related CO2 emissions. \nIn recent years the EPA has been implementing its Application Promotion and Monitoring of Waste Tire Rubberized Asphalt Road Surfacing Project to promote the uptake of the technique. Since special equipment is required to blend waste tire material with asphalt, the EPA has decided to import mobile rubberized asphalt mixers from the US to ensure that the pilot project runs as smoothly as possible. \nIn 2014, the EPA obtained support for the pilot project from the Directorate General of Highways of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications as well as the Public Works Department of the Taipei City Government. Expressways and roads that are often used by vehicles with heavy loads were chosen for the trial scheme. Surveys of suitable roads were carried out, and the trial sections will be decided in 2015. Once the rubberized asphalt has been laid, a long period of monitoring of its effectiveness and environmental impact will follow. This should result in the production of an instruction manual and regulations that can be referenced by engineering units that plan to pave roads with rubberized asphalt. \nUsing rubberized asphalt to surface roads turns used tires into a recyclable resource of value and is an excellent example of the eco-friendly sustainable use of resources that the government is promoting.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "recycling", "titlename": "Trials of Waste Tires for Road Paving Planned in Taipei and Taoyuan in 2015", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-01" }, { "no": "3250", "title": "Non-profit Organization INDEX Visits Taiwan to Share Danish Experiences in Environmental Education", "preview": "Environmental Education Non-profit Organization INDEX Visits Taiwan to Share Danish Experiences in Environmental Education", "content": "Non-profit Organization INDEX Visits Taiwan to Share Danish Experiences in Environmental Education", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Non-profit Organization INDEX Visits Taiwan to Share Danish Experiences in Environmental Education", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-01" }, { "no": "3249", "title": "EPA Police and Prosecutors Join Forces to Prevent Illegal Discharge of Electroplating Effluents", "preview": "Water EPA Police and Prosecutors Join Forces to Prevent Illegal Discharge of Electroplating Effluents", "content": "EPA Police and Prosecutors Join Forces to Prevent Illegal Discharge of Electroplating Effluents \nDuring 2014, the EPA joined forces with the Changhua Environmental Protection Bureau and Changhua District Prosecutors Office and police to carry out large-scale inspections and raids on electroplating factories suspect?ed of illegally discharging wastewater in the Changhua （彰化）area. The operations were so successful that the EPA decided to continue the joint inspections into 2015. The EPA expects electroplating enterprises to treat their wastewater properly to avoid polluting the environment. \nSince the end of 2013, the EPA has been working with the Changhua District Prosecutor’s Office through the environmental agency-prosecutor-police cooperation mechanism. Prosecutors and EPA personnel used all of the tools at their disposal to collect evidence – sometimes working late into the night – that culminated in five large-scale raids on suspected electroplating factories. Evidence collected proved that these enterprises had been illegally discharging wastewater through hidden pipes for a long time, thus creating significant pollution of farmland and rivers. The EPA then directed and supervised the local governments in the area issuing operation suspension orders for 19 factories. A total of 28 persons are also being prosecuted by the Changhua District Prosecutor’s Office for the suspected discharging of toxic substances that pose a public health hazard, in violation of Article 190-1 of the Criminal Code（刑法）. \nThe effectiveness of the EPA raids has been clearly reflected in the improvement in water quality of some irrigation channels. Test results showed that after the raids, 92.2% of samples accorded with national irrigation water standards, compared with 81.0% before the raids. \nCompared to other industries, it is more difficult to inspect and identify electroplating pollutants due to the complexity and unique nature of electroplating processes. Law-breaking factory owners tend to bypass discharge their wastewater irregularly and at night through fixed hidden pipes or movable soft tubes. The outlets for such pipes are often in very inaccessible locations, indicating that their owners are expending much effort to evade detection. \nThe environmental agencies and prosecutors jointly conduct in-depth inspections and audits that represent a step beyond conventional factory inspections. Inspection methods included the use of advanced instruments such as ground-penetrating radar and underground pipe locators to successfully find high-voltage motors, large storage tanks, and electronically controlled switches hidden in places that were normally inaccessible to inspectors.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "EPA Police and Prosecutors Join Forces to Prevent Illegal Discharge of Electroplating Effluents", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-01" }, { "no": "3248", "title": "Instruments to Be Installed on Dongyin Island for Monitoring of Transboundary PM2.5", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring Instruments to Be Installed on Dongyin Island for Monitoring of Transboundary PM2.5", "content": "Instruments to Be Installed on Dongyin Island for Monitoring of Transboundary PM2.5 \nThe EPA is planning to install PM2.5 monitoring instruments on Matsu’s （馬祖）Dongyin Island （東引島）. The monitoring station will become the frontline of the transboundary pollutant monitoring program which is in the process of being enhanced. In addition, as of January 2015, the EPA has added two more functions on its free app to provide real-time air pollution concentrations and to send automatic alerts to users when poor air quality conditions are imminent. \nDue to seasonal winds, the main source of overseas pollutants that impact Taiwan’s environment from November to May is mainland China. Whenever airborne pollutants start to build up and PM2.5 concentrations rise, or when a dust storm occurs in China, the pollutants and dust are carried by the northeast monsoon to Taiwan. According to EPA monitoring data, such impacts appear first on the outlying islands of Kinmen （金門）and Matsu, being particularly noticeable in the Matsu area which lies to the northwest of Taiwan. \nDongyin Island is the northernmost point of Taiwan’s administrative territory, lying 30 km east of mainland China and 180 km north of the main island of Taiwan. Since there is no large-scale economic activity on Dongyin Island, during the spring, autumn and winter most air pollutants over the island are carried over from China by air currents primarily coming down from the coastal areas of northern China. This means that when concentrations of pollutants are high in China and the northeast monsoon is blowing, Dongyin Island is the first Taiwan territory to be affected.\nAt present, there are simple PM10 and solar radiation monitoring instruments set up on Dongyin Island. These instruments are inadequate, however, in terms of monitoring fine particulate matters and providing timely readings of pollutant concentrations. Once PM2.5 monitoring instruments are set up on Dongyin Island and connected to Taiwan through the Internet, real-time pollutant concentration data will be provided to assist in analyzing air quality along the central and southern coast of China. Whenever air currents coming from the north coast of China are judged to be heading to Taiwan, the Dongyin Island monitoring station will be able to give rapid and accurate advanced warning of high air pollutant concentrations to Taiwan residents. \nEvery November the EPA reconvenes a dedicated taskforce that examines satellite images, air quality data and weather monitoring data in order to compose meteorological forecasts and models that will help predict the impact of transboundary pollutants on Taiwan’s air quality. This team releases two air quality reports daily – at 10:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. – and if necessary, also issues advance warnings to the Central Weather Bureau, the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health and Welfare to ensure that the health of the public is protected as well as possible. \nIn addition to the online air quality reports, the EPA also provides a free app through which a user can obtain real-time air quality data from the air quality monitoring station nearest to the user’s location, as well as receive automatic alerts when pollutant concentrations exceed thresholds set by the user. The EPA plans to upgrade the app so that it will also display other urgent environmental data such as rainstorm warnings and flood alerts.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "Instruments to Be Installed on Dongyin Island for Monitoring of Transboundary PM2.5", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-01" }, { "no": "3247", "title": "Total Quantity Control for Air Pollutants Preannounced for Kaohsiung and Pingtung", "preview": "Air Total Quantity Control for Air Pollutants Preannounced for Kaohsiung and Pingtung", "content": "Total Quantity Control for Air Pollutants Preannounced for Kaohsiung and Pingtung \nTo protect public health the EPA preannounced the draft of the Kaoshiung-Pingtung Area Air Pollutant Total Quantity Control Plan（高屏地區空氣污染物總量管制計畫）. The draft entails the biggest changes in air quality control in the last 15 years and also incorporates the latest advanced methodology.\nThe aim of the Kaoshiung-Pingtung Area Air Pollutant Total Quantity Control Plan is to lay out the working principles for implementing the total quantity control for air pollutants. The drafted plan includes: \n‧the legal basis \n‧targets of the Plan \n‧the environmental load and related trends \n‧analyses of current air quality conditions and underlying problems \n‧an inventory of air pollutant emissions and an analysis of their special characteristics \n‧strategies for air pollution control \n‧mechanisms for existing stationary source air pollution reduction credit accreditation, offsetting and trading\n‧regulations regarding review of new or amended stationary air pollutant sources \n‧division of tasks and authorities, and organizational operation procedures for all units involved \nThe EPA is also planning to assist other ministries (e.g. the Ministry of Health and Welfare, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications) in establishing a regular Air Pollution Reduction Actions Supervisory Coordinating Meeting to integrate air pollutant reduction efforts among government departments and allocate reduction tasks and responsibilities. An Air Pollution Reduction Taskforce will also be established to oversee air quality improvement work all around Taiwan. Citizen groups and local residents will also be invited to participate. \nAir quality in the Kaoshiung-Pingtung area has clearly improved in recent years. The percentage of days when air quality was recorded as being harmful to human health (PSI>100) fell from 18.4% in 1994 to 3.75% in 2013. However, the Kaoshiung-Pingtung area still has worse air quality than other areas of Taiwan. The EPA therefore decided to implement total quantity controls in this area to accelerate air quality improvement.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Total Quantity Control for Air Pollutants Preannounced for Kaohsiung and Pingtung", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-01" }, { "no": "3246", "title": "Permit for Waste Cooking Oil Recyclers Implemented", "preview": "Waste Permit for Waste Cooking Oil Recyclers Implemented", "content": "Permit for Waste Cooking Oil Recyclers Implemented \nTo maintain effective control over the disposal of waste cooking oil on 15 December 2014, the EPA announced that applications for waste cooking oil recycling permits （廢食用油回收工作證）were henceforth to be reviewed and issued by local government environmental protection bureaus. As of 1 January 2015, all waste cooking oil recyclers and their vehicles are required to carry the permits whenever they are collecting oil.\nThe permits are designed to help the public easily identify recyclers that have been allowed to collect and recycle waste cooking oil. All registered recyclers and waste disposal operators who already have a general clearance and disposal permit or have joined a legally-registered waste clearance and disposal franchise can apply for the Waste Cooking Oil Recycler Permits at their local environmental protection bureau. The EPA is also taking the opportunity to strengthen its management of waste cooking oil producers and recyclers to gain full control over the disposal of such oil. The EPA is educating diner and food stand operators in night markets and business areas to ensure that their waste cooking oil is handed over to collectors or vehicles that display the Waste Cooking Oil Recycler Permits. As of 1 January 2015 it is illegal to hand waste cooking oil over to unlicensed recyclers, with violations incurring a fine of NT$1,200-6,000 in accordance with the Waste Disposal Act. \nEach Waste Cooking Oil Recycler Permit includes an identification photo, a company name, phone number and the permit number of the recycler. To make counterfeiting more difficult, the permit will always carry a quick response (QR) code and the seal of the local environmental protection bureau on the photo, along with a watermark. By scanning the QR code with a smartphone, members of the public can immediately gain access to information on the waste cooking oil recycler. \nThe EPA is urging individual recyclers who are still collecting waste cooking oil without the permit to either apply for their own permit or to join an established franchise. The EPA and local environmental protection bureaus will continue to offer recyclers advice on how to do so. From 1 January 2015, the inspection regime will be strengthened and unlicensed recyclers will be penalized with fines ranging from NT$60,000~300,000 in accordance with the Waste Disposal Act.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Permit for Waste Cooking Oil Recyclers Implemented", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-01" }, { "no": "3245", "title": "Taiwan Delegates Participate in Lima Climate Talks", "preview": "climate change Taiwan Delegates Participate in Lima Climate Talks \nThe latest round of talks on the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP 20\/ CMP 10) concluded on 14 December 2014 in Lima Peru. In addition to having bilateral talks with representa?tives of over 20 nations and international organizations, Taiwan delegates also joined forces with its diplomatic allies and some NGOs to host a number of side events designed to show Taiwan’s ongoing commitment to and potential capacity for climate change mitigation. Themes for the side events included: low-carbon policies; development and applications of green technologies; incubation mechanisms for international climate change innovation and prompt emergency assistance; case studies of corporate social responsibility partnerships with corporations involved in post-climate disaster restoration projects; and, the enthusiasm and vitality brought by youth organizations participating in climate change mitigation efforts.", "content": "Taiwan Delegates Participate in Lima Climate Talks \nThe latest round of talks on the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP 20\/ CMP 10) concluded on 14 December 2014 in Lima Peru. In addition to having bilateral talks with representa?tives of over 20 nations and international organizations, Taiwan delegates also joined forces with its diplomatic allies and some NGOs to host a number of side events designed to show Taiwan’s ongoing commitment to and potential capacity for climate change mitigation. Themes for the side events included: low-carbon policies; development and applications of green technologies; incubation mechanisms for international climate change innovation and prompt emergency assistance; case studies of corporate social responsibility partnerships with corporations involved in post-climate disaster restoration projects; and, the enthusiasm and vitality brought by youth organizations participating in climate change mitigation efforts. \nThe 40th session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC 40) also took place shortly before COP 20, during which the final part of the IPCC Fifth Assessment Report (AR5) was approved. The report states that: climate change is clearly underway and is unprecedented in scale; avoiding catastrophe will require employing vast resources and continuous reduction in global emissions; the longer we leave it the more costly it will become and we could be forced to rely more and more upon untested technologies. \nThe conference in Lima went as predicted by most outside observers: it paved the way for the 2015 conference in Paris, with 24 COP 20 decisions and 8 CMP 10 decisions being adopted. The key outcomes include a reiteration of the need for deadlines for emission reductions, a call for developed nations to offer more support, further elaboration of the draft of the new agreement, and a call for more countries to ratify the Doha Amendment. \nIn 2010 – following the COP 15 in Copenhagen – Taiwan joined many other nations in formulating a raft of Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Actions (NAMAs) designed to reduce emissions by at least 30% from business-as-usual (BAU) levels by 2020. Taiwan is highly dependent on energy imports and has a limited environmental carrying c a p a c i t y . T h e f u t u r e challenge, which will require much deep thought and hard work from all parties concerned, lies in coming up with ambitious but realistic carbon reduction targets that accord with global emission reduction trends but do not neglect domestic energy supply needs, and yet still demonstrate that Taiwan is shouldering its share of the burden to care for the environment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Taiwan Delegates Participate in Lima Climate Talks", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-01" }, { "no": "3244", "title": "New Measures Take Effect on 1 January 2015", "preview": "general policy New Measures Take Effect on 1 January 2015 \nWith the arrival of the new year the EPA has announced ten new measures that took effect on 1 January 2015. These include permit requirements for recyclers of waste cooking oil, implementation of CO2 emission controls for small passenger cars, and requirements for operators of industrial park sewage systems to submit their self-assessment reports for the previous year by the end of June each year.", "content": "New Measures Take Effect on 1 January 2015 \nWith the arrival of the new year the EPA has announced ten new measures that took effect on 1 January 2015. These include permit requirements for recyclers of waste cooking oil, implementation of CO2 emission controls for small passenger cars, and requirements for operators of industrial park sewage systems to submit their self-assessment reports for the previous year by the end of June each year. \n\nThe ten new measures that took effect on 1 January are: \n1. All waste cooking oil recyclers are henceforth required to ensure that their staff and their vehicles carry the Waste Cooking Oil Recycling Permits （廢食用油回收工作證）whenever they are collecting waste oil. \n2. The implementation of CO2 emission control standards for small passenger cars \n3. The implementation of Opacity Test Methods and Procedures for Black Smoke in Diesel Vehicle Exhaust（柴 油汽車黑煙排放不透光率檢測方法及程序） \n4. Amendments to the emission coefficients for the flare stack SOX and NOX air pollution control fee calculations \n5. For optoelectronic enterprises and science parks that are required to submit Effluent Pollutants Reduction Management Plans, the first stage of ammonia nitrogen controls standard, 75mg\/L, will come into effect in accordance with the Optoelectronic Material and Component Manufacturing Industry Effluent Standards（光電材料及元件製造業放流水標準）and Science Park Sewage Systems Effluent Standards（科學工業園區污水下水道系統放流水標準）. \n6. Operators of industrial park sewage systems will henceforth be required to submit self-assessment reports for the previous year to their local competent authority by the end of June each year. \n7. Automated wastewater quantity\/quality monitoring systems must be installed at: industrial park sewage systems that discharge over 2,000 m3 of wastewater daily; power plants whose exhaust does not come into contact with cooling water or which use seawater flue gas desulfurization facilities; and, any enterprise that discharges over 15,000 m3 of wastewater daily. \n8. Applications for permits to use Category 4 toxic chemical substances will henceforth only be accepted online. \n9. Adjustments to the second stage of dry cell battery recycling fee rates will be implemented. \n10. New recycling fee rates for green appliances will come into effect. \nDetails of the regulations covering the above measures are given in the table below:", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "general policy", "titlename": "New Measures Take Effect on 1 January 2015", "position": "print\/V18\/V18-01" }, { "no": "3243", "title": "Award Given to Winners of Cradle to Cradle Product Innovation Design Competition", "preview": "waste Award Given to Winners of Cradle to Cradle Product Innovation Design Competition", "content": "Award Given to Winners of Cradle to Cradle Product Innovation Design Competition\nOn 7 November 2014 the EPA held a Source Reduction for Zero Waste activity to present awards to winners of the Cradle to Cradle Product Innovation Design Competition and invite representatives from the industry, government, and academia to exchange insights and share experiences. The above-mentioned activity was organized by the EPA to encourage enterprises to adopt the concept of source reduction. In line with this concept, the winners of the Cradle to Cradle Product Innovation Design Competition used materials which not only comply with health and recycling standards, but also address concerns regarding renewable energy, carbon reduction, water resource management and social equity. One case in point was the winner for “Packaging of Goods Placed in Cartons.” Instead of the traditional method of using pallets, cartons, tape and adhesive films which make the overall packaging process very complex and cumbersome, the designer from beginning to end used one type of recycled paper and designed packaging held together using tenons. Thus, the whole process was greatly simplified and reached virtual zero waste. Another case in point was the team from Ming Chuan University’s Department of Commercial Design. Seeing the needs of urban citizens who walk their dogs, this team designed a biodegradable pooper scooper. With this product, dog owners can more easily clean up and bury their pets’ droppings in the ground as nutrients for soil. The two aforementioned designs won the top awards for the competition.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Award Given to Winners of Cradle to Cradle Product Innovation Design Competition", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-12" }, { "no": "3242", "title": "Labeling Regulations for Toxic Chemical Substances Amended", "preview": "toxic substance", "content": "Labeling Regulations for Toxic Chemical Substances Amended", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "toxic substance", "titlename": "Labeling Regulations for Toxic Chemical Substances Amended", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-12" }, { "no": "3241", "title": "Green Hotels, Restaurants and Marketing Companies Commended", "preview": "Ecolabeling\nGreen Hotels, Restaurants and Marketing Companies Commended", "content": "Ecolabeling Green Hotels, Restaurants and Marketing Companies Commended \nIn order to advocate green living for all citizens, the EPA has been promoting the green service industry over the past few years. On 10 November 2014, the EPA publicly commended: 10 enterprises which were accredited with the service industry Green Mark in 2014; 18 stores that had outstanding performance in green marketing; 21 hotels that are exemplary in the eco-friendly services they provide; and 17 restaurants that have been issued the environmental star and provide outstanding green services to their clients. The above-mentioned commendations were made to encourage the conscientious efforts of enterprises toward environmental protection. \nThe EPA points out that there are criteria for eight different categories pertaining to the service industry. In 2014, ten enterprises were accredited the Green Mark in the service industry. In addition, to facilitate consumer purchases of eco-friendly products, the EPA has assisted 11,480 stores to become green shops. Furthermore, to encourage these green shops to actively promote green consumption, the EPA organized an evaluation of the green marketing power of these green shops. Altogether 80 shops participated in the evaluation. The evaluation included product introduction, display and labeling, marketing and promotion, etc. Scores were given by on-site inspection, documentary review, disguised guest visits, etc. At the end, 18 shops were selected and commended by the EPA. \nTo assist enterprises to take steps in improving their environmental protection measures for the purpose of being awarded a Green Mark, the EPA made great efforts to upgrade the environmental protection measures and green services of Green Hotels and the Star scheme for Green Restaurants in 2014. As of the end of October 2014, 728 hotels visited by 880,546 guests have been rated as environmentally friendly hotels, of which 370 have been confirmed to have completed implementation of five environmental protection measures. A total of 230 restaurants were given the environmental star, of which 188 met the requirements of all five indicators.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Ecolabeling", "titlename": "Green Hotels, Restaurants and Marketing Companies Commended", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-12" }, { "no": "3240", "title": "Tightening Controls on Dry Cell Battery Mercury and Cadmium Considered", "preview": "Recycling Tightening Controls on Dry Cell Battery Mercury and Cadmium Considered", "content": "Recycling", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Tightening Controls on Dry Cell Battery Mercury and Cadmium Considered", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-12" }, { "no": "3239", "title": "New Recycling Fee Rates for Green Appliances to Be Implemented in Two Stages", "preview": "Recycling New Recycling Fee Rates for Green Appliances to Be Implemented in Two Stages", "content": "Recycling New Recycling Fee Rates for Green Appliances to Be Implemented in Two Stages\nAn increasing number of electric\/electronic products are now qualified for reduced recycling fee rates placing pressure on the Resource Recycling Fund. To stabilize the revenues and expenses for the Resource Recycling Fund and also to encourage manufacturers to make products that are even more eco-friendly, the EPA will raise the criteria for electric\/electronic products qualify for reduced recycling fee rates. To give the affected enterprises sufficient time to adapt, the fee rates will be implemented in two stages starting from 1 January 2015. Details of the preferential fee rates can be viewed on the EPA website at http:\/\/ivy5.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx . \nSince 1 January 2013, electric\/electronic products that carry the EPA’s Green Mark, the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA)’s energy\/water saving labels, or those that have an energy efficiency rating superior to Grade 2 have been granted a 30% discount on the standard recycling fee rates. Following a year and half of implementation, over 55% of total reported volumes of manufactured electric\/electronic products qualified for the special recycling fee rates, and for some categories over 80% of items qualified. Considering the majority of electric\/electronic products now qualify for the reduced recycling fee rates, the EPA decided to modify the list of products and fee rates to encourage manufacturers to make their products even more eco-friendly, while stabilizing the operation of the Resource Recycling Fund. \nWhile drawing up the amendments, the EPA also included a grace period to allow affected enterprises sufficient time to adapt. From 1 January to 31 December 2015, the fee rate for the electric\/electronic products will stay the same for Green Mark products (90% of the standard rate for TVs) while for products that carry other eco-labels, the fee rate will be 90% of the standard rate (with no reduction for TVs). From 1 January 2016, the fee rates for Green Mark products will be 85% of the standard rate (90% of the standard rate for TVs). The EPA expects that these minor adjustments will accord with current practices and help maintain normal recycling operation for electric\/electronic products. \nThe EPA reminds all responsible enterprises to recalculate the recycling fees they will need to pay from 1 January 2015 based upon their production or import volumes of electric\/electronic products. Answers to queries related to the fee rates or online reporting can be found on the EPA’s resource recycling website: http:\/\/recycle.epa.gov.tw .", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "New Recycling Fee Rates for Green Appliances to Be Implemented in Two Stages", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-12" }, { "no": "3238", "title": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Fee Collection Regulations Preannounced", "preview": "Water\nAmendments to Water Pollution Control Fee Collection Regulations Preannounced", "content": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Fee Collection Regulations Preannounced\nIn accordance with the Legislative Yuan’s decisions on the 2014 budget for the central government the EPA preannounced the amendments to the Regulations Governing the Collection of Water Pollution Control Fees on 19 November 2014. The revisions were made to push enterprises to lower pollutants produced from manufacturing processes and thereby reduce their impact on environmental water bodies.\nAccording to the Legislative Yuan’s most recent decisions, the EPA shall start collecting water pollution control fees from industries in 2014. The livestock industry will be exempted during the first stage. In addition to the original standards for chemical oxygen demand and suspended solids, water pollution control fees will be also calculated according to the amount of hazardous substances in effluent, such as heavy metals and toxic chemicals. The main points of the amendments are thus focused on collecting water pollution control fees for industrial effluent and industrial park sewage systems. The livestock industry will remain exempt for the time being, but will be charged water pollution control fees starting in the third year after initial implementation of the regulations. \nIn addition, the EPA has made a fee rate table for water pollution control fees and requests enterprises to install water quality\/quantity automated monitoring facilities that can transmit data online to the competent authority. The EPA has also added calculation formulae and regulations governing online reporting. To simplify the procedures and raise administrative efficiency, the EPA has decided to allow enterprises to pay their fees with their next regular payment if the due fees cover a period less than half a year. \nWater pollution control fees are collected according to the following calculation: Volume of effluent multiplied by water quality rating of effluent multiplied by fee rate. Affected enterprises and industrial parks should respond quickly by improving the efficacy of their wastewater treatment to reduce pollutant concentrations. They can also recycle and reuse effluent to reduce discharge volumes. Enterprises that take these measures will pay lower water pollution control fees while helping to protect public health and environmental water quality through reducing pollution.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Amendments to Water Pollution Control Fee Collection Regulations Preannounced", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-12" }, { "no": "3237", "title": "Liuchuan River Remediation Gets Underway", "preview": "Water Liuchuan River Remediation Gets Underway", "content": "Liuchuan River Remediation Gets Underway\nThe Liuchuan River Remediation and Improvement Project undertaken by the Taichung City Government and subsidized by the EPA, was kicked off on 18 November 2014. EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei attended the launch ceremony to highlight the EPA’s continuing concern for the water quality of the Liuchuan River and to show support for the diligent efforts of the Taichung City Government to purify the river. It is expected that the execution of the project will create an attractive river environment for the people of Taichung. \nThe Liuchuan River passes through some of the most densely populated areas of Taichung City, and one section particularly sees high volumes of household wastewater entering the river. To create a pleasant and attractive river space for citizens to enjoy, in 2012 the EPA gave a grant to the Taichung City Government to plan a remediation project. This year the EPA provided another subsidy of NT$130.2 million to the Taichung City Government to get the Liuchuan River Remediation and Improvement Project underway. \nThe project involves the construction of 42 sewage intercepting holes (wells) that are expected to be able to divert 27,000 tonnes per day of sewage water to the Futian Water Resources Center for treatment. A 330-meter portion of that river section will also see structural non-point pollution source control model facilities installed in accordance with low impact development, best management practices. These will include seepage ditches, rain gardens, and vegetated filter strips that will be placed where the river’s topology permits, and will help to prevent pollutants washed off the streets of Taichung by rainfall from entering the Liuchuan River. These are advanced techniques for dealing with non-point pollution sources that are being used in other developed nations. \nThe EPA has also subsidized work of the Taichung City Government on other sections of the river. In 2009, a grant of NT$170 million was provided for the construction of 17 intercepting channels and a 2.1 km-long sectional thin layer water purification facility. The work was finished in December 2011 and has noticeably improved the quality of river water connected to that site.\nIn March 2014, the EPA also provided NT$92.4 million for a gravel contact oxidation facility to be constructed on the upper reaches of the river. This facility can handle 10,000 tonnes per day of effluent diverted from households that are not yet connected to public sewers, with the treated water then flowing back into Liuchuan River. The facility helped remove 441 kg per day of organic pollutants from the water.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Liuchuan River Remediation Gets Underway", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-12" }, { "no": "3236", "title": "Twelve Car Makers Reach Voluntary Carbon Reduction Targets", "preview": "Air Twelve Car Makers Reach Voluntary Carbon Reduction Targets", "content": "Twelve Car Makers Reach Voluntary Carbon Reduction Targets On 11 November 2014 the EPA publicly commended 12 car makers for meeting emission reduction targets they had signed onto through voluntary carbon reduction agreements. The average reduction of their vehicle emissions reached 18%. The EPA also lauded Ho-Hsin Bus Traffic Co. and the Environmental Protection Bureau of Chiayi City for promoting eco-friendly driving practices; and Taoyuan Bus Co., Taiwan Taxi, President Transnet Corp. (Takkyubin), and Mos Burger for using low-carbon vehicles. \nThe EPA has been promoting the Voluntary CO2 Reduction Agreement for Small Passenger Cars since 2010. The goal of the agreement is to reduce carbon emissions to 163 g\/km, or 15% of that of the baseline year of 2009, by 2015.Thirteen car makers have signed the agreement: BMW, Ford, Honda Taiwan, China Motor Corporation, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, Modena Motori Taiwan, Hotai Motor, Volvo, Volkswagen, Skoda, Porsche, and Audi Taiwan. The reduction agreements have been successful in reducing average carbon emissions from new vehicles in Taiwan year-on-year, with an estimated decrease of 58,806 metric tonnes of CO2 over the 5-year period. \nAverage carbon emissions from passenger cars in Taiwan have dropped from 191 g\/km in 2009 to 169 g\/km in 2014, a reduction of 12%. With the enforcement of car CO2 emission control standards starting on 1 January 2015, there will certainly be more types of low-carbon cars on the market for consumers to choose from. \nIn addition to the manufacturers who signed the voluntary agreement, the EPA also praised transport operators who use low-carbon vehicles in 2014. These included Chiayi City EPB, high-way bus operator Ho-Hsin Bus Traffic Co., local bus operator Taoyuan Bus Co., Taiwan Taxi, the courier company President Transnet Corp., and the fast-food restaurant chain Mos Burger. These enterprises use electric vehicles, electric hybrid vehicles and LPG hybrid vehicles, and in addition train their drivers to drive in an eco-friendly way that reduces fuel consumption, and moreover increases road safety and reduces accident rates.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Twelve Car Makers Reach Voluntary Carbon Reduction Targets", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-12" }, { "no": "3235", "title": "Glass Industry Nitrogen Oxides Emission Standards Tightened", "preview": "Air Glass Industry Nitrogen Oxides Emission Standards Tightened", "content": "Glass Industry Nitrogen Oxides Emission Standards Tightened \nAfter taking into account the public health effects of fine particulate matters and their precursors and in response to the global trend toward adopting pollution-reduction and energy-saving technologies, the EPA reviewed and revised the air pollutant emission standards pertaining to the glass industry. The amendments were announced on 14 November 2014. \nThe main points of the amendments are as follows:\n1. Glass furnace exhaust oxygen values have been amended to 15% across the board. Standard concentration values for particulate pollutants and Sox have also been added: For new glass smelters, 25mg\/Nm3 for particulate pollutants and 60 ppm for Sox; for existing smelters, 50mg\/Nm3 for particulate pollutants and 100 ppm for Sox. The values for Nox emissions will henceforth be the same for all glass smelters and will be tightened in phases. Affected enterprises will be given a grace period to adjust. \n2. For new smelters that use air-assisted combustion, the concentration value for Nox emissions has been set at 180 ppm. For existing smelters, the Nox value will be 300 ppm, effective from the date of promulgation and then tightened to 180 ppm from 1 January 2021. \n3. For smelters powered by electricity or those that use pure oxygen assisted combustion\/oxygen enriched stage combustion, the maximum permitted amount of Nox emissions per tonne of smelted glass produced has been set at 3 kg for new smelters and 6 kg for existing smelters, effective from the date of promulgation. From 1 January 2016, the standard will be further lowered to 3 kg for existing smelters.\nThe EPA would like to remind the affected enterprises that since the amendments were first preannounced in February 2014, they have had ample time to improve their manufacturing processes. Operators of existing glass smelters who have yet to respond should implement effective air pollutant control measures at the earliest possible date.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Glass Industry Nitrogen Oxides Emission Standards Tightened", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-12" }, { "no": "3234", "title": "Participating in UNESCO World Conference on Education for Sustainable Development", "preview": "Sustainable Development", "content": "Sustainable Development\nParticipating in UNESCO World Conference on Education for Sustainable Development \nThe 2014 UNESCO World Conference on Education for Sustainable Development took place in Nagoya Japan from 10-12 November. It was a grand occasion, with over 1,000 delegates from 100 nations in attendance, at which Minister without Portfolio Shin-Cheng Yeh, then Deputy Minister of the EPA, was invited to give a speech at one of the side events.\nOf the over 100 participating nations, 37 sent cabinet-level delegates or regional representatives to take part in high-level roundtable talks on building a framework and promoting education for sustainable development (ESD). On 11 November, Minister without Portfolio Shin-Cheng Yeh, then Deputy Minister of the EPA, gave a presentation at a side event – ESD and the Earth Charter – held by the Earth Charter, Asia Pacific & Japan Committee. Minister without Protfolio Yeh’s speech titled “Perspectives of ESD in Taiwan: Environmental Education for Every Citizen” was warmly received by the 100-plus delegates who attended. \nProfessor Tsuneo Takeuchi from Nagoya University led the following discussion. Minister without Portfolio Yeh gave his speech after Wakako Hironaka, the former State Minister of the Japan Environment Agency, opened the proceedings by briefly explaining how the Earth Charter had come into being and on the procedures and significance of signing it.\nMinister without Portfolio Yeh said that effective sustainable development must work on three levels: environment, economy, and society. ESD is the foundation on which the design, communication, and implementation of sustainable development policies is built. He said that in Taiwan, environmental education is seen as a form of ESD that places even more emphasis on the environment. He made a special point of explaining the characteristics of Taiwan’s Environmental Education Act, such as the career-long environmental education for civil servants, the compulsory courses for violators of environmental regulations, and the establishment of the Environmental Education Fund, which grew to millions of New Taiwan Dollars within its first year of existence.\nMinister without Portfolio Yeh also emphasized that Taiwan –borrowing from the United Nations Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (UNDESD) approach of establishing regional centers of education –had created its own regional centers in the north, center, south, and east of Taiwan to serve as platforms for environmental education participation promotion, capacity building and industrialization. He also explained how Taiwan had joined with the US and other nations in establishing the Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP) and is now working with over a dozen nations to promote climate change education, set common environmental standards, and establish eco-schools. The delegates expressed highly positive feedback and interest in Taiwan’s ESD legal infrastructure and administrative strategies. \nYear 2014 marks the last year of the UNDESD, so this year’s conference was particularly elaborate, with an accompanying exhibition to show what has been achieved.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Sustainable Development", "titlename": "Participating in UNESCO World Conference on Education for Sustainable Development", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-12" }, { "no": "3233", "title": "Enforcement Rules for Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act Amended", "preview": "Toxic Substance Enforcement Rules for Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act Amended", "content": "Toxic Substance Enforcement Rules for Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act Amended\nIn response to the amendments to the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act announced on 11 December 2013 the EPA amended Articles 4 and 7 of the Enforcement Rules for Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act (毒性化學物質管理法施行細則). The amendments stipulate tighter controls on Category 4 toxic substances and the establishment of a national toxic chemical substances safety alliance. \nIn response to changes in the management of Category 4 toxic chemicals, as announced in the latest amendments to the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act, the EPA has been authorized to formulate the Management Regulations for Permission to Use Category 4 Toxic Substances. Article 4 of the said enforcement rules has thus become redundant and has been deleted. To facilitate the establishment of a national joint command, the EPA is encouraging affected enterprises to seek out operators who are in the same industry or who use toxic chemicals for purposes similar to theirs, and then establish mutual support mechanisms that can be managed by single or multiple parties. The EPA would like to see a national joint command develop into a coherent entity and has thus adjusted current administrative procedures and placed supervision of the safety alliance under the central competent authority. Local branches of the national safety alliance will be supervised by the competent authorities of local governments. Such supervision must be conducted according to Article 28 Paragraph 2 of the above management regulations so that government agencies (such as the Ministry of National Defense) or academic organizations can also establish safety alliances if necessary. \nThe EPA would also like to remind all enterprises that manufacture, use, store, or transport Category1, 2 and 3 toxic chemicals to take advantage of the safety alliance online reporting system to submit their reports for evaluation at the earliest possible date. Enterprises that have signed the mutual support agreement will then find it easier to assist one another when toxic chemical accidents occur. Having effective joint prevention capabilities is the best way to safeguard public health and environmental quality.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Enforcement Rules for Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act Amended", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-12" }, { "no": "3232", "title": "Achievements of Carbon Labeling Presented", "preview": "Climate Change Achievements of Carbon Labeling Presented", "content": "Achievements of Carbon Labeling Presented\nIn response to international developments and trends the EPA has established the Carbon Footprint Calculation Platform that accords with ISO International Standards. On 28 November 2014, the EPA also held a presentation on the achievements of the Platform. At the presentation, the EPA announced that Taiwan and the UK had developed a mutual carbon footprint labeling model. Minister without Portfolio Shin-Cheng Yeh, then Deputy Minister of the EPA, spoke at the event, and lauded O’right International Ltd. for producing the first product to successfully achieve Taiwan-UK mutual carbon footprint labeling. He also praised two other private companies — TXC Corp. and Top High Image Corp. — for generously providing parameters for carbon footprinting. \nMany large manufacturers, distributors and wholesalers of international brands have started demanding carbon footprint or carbon management data for the components or products that they purchase, in order to show that they are upholding their social responsibility, fulfilling greenhouse gas reduction pledges and actively seeking ways to reduce carbon. In response to this trend, many nations around the globe, including Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, the UK and the USA, have been endeavoring to formulate standards and principles for calculating carbon footprints and for detailing related government policies. These nations are gradually building databases containing data on the lifecycles and carbon footprints of locally-made products in order to help their manufacturers take advantage of the green commerce opportunities presented by the global trend towards product carbon disclosure. \nEnergy saving, carbon reduction and pursuing sustainable development are core policies of the Taiwan government. To this end, the EPA developed a product carbon footprint labeling system after examining international trends and taking into account Taiwan’s domestic circumstances. In May 2010, the EPA started to implement the carbon labeling scheme for business-to-customer products. To date, 253 products produced by 69 enterprises have been reviewed and approved by the EPA for display of carbon footprints on the products. To fully align Taiwan’s carbon labeling system with international practice, in 2011 the EPA started promoting the Taiwan-UK mutual carbon labeling accreditation system and witnessed the signing of a memorandum of cooperation with the UK. Subsequently, after three years of continuous effort, O’right International’s tea tree shampoo became the first product to obtain accreditation in both Taiwan and the UK through mutual recognition. It is hoped that the establishment of Taiwan-UK mutual carbon footprint labeling will pave the way for similar agreements with other nations, and thus raise the competitiveness of Taiwan’s green products in the markets of the UK and other European countries. \nAccording to the ISO\/TS14067 and related international regulatory requirements, the calculation of the carbon footprint of a product must include all stages of its lifecycle. These include the extraction of raw materials, product manufacturing, distribution, consumption and disposal. A complete and accurate carbon footprint audit and carbon disclosure thus requires the entire supply chain and other related parties at every stage of the lifecycle to invest a significant amount of time and labor. Considering that Taiwan’s manufacturing sector is dominated by small- and medium-sized enterprises, the EPA has established the Products Carbon Footprint Calculation Platform to assist these smaller enterprises in overcoming the technical and financial challenges of calculating carbon footprints. The platform is supported by a local database and provides online calculations, assistance for suppliers, templates for making simplified reports, data quality evaluation, and details of the procedure for applying for carbon labeling. \nWhether or not the Products Carbon Footprint Calculation Platform can meet the needs of manufacturers and become widely used will depend not only upon the platform’s inherent functionality but also upon the input of large amounts of carbon footprint and emissions data to support it. The EPA is thus actively building a Taiwan carbon footprint and emissions database, collecting relevant data and parameters through inter-ministerial cooperation with the Ministry of Economic Affairs’ Industrial Development Bureau, the Ministry of Health and Welfare’s Food and Drug Administration, the Fisheries Agency of the Council of Agriculture, Taisugar Co., and state-run enterprises. Some private-sector enterprises have also generously provided data to show their commitment to working with the government to save energy, reduce carbon emissions and bring about sustainable development.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Achievements of Carbon Labeling Presented", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-12" }, { "no": "3231", "title": "Household Wastewater Management", "preview": "Water Household Wastewater Management", "content": "Water Household Wastewater Management \nFollowing efforts by the government over the last few years to raise funds and build required infrastructure about 40% of Taiwan’s households are now connected to sewerage systems. Speeding up the constructing of sewerage systems is necessary to accelerate the remediation of polluted rivers, and reducing volumes of wastewater produced by households would be of great help as well. The EPA has thus been promoting effluent reduction and reuse at source, resulting in a clear improvement in river pollution. \nHousehold wastewater is produced from daily life activities such as cooking, toilet flushing, bathing, laundry and so on. EPA statistics show that of the pollution in major rivers, 60% of it comes from households, with the remainder coming from industry and livestock rearing. The four main conduits through which household wastewater discharged are public sewerage systems, community sewerage systems, wastewater treatment facilities in large buildings, and septic tanks. \nWastewater is most effectively treated through public sewerage systems. Developed nations have thus made constructing public sewerage systems the focus of wastewater treatment, often including them in national infrastructure development targets. Taiwan is planning to do the same, with the aim of catching up to the household wastewater treatment rates of over 85% reached in the EU and the US. \nStatistics for expenditures on pollution control showed that in 2013, government departments at all levels spent a total of NT$65.76 billion on water pollution control, including NT$20.83 billion spent by central government agencies. Among the central government expenditures, the Ministry of the Interior (MOI) allocated 45.7%, or NT$9.52 billion, toward sewerage system construction, an indication of the government’s high priority on such projects.\nStage Goals Reached for Sewerage System Installation\nThe building of urban sewerage systems has been ongoing for many years: In 1984, the government promulgated the Sewerage Law (下水道法) and in 1988 formulated the Sewerage Construction Program, making the building of sewers one of the major basic infrastructure projects of national importance. In general, once urban sewerage systems have been completed, they fall under the jurisdiction of local governments. According to MOI Construction and Planning Agency statistics, as of the end of September 2014, Taiwan had a 37.15% prevalence of public sewers, a 14.57% prevalence of dedicated sewers for local communities, while 17.15% of large buildings had their own wastewater treatment facilities. The overall wastewater treatment rate was 68.87% (see table below). \nThe table lists five special municipalities, of which Taipei City and New Taipei City had a 100% and 60.67% prevalence of public sewers in the end of September 2014, respectively. However Taichung City, which covers large mountainous and remote areas, has only achieved a rate of 15.75%. Overall, only about 40% of Taiwan’s households are currently connected to public sewers.\nThe Construction and Planning Agency is currently implementing Stage Four Public Sewerage Construction Plan (2009-2014) that involves two models: projects undertaken wholly by the government and those that include private-sector participation. The target was to raise the prevalence of household wastewater sewerage systems from 19.27% at the end of 2008 to 35.77% by the end of 2014, a target that has already been reached. With the ongoing progress of building sewerage infrastructure and connecting households to it, the government expects Taiwan to achieve a wastewater treatment rate of 5.85 million cubic meters per day (CMD) by 2031. \nReducing Household Wastewater at Source \nTo accelerate the remediation of river pollution, more proactive measures other than waiting for the construction of sewerage systems must be taken. To this end, the EPA has been constructing on-site treatment facilities to improve river water purification such as constructed wetlands, river vegetation zones, and gravel contact oxidation. The EPA believes that quickly reducing the impact of household wastewater on rivers is best achieved by raising the efficiency of treatment facilities, reducing household wastewater at source, and reclaiming it wherever possible. \nSince almost 70% of the household wastewater is mixed wastewater from kitchens, bathrooms, laundry facilities, etc., and because wastewater from buildings not connected to the public sewerage system are discharged directly into rivers, household greywater has always been one of the major sources of river pollution. \nAfter seeing that household wastewater treatment rates are somewhat low, the EPA decided to roll out some small reduction-at-source measures to reduce the volumes of household wastewater being discharged. These include water-saving measures such as promoting the use of water-saving labeled bathroom fittings, the use of kitchen sink plughole screens to prevent food waste from entering drains, and the use of phosphate-free or Green Mark labeled cleaning agents. Other tips to reduce household wastewater at source include using the water from washing rice to water flowers, soaking up used cooking oil in cookware with used paper, and taking showers instead of baths. \nThe EPA is also promoting the installation of household wastewater recycling and reuse facilities for large buildings to improve the management of water resources and reduce volumes of household wastewater. To this end, on 15 October 2007, the EPA announced the Suggestions for Recycling and Reuse of Greywater from Large Buildings, which managers of large buildings can refer to when installing and maintaining greywater recycling and reuse facilities. It is suggested that once greywater has been treated, it can be reused to flush toilets; in ornamental fountains; to water plants; to spray on roads to keep down dust; to wash floors, vehicles, and streets; and so on. \nThe treatment and reuse of household greywater can thus both create a new and important water source for times when conventional sources run low, and also reduce the amount of wastewater being discharged into rivers.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Household Wastewater Management", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-12" }, { "no": "3230", "title": "“Know Thy Good Neighbor” Journey Kicks off", "preview": "Environmental Inspection “Know Thy Good Neighbor” Journey Kicks off", "content": "“Know Thy Good Neighbor” Journey Kicks off\nThe “Know Thy Good Neighbor - Refuse Incineration Plant as a Magician of Environmental Protection” Journey officially kicked off on 16 October 2014 from the Bali Incineration Plant in New Taipei City. \nAs the EPA pointed out in 2013 alone the total electrical power generated by refuse incineration plants nationwide constituted 1.47% of the national electrical output, enough to supply 690,000 households of four. Because of its sound inspection of the wastes entering the plant and its high electricity-generating capability, the Bali Plant in New Taipei City was rated as one of the two premium plants in Taiwan. Moreover, it is the only plant that uses waste heat after electricity generation to warm the water of swimming pools adjacent to it. In recognition of the contributions made by incineration plants, the EPA organized the “Know Thy Good Neighbor” Journey, which kicked off from the Bali Plant, then continued to other outstanding incineration plants that received awards in the 2013 evaluation, such as the Lize Plant in Yilan County, the Hsintien Plant in New Taipei City, the Taoyuan County Plant, the Miaoli County Plant, the Chiayi City Plant, the Lucao Plant in Chiayi County, and the West Plant in Tainan City.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Inspection", "titlename": "Know Thy Good Neighbor Journey Kicks off", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-11" }, { "no": "3229", "title": "“Know Thy Good Neighbor” Journey Kicks off", "preview": "Waste “Know Thy Good Neighbor” Journey Kicks off", "content": "“Know Thy Good Neighbor” Journey Kicks off \nThe “Know Thy Good Neighbor - Refuse Incineration Plant as a Magician of Environmental Protection” Journey officially kicked off on 16 October 2014 from the Bali Incineration Plant in New Taipei City. \nAs the EPA pointed out in 2013 alone the total electrical power generated by refuse incineration plants nationwide constituted 1.47% of the national electrical output, enough to supply 690,000 households of four. Because of its sound inspection of the wastes entering the plant and its high electricity-generating capability, the Bali Plant in New Taipei City was rated as one of the two premium plants in Taiwan. Moreover, it is the only plant that uses waste heat after electricity generation to warm the water of swimming pools adjacent to it. In recognition of the contributions made by incineration plants, the EPA organized the “Know Thy Good Neighbor” Journey, which kicked off from the Bali Plant, then continued to other outstanding incineration plants that received awards in the 2013 evaluation, such as the Lize Plant in Yilan County, the Hsintien Plant in New Taipei City, the Taoyuan County Plant, the Miaoli County Plant, the Chiayi City Plant, the Lucao Plant in Chiayi County, and the West Plant in Tainan City. \n\n\n“Know Thy Good Neighbor” Journey Kicks off\nThe “Know Thy Good Neighbor - Refuse Incineration Plant as a Magician of Environmental Protection” Journey officially kicked off on 16 October 2014 from the Bali Incineration Plant in New Taipei City. \nAs the EPA pointed out, in 2013 alone the total electrical power generated by refuse incineration plants nationwide constituted 1.47% of the national electrical output, enough to supply 690,000 households of four. Because of its sound inspection of the wastes entering the plant and its high electricity-generating capability, the Bali Plant in New Taipei City was rated as one of the two premium plants in Taiwan. Moreover, it is the only plant that uses waste heat after electricity generation to warm the water of swimming pools adjacent to it. In recognition of the contributions made by incineration plants, the EPA organized the “Know Thy Good Neighbor” Journey, which kicked off from the Bali Plant, then continued to other outstanding incineration plants that received awards in the 2013 evaluation, such as the Lize Plant in Yilan County, the Hsintien Plant in New Taipei City, the Taoyuan County Plant, the Miaoli County Plant, the Chiayi City Plant, the Lucao Plant in Chiayi County, and the West Plant in Tainan City.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Know Thy Good Neighbor Journey Kicks off", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-11" }, { "no": "3228", "title": "Subsidy for New Electric and Electric-assisted Bicycles Extended by One Year", "preview": "Air Subsidy for New Electric and Electric-assisted Bicycles Extended by One Year", "content": "Subsidy for New Electric and Electric-assisted Bicycles Extended by One Year\nIn order to work in tandem with the promotion of the universal swappable batteries and continue the subsidization of newly purchased electric-assisted bicycles the EPA preannounced the amendments to Article 5 of the Regulations Governing Subsidies for Newly-purchased Electric Scooters and to Article 5 of the Regulations Governing Subsidies for Newly-purchased Electric Bicycles. The amendments would extend the period of subsidization by one year, up to 30 November 2016. \nAs the issue of carbon reduction and energy saving has become increasingly important and attracted the attention of the general public, more and more people are buying low-polluting transportation vehicles such as electric bicycles or electric-assisted bicycles. In order to work in tandem with the promotion of the universal swappable batteries and encourage the use of low-polluting transportation vehicles, the EPA decided to extend the period of subsidization. The subsidy for purchasing vehicles using universal batteries is extended to 30 November 2015.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Subsidy for New Electric and Electric-assisted Bicycles Extended by One Year", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-11" }, { "no": "3227", "title": "Vehicle LPG Subsidy to Be Extended Two More Years", "preview": "Air Vehicle LPG Subsidy to Be Extended Two More Years", "content": "Vehicle LPG Subsidy to Be Extended Two More Years \nOn 20 October 2014 the EPA preannounced the amendments to the Vehicular LPG Subsidy Regulations which will result in the subsidies being extended two more years, up to 31 December 2016. The subsidy requirements and amounts remain unchanged: The subsidy will fluctuate based upon the difference between the price of vehicle LPG (including any EPA subsidy) and the price of 95 unleaded gasoline on 31 December 2010 (i.e. NT$12.7\/L). A maximum of NT$2 per liter of LPG will be available. The EPA is continuing with the LPG subsidy to ensure that the price difference between gasoline and LPG remains stable, thus protecting the interests of owners of LPG hybrid vehicles.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Vehicle LPG Subsidy to Be Extended Two More Years", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-11" }, { "no": "3226", "title": "Waste Cooking Oil Announced as Recyclable", "preview": "waste Waste Cooking Oil Announced as Recyclable", "content": "Waste Cooking Oil Announced as Recyclable", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Waste Cooking Oil Announced as Recyclable", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-11" }, { "no": "3225", "title": "Over 30,000 Motor Vehicles Tested at Roadsides for Excessive Noise", "preview": "Noise Control Over 30,000 Motor Vehicles Tested at Roadsides for Excessive Noise", "content": "Over 30,000 Motor Vehicles Tested at Roadsides for Excessive Noise", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "noise control", "titlename": "Over 30,000 Motor Vehicles Tested at Roadsides for Excessive Noise", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-11" }, { "no": "3224", "title": "OECD Experts Invited to Share Experiences in Sustainable Materials Management", "preview": "Waste OECD Experts Invited to Share Experiences in Sustainable Materials Management", "content": "OECD Experts Invited to Share Experiences in Sustainable Materials Management", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "OECD Experts Invited to Share Experiences in Sustainable Materials Management", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-11" }, { "no": "3223", "title": "EPA holds Marine Pollution Response and Practices International Workshop", "preview": "Water EPA holds Marine Pollution Response and Practices International Workshop", "content": "EPA holds Marine Pollution Response and Practices International Workshop", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "EPA holds Marine Pollution Response and Practices International Workshop", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-11" }, { "no": "3222", "title": "Monitoring and Inspection of Underground Storage Tanks Continues", "preview": "Soil & Groundwater Monitoring and Inspection of Underground Storage Tanks Continues", "content": "Monitoring and Inspection of Underground Storage Tanks Continues\nIn 2013 the EPA announced amendments to the Groundwater Pollution Control Standards, adding methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) to the list of controlled items. In order to further safeguard public health, the EPA also formulated regulations requiring related enterprises to conduct periodic monitoring of their underground storage tanks to prevent leakages of chemicals from polluting soil and groundwater. The EPA also announced that it will begin conducting its own inspections of such facilities. \nDuring pollution surveys of petrol stations conducted in 2011, the EPA discovered pollution at the site of a station owned by China Petroleum Corp. on Zhongxiao E. Rd in Taipei City. In 2012, the Department of Environmental Protection of the Taipei City Government was ordered by the EPA – as required by law – to deal with the matter. This resulted in the site being announced as a restricted site on 4 February 2012, and the department marked a surrounding pollution control area and prohibited the use of groundwater from within it. Following further assessments, it was decided that since the station had an intact concrete forecourt, the chance of volatile pollutants evaporating from the contaminated soil or groundwater and impacting the health of nearby residents was low. A control plan to deal with the pollution has been evaluated and approved by a team of experts and is currently being implemented according to regulatory requirements. \nMTBE is an oxygenate, and is an additive most commonly added to gasoline to raise its octane number. EPA surveys of petrol stations' soil and groundwater over the last few years have discovered MTBE at some locations. Although there is not enough evidence to suggest the compound is carcinogenic, the existence of high levels of MTBE at a site suggests that other oil product pollution may also be present. In keeping with international trends, on 18 December 2013, the EPA announced amendments to the Groundwater Pollution Control Standards, adding MTBE to the list of controlled items so as to prevent further pollution and safeguard public health. \nTo protect public health and ensure the sustainable use of soil and groundwater, the EPA has formulated the Regulations for Installation and Management of Facilities for Preventing Pollution of Groundwater Bodies and Monitoring Equipment in Underground Storage Tanks. The regulations require related enterprises to conduct periodic monitoring of their underground storage tanks to prevent leakages from causing pollution. \nThe EPA will also begin conducting its own inspections of said underground storage tanks and monitoring equipment to ensure that the regulations are being abided by. If, following an inspection, a site is listed as potentially highly polluting, pollution verification procedures will be taken to test for total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPHs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including the pollutants most often discovered at petrol stations: benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, dimethylbenzene, and MTBE. The EPA is urging all petrol station operators to conduct pollution self-regulation to prevent soil and groundwater pollution incidents from occurring.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil & Groundwater", "titlename": "Monitoring and Inspection of Underground Storage Tanks Continues", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-11" }, { "no": "3221", "title": "Regulations Governing Allocation of Water Pollution Control Fee Among Local Governments Announced", "preview": "Water Regulations Governing Allocation of Water Pollution Control Fee Among Local Governments Announced", "content": "Water Regulations Governing Allocation of Water Pollution Control Fee Among Local Governments Announced\nIn order that the central government’s allocation of water pollution control fee for local governments is standardized and based on written law the EPA has announced the Regulations Governing Allocation of Water Pollution Control Fee. In future, fees will be distributed based on results of water pollution control performance evaluations and on the needs for carrying out the water pollution control plan of each city or county. \nThe six articles of the Regulations Governing Allocation of Water Pollution Control Fee were promulgated by the EPA on 31 October 2014 and went into effect immediately. The regulations were formulated according to the stipulations of Article 11 Paragraph 5 of the Water Pollution Control Act. The main points of the regulations are as follows:\n1. The central competent authority will allocate the collected water pollution control fee to the special municipality, city and county competent authorities according to their water pollution prevention needs based on the following criteria:\na) evaluation of their water pollution control performance\nb) the Water Pollution Control Plan\nc) any other related work requirements as determined by the central competent authority\n2. In April of each year, the central competent authority will calculate a percentage based upon the water pollution control performance for the previous year of each special municipality, city and county competent authority. This percentage will be multiplied by a factor derived from assessing the budget requirements for major tasks as presented in the Water Pollution Control Plan to calculate the proportion of total amount of water pollution control fee that each local authority will receive.\n3. The central competent authority will multiply the said proportion by the total amount of water pollution control fees collected within each special municipality, city and county to calculate the exact amount of fees that each special municipality, city and county competent authority will receive. \n4. The special municipality, city and county competent authorities should submit their annual Water Pollution Prevention Administration Plan in March every year to the central competent authority for approval. The content of such plan should include water pollution control tasks and details of implementation, expected benefits, a breakdown of expenditures and a budget statement. \n5. In addition to the calculation stipulated in Article 3 of the Regulations, the central competent authority must also allocate administration funding to the special municipality, city and county competent authorities according to their requirements as laid out in their Water Pollution Prevention Administration Plan.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Regulations Governing Allocation of Water Pollution Control Fee Among Local Governments Announced", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-11" }, { "no": "3220", "title": "Gravel Contact Oxidation Significantly Improves Agongdian River Water Quality", "preview": "Water Gravel Contact Oxidation Significantly Improves Agongdian River Water Quality", "content": "Water Gravel Contact Oxidation Significantly Improves Agongdian River Water Quality\nEnvironmental water purification technologies include gravel contact constructed wetlands and water diversion facilities. Of these, the gravel contact oxidation is currently in use in Taipei City, New Taipei City, Taoyuan County as well as in Kaohsiung City, where it has been very effective in improving water quality in polluted sections of the Agongdian River. \nAs it is not possible for the government to build sewage systems to cover the whole nation in the near term while the water quality of certain rivers are suffering from greywater pollution, the EPA started building ecologically engineered water purification facilities in 2002. As of September 2014, the EPA had completed 114 such on-site water purification facilities around Taiwan. \nThe Agongdian River is a major river that flows through the Gangshan District of Kaohsiung City, an area that has seen rapid population growth and industrial development. The ever-increasing volumes of household and industrial wastewater being produced are thus a significant pollution burden on the river. Following the success of on-site water purification facilities in other river basins, in 2012 the EPA issued a grant to the Kaohsiung City Government to construct a gravel contact oxidation facility in Gangshan Riverbank Park. Ten open-air effluent drainage channels were also built to reduce pollution from the Gangshan area by diverting greywater to the facility, which can hold up to 8,000 tonnes of greywater for treatment before releasing it into the Agongdian River.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Gravel Contact Oxidation Significantly Improves Agongdian River Water Quality", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-11" }, { "no": "3219", "title": "EPA Subsidizes Kaohsiung City for Dengue Fever Control", "preview": "Environmental Sanitation EPA Subsidizes Kaohsiung City for Dengue Fever Control", "content": "Environmental Sanitation", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Sanitation", "titlename": "EPA Subsidizes Kaohsiung City for Dengue Fever Control", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-11" }, { "no": "3218", "title": "List of Restaurants, Food Manufacturers and Hotels Required to Report Waste Cooking Oil to Be Expanded", "preview": "Waste List of Restaurants, Food Manufacturers and Hotels Required to Report Waste Cooking Oil to Be Expanded", "content": "List of Restaurants, Food Manufacturers and Hotels Required to Report Waste Cooking Oil to Be Expanded", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "List of Restaurants, Food Manufacturers and Hotels Required to Report Waste Cooking Oil to Be Expanded", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-11" }, { "no": "3217", "title": "Cherishing Ecosystems and Cultural Heritage through Better EIA Monitoring", "preview": "Environmental Inspection\nCherishing Ecosystems and Cultural Heritage through Better EIA Monitoring", "content": "Cherishing Ecosystems and Cultural Heritage through Better EIA Monitoring \nThe fulfillment of pledges made on environmental impact assessments (EIAs) have resulted in some unexpected and touching scenarios in Taiwan in recent years such as the temporary closing of the outside lane of a freeway to let butterflies pass unharmed or the preservation of 1,000-year old artifacts uncovered during work on the Suhua Highway Improvement Project. To increase the efficacy of EIA monitoring, the EPA carries out strict supervision of all development projects to ensure that surrounding ecologies and heritage are fully protected. \nThe EIA definition refers to the degree and scope of possible impact on the environment – including the living environment, natural environment, social environment, economy, heritage, and ecosystem – of development activity or government policy. An EIA is an environmental management plan that should be based upon scientific, objective, and comprehensive surveys, tests, analyses, and assessments. EIAs should be presented at public hearings and subject to further evaluation if necessary. \nMonitoring is Key for a Successful EIA System\nThe Environmental Impact Assessment Act stipulates that developers must undertake any development activity in accordance with the content in their EIA statements or a similar explanatory document. The relevant competent authority is responsible for monitoring and tracking the implementation of the EIA to ensure that no part of the development project causes serious or unnecessary damage to the environment and that an effective post-project monitoring mechanism is in place. \nOnce the development activity has been approved, whether or not the project can be implemented according to the EIA or similar explanatory document depends upon every conceivable environmental factor being taken into account. Only when the EIA is an integral part of the overall planning can it fulfill its function of preventing environmental damage and pollution. Thus, once the EIA is approved it is imperative for the EPA to have a system to monitor and track project design, construction, and post-construction matters so that whenever a problem is discovered the EPA can quickly suggest improvement measures. Such a system will also bolster public trust in the effectiveness of EIAs, as well as have the EIA process function fully as expected. \nEPA statistics show that in 2013, the EPA conducted monitoring on 484 development projects out of over 1,100 that had their EIAs evaluated and approved. Twenty-three of the monitored projects were found to have violated regulations and a total of NT$19,076,000 in fines and recovered illicit gains were collected.\nEIA Monitoring Helps to Protect the Environment, Ecosystems and Cultural Heritage\nThe pledges laid out in EIAs often cover a wide variety of items including air, water, waste, and so forth. EIAs also have softer, less quantifiable aspects in the form of promises made to cherish ecosystems and heritage. In order to compel enterprises to fulfill their pledges, the EPA strictly monitors all development projects to ensure that the environment is protected and that ecosystems and heritage are also cared for. \nWith over 1,000 listed development projects being undertaken, the scope and impact of developmental activity is large – such as the construction of freeways, high-speed rails, reservoirs, or projects in remote areas – and often touch upon issues of cultural heritage and ecological conservation. The EPA has thus decided to list all development projects that involve cultural heritage and ecological conservation requiring EIA monitoring. Recent examples of this include a jacana habitat restoration plan that is part of the Taiwan High Speed Rail development project, the temporary closing of the outside lane of Freeway No. 3 to let milkweed butterflies pass unharmed, and the salvaging of ancient cultural relics uncovered during work on the Suhua Highway Improvement Project. \nAs a part of the EIA review decisions, the Taiwan High Speed Rail development project pledged to construct a 15-hectare habitat and implement a restoration plan for a population of jacanas in Guantian District of Tainan City and to ensure that no construction work or business operations impact upon the breeding and survival of these birds. As a result, there has been a gradual increase in jacana numbers in recent years. Environmental monitoring results also indicated that the piers of the high speed rail located in the Hulu Pond and Deyuan Pond have had no effect upon jacana numbers. The jacana habitat is a very successful example of wildlife conservation and restoration and is now one of the best environmental education sites in the Tainan area. \nAround the beginning of April every year, Taiwan’s milkweed butterflies begin to move north on a route close to the 252 km mark of Freeway No. 3. To reduce the number of butterflies killed by vehicles, and in accordance with a pledge it made in its EIA, the Directorate General of Highways of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications sets up protective netting that directs butterflies to migrate safely along the freeway, and it also temporarily closes the outside lane of the freeway at that time of year. \nDuring the implementation of the Suhua Highway Improvement Project in the mountains between Yilan and Hualien, precious Hanben cultural relics were unearthed during pile driving near the south end of Gufeng Tunnel. Seven stone coffins and 12 skeletons were recovered, along with 1,000-year old artifacts such as stone tools, ceramics, bone and antler tools, food remnants, and coal ash. \nSafeguarding the Environment through Supervising Developers \nThe EPA is keen to stress that EIA monitoring will continue to play a major role in environmental protection work and no effort will be spared to ensure that sensitive ecologies and cultural heritage are protected. The EPA is constantly reminding developmental units that having their EIA approved entails more than just obtaining a written permit; it also commits them to undertaking their work in accordance with the content of the EIA and the EPA’s evaluation of it. The EPA’s constant monitoring of developers to ensure that they fulfill their pledges creates a win-win situation whereby long-standing environmental policies such as air quality protection are implemented and ecologies and cultural heritage are also safeguarded.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Inspection", "titlename": "Cherishing Ecosystems and Cultural Heritage through Better EIA Monitoring", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-11" }, { "no": "3216", "title": "Dakekan Constructed Wetland by Dahan River Completed", "preview": "water Dakekan Constructed Wetland by Dahan River Completed", "content": "Dakekan Constructed Wetland by Dahan River Completed", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Dakekan Constructed Wetland by Dahan River Completed", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-10" }, { "no": "3215", "title": "Used Goods Trading Platform Can be Accessed through Smartphones", "preview": "recycling Used Goods Trading Platform Can be Accessed through Smartphones", "content": "Used Goods Trading Platform Can be Accessed through Smartphones\nThe APP version of the second hand goods trading platform installed by the EPA has been officially online since 1 October 2014. Known as the “i2so5” (which sounds like “I love second hand goods” when spoken in Mandarin Chinese) platform through it the general public can now obtain the latest second hand goods trading information on their smartphones. People can also find the locations of the nearest second hand goods trading and market information through the GPS function of their smart phone. \nEver since its inception the second hand goods trading platform has actively integrated trading information provided by local environmental protection bureaus. As of the end of July 2014, the platform has had more than 200,000 page views, provided more than 1,000 pieces of second hand goods trading information to 48 fixed trading spots, and facilitated 170 second hand goods trading activities. These figures show that the general public’s interest in second hand goods continues to rise. In the future, the said platform will continue to integrate second hand goods information from government agencies, corporate entities, enterprises, communities and schools to facilitate the trade of quality second hands goods by the general public.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "recycling", "titlename": "Used Goods Trading Platform Can be Accessed through Smartphones", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-10" }, { "no": "3214", "title": "EPA Holds Air Quality Monitoring Camp", "preview": "air EPA Holds Air Quality Monitoring Camp", "content": "EPA Holds Air Quality Monitoring Camp\nTo implement the International Environmental Partnership the EPA launched the “Air Quality Monitoring Camp” on 26 September 2014 in a local high school. The American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) sent its environmental technology expert, Mr. Frederick Brust, to participate in the activity. The camp was attended by high school teachers and students who used simple monitoring equipment to measure the density of particulate matters in the surrounding environment to gain an understanding of air quality. \nThis half-day activity aimed to enhance environmental education by teaching students to use simple air quality sensors to monitor the particulate matters in the surrounding areas of their schools. Once students learn environmental quality monitoring skills at school, they can better understand the air quality around their homes.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "EPA Holds Air Quality Monitoring Camp", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-10" }, { "no": "3213", "title": "Climate change Environmental Experts Brought together to Exchange Thoughts on Climate Change", "preview": "Climate change Environmental Experts Brought together to Exchange Thoughts on Climate Change", "content": "Environmental Experts Brought together to Exchange Thoughts on Climate Change \nFrom 14 to 15 September 2014 the EPA held a two-day “Environmental Science\/Engineering and Environmental Education Workshop.” The workshop was attended by more than 60 experts, scholars, and practitioners from the environmental science, engineering, and education fields. \nThe two-day study curriculum was anchored on climate change. Experts from environmental science, engineering, and education were divided into groups which engaged in interdisciplinary discussions. Modeled after the Danish “INDEX: Design to Improve Life,” the workshop taught participants how to present a problem, understand it, provide solutions, and decide on the solutions to take. Through the agenda the participants were led to engage in interdisciplinary discussions and come up with innovative strategies. In addition, they were encouraged to solve local problems with global thinking. Lastly, a vote was cast to select the group that will receive a special grant from the EPA next year to substantiate their ideas.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate change", "titlename": "Environmental Experts Brought together to Exchange Thoughts on Climate Change", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-10" }, { "no": "3212", "title": "Director of Environmental Protection Bureau of Ecuador’s Capital Visits EPA", "preview": "international cooperation Director of Environmental Protection Bureau of Ecuador’s Capital Visits EPA", "content": "Director of Environmental Protection Bureau of Ecuador’s Capital Visits EPA", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "international cooperation", "titlename": "Director of Environmental Protection Bureau of Ecuador s Capital Visits EPA", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-10" }, { "no": "3211", "title": "A New Milestone for Dongda River Purification", "preview": "Water A New Milestone for Dongda River Purification", "content": "A New Milestone for Dongda River Purification\nRemediation and environmental improvement work on Dongda River that is being carried out by the Taichung City Government and subsidized by the EPA began on 18 September 2014. At the groundbreaking ceremony EPA Deputy Minister Tzi-Chin Chang praised the Taichung City Government for its unwavering commitment to combating pollution. He also said that the EPA will continue to work closely with the Taichung City Government to improve the water quality of Taichung’s rivers. \nDue to inadequacies of the sewer system and sewage treatment plants near the upper reaches of Dongda River, untreated wastewater and sewage water discharged into side drains or culverts flows directly into the river. This leads to conditions of anaerobic digestion, with the creation of foul odors and slime that affect the quality of life for nearby residents. In order to speed up the remediation of Dongda River, the EPA has given a grant of NT$13.89 million to the Taichung City Government to implement the Dongda River Pollution Remediation and Environmental Improvement Project. The project will involve the installation of contact filter and gravel exposure water purification facilities to improve the quality of water in the upstream section of Dongda River. Polluted effluent of 2,000 tonnes will be treated daily, an equivalent of the average volume of sewage water produced by 8,000 people. It is estimated that the project will be completed in May 2015 and will take the river out of the “seriously polluted” category by leading to estimated daily reductions of: 160 kg of biochemical oxygen demand; 160 kg of suspended solids; 8 kg of oil and grease; and 40 kg of ammonia nitrogen.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "A New Milestone for Dongda River Purification", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-10" }, { "no": "3210", "title": "Fine Particulate Matter Index Announced", "preview": "Fine Particulate Matter Index Announced\nOn 1 October 2014 the EPA began providing the Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) Index. The index is now available online to help the public take steps, if necessary, to safeguard their health – particularly as the autumn and winter seasons approach.", "content": "Fine Particulate Matter Index Announced", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Fine Particulate Matter Index Announced", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-10" }, { "no": "3209", "title": "Incineration Plants Boost Functionality through Power Generation and Environmental Education", "preview": "Waste Incineration Plants Boost Functionality through Power Generation and Environmental Education", "content": "Incineration Plants Boost Functionality through Power Generation and Environmental Education\nTaiwan has 24 incineration plants currently in operation and the refuse incineration rate has risen to 97.2% as of 2013. Incinerators also generated 3.13 teraWh of electricity in 2013, or 1.47% of the national total. Taiwan’s incineration plants are no longer limited to their role of treating refuse in a relatively eco-friendly way, but have once again been transformed, now becoming sites for power generation and environmental education to help keep Taiwan’s environment clean and safe. \nThese 24 incineration plants are currently in operation, for burning refuse and also for carrying out the important work of generating electricity and serving environmental education needs. The incineration rate in Taiwan has risen from 51.5% in 2001 to 97.2% in 2013, or 6.35 million tonnes of refuse each year. Incineration plant performance has been particularly excellent with regards to energy production, an issue that has garnered a lot of attention both at home and overseas: 3.13 teraWh of electricity was generated in 2013, or 1.47% of the national total. Among this figure, 2.41 teraWh was sold, giving a sales rate of 77% with a revenue of NT$5.06 billion. This has proven how effective incinerators are for treating refuse and generating electricity. \nSince 2001 the EPA has been providing guidance and evaluations for Taiwan’s incineration plants. The EPA started out by mainly providing technical advice, but this gradually evolved to the current regime of inspections and evaluations. Over the years, a combination of sound management by incineration plant operators and local environmental agencies, along with external audits conducted by the EPA, has resulted in a comprehensive inspection and auditing system that ensures all operators maintain best practices and are constantly striving to improve operations. \nIn order to reward incineration plant operators who have performed especially well in 2013, the EPA held an awards presentation ceremony where EPA Deputy Minister Tzi-Chin Chang personally presented “Outstanding” awards to the Taoyuan County plant and the Bali plant of New Taipei City. “Excellent” awards were also presented to six other plants: Lize in Yilan County; Hsindian in New Taipei City; Chiayi City; Chenghsi in Tainan City; Lucao in Chiayi County; and the plant in Miaoli County. \nSpeaking at the ceremony, EPA Deputy Minister Chang praised and congratulated all of the incineration plant operators for turning in excellent operating performances and conscientiously treating Taiwan’s waste. He also reminded the operators to continue cultivating a culture of zero risk in the workplace by reviewing all of the health and safety protocols that they have in place. The Deputy Minister also recommended self-inspections and strengthening management to prevent waste that could cause harm to workers from entering plant facilities, and he stated that workplace safety will be added to the EPA’s list of inspection and evaluation items.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Incineration Plants Boost Functionality through Power Generation and Environmental Education", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-10" }, { "no": "3208", "title": "Environmental Open Data Now Covers 141 Categories", "preview": "Environmental Open Data Now Covers 141 Categories \nSince the EPA’s environmental data disclosure platform started operations in October 2013 it has been carrying data such as nationwide real-time air quality readings and river and reservoir water quality readings. The EPA is continuing to expand the scope and amount of the environmental data being made public, and in increasing the number of categories of data made available from 130 to 141, it has already exceeded its 2014 goal.", "content": "Environmental Open Data Now Covers 141 Categories \nSince the EPA’s environmental data disclosure platform started operations in October 2013 it has been carrying data such as nationwide real-time air quality readings and river and reservoir water quality readings. The EPA is continuing to expand the scope and amount of the environmental data being made public, and in increasing the number of categories of data made available from 130 to 141, it has already exceeded its 2014 goal. \nThe issue of open data has been gathering attention worldwide over recent years. Open data refers to a type of disclosure that is different from traditional governmental information, which is disclosed in a read-only form. The open data must be machine readable, i.e. in an accepted standard format so that the public can download, read, and add to it if desired. Open data thus facilitates a more open, transparent and innovative form of governance. The Executive Yuan has been promoting an open data policy since April 2013 and is overseeing the disclosure of data by each government department and agency. \nIn keeping with the Executive Yuan’s open data policy, the EPA finished work on its Environmental Resources Data Open Platform in October 2013 (http:\/\/opendata.epa.gov.tw). The platform currently carries data from 141 categories, including: nationwide air quality; real-time ultraviolet monitoring data; river and reservoir water quality monitoring data; basic information on listed pollution sources; and abstracts of environmental impact assessments.\nAccording to EPA statistics, as of the end of June 2014 open data has been downloaded over one million times, mostly by citizens. However, the EPA has also received letters from companies in Singapore and Israel asking for authorization to use the data, showing that the value of environmental data is inherently global in nature. \nThe EPA is also currently implementing its Environmental Cloud plan, combining cloud computing and mobile technology to integrate data from ten governmental agencies. Once the Environmental Cloud begins operating, it will lead to an expansion of the scope of the EPA’s open data program. Recent data additions include Ten Minute Cumulative Rainfall Data provided by the Central Weather Bureau of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications, and ecological data on moths, butterflies and birds collected by the Council of Agriculture’s Endemic Species Research Institute. \nThe updated version of the EPA’s free Environmental Message app not only provides EPA environmental data but also integrates environmental information produced by other government departments, including real-time disaster-prevention information such as heavy rain updates and flood warnings. The updated app is also able to provide users with local environmental data according to their real-time location. It is likely that members of the public will have new needs or think of new possible uses regarding environmental data that have not occurred to government personnel. Therefore, the EPA is constantly expanding the scope and amount of available data, with much of it being government open data, which represents a new high in data value.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "Environmental Open Data Now Covers 141 Categories", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-10" }, { "no": "3207", "title": "Eight Nations Attend Asia-Pacific Mercury Monitoring Network Workshop", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring Eight Nations Attend Asia-Pacific Mercury Monitoring Network Workshop", "content": "Eight Nations Attend Asia-Pacific Mercury Monitoring Network Workshop", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "Eight Nations Attend Asia-Pacific Mercury Monitoring Network Workshop", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-10" }, { "no": "3206", "title": "EPA Seeks Regional Partnerships to Jointly Tackle Climate Change", "preview": "Climate Change EPA Seeks Regional Partnerships to Jointly Tackle Climate Change", "content": "EPA Seeks Regional Partnerships to Jointly Tackle Climate Change \nOn 29 September 2014 in Taipei the EPA held the 2014 Pan Pacific International Conference on Climate Change Adaptation to explore the impact of climate change on the Pacific region and discuss possible responses. Delegates from the US EPA and NOAA, along with a number of Taiwan experts, gathered to discuss climate change adaptation policies, tools and methods, and resilience building. One hundred and fifty representatives of government, industry, and academia, as well as members of the public were in attendance, engaging in in-depth discussions. \nThree top international experts were invited to the conference: Prof. Donald J. Wuebbles, one of the authors of the US National Climate Assessment; Dr. Shaw Chen Liu, a member of the Academia Sinica; and Dr. Wayne Higgins, director of NOAA’s Climate Program Office. They gave presentations on, respectively, the US National Climate Assessment, pan-Pacific climate change adaptation, and science and climate services. Other conference topics revolved around the two main themes of “Climate Change Adaptation Methods and Tools” and “Climate Change - Fragility and Resilience Building.” Government officials from a number of Pacific nations – including Kiribati, Laos, Malaysia, Nauru, Palau, the Philippines, Solomon Islands, Thailand, Tuvalu, and Vietnam – also attended the event, a significant step forward in exchanges on climate change adaptation policy and joint actions among pan-Pacific nations. \nThe impact of climate change is being felt in every country around the world, and there isn’t a single person who might not one day become a climate refugee. Taiwan is surrounded by ocean and has its own unique geographic and geologic factors that have made the general public very aware in recent years of the serious danger that extreme weather poses to an island nation. Taiwan thus not only has an obligation to reduce carbon emissions but must think of new approaches to adapt. Taiwan will use its own experience as an island nation dealing with climate change to stimulate greater international cooperation. The world needs to reach beyond national and geographic limits and arrive at a consensus on policies and actions that every nation will join in implementing to deal with climate change. \nOn 14 April 2014, the EPA announced the establishment of the International Environmental Partnership that aims to strengthen environmental exchanges between nations. The brainstorming of the experts and the exchange of viewpoints and experiences among the delegates reinforced the long-term mutual trust and cooperation between Taiwan and the US, which is the basis for expanding effective regional partnerships. Such partnerships will not only assist Taiwan in promoting climate change adaptation strategies but will also create new opportunities in regional climate cooperation.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "EPA Seeks Regional Partnerships to Jointly Tackle Climate Change", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-10" }, { "no": "3205", "title": "Minister Wei’s Visit to EU Brings Fruitful Results", "preview": "Climate Change Minister Wei’s Visit to EU Brings Fruitful Results", "content": "Minister Wei’s Visit to EU Brings Fruitful Results \nFrom 1-9 September 2014 EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei was in Europe, visiting the UK, Germany, and some of the EU’s main climate change organizations in both the public and private sectors. While in Europe, Minister Wei had high-level talks at the Directorate-General for Climate Action (DG-CLIMA) and the Directorate-General for the Environment (DG-ENVI). The EU representatives praised the hard work Taiwan had done in incorporating climate change measures into recent legislation and said they looked forward to cooperating with Taiwan as international carbon trading is expanded in the future. These positive responses and the opportunities that have developed for Taiwan to gain access to international capabilities and resources were some of the most concrete results of the minister’s trip to Europe. \nAs Minister Wei points out, climate change has become a closely-watched political and economic concern around the world, a core issue that affects international politics, trade, and social economies. For many years Taiwan has quietly played the role of a good global citizen. But passively going with the flow is no longer a suitable response to the reality of the international political constraint that Taiwan faces. To meet Taiwan’s need for innovation and sustainable development, throwing off these binds and raising decision-making capabilities, while still keeping in line with international developments to create a low-carbon future for the next generation, is a duty that can no longer be evaded. \nMinister Wei’s trip came right before the United Nations Climate Summit 2014, held on 23 September. He expressed the hope that Taiwan would be able to study the EU’s latest climate change policies before the agenda for the new phase of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change in 2015 is finalized. Taiwan is also very eager to explore opportunities of accessing international capabilities and resources in order to strengthen Taiwan’s climate adaptation and carbon reduction capabilities for building low-carbon, sustainable systems that will transform the nation. \nMinister Wei emphasized that responding to climate change is a long-term, highly challenging task that also opens up many economic opportunities. Although Taiwan’s efforts in this field have long been praised by the international community, compared to European nations Taiwan still has some room for adjustments concerning vision, targets, administrative blueprints, policy tools, and effective implementation measures. In response to the development of the new international climate change regime, Taiwan particularly needs to understand and push ahead by integrating climate change policies with energy policies and by fully aligning with international trends. Quick access to or acquisition of international capabilities and resources that are rapidly being upgraded is the best way to guarantee Taiwan’s sustainable development.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "chimate change", "titlename": "Minister Wei s Visit to EU Brings Fruitful Results", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-10" }, { "no": "3204", "title": "Tracking and Control of Industrial Waste", "preview": "waste_Tracking and Control of Industrial Waste", "content": "Tracking and Control of Industrial Waste \nGPS (Global Positioning System) technology was adopted to track industrial waste in Taiwan in 2002 and was quickly added to the EPA’s set of high-tech management tools. It is now an integral part of a comprehensive system to track waste disposal vehicles and in conjunction with geographical information systems (GIS), provides environmental protection agencies with a system for managing, inspecting, and auditing the disposal of industrial waste. Authorities can thus quickly inspect and audit waste disposal and, where necessary, put a stop to violations of environmental laws and regulations. \nManagement of waste in Taiwan started with the promulgation of the Waste Disposal Act in 1974. This act, however, only contained three articles pertaining to the management of industrial waste and the regulations were insufficiently detailed. After the establishment of the EPA in 1987, one of its first objectives was to create a comprehensive mechanism for dealing with industrial waste. The EPA thus began actively studying and discussing the formulation and administration of industrial waste regulations and related tasks, such as devising a system of permits for organizations that clear and dispose of industrial waste. This also allowed the EPA to get a clearer picture of industrial waste generation in Taiwan. Online Reporting of Industrial Waste Since 1993\nFrom 1993-1999 the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) and the EPA jointly administered a five-year industrial waste disposal plan that was designed to reduce the sources of industrial waste and establish multiple channels for the reuse of such waste. The EPA also pushed along the task of establishing online reporting for all industrial waste – as stipulated in amendments to the Waste Disposal Act – and laid out the industrial waste management responsibilities of the various industry competent authorities. \nTo gain more control over industrial waste data and more efficient management of the final disposal of industrial waste, the EPA has been making regular amendments to the regulations and has also set up the Industrial Waste Reporting and Management System (IWR&MS) to serve as the main hub for tracking waste disposal and issuing permits (see diagram). The EPA now has a complete set of management strategies for dealing with enterprises involved in production, clearance, disposal, transboundary movement, or final disposal of industrial waste.\nWorking with Local Governments to Control Waste Disposal\nTo strengthen the control of industrial waste, in 1997 the EPA began implementing a pilot plan for the establishment of the Industrial Waste Control Center. The control of industrial waste became a greater priority for the EPA following a waste solvent incident at the Chishan River. On 21 October 2010, the Industrial Waste Control Center was established, which, through the Industrial Waste Reporting and Management System and real-time tracking of industrial waste disposal vehicles, is able to provide data supplied by clearance and disposal organizations for auditing purposes. The control center also facilitates the work of local government environmental protection bureaus regarding inspections, issuing penalties and filing charges, and the work of EPA inspection teams regarding follow-up inspections. The EPA’s firm grip on the sources and disposal routes of industrial waste compels Taiwan’s waste operators to deal with waste in a proper manner. \nIn 1999 the EPA designed an online reporting system to properly track industrial waste, and in 2002 it established real-time GPS tracking of waste disposal vehicles. In addition, on-site audits of transported industrial waste are done by comparing the GPS-verified actual loads against loads recorded on clearance and disposal triplicate forms. \nThe specifications for the GPS installed on the waste clearance vehicles includes a general packet radio service (GPRS) interface that allows for a packet of GPS tracking data to be sent from a vehicle every 30 seconds to a conversion server that the EPA provides to the enterprise concerned. After a program on the server converts the tracking data, the data is stored in a tracking database. Listed waste clearance operators can also use their citizen digital certificate to access the GPS system for real-time supervision over the movements of their industrial waste clearance vehicles, which accords with the EPA objective of encouraging more enterprise self-regulation. Environmental agencies can also access the GPS system by their citizen digital certificate and using cloud servers and the ultra-mobile personal computer (UMPC) inspection system to conduct real-time tracking and auditing. \nGPS Raises Management Efficiency and Facilitates Resource Integration\nIn terms of overall effectiveness, the 6,210 vehicles that are fitted with GPS and currently registered with the EPA transport 90% of the weight and 80% of the loads of the industrial waste reported on clearance and disposal triplicate forms. In terms of economic benefit, the EPA-designed GPS system not only saves the manpower of local government environmental protection bureaus by providing them with automatically selected names of enterprises that may require auditing, but also unburdens them of the need to establish their own GPS systems. In addition, combining GPS systems with the industrial waste reporting system allows for inspections and audits to be conducted rapidly, and the movements of illegal loads to be monitored in real time. \nSharing the GPS system will also enhance interdepartmental integration and communication. Lateral integration helps connect local government environmental protection bureaus with inspectors of every level, while vertical integration provides more interactivity between central and local governments. The sharing of common databases will also lead to better communication and integration.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Tracking and Control of Industrial Waste", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-10" }, { "no": "3203", "title": "Three Measures Taken to Control Waste Cooking Oil", "preview": "Waste Three Measures Taken to Control Waste Cooking Oil", "content": "Three Measures Taken to Control Waste Cooking Oil \nIn response to recent cases of waste cooking oils being illegally reused by unscrupulous enterprises EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei announced that the government will make improvements in three areas: strengthening joint inspections by central and local governments to hone in on hotspots of illicit activity; gaining better understanding of waste cooking oil volumes and disposal flows; and pushing for passage of the bill for the Resource Reuse and Recycling Act and subsequent formulation of accompanying regulations. The EPA has also instigated a new regime of inspections for all waste cooking oil produced by restaurants, diners and food stalls located in night markets and commercial areas that are soon to be listed as being under the EPA’s jurisdiction.\n\nTo catch violators, Minister Wei has stressed that the EPA will continue the existing regime of administrative audits in conjunction with inspections and follow-up of reported incidents. The EPA will work to enhance in-depth inspections that target illicit behavior through three pathways: material flow, energy flow, and cash flow. The EPA also intends to collect and analyze information in the tips received from members of the public to isolate hotspots of illicit activity so that countermeasures can be employed in the most effective way possible. \nBringing More Businesses Under Control\nIn 2007, to promote the use of biodiesel, the EPA started to require restaurants with capital or revenue over certain thresholds to report details of their waste cooking oil disposal online. However, there is still an astounding 20,000-30,000 tonnes of waste cooking oil generated each year by food stalls or small restaurants, while diners are not regulated. In order to close this loophole, the EPA has recently convened meetings with local government environmental protection bureaus. At the meetings, consensus was reached to announce that household or non-industrial waste cooking oil will be listed as a mandatory recyclable item. Each local government will also be responsible for ascertaining the number and distribution of all restaurants, diners and food stalls located in night markets within their jurisdiction, and for ensuring that they hand their waste oil over to licensed recycling operators. Each local government will also send daily inspection reports to the EPA to help give a clear overview of the situation nationwide. \nThe Waste Disposal Act differentiates between waste produced from general sources and waste from industrial sources. Waste cooking oil from households and non-industrial sources is classed as general waste and can be recycled by refuse collecting teams, whereas waste cooking oil from industrial sources is classed as industrial waste. Listed enterprises (fast food chain stores with Taiwan headquarters’ total capital of NT$50 million or more; manufacturers of noodles and vermicelli with a total capital of NT$5 million or more that produce waste cooking oil) must submit waste cooking oil disposal reports online to the EPA. For waste cooking oil from non-listed enterprises, the onus to report is on end-point recyclers, who must submit records of their operations to the EPA. Recycled waste cooking oil can be reused to manufacture biodiesel, soap, animal feed and so forth. \nPushing for More Legislation\nThe EPA has already sent its draft of the Resource Reuse and Recycling Act to the Legislative Yuan for review. Defining “waste” and “resource” is a key point of the bill. Controls over reporting of waste production and disposal flows are also strengthened, which would entail greater responsibility for the EPA. Passing this bill into law is the main legislative task for the EPA in the current session.\nStrengthening Inspection\nIn response to the recent cases of low-grade lard finding its way onto consumers’ plates, the EPA has been strengthening its management of the recycling of waste cooking oil. The EPA has already instigated a new regime of inspections of all of the waste cooking oil generated by restaurants, diners, and food stalls in night markets and commercial areas. \nThe first day of inspections saw 2,411 restaurants, diners, or food stalls visited in 17 night markets and commercial areas. These 2,411 premises generate a total of 535 tonnes of waste cooking oil each month. The EPA urges all small-scale food and beverage vendors to hand their waste oil over to licensed recycling operators or to garbage collection teams. A list of licensed recycling operators can be found on the EPA’s waste clearance and disposal organizations information website: wcds.epa.gov.tw. As for the waste cooking oil generated by industry, the EPA is presently looking into expanding the scope of listed enterprises, and a draft of the announcement is in progress. A preannouncement will made followed by public hearings, as stipulated by legislative procedures.\nThe EPA reiterates that it is enhancing inspections, bringing more items under management, and pushing for new legislation with the view that a multi-channel approach based upon regulatory control and rigorous administration in both the short- and long-term is the best way to protect the public interest and public health. The EPA will also promote its Biodiesel Garbage Truck Demonstration Plan in six metropolitan areas to provide channels for the recycling and reuse of waste cooking oil.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Three Measures Taken to Control Waste Cooking Oil", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-10" }, { "no": "3202", "title": "Mercury Content of Zinc Carbon Batteries and Alkaline Batteries to be Limited to 1 ppm", "preview": "Recycling Mercury Content of Zinc Carbon Batteries and Alkaline Batteries to be Limited to 1 ppm", "content": "Mercury Content of Zinc Carbon Batteries and Alkaline Batteries to be Limited to 1 ppm The EPA has preannounced amendments to the Controls on the Manufacture Import and Sale of Dry Batteries in order to reduce the heavy metal content of batteries. Henceforth, the mercury content of zinc carbon batteries and alkaline batteries will be limited to less than 1 ppm and the cadmium content to less than 20 ppm. For button type dry batteries the mercury content will be limited to less than 5 ppm and the cadmium content to less than 20 ppm. The lowering of the mercury control standard to under 1 ppm sets a new benchmark for international standards.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "recycling", "titlename": "Mercury Content of Zinc Carbon Batteries and Alkaline Batteries to be Limited to 1 ppm", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-09" }, { "no": "3201", "title": "Cleaning Agents on the Market Tested, Green Mark Products Come to the Fore", "preview": "Toxic substance Cleaning Agents on the Market Tested, Green Mark Products Come to the Fore", "content": "Cleaning Agents on the Market Tested, Green Mark Products Come to the Fore The EPA released the results of its random check of 33 laundry detergents (including 14 Green Mark products) and 29 dish detergent products (including 15 Green Mark products). The", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "toxic substance", "titlename": "Cleaning Agents on the Market Tested, Green Mark Products Come to the Fore", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-09" }, { "no": "3200", "title": "Trial Version of Chemical Substances Registration Platform Installed", "preview": "Toxic substance Trial Version of Chemical Substances Registration Platform Installed", "content": "Toxic substance Trial Version of Chemical Substances Registration Platform Installed\nIn response to the forthcoming registration system for new and existing chemical substances the EPA is in the process of developing a networking platform and registration tools. The EPA invites all sectors of society to do online trial runs of this platform and provide their opinions so that the functions of the platform can be streamlined to provide a user-friendly interface to the general public. \nIn accordance with the contents of the preannounced draft of the Regulations Governing Chemical Substances Information Registration, the EPA has now installed the trial version of the chemical substances registration platform, the functions of which include instructions for users, download of the trial version of the registration tools, and others. At the present stage some of the information and functions are available to users for inspection and downloading through a test site at http:\/\/www.tcsachemreg.org.tw. In the future, after the Regulations Governing Chemical Substances Information Registration are formally promulgated, the platform is expected to provide comprehensive functions for registration of chemical substances.\n\nIn response to the forthcoming registration system for new and existing chemical substances, the EPA is in the process of developing a networking platform and registration tools. The EPA invites all sectors of society to do online trial runs of this platform and provide their opinions so that the functions of the platform can be streamlined to provide a user-friendly interface to the general public. \nIn accordance with the contents of the preannounced draft of the Regulations Governing Chemical Substances Information Registration, the EPA has now installed the trial version of the chemical substances registration platform, the functions of which include instructions for users, download of the trial version of the registration tools, and others. At the present stage some of the information and functions are available to users for inspection and downloading through a test site at http:\/\/www.tcsachemreg.org.tw. In the future, after the Regulations Governing Chemical Substances Information Registration are formally promulgated, the platform is expected to provide comprehensive functions for registration of chemical substances.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "toxic substance", "titlename": "Trial Version of Chemical Substances Registration Platform Installed", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-09" }, { "no": "3199", "title": "Draft Amendments to the Enforcement Rules of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act Preannounced", "preview": "EIA Draft Amendments to the Enforcement Rules of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act Preannounced", "content": "Draft Amendments to the Enforcement Rules of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act Preannounced \nTo enhance both administratively and socially, the stability of environmental impact assessment (EIA) decisions, thereby improving the efficiency of the EIA process, and to strengthen the dialogue between the general public and the competent authorities of relevant industries, the EPA formulated the eighth set of amendments to the Enforcement Rules of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act. \nThe key points of the current amendments include:\n1. clearly defining the EIA review and decision implementation and supervising responsibilities of related governmental agents \n2. strengthening the roles played by the competent authorities for relevant industries \n3. requiring local environmental protection authorities to make public their EIA review process, which shall be modeled after the procedures of the EPA in the future\n4. implementing public participation measures and enforcing information disclosure related to the EIA process \n5. adding to the ways by which an EIA case can enter into the second phase of review \n6. formulating the procedures for the modification of EIA statements\n7. clearly defining conflict of interest in the review of EIA cases", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "EIA", "titlename": "Draft Amendments to the Enforcement Rules of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act Preannounced", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-09" }, { "no": "3198", "title": "Toxic substance Amendments to Toxic Chemical Substances Handling Application Fee Standards Preannounced", "preview": "Toxic substance Amendments to Toxic Chemical Substances Handling Application Fee Standards Preannounced", "content": "Toxic substance Amendments to Toxic Chemical Substances Handling Application Fee Standards Preannounced\nIn compliance with the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act which was amended and announced on 11 December 2013 the EPA has amended the draft of the Toxic Chemical Substances Handling Application Fee Standards and renamed it the Toxic Chemical Substances Handling Application and Chemical Substance Information Registration Fee Standards. The amendments clearly specify the fee standards for chemical substances registration and the approval of the operation of Class IV toxic chemical substances. In addition, to mitigate the impact on small and medium sized enterprises, if the applicant qualifies as a small or medium sized enterprise under the Act for Development of Small and Medium Enterprises, a preferential discount will be applied to the chemical substance registration review fee.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "toxic substance", "titlename": "Amendments to Toxic Chemical Substances Handling Application Fee Standards Preannounced", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-09" }, { "no": "3197", "title": "Emergency Management Information System Established to Provide Online Reporting and Real-Time Support", "preview": "Environmental Sanitation Emergency Management Information System Established to Provide Online Reporting and Real-Time Support", "content": "Emergency Management Information System Established to Provide Online Reporting and Real-Time Support\nThe EPA has established the Emergency Management Information System (EMIS) that serves as an information platform for local governments. On normal days the EMIS provides online service for local governments to establish databanks on personnel, disinfection agents and cleaning equipment. When dealing with natural disasters, the EMIS provides online reporting and a mutual assistance channel to help local governments rapidly carry out post-disaster cleaning, disinfection, drinking water quality testing and prevention measures against dengue fever outbreaks. \nThe EPA indicated that responding to natural disasters requires interdepartmental cooperation such that environmental agencies are ready for the tasks of cleaning up and disinfecting. Around the end of April every year, before the flood season, the EPA supervises local government environmental protection bureau activities related to inspecting and cleaning out drains and ditches within their jurisdictions. The local bureaus are also required to ensure that their cleaning and disinfection equipment is in good working order, that supplies of cleaning and disinfection agents, mobile toilets, temporary refuse dumps, and other necessary resources are ready, and that open contracts for renting tools and machinery are in place. Whenever a disaster occurs, the EPA works closely with the Central Emergency Operation Center and uses the EMIS for: online situation reporting; launching mutual assistance; conducting drinking water quality sampling and testing; and dispatching backhoes, tractors, and other equipment. The EMIS is also used for establishing temporary refuse transfer stations and assisting local environmental agencies in prioritizing which urban and other main thoroughfares need to be cleared and cleaned. \n\nAs typhoons pass by they often bring heavy rain in their wake, creating ideal conditions for dengue fever mosquito vectors to breed. If standing water is not removed within a week, the mosquito vectors can reproduce to the point of creating a major public health problem. The EPA constantly reminds members of the public to remove water from containers and anywhere else where it may accumulate. The EPA also reminds the public to inspect potential mosquito breeding sites, both inside and outside their residences, at least once a week. Having everyone regularly check containers and areas where water can collect in and around their houses is the best way to keep dengue fever at bay. \n\nIf a member of the public discovers a mosquito breeding site outside of their residence that is difficult to remove, they can call the EPA’s dedicated hotline – 0800-066-666 – to report it. They can also report it online through the EPA’s EcoLife website (http:\/\/ecolife.epa.gov.tw\/) or by downloading the EcoLife app to their mobile device. The government will quickly dispatch someone to clean up the site.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Sanitation", "titlename": "Emergency Management Information System Established to Provide Online Reporting and Real-Time Support", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-09" }, { "no": "3196", "title": "Round-the-Clock Real-Time Monitoring Ushers in New Era in Wastewater Control", "preview": "Water Round-the-Clock Real-Time Monitoring Ushers in New Era in Wastewater Control", "content": "Round-the-Clock Real-Time Monitoring Ushers in New Era in Wastewater Control", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Round-the-Clock Real-Time Monitoring Ushers in New Era in Wastewater Control", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-09" }, { "no": "3195", "title": "Minister Wei Inspects Industrial Park Wastewater Discharge", "preview": "Water Minister Wei Inspects Industrial Park Wastewater Discharge", "content": "Minister Wei Inspects Industrial Park Wastewater Discharge\nConcerned about the treatment of wastewater in industrial parks on 29 August 2014, EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei paid a visit to Kuanyin Industrial Park in Taoyuan County to inspect its service center and wastewater treatment plant, and he gained a better understanding of how industrial effluent is currently being treated. Minister Wei also announced that the EPA has drawn up the Industrial Park Wastewater Treatment Plant Inspection Plan, which will enable the EPA and local government environmental protection bureaus to strengthen inspections and audits of wastewater treatment plants in industrial parks.\nTo protect the algal reef along the coast of Taoyuan County, for the last two years the EPA and the Taoyuan County Government Environmental Protection Bureau have been implementing the Taoyuan County Algal Reef Pollution Source Inspection and Control Plan. Inspections and audits conducted under the plan employ the latest technology. The Taoyuan County Environmental Protection Bureau has also set up its so-called Owl Inspection Operation, which deploys additional manpower to target enterprises with high pollution risk as well as wastewater treatment plants in Taoyuan’s industrial parks, with the aim of preventing unscrupulous operators from discharging polluted water during nighttime, weekends or holidays. The program has proven to be very successful to date. \n\nThe plan for additional controls has involved intensive monitoring of water quality in nine rivers, all of which have shown reduced levels of pollution and overall improvement. Of the nine, water quality in Shulin River has shown the greatest fluctuation, mainly as a result of poor quality wastewater being discharged from Kuanyin Industrial Park wastewater treatment plant. This plant has been found to have violated the Water Pollution Control Act 58 times over the previous two years and has been fined over NT$23 million. The main infringements include discharging substandard wastewater and discharging wastewater through undeclared channels, which indicate that there are not enough wastewater treatment facilities at the plant. The Ministry of Economic Affairs’ Industrial Development Bureau is currently pushing the contractor (hired by the plant’s operator to run the plant) to speed up the replacement of old equipment and the construction of new facilities. Completion of the work should result in a marked improvement in volumes of wastewater that can be treated and in the quality of discharged water.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Minister Wei Inspects Industrial Park Wastewater Discharge", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-09" }, { "no": "3194", "title": "Taiwan, US and Philippines Join Forces to Promote Cooperation on Environmental Data", "preview": "International Cooperation\nTaiwan, US and Philippines Join Forces to Promote Cooperation on Environmental Data", "content": "Taiwan, US and Philippines Join Forces to Promote Cooperation on Environmental Data\nTo set in motion the International Environmental Partnership established in April 2014 by the EPAs of Taiwan and the US, the Taiwan EPA, the US EPA and the Department of E", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "International Cooperation", "titlename": "Taiwan, US and Philippines Join Forces to Promote Cooperation on Environmental Data", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-09" }, { "no": "3193", "title": "Newly-Listed Toxic Chemicals and Other Control Measures Announced", "preview": "Toxic Substance Newly-Listed Toxic Chemicals and Other Control Measures Announced", "content": "Newly-Listed Toxic Chemicals and Other Control Measures Announced", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Newly-Listed Toxic Chemicals and Other Control Measures Announced", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-09" }, { "no": "3192", "title": "Draft of Regulations Governing the Registration of New and Existing Chemical Substances Preannounced", "preview": "Toxic Substance\nDraft of Regulations Governing the Registration of New and Existing Chemical Substances Preannounced", "content": "Draft of Regulations Governing the Registration of New and Existing Chemical Substances Preannounced \nIn order to instate an effective registration system for information on toxic chemical substances the EPA has formulated and preannounced the Regulations Governing the Registration of New and Existing Chemical Substances, as authorized by the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act. The regulations will provide the legal framework for registration information on new and existing chemical substances. \nThe EPA drew up the draft of the Regulations Governing the Registration of New and Existing Chemical Substances in accordance with Article 7-1 Paragraph 6 of the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act. The draft contains 34 articles in 5 chapters covering: general provisions; registration of new toxic chemical substances; registration of existing toxic chemical substances; information disclosure and confidential business information protection; and supplementary provisions. \n\nThe main points of the Regulations Governing the Registration of New and Existing Chemical Substances are as follows:\n1) Chapter 1 – General provisions: Covers the qualifications the registration applicant must hold; definition of terms; and circumstances under which the regulations are excluded or not applicable.\n2) Chapter 2 – Registration of new chemical substances: Covers classification of chemical substances; quantity tonnage; required information on the chemical substances; forms for pre-verification and forms for registering special categories; joint registration; periods of validity for approved registration; and circumstances under which grace periods will be given. \n3) Chapter 3 – Registration of existing chemical substances: Covers the first-stage registration of existing chemical substances; announcement of the existing chemical substances in stages; joint registration; approved registration codes; management of registration documents; and periodic reporting requirements. \n4) Chapter 4 – Information disclosure and confidential business information protection: Covers the mechanism for information disclosure; confidential business information applicable for protection, and the ways of applying for such protection. \n5) Chapter 5 – Supplementary provisions: Includes regulations applicable to both new and existing chemical substances, such as registration review periods; modification of registration documents; revocation or nullification of registration; and the Internet systems and other tools that should be used to process registrations.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Draft of Regulations Governing the Registration of New and Existing Chemical Substances Preannounced", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-09" }, { "no": "3191", "title": "Minister Wei Visits US to Promote International Environmental Partnership", "preview": "International Cooperation\nMinister Wei Visits US to Promote International Environmental Partnership", "content": "Minister Wei Visits US to Promote International Environmental Partnership\nEPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei accepted an invitation by the US Environmental Protection Agency to visit the US from 5~17 August 2014. Minister Wei’s visit marked the launch of the Cities Clean Air Partnership (CCAP). He also took the opportunity to deliver a public speech on “International Environmental Partnership and International Cooperation” at the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York. The talk called on people to take a more holistic view of the environment in working to protect future generations and the Earth that we depend upon for survival.\nSharing Taiwan’s Experiences and Learning from the US\nDuring his ten-day stay in the US Minister Wei delivered two key speeches and engaged in a variety of other activities. He delivered the opening speech at the 2014 Los Angeles Environmental Forum, sharing Taiwan’s management policy on contaminated sediments, and at the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York he gave a public lecture on International Environmental Partnership and International Cooperation. With the arrangements of the US EPA, Minister Wei also: launched the Cities Clean Air Partnership; visited a Kids Making Sense event, a benchmarking program focused on air quality monitoring and environmental education; listened to presentations on industrial sludge treatment, disposal and management given by the US EPA Region 9 and Region 2; attended presentations on US climate change adaptation, Hurricane Sandy disaster response and restoration, and sustainable management of post-disaster wastes; attended a presentation on forensic applications of vegetation in managing environmental pollution; and toured other sites.\n\nTaiwan and US Cooperating Closely to Improve Asia Pacific Air Quality\nOn 8 August 2014, Minister Wei was in San Francisco to sign the Cities Clean Air Partnership (CCAP) with representatives of the US Environmental Protection Agency, California’s Bay Area and South Coast Air Quality Management Districts, as well as Clean Air Asia. The International Environmental Partnership aims to accelerate the improvement of air quality in the Asia Pacific region through environmental exchanges with the US and regional environmental cooperation. \n\nAs Minister Wei pointed out, over the past 21 years of Taiwan-US environmental cooperation, Taiwan’s emissions have dropped significantly, leading to a remarkable improvement in air quality. Through unrelenting effort in the field of environmental protection, Taiwan has gone from being an importer to an exporter of environmental technology and regulatory expertise. He also said that the signing of the 2014 CCAP is an important milestone in the history of Taiwan-US relations.\n\nIn terms of preventing the deterioration of air quality, Minister Wei said that cities are the key in the global sustainable development network, and since air pollution can cross national boundaries, cooperation between cities worldwide is particularly important. In response to this issue, a number of emerging Asian cities have joined together to form Clean Air Asia in order to help each other prevent air pollution and improve air quality. \n\nAs an initiator of the CCAP, Taiwan is actively seeking even closer cooperation with the US EPA and is becoming the lead player in Asian environmental protection. For instance, Taiwan delegates will be attending the Better Air Quality Conference in Sri Lanka at the end of the year, at which they will share Taiwan’s experience in air quality management and will also seek to expand Taiwan-US environmental cooperation, so as to raise air quality management in Taiwan to the next level. \n\nLessons from US on Air Quality Monitoring Integrated with Environmental Education\nWhile Minister Wei was in Los Angeles, the US EPA made special arrangements to attend the Mark Keppel High School Kids Making Sense (KMS) program. KMS is a comprehensive, hands-on, international, experiential environmental program jointly created, with US EPA funding, by Sonoma Technology Inc. (STI) and HabitatMap. KMS is based on crowdsourcing of credible air quality data and helps participating students make a direct contribution toward protecting air quality in their communities. \nAmong the many activities, the main purpose of Minister Wei’s visit to the US was to gain a better understanding of how the US EPA is developing the capacity to harness the skills of community residents and school students for environmental quality monitoring. Understanding the air quality of residential environments is a first step toward supporting air quality improvement measures. \n\nThe recent interaction between the EPAs of Taiwan and the US have not only strengthened mutual cooperation on various substantive issues but have also paved the way for more US assistance in improving environmental monitoring and education in Taiwan, so that Taiwan’s citizens can enjoy a better quality of life. The EPA is also currently planning to hold a KMS Training Camp in Taiwan this September in order to further expand Taiwan-US environmental exchanges.\n\nMinister Wei also had the chance to tour Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, the Geysers geothermal power plant, the University of Rhode Island's sea-bed resources development projects and the Yale University green campus project.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "International Cooperation", "titlename": "Minister Wei Visits US to Promote International Environmental Partnership", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-09" }, { "no": "3190", "title": "Farmland Pollution Remediation Measures Underway", "preview": "Soil & groundwater\nFarmland Pollution Remediation Measures Underway", "content": "Farmland Pollution Remediation Measures Underway\nThere has been an increase in emissions and discharges of pollutants from some of Taiwan’s factories in recent years and because improvements to industrial drainage systems are not fully completed, farmers in some areas are still irrigating their fields with polluted water. Soil contaminated with excessive amounts of heavy metals can lead to contaminants finding their way into food crops, with the potential to affect the health of the general public. To ensure the safety of farm produce, the EPA started soil pollution investigation and remediation more than 30 years ago.\nAs industry and business have grown continuously over the years, pollutants and wastewater produced by factories, along with emissions and dust from petrochemical plants and scrap metal smelting, are all capable of creating varying levels of heavy metal pollution in soil. The eight main culprits are arsenic, cadmium, chromium, mercury, nickel, lead, tin and copper. Different crops need differing amounts of heavy metals to grow, and excess levels of some heavy metals can harm plants and accumulate within them. If such crops enter the food chain, food safety will be impacted. Crops contaminated with heavy metals have been uncovered frequently, with the main problem being cadmium and mercury found at excessive levels in whole grain rice. There was also a case of excessive copper levels found in farms in the Lunding area of Chaujou Township, Pingtung County, in 2001. These cases highlight the potential such incidents have for endangering public health. \n\nOver 30 Years of Land Surveying and Remediation of Polluted Soil \nSince all farmland pollution incidents in Taiwan have been a result of irrigation water pollution, in 1983 the then Environmental Protection Bureau of the Executive Yuan’s Department of Health began conducting nationwide heavy metal soil pollution surveys with a priority on crop land. Following the implementation of the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act, the EPA began re-inspecting the fields already listed as having high potential of heavy metal pollution, and began carrying out remediation work wherever necessary. \nStatistics compiled by the Council of Agriculture for 2007 showed that Taiwan had a total of 825,946 hectares of farmland. According to the previous farmland pollution records and the Classification Table of Taiwan Soil Heavy Metal Content, there are approximately 50,000 hectares of Grade 4 polluted farmland and 790 hectares of Grade 5 polluted farmland. As of August 2014, an accumulated 799.9 hectares of farmland had been announced as listed controlled sites. Among them, 486.3 hectares have been remediated and removed from the control list. \n\nDuring the surveying period, the EPA had already embarked on the task of remediating these contaminated farmlands. The EPA convened local government environmental protection bureaus for consultation meetings and requested the polluters to map out remediation implementation procedures for contaminated land and to submit control site pollution remediation plans to the environmental protection bureau of the appropriate jurisdiction. Once remediation work is completed, the EPA will conduct verification testing at the sites. A contaminated site can be removed from the control list only when remediation work done on it has passed testing. \n\nIn addition to announcing polluted farmland and adopting the necessary emergency measures, the EPA also undertakes pollution remediation for these sites at later dates. There are several remediation methods that the EPA uses for this. For farmland that is polluted with cadmium, copper, nickel, or tin, or is generally lightly polluted, soil turnover and dilution will be applied. For farmland that is polluted with cadmium, lead, mercury, or is generally heavily polluted, soil acid washing will be applied. For farmland that is partially contaminated, heat treatment, excavation, or soil dressing will be applied.\n\nTaoyuan County Worst for Contaminated Farmland followed by Changhua and Taichung Counties\nAs of the end of August of 2013, a total of 4,651 parcels of farmland with a cumulative area of 800 hectares had been surveyed and announced as listed soil pollution control sites. Taoyuan County led with 1,865 sites with a total area of 252 hectares. Changhua County was next with a cumulative area of 347 hectares spread over 1,556 sites, followed by Taichung City with a cumulative area of 83 hectares over 701 sites. \n\nIn 2013 alone, there were 21 counties and cities with farmlands that had been found contaminated with heavy metal concentrations exceeding soil pollution control standards. A total of 221 hectares of farmland spread over 1,778 sites were added to the list of soil pollution control sites last year.\n\nPolluted Farmland Totaling 430 Hectares Remediated through Subsidies to Local Governments\nSince 2003, the EPA has been granting subsidies to 14 counties and cities to remediate polluted farmland. To date, all local governments except for Taoyuan County, Taichung City and Changhua County have delisted previously polluted farmland. The remediation measures employed were soil turnover and dilution (312.88 hectares), and acid washing (9.56 hectares). Of the total remediation cost of NT$350,501,995, NT$70,960,408 was paid as compensation to farmers for not being able to farm affected land, NT$279,168,488 was spent on pollution removal, and NT$373,099 was spent on regeneration. The EPA also spent NT$46 million on land restoration that was carried out with the assistance of the Council of Agriculture’s Agriculture and Food Agency, the Taiwan Agricultural Research Institute, and Agriculture Research and Extension Stations. \n\nBy the end of 2013, an accumulated 1,965 farmland parcels totaling 430.3 hectares had been remediated and delisted in accordance with legal regulations. At present there are still 2,437 parcels that are listed as soil pollution controlled sites. The EPA will continue to assist local governments in conducting farmland pollution surveys and completing remediation work at the earliest possible date to return listed farmlands to agricultural use while safeguarding food safety.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil & groundwater", "titlename": "Farmland Pollution Remediation Measures Underway", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-09" }, { "no": "3189", "title": "Award Presented to 34 Outstanding Motorcycle Testing Stations", "preview": "Air Award Presented to 34 Outstanding Motorcycle Testing Stations", "content": "Award Presented to 34 Outstanding Motorcycle Testing Stations\nOn 31 July 2014 the EPA held the National Awards Ceremony for Outstanding Motorcycle Exhaust Testing Stations. The awards for the 34 selected outstanding testing stations were given out by EPA Deputy Minister Shin-Cheng Yeh, who praised the award winners and called upon all of Taiwan’s motorcycle testing stations to continue demonstrating their professionalism to the public by providing even better services and thus effectively mitigate the motorcycle exhaust pollution problem. \nThere were approximately 14 million registered motorcycles in Taiwan in 2013, or 66% of the total number of vehicles. Motorcycles are the most common mode of transport in Taiwan. In its work of controlling motorcycle exhaust pollution, the EPA actively introduced a number of measures, including motorcycle model inspection, periodic exhaust testing, low-pollution motorcycle promotion, and removing 2-stroke motorcycles from the roads. It is now 16 years since the EPA established the periodic motorcycle exhaust testing scheme. As of the end of 2013, a total of 2,747 testing stations have been established nationwide. The periodic exhaust testing has successfully helped to cement the public’s habit of regular motorcycle testing and maintenance, thus bringing everyone together to work towards protecting air quality.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Award Presented to 34 Outstanding Motorcycle Testing Stations", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-08" }, { "no": "3187", "title": "International E-waste Management Meeting Ends Successfully", "preview": "Waste International E-waste Management Meeting Ends Successfully", "content": "International E-waste Management Meeting Ends Successfully\nThe 2014 International E-waste Management Meeting which was jointly organized by the Taiwan EPA, the US EPA and the Vietnam Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, was attended by 35 governmental and non-governmental representatives from 13 different nations. The meeting ended on a successful note on 17 July in Hanoi, Vietnam. To open a four-day agenda, the participating nations first reported on the progress they made in 2013 on the management and recycling of e-waste. Following that were three days of sessions covering the structure and practices of environmentally sound management (ESM), the processing techniques for cathode ray tubes and financial mechanisms for recycling systems.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "International E-waste Management Meeting Ends Successfully", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-08" }, { "no": "3186", "title": "EIA for Taoyuan Aerotropolis Mass Rapid Transit Approved", "preview": "EIA EIA for Taoyuan Aerotropolis Mass Rapid Transit Approved", "content": "EIA for Taoyuan Aerotropolis Mass Rapid Transit Approved\nOn 16 July 2014 the environmental impact assessment (EIA) for the Aerotropolis Line of the Taoyuan Metropolitan Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) project was passed by the EIA review committee. It was also decided that the second phase EIA will not be necessary for this case. The committee also explained the reasons for approval to assuage concerns raised by various parties. \nAfter taking into account the opinions of the environmental assessment committee members, experts, academics, and other interested parties, the review committee decided to approve the project for the Aerotropolis Line of the Taoyuan Metropolitan MRT. The review committee gave the following reasons for their approval:\n1. The project did not impinge upon or detract from other related development plans such as the Northern Taiwan Regional Plan, Taoyuan County General Development Plan, New Development Plan for Taoyuan International Airport and Neighboring Area Special Disctrict Plan, Taoyuan-Chungli Living Sphere Road System Construction Plan, and Taiwan Railways Urban MRT Plan for Taoyuan International Airport and Neighboring Area Special District. \n2. The decision was based upon surveys, predictions, analysis, or assessment of the following parameters related to the construction and operation of the MRT line: topology, geology, and soil; hydrology and water quality; air quality; noise and vibration; waste; daytime shadows; electromagnetic interference; landscape and recreation; society and economy; and cultural assets. The developer also proposed measures to prevent and mitigate possible impacts upon the environment. The review committee therefore concluded that the branch line would not have significant adverse impact upon environmental resources or any special features of the local environment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "EIA", "titlename": "EIA for Taoyuan Aerotropolis Mass Rapid Transit Approved", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-08" }, { "no": "3185", "title": "Requirement of Environmental Liability Insurance Considered", "preview": "General policy Requirement of Environmental Liability Insurance Considered", "content": "Requirement of Environmental Liability Insurance Considered\nThe occurrence and presence of contaminated sites often result from industrial operations over the long haul. Soil and groundwater often are the ultimate media of industrial pollution in which the cumulative or progressive risks of contamination is quite high. A large sum of remediation costs is usually required to restore contaminated sites to conditions with acceptably low risk levels to the environment and human health. Therefore, in addition to the management of multiple environmental media at the front end and the implementation of remediation at the rear end, a protection mechanism for the environment and public health is often considered to be a major point in devising the management policies for contaminated sites \nAfter taking stock of the environmental protection mechanisms in advanced countries, the EPA found out that environmental liability insurance is the most commonly used mechanism in the world. Such insurance not only protects the land, it also provides a protection mechanism for potential damage to the public. Therefore, using the structure of the Soil and Groundwater Remediation Act as the base, the EPA has involved itself in the planning of an environmental liability insurance scheme relevant to contaminated sites and its supporting measures. In so doing, the EPA held two meetings in July and August to gather opinions from professionals in various fields, which can be used by the EPA as important references when establishing an environmental liability insurance system.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "general policy", "titlename": "Requirement of Environmental Liability Insurance Considered", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-08" }, { "no": "3184", "title": "Noise and Odor Comprise the Bulk of Public Nuisance Complaints", "preview": "Control & Evaluation\nNoise and Odor Comprise the Bulk of Public Nuisance Complaints", "content": "Noise and Odor Comprise the Bulk of Public Nuisance Complaints", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Control & Evaluation", "titlename": "Noise and Odor Comprise the Bulk of Public Nuisance Complaints", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-08" }, { "no": "3183", "title": "Draft Amendments to Working Standards for Developmental Activity EIA Assessments Preannounced", "preview": "EIA Draft Amendments to Working Standards for Developmental Activity EIA Assessments Preannounced", "content": "Draft Amendments to Working Standards for Developmental Activity EIA Assessments Preannounced\nIn order to clarify procedures for public participation in environmental impact assessments (EIA) and to provide a clearer legal framework for developers and the environmental consultants they hire the EPA has drawn up a draft of revisions to the Working Standards for Developmental Activity Environmental Impact Assessments. The revisions are expected to improve the administration of environmental assessments. \nBy referring to the Working Standards for Developmental Activity Environmental Impact Assessments, developers and the environmental consultants they hire can verify the written content of their environmental impact statements, as well as the content of other assessments to be reviewed by environmental assessment evaluation committees. The working standards have been amended ten times to date; the main purpose of the latest amendments is to clarify procedures for public participation in the first stage of environmental assessments so that developers have a regulatory structure to work with. \nIn order to improve the quality of submitted environmental assessment statements, developers will henceforth be required to seek guidance from the relevant competent authority when conducting environmental assessments as part of their development plans. The amendments also stipulate that when conducting environmental quality surveys, developers must make it a priority to cite that development plans have passed the EIA review, and give other information relevant to the area within a five-kilometer radius of the proposed development site. For survey items that concern rapidly-changing environmental situations, the information provided must have been gathered within the previous two years; for survey items that concern slowly-changing environmental situations, the information provided must have been gathered within the previous five years.\nSome categories of environmental survey – such as those for landscape and recreation, society and economy, and transportation – have the potential to be reviewed according to both the Urban Planning Act and the Regional Planning Act. The recent amendments revise the stated survey items to avoid repeat evaluations. For developers that are required by law or who voluntarily carry out the second stage of EIA, the environmental survey information provided must not be the same as in the first stage. Developers will also be required to conduct surveys within the scope designated by the relevant environmental agency. \nIn cases where there is concern that the developmental activity will have a major impact upon the environment, the latest amendments stipulate that the developer must be able to explain in detail their assessments of surveys, predictions, analyses, evaluations, information disclosures and public participation. If there is still insufficient information for the EIA committee to judge the impact of the developmental activity, the developer has to conduct a second stage EIA as stipulated by Article 8 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "EIA", "titlename": "Draft Amendments to Working Standards for Developmental Activity EIA Assessments Preannounced", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-08" }, { "no": "3182", "title": "EPA Trials Purpose-Specific Automated Water Quality Monitoring", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring", "content": "EPA Trials Purpose-Specific Automated Water Quality Monitoring\nFollowing timely advances in both monitoring technology and information technology the EPA is now trialing automated environmental water quality monitoring. This will strengthen EPA controls over discharges by adding to existing automated effluent monitoring of large-scale discharge sources. The new monitoring technology will be used to attain real-time information in cases involving sudden changes in water quality. \nThe EPA has been conducting periodic manual sampling of water from rivers, reservoirs, groundwater sources and the sea for many years and has accumulated a sizeable database of water quality that is now one cornerstone of environmental protection work. The automated water quality monitoring pilot plan aims to build on this cornerstone and strengthen control over water pollution. The purpose-specific automated continuous water quality monitoring pilot plan has been running on Shezih River in Taoyuan County since September 2013 for the purposes of analyzing fluctuations in river water quality and assessing the feasibility of automated monitoring. \nThe trial run was recently completed, and a comparison of the data from automated monitoring against data obtained from laboratory analyses was performed. The comparison results revealed that, conditional to sufficient maintenance of instruments, the automated monitoring showed acceptable results in four major categories: water temperature, pH, conductivity and chemical oxygen demand. However, in three other categories – turbidity, suspended solids and dissolved oxygen – the results are less reliable, which may be due to factors such as insufficient water depth or sudden surges of water and sediment being stirred up from the riverbed. It would seem that the best place to conduct automated water quality monitoring is in moving bodies of water where the water level is stable and there are no strong currents or accumulations of sediment. \nThe automated monitoring system involves using water quality and hydrology monitoring instruments to collect and transmit monitoring data to an information platform once every ten minutes using third generation (3G) wireless transmission. With computers and mobile devices, both real-time and historical water quality data can be viewed. \nAutomated water quality monitoring can flag sudden changes in water quality, and is thus superior to conventional monitoring which relies upon taking water samples manually at periodic intervals. It can provide an immediate understanding of why environmental water quality is changing over time, thus providing verification of abnormal water quality alarms. The EPA will continue with another trial of the system on the Keya River in Hsinchu City until September 2014, and then compile the accumulated trial results and experiences to assist local government environmental protection bureaus with the implementation of the system if a need is determined for this type of pollution monitoring.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "EPA Trials Purpose-Specific Automated Water Quality Monitoring", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-08" }, { "no": "3181", "title": "Amendments to HCFC Consumption Management Regulations Drafted", "preview": "Air", "content": "Amendments to HCFC Consumption Management Regulations Drafted\nAccording to the timetable of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer consumption of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) by the parties to the protocol must be reduced to 10% and 0.5% of base levels starting from 2015 and 2020, respectively. In order to achieve the restriction targets, the EPA has formulated draft revisions to the Hydrochlorofluorocarbon Consumption Management Regulations that set out control measures and consumption maximum values for the periods following 2015 and 2020. 　\nＴhe Montreal Protocol adopts a source control strategy and requires parties to phase out ozone-depleting substances. Despite the fact that Taiwan is not a member of the United Nations, since 1990 the nation has been acting equivalently to a non-Article 5 party to the protocol and has adopted the control model used by developed nations. This model involves restricting the import, export and manufacture of ozone-depleting substances. Thus Taiwan acts in compliance with the Montreal Protocol restrictions on HCFCs, a class of such substances. On 15 January 2003, the EPA promulgated the Hydrochlorofluorocarbon Consumption Management Regulations in accordance with Article 30 Paragraph 2 of the Air Pollution Control Act. \nIn terms of HCFC restrictions, Taiwan used the formula set out in the Montreal Protocol to calculate its domestic HCFC consumption base level, which was set at 638.156 ozone depletion potential (ODP) tonnes. Since 1996, Taiwan has placed freezes and restrictions on the use of HCFCs. Since 1 January 2004, HCFC consumption has not been allowed to exceed 65% of the base level, and since 1 January 2010, HCFC consumption has not been allowed to exceed 25% of the base level. According to the Montreal Protocol timetable for HCFC restrictions, as of 1 January 2015 HCFC consumption will not be allowed to exceed 10% of the base level. Moreover, from 1 January 2020 this will be lowered to 0.5% of the base level, with the further restriction of HCFC use being allowed only for the servicing of in-use refrigeration and air conditioning equipment.\nTo meet later-stage restriction targets, it is necessary to develop a timetable for additional restrictions in domestic regulations, as they do not currently incorporate the Montreal Protocol restrictions on HCFCs that will come into effect in 2015 and 2020. Adding HCFC consumption restrictions in order to follow the protocol’s timetable of restriction targets will require taking into account the technology available, economic feasibility and future air conditioning maintenance requirements. Hence, additions to domestic regulations will include details of: the special circumstances under which applications for importing HCFCs will be accepted; deadlines for manufacturers to rectify faulty or insufficient application documentation; and, the violations for which allocated amounts for manufacturers will be revoked. The procedure by which manufacturers have been able to pre-order HCFCs has also been deleted. The main changes to the Hydrochlorofluorocarbon Consumption Management Regulations are as follows:\n1. From 1 January 2015, permits will only be issued for the use of HCFCs in foaming agents and refrigerants for listed uses. From 1 January 2020, permits will not be issued for the use of HCFCs in any cleaning agents and refrigerants, and HCFCs will be banned in all manufacturing processes. \n2. Details have been added regarding the special circumstances under which HCFCs – and products and equipment containing them – will be allowed to be imported. \n3. In order to simplify administration, enterprises that already have permits for HCFC use will no longer have to reapply every year. However, enterprises that have had their permits revoked as a result of infringements will have to reapply as stated by law. \n4. To bring about a gradual reduction in HCFC use, Article 15 of the current regulations, which allows manufacturers to calculate and submit pre-order volumes, has been removed. Manufacturers will henceforth be required to allocate their HCFC use for each half of the year according to their annual allocated amount as per EPA calculations. \n5. To ensure that HCFC controls are properly enforced, any change in product name or allocated amounts must first be approved by the EPA. \n6. Deadlines for manufacturers to rectify faulty or insufficient application documentation and details of EPA review procedures in such cases have been added. \n7. The EPA henceforth has the authority to confiscate allocated HCFCs from enterprises that violate the regulations. HCFC allocations may be permanently revoked if deemed necessary.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Air", "titlename": "Amendments to HCFC Consumption Management Regulations Drafted\nAmendments to HCFC Consumption Management Regulations Drafted", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-08" }, { "no": "3180", "title": "Groundwater Salinization Early Warning Wells Planned for Pingtung Coast", "preview": "Soil & Groundwater", "content": "Groundwater Salinization Early Warning Wells Planned for Pingtung Coast\nSalinization of coastal groundwater is a common problem in Taiwan with the southwest coast being the most affected. To gain a clearer understanding of the scope of the problem and to develop an early warning system, the EPA has drawn up a plan to drill a groundwater salinization early warning network along the coast from Yunlin County down to Pingtung County, including salinization warning wells in the Pingtung coastal area. The wells will assist the government in controlling groundwater quality and allocating water resources. \nGroundwater along the coast of Taiwan has been affected by salinization for a long time, creating difficulties in utilizing this resource. The problem is most apparent in the southwest, with the counties of Yunlin, Changhua and Pingtung all reliant upon groundwater as their main source of freshwater for agriculture. To gain a clearer understanding of the scope of the problem and to develop an early warning system, from 2012-2013 the EPA drew up a plan to drill groundwater salinization early warning wells in the affected area. The wells will assist the government in controlling groundwater quality and allocating water resources. \nIn 2013, the EPA reviewed its long-term groundwater quality monitoring results for the Pingtung plain and also looked at water level monitoring, hydrology and geology data provided by the Ministry of Economic Affairs’ Water Resources Agency. The EPA found that variations in chlorite concentrations are consistently linked with groundwater levels and nearby sea levels. Data suggests that the groundwater-seawater interface is fluctuating, mainly as a result of seasonal hydrological cycles. The EPA has thus drawn up a plan to drill a network of groundwater salinization early warning wells along the Pingtung coast so that groundwater salinization data can be obtained once every quarter from five of the EPA’s wells and five of the Water Resources Agency’s observation wells. Samples from the wells will be tested for chlorites, sulfates, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium and alkalinity. \nAlso, a joint effort between the central government and Pingtung County to prevent subsidence on the Pingtung plain has shown some positive results. The Pingtung County Government has long been paying attention to how land is used in subsidence areas and has been mitigating the problem of farmland groundwater salinization by installing solar panels on affected land to provide farmers an alternative source of income. In addition, in efforts to prevent irreversible land subsidence, the loss of groundwater is recharged by drawing water from Dachaozhou artificial lake. Engineering work to supplement groundwater upstream also results in groundwater levels downstream along the coast being raised. Other measures that are being adopted include improving the drainage basin environment, building a common seawater supply system, and encouraging local aquaculture farmers to switch to raising saltwater fish.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil & Groundwater", "titlename": "Groundwater Salinization Early Warning Wells Planned for Pingtung Coast", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-08" }, { "no": "3179", "title": "Identical Noise Control Values for New and In-use Vehicles Considered", "preview": "Noise Control", "content": "Identical Noise Control Values for New and In-use Vehicles Considered \nIn recent years local competent authorities have been setting up roadside checkpoints to test vehicles for their noise output, and have discovered that some motorists mistakenly believe that the Vehicular Noise Control Standards vary according to the maker of the vehicle. Thus in order to simplify the enforcement of vehicular noise control, the EPA has drawn up the Fifth Stage of Vehicular Noise Control Standards with identical noise control values for new and in-use vehicles. \nTo effectively control vehicular noise and maintain a peaceful living environment, as well as to align Taiwan with international trends, on 6 October 2004, after consultations with the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC), the EPA promulgated the Vehicular Noise Control Standards, which have since been amended twice. The amendments adopted the principles of the EU’s vehicle control standards in order to incorporate different standards for stationary noise and vehicle acceleration noise. Other amendments took into account Taiwan’s high population density and formulated a noise control standard value for vehicles in use on the roads by adding five decibels (dB) to the stationary noise value for new vehicle models. \nHowever, in recent years, local environmental protection bureaus have been setting up roadside checkpoints to test vehicles for their noise output, and have discovered that some drivers mistakenly believe that the Vehicular Noise Control Standards differ according to the maker of the vehicle. An example of this occurred when a sports car (for which the noise control standard for a new vehicle test value is 90 dB and for an in-use one is 95 dB) and a domestically-produced sedan (noise control standard for a new vehicle test value is 85 dB and for an in-use one is 90 dB) were stopped at the same checkpoint at the same time and were both found to be producing noise of 91 dB. Yet only the owner of the sedan was fined for exceeding the noise standard maximum. Having different in-use vehicular noise standards thus easily creates misunderstanding among drivers. To simplify the enforcement of vehicular noise restrictions the EPA has now drawn up the Fifth Stage of Vehicular Noise Control Standards with identical noise control values for new and in-use vehicles. \nThe EPA explained that the current noise control values for in-use vehicles were arrived at by adding five dB to the stationary noise value of new vehicle models. This scheme was based on a vehicle control perspective that attempted to ensure that in-use vehicles were maintained properly, so as to keep their noise output close to the noise values of the models when they were new. However, in terms of reducing the environmental impact of vehicular noise, any vehicle that produces noise over a certain maximum disturbs the surrounding quietude. Adopting identical noise control values for new and in-use vehicles not only makes the regulations easier to understand and administer, but also makes the regulations more compatible with the overall objective of reducing noise pollution. \nConsidering that the EU announced in December 2013 that a new stage of vehicular noise control standards will be applied starting in 2017, the EPA is contemplating the adoption of the new EU standards to be in line with international regulatory trends, and to give domestic automobile enterprises enough time to comply. The EPA has thus also formulated the Sixth Stage of Vehicular Noise Control Standards. These new standards will be applied to new vehicle models in 2017 as the EU standards are applied, and will be applied to existing vehicle models one year later in 2018 to allow automobile makers time to adjust to the new regime.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "noise control", "titlename": "Identical Noise Control Values for New and In-use Vehicles Considered", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-08" }, { "no": "3178", "title": "Minister Wei Leads Delegation to Kiribati and Australia", "preview": "International Cooperation\nMinister Wei Leads Delegation to Kiribati and Australia", "content": "Minister Wei Leads Delegation to Kiribati and Australia \nIn July 2014 EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei travelled to Taiwan’s Pacific ally, Kiribati, to attend a celebration of the 35th anniversary of the island nation’s independence. Minister Wei took the opportunity to engage in valuable exchanges with Kiribati President Anote Tong as well as Kiribati Minister of Environment, Land and Agricultural Development, Tiarite Kwong and other officials, regarding Taiwan-Kiribati relations, environmental cooperation, and responses to climate change. Minister Wei also gave a speech at a meeting of the Coalition of Atoll Nations on Climate Change. On his way back to Taiwan, Minister Wei stopped in Australia to discuss carbon capture and storage (CCS) regulations as well as the status of Australia’s promotion of the CarbonNet Project with local government and research organizations. The talks were followed by a visit of a CCS site to gain a fuller understanding of CCS initiatives in Australia. \nTaiwan Delegation Participates in Kiribati’s Independence Day Celebrations\nFrom 10-15 July 2014, EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei headed a Taiwan delegation to Kiribati – one of Taiwan’s Pacific island allies – to take part in the celebration of 35 years of the nation’s independence. In addition to participating in the celebrations, Minister Wei met with some of Kiribati’s top officials, including President Anote Tong and the Minister of Environment, Land and Agricultural Development, Tiarite Kwong, to discuss Taiwan-Kiribati relations, environmental cooperation and climate change.\nMinister Wei Delivers Speech to Coalition of Atoll Nations on Climate Change \nAs part of his visit to Kiribati, on 11 July, Minister Wei attended a meeting of the Coalition of Atoll Nations on Climate Change. Other heads of delegations from Taiwan’s diplomatic allies at this meeting included Sir Iakoba Taeia Italeli, Governor-General of Tuvalu, and Amatlain Elizabeth Kabua, Permanent Representative to the United Nations and special envoy for President Christopher Jorebon Loeak of the Marshall Islands. During the meeting Minister Wei delivered a speech highlighting the importance of three adaptation issues - coastal management, food security and production, and water resources management. He also presented a sand animation video produced by the Taiwan EPA, depicting the threats of increased industrial carbon dioxide emissions on the environment. In his speech, Minister Wei discussed several specific strategies and expert viewpoints that elicited much positive feedback from participants, and many representatives asked Minister Wei for further details after the meeting.\nThe Taiwan delegation also took part in a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Taiwan Medical Center, which was built through cooperation between Taiwan and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services of Kiribati, as part of a plan to strengthen treatment and hygiene. Doctors and medical staff from Mackay Memorial Hospital in Taiwan will be posted at the Center in the future to improve Kiribati’s public health and medical treatment standards. To gain a deeper understanding of how bilateral cooperative plans are being implemented, Minister Wei also visited Taiwan’s embassy, the Taiwan Technical Mission in Kiribati, the Ambo aquaculture station, and a fruit breeding orchard belonging to the Kiribati Ministry of Environment, Lands and Agricultural Development. On the evening of 12 July, Minister Wei took part in President Anote Tong’s state banquet celebrating Kiribati’s 35th anniversary of independence. \nSince the establishment of formal diplomatic relations between Taiwan and the Republic of Kiribati on 7 November 2003, the bilateral relationship has been close and friendly. Various exchanges and cooperative projects have been initiated based on the principles of mutual trust and reciprocal benefits, and much has been accomplished in the fields of fisheries development, medical treatment and hygiene, education and training, infrastructure building, and alternative energy – all of which have won the approval of the government and people of Kiribati. Kiribatians have a strong belief in freedom, democracy and human rights, and over the years have firmly supported Taiwan’s participation in the international arena. The relationship between the two nations is steadfast and is expected to be strengthened by expanding the depth and scope of bilateral exchanges.\nDelegates Visit Australia Focusing on Carbon Capture and Storage\nThe Australian government has established one of the world’s few CCS demonstration sites carrying out CCS research, the Cooperative Research Centre for Greenhouse Gas Technologies (CO2CRC) Otway Project in the state of Victoria. Minister Wei and his delegation observed all operations at the site in detail, where it was plainly demonstrated that carbon dioxide can be safely transported, injected and stored underground. Developed at the site was a comprehensive monitoring system for the carbon dioxide injection process that can measure exactly how much carbon dioxide is actually injected and stored. Minister Wei further led the Taiwan delegation to the Peter Cook Centre for CCS Research, which is noted for assisting the Australian government in promoting related research and development as well as establishing a cost effective program to tackle the climate change challenge through CCS. The Centre was eager to discuss the feasibility of future academic exchanges with Taiwan.\nAustralia is one of the world’s leading energy exporting nations, giving CCS strategies and technologies an important role in its environmental and energy policies. The nation’s Greenhouse Gas Geological Sequestration Act and the verification of injection and storage technology at CCS demonstration sites show how Australia is a leader among nations and has much to offer in Taiwan’s quest to formulate CCS regulations and develop related technology.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "International Cooperation", "titlename": "Minister Wei Leads Delegation to Kiribati and Australia", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-08" }, { "no": "", "title": "", "preview": "", "content": "", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "", "titlename": "", "position": "" }, { "no": "3177", "title": "Ninety-eight Percent of Nearly 70,000 Listed Public Toilets Rated Excellent", "preview": "environmental sanitation Ninety-eight Percent of Nearly 70,000 Listed Public Toilets Rated Excellent", "content": "environmental sanitation Ninety-eight Percent of Nearly 70,000 Listed Public Toilets Rated Excellent The cleanliness of public toilets is regarded by some as an indicator of how progressive a nation is, and to this end the EPA has been working hard at lis", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "environmental sanitation", "titlename": "Ninety-eight Percent of Nearly 70,000 Listed Public Toilets Rated Excellent", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-07" }, { "no": "3176", "title": "Public-Private Partnerships Discussed for Carbon Reduction", "preview": "climate change Public-Private Partnerships Discussed for Carbon Reduction", "content": "climate change Public-Private Partnerships Discussed for Carbon Reduction On 26 June 2014 the EPA and the European Chamber of Commerce Taiwan (ECCT) jointly held a lunch meeting entitled European Experiences in Public-Private Partnership: the Key to Mitigating Climate Change. The lunch was attended by EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei; ECCT Chairman Giuseppe Izzo; European Economic and Trade Office (EETO) Head of Office Frederic Laplanche; Deputy Director of British Trade & Cultural Office in Taiwan, Damion Potter; and Alex C. Lei, Executive Director of the State of Hawaii Office in Taipei. Also in attendance were many local and European industry representatives. There was general agreement that building public-private partnerships and strengthening technological exchanges with transnational corporations would be very helpful in bringing about both a low-carbon economy and sustainable business operations. \nAt the lunch, EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei said that inviting European officials and industry representatives to exchange ideas on public-private partnerships for carbon markets shows that Taiwan is committed to seeking out innovative strategies to reduce carbon. As ECCT Chairman Giuseppe Izzo pointed out, carbon reduction has become a common goal for international society, with carbon trading now established as an effective mechanism for reducing carbon. He said that learning from Europe’s experience would help Taiwan to achieve its carbon reduction targets, and that commercial cooperation in improving energy source efficiency and developing renewable energy sources would allow for the setting of even more ambitious targets. He also pointed out that developing low-carbon manufacturing would also transform industry and lead to sustainable development, and that the EU would be delighted to form public-private partnerships with Taiwan’s public and private sectors to help strengthen Taiwan’s carbon reduction plans. \nEETO Head of Office Frederic Laplanche emphasized that there need not be a conflict between industrial development and reducing carbon emissions, and pointed out that in the past 30 years the hard work of EU nations had resulted in the EU meeting 80% of carbon reduction targets while still being able to maintain 40% growth in gross domestic product. Mr. Laplanche called this “microeconomic vision” and emphasized that if carbon reduction is neglected today, there will be an even higher price to pay in the future. \nErdal Elver, the Chief Executive Officer of Siemens Ltd., Taiwan, explained the German model for public-private partnerships and presented an example of the technological assistance that Siemens has provided in Taiwan. In particular, he described his company’s work on the low-emission mass transit system provided to the Kaohsiung City Government for the benefit of its residents.\nSiemens is also working with the UK government to build the largest offshore wind farm in the world, which will produce enough electricity to supply 40,000 homes. Among the ECCT members who are currently jointly promoting the Low Carbon Initiative in Taiwan are a number of well-known corporations from Spain, Italy and Germany who are also participating in the EPA’s Clean Development and Carbon Credit Management Strategic Alliance. Dr. Joanna Lei, President of the Taipei GHG Infrastructure Steering Association, also gave a presentation in which she stressed that all market mechanisms should serve the purpose of helping human beings to reduce emissions, but that it is by no means certain that the market mechanisms that have been jointly established will be able to meet carbon reduction targets in the future. She called for a thorough review of how the market mechanisms are currently operating in the real world and how they can be used to guide the development of low-carbon economies in which carbon reduction targets can be met.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "climate change", "titlename": "Public-Private Partnerships Discussed for Carbon Reduction", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-07" }, { "no": "3175", "title": "Keya River Greywater Diversion System Inaugurated", "preview": "water Keya River Greywater Diversion System Inaugurated", "content": "water Keya River Greywater Diversion System Inaugurated\nEPA Deputy Minister Shin-Cheng Yeh visited Hsinchu on 9 June 2014 to participate in an inauguration ceremony for three greywater diversion stations of the Keya River in the Xiangshan area. He then went on to inspect the wetland construction works for the water purification plan at Xipuzi on the Touqian River and made remarks on the river water quality improvement works of Hsinchu City. \nHsinchu City’s second phase sewage system construction plan requires a substantial budget for construction projects spread across the city. It seems unlikely that within the short term, the water quality of Keya River can be improved by the construction of a sewage system. Thus, in order to facilitate river water improvement and give local residents a better riverside environment, in December 2012 the EPA approved a subsidy of NT$27,205,000 for the Hsinchu City Government to build greywater diversion stations in the Xiangshan area of the Keya River, an example of an interregional value-added construction project. Taking advantage of the overcapacities of the already constructed primary and secondary sewers, these three stations will divert up to 7,500 tonnes of greywater to the Keya Water Resource Center for treatment every day, thus significantly reducing pollution in the Keya River.\nThe drainage system at Xipuzi on the Touqian River is the largest one in Hsinchu City in terms of area for collecting water, with 200,000 people living within the catchment area. The wastewater in this area has pollution levels ranging from medium to serious. In July 2013 the EPA approved a subsidy of NT$31.5 million for the Hsinchu City Government to undertake water purification works in the Xipuzi constructed wetlands. The works occupy an area of 12 hectares and treat 16,000 tonnes of wastewater daily, while reducing biochemical oxygen demand by 43 kg and removing 200 kg of suspended solids from the water every day. The construction of the wetlands is currently progressing smoothly toward the estimated completion date of 9 January 2015.\nAs Deputy Minister Yeh has pointed out, environmental awareness has taken hold among the general public and, as a result, people are gradually starting to pay attention to the quality of the water in their surrounding environment. Remediating polluted rivers is a long process, and improving water quality needs full public participation. The completion of the two water purification works in Hsinchu City will not only improve water quality in the Keya River and the Touqian River but will also lead to cleaner conditions on the riverbanks and in the eco-corridors. It thus will increase their appeal to locals and visitors as good locations for leisure activities and environmental education.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Keya River Greywater Diversion System Inaugurated", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-07" }, { "no": "3174", "title": "Draft of Regulations Governing Toxic Chemical Incident Response Vehicles Preannounced", "preview": "toxic substance Draft of Regulations Governing Toxic Chemical Incident Response Vehicles Preannounced", "content": "toxic substance Draft of Regulations Governing Toxic Chemical Incident Response Vehicles Preannounced To make responses to toxic chemical incidents more direct and more effective the EPA has formulated a draft of the Regulations Governing Toxic Chemical Incident Response Vehicles. The regulations cover vehicle colors and markings, standard equipment to be carried and their designated uses, as well as the qualifications vehicle drivers must obtain. \nToxic chemical incident response personnel need to rush to accident scenes as quickly as possible to begin implementing response measures and thus safeguard the health of nearby residents and reduce potential environmental damage. To this end, an amendment to the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act was announced on 11 December 2013 to waive speed limits for vehicles – belonging to either the competent authority or the toxic chemical transportation operator – that have been dispatched to deal with toxic chemical incidents. As long as the said vehicles operate a flashing beacon and audible siren en route to emergency sites they are also exempt from traffic sign, traffic light, and road marking restrictions. \nThe EPA has thus formulated a draft of the Regulations Governing Toxic Chemical Incident Response Vehicles. The regulations cover vehicle colors and markings, standard equipment to be carried and their designated uses, qualifications vehicle drivers must obtain, registration criteria for transportation operators, task implementation supervision and management, and other regulations that must be abided by. \nDetails of the above regulations have been published on the EPA’s website: http:\/\/ivy5.epa.gov.tw\/enews\/fact_index.asp.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "toxic substance", "titlename": "Draft of Regulations Governing Toxic Chemical Incident Response Vehicles Preannounced", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-07" }, { "no": "3173", "title": "Agongdian River Water Quality Improvement Works Completed", "preview": "water Agongdian River Water Quality Improvement Works Completed", "content": "water Agongdian River Water Quality Improvement Works Completed A ceremony was held on 9 June 2014 to mark the completion of the Agongdian River Hehua Bridge Upstream Section Water Quality Improvement Project of the Kaohsiung City Government. The project subsidized by the EPA, involved constructing a gravel contact oxidation facility that can treat up to 8,000 tonnes of polluted water daily and diverting a number of effluent channels towards it. The project will lead to improved water quality upstream of Hehua Bridge, and is a part of the Kaohsiung City Government’s Agongdian River environmental development scheme that will transform a polluted water area into a clean one where local residents can take a pleasant walk. The improved water will also be used to irrigate fields along the lower stretches of the river.\nThe Agongdian River flows through the Gangshan district of Kaohsiung City, an area that has seen rapid population growth and industrial development. The ever-increasing volumes of effluents being produced are thus a significant pollution burden on the river. Results of EPA water quality monitoring done in 2011 on the Agongdian River showed that 35% of its length was heavily polluted, with the section between Agongdian Bridge and Chianchou Bridge being the most severe. This particular section of the river suffers from insufficient base flow, and further downstream there are water intake points for irrigation that were built by the Department of Irrigation and Engineering. \nIn order to reduce pollution and safeguard the source of irrigation water, in 2012 the EPA issued a grant of NT$77 million to the Kaohsiung City Government to conduct improvement works on the section of the Agongdian River upstream from Hehua Bridge. The works involved constructing a gravel contact oxidation facility in the river park and diverting ten open air effluent drainage channels between Shenglin Bridge and Agongdian Bridge towards the new installation. The facility can treat up to 8,000 tonnes of polluted water daily, reducing biochemical oxygen demand by 410 kg. The treated water then flows back into the Agongdian River to supplement the river’s base flow. In addition, five other open air drainage channels have been diverted to flow into the Agongdian River downstream from the irrigation water intake points to safeguard the source of irrigation water. With these two systems in operation, water quality of the Agongdian River is bound to improve.\nSewage system construction is a fundamental part of greywater treatment. Construction of the Gangshan\/Ciaotou sewage system began this year, with the first stage of the project expected to be completed in 2017. Before this sewage system is completed, on-site water purification facilities will be installed to reduce the amounts of pollutants entering the river. The EPA has also requested the Kaohsiung City Government to continue inspections and strict enforcement of restrictions on factories and livestock farms that operate within the Agongdian River basin, as well as promptly removing trash on the river surface and river banks and properly maintaining eco-friendly river landscapes. Such measures will assist the remediation effort to create a sustainable and pleasing riverside living environment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Agongdian River Water Quality Improvement Works Completed", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-07" }, { "no": "3172", "title": "Single-use Cup Recycling Machine Trialed to Encourage Recycling", "preview": "recycling Single-use Cup Recycling Machine Trialed to Encourage Recycling", "content": "recycling Single-use Cup Recycling Machine Trialed to Encourage Recycling The EPA is implementing the Waste Single-use Cup Automatic Recycling Pilot Plan. From now until 30 November 2014 people in Taipei visiting the Gongguan shopping district will be able to try out the automatic single-use cup recycling machine installed there, and earn some bonus points while demonstrating their concern for the planet. \nThe machine issues five PushMe points to the user’s mobile phone number every time it is used to recycle a single-use cup. An app can also be downloaded to smartphones to keep check of how many points have been accumulated and get information on which stores are offering what discounts in exchange for the PushMe points. At present, there are over 500 stores nationwide where the points can be exchanged for discounts on goods or services. Using smartphones to collect and spend points at the touch of a button removes the need for points cards or points stickers, making it a method that is both eco-friendly and economical. \nThe single-use cup recycling machine has a number of functions, including material recognition, recycling volume reduction, and issuance of PushMe point rewards. It can recycle all of the commonly-used beverage cup materials, including paper, polypropylene (PP), expanded polystyrene (EPS) and polylactic acid (PLA). The bonus point operator PushMe is trialing a recycling point model for the pilot scheme that will hopefully lead to the creation of a new recycling regime in which consumers, businesses and the environment are all winners. \nThe EPA would also like to remind members of the public not to litter their beverage cups and other waste containers but to prevent environmental pollution by recycling such items at the facilities provided by stores such as beverage vendors, convenience stores, supermarkets, and megastores. Recycling bins can also be found at many public premises.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "recycling", "titlename": "Single-use Cup Recycling Machine Trialed to Encourage Recycling", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-07" }, { "no": "3171", "title": "Recycling Fee Rates for Straight Fluorescent Tubes Raised from 1 July 2014", "preview": "recycling Recycling Fee Rates for Straight Fluorescent Tubes Raised from 1 July 2014", "content": "recycling Recycling Fee Rates for Straight Fluorescent Tubes Raised from 1 July 2014", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "recycling", "titlename": "Recycling Fee Rates for Straight Fluorescent Tubes Raised from 1 July 2014", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-07" }, { "no": "3170", "title": "EPA Requires Farmers to Rinse Pesticide Bottles Three Times Before Recycling", "preview": "recycling EPA Requires Farmers to Rinse Pesticide Bottles Three Times Before Recycling", "content": "recycling EPA Requires Farmers to Rinse Pesticide Bottles Three Times Before Recycling The EPA has been holding the “Rinse Pesticide Bottles Thrice before Recycling” events around farm villages from June to November 2014. The events include 20 recycling activities and five explanatory meetings to urge farmers that pesticide bottles have to be rinsed with clean water three times and then have the cap screwed on tightly before handing them in for recycling. The EPA is also reminding farmers that the water used to clean the bottles can be collected and used as diluted pesticide. Used pesticide bottles are listed as recyclable items that can be handed in to local recycling operators refuse collection teams, or, in some places, Farmers’ Association offices or agricultural supply stores. In Taiwan, around 1,000 tonnes of pesticide bottles are recycled annually. EPA personnel recently toured around the nation to ensure farmers in remote villages were fully informed of the importance of resource recycling and to help in the recycling of pesticide bottles close to the site of use.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "recycling", "titlename": "EPA Requires Farmers to Rinse Pesticide Bottles Three Times Before Recycling", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-07" }, { "no": "3169", "title": "Six-meter-long Mobile Air Quality Analysis Laboratory Hits the Road", "preview": "environmental analysis Six-meter-long Mobile Air Quality Analysis Laboratory Hits the Road", "content": "environmental analysis Six-meter-long Mobile Air Quality Analysis Laboratory Hits the Road To further safeguard the health of citizens the EPA’s Environmental Analysis Laboratory has been working with manufacturers to build a mobile high-tech analysis laboratory. The 6-meter-long vehicle can operate 24 hours a day at the sites of suspected air pollution incidents, analyzing air samples to facilitate the planning of suitable responses. \nThe Environmental Analysis Laboratory and a number of manufacturers have been cooperating on integrating the latest air quality analysis technologies into a 6-meter-long mobile analysis laboratory. These technologies include 24-hour monitoring cameras, a Global Positioning System (GPS), a system that reports abnormalities in air quality, and remote control of some functions. The use of cloud computing and wireless data transmission ensures that the mobile unit is secure and functioning properly whenever it is stationed at a monitoring location. \nThe mobile analysis laboratory is equipped with a proton transfer reaction time-of-flight mass spectrometer (PTR-TOFMS) that can immediately be dispatched to the most sensitive location to begin real-time monitoring when air pollution incidents occur. In conjunction with its trigger-sampling equipment, this allows for samples to be automatically collected in stainless steel tubes whenever high pollution values appear. These high-value samples can then undergo more accurate measurement and analysis in order to verify the degree of danger to public health. \nAs well as a PTR-TOFMS, the vehicle is also equipped with a proton-transfer-reaction quadrupole mass spectrometer (PTR-QMS), a stainless steel trigger-sampling instrument and a bench top high-resolution gas chromatography\/low-resolution mass spectrometer (HRGC\/LRMS). The cost of these four systems alone is NT$30 million, and in the future the EPA expects to purchase more cutting edge, top-range monitoring equipment to be installed in the vehicle. \nThe instruments onboard the mobile analysis laboratory will be used to conduct real-time monitoring of air-borne pollutants. Apart from a small minority of chemical compounds that cannot be properly detected by the proton-transfer-reaction mass spectrometer with H30+ ions (PTR H30+), the large majority of organic and inorganic gaseous air pollutants – including ozone-depleting chemicals and organic solvents – can be monitored in real-time by the instruments. The instruments are sensitive enough to detect concentrations as miniscule as 0.01 ppb and can quickly and accurately determine which air pollutants are present in the samples. The Environmental Analysis Laboratory also spent four years working with National Central University’s Department of Chemistry to develop a wind model and 3-dimensional dispersion model for use with the instruments to allow for even greater accuracy in identifying pollution sources at the site. \nThe combination of PTR-QM\/PTR-TOFMS and the trigger-sampling method allows for rapid analysis of chemicals found in the samples. Being able to immediately capture air samples as an air pollution incident occurs will allow for the samples to be preserved as evidence and sent to laboratories for precise composition analysis if necessary. Although the mobile analysis laboratory has exceptional functionality, its size and the fact that it consumes a large amount of electricity means that it must be taken by truck to monitoring sites and connected to a 220V\/100A power source. Being much larger than any other air quality monitoring vehicle in Taiwan, it has earned the nickname, “the aircraft carrier of the air quality monitoring fleet.”", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "environmental analysis", "titlename": "Six-meter-long Mobile Air Quality Analysis Laboratory Hits the Road", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-07" }, { "no": "3168", "title": "Green Point Pilot Scheme Begins with Roll out Set for 2015", "preview": "Ecolabeling Green Point Pilot Scheme Begins with Roll out Set for 2015", "content": "Ecolabeling Green Point Pilot Scheme Begins with Roll out Set for 2015 In July 2014 the EPA began trials of its environmental bonus points – or Green Point – system with the cooperation of a number of enterprises. The system allows consumers to accumulate bonus points every time they buy green products or do something to help the environment, such as saving energy or water. The points can then be exchanged for green products or services, environmental education courses, or entrance tickets to eco-leisure areas. The points can also be redeemed through multiple channels. The system is expected to be formally up and running sometime in 2015. \nBased on the concept of adding value to environmental activities, the system allows consumers to exchange points for cash or discounts on green products in order to encourage them to adopt greener lifestyles and shopping habits. A logo for the system has already been unveiled, and as of the launch of the trial run in July 2014, the following organizations will be holding a series of promotions to promote the Green Point system and to offer discounted products.\n?the General Welfare Service of the Ministry of National Defense \n?Tatung Consumer Products (Taiwan) Co., Ltd. (Tatung 3C)\n?Far Eastern Ai-Mai Company Ltd. (FE-a.mart)\n?Hi-Life International Co., Ltd. (Hi-Life convenience stores)\n?Da Fon Environmental Technology Co., Ltd.\n?Ding Ding Integrated Marketing Service Co. (HAPPY GO consumer reward scheme)\n?ZOJIRUSHI Taiwan Corporation \n?Hwang Kuan Metal Industrial Co. (THERMOS)\nThe EPA hopes that this year’s pilot scheme will lead to growth in the market for green products and more and more people making environmental protection an integral part of their daily lives. \nAs a part of the pilot scheme all of the aforementioned companies are offering discounts on their products. Details on all related promotions can be found on the EPA’s Green Living website: http:\/\/greenliving.epa.gov.tw\/.\nMany local government environmental protection bureaus are also holding activities to publicize the environmental bonus point scheme, including Taipei City, Taichung City, Tainan City, Chiayi City, Yilan County, Hsinchu County, and Chiayi County. The EPA is urging all residents to lend their full support to the scheme and to make environmental protection a part of their daily lives. \nThe EPA has also announced its selection for the Green Point logo. The logo features a green leaf in the shape of the symbol for infinity (∞) to convey the concept of green shopping and to symbolize the sustainability and renewability of low-carbon, energy saving, carbon reduction, and resource recycling. The green dot in the upper right hand corner represents the various types of low-carbon behavior and environmental actions that can be turned into bonus points to be accumulated and redeemed. The infinity symbol (the body) also combines with the green dot (the head) to make a human figure that signifies that the scheme is for everyone to take part in, so as to contribute a bit to environmental protection while having fun collecting and spending the green points.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "ecolabeling", "titlename": "Green Point Pilot Scheme Begins with Roll out Set for 2015", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-07" }, { "no": "3167", "title": "Workshop on Asian Capacity Building for Carbon Market Focuses on European Experiences", "preview": "climate change Workshop on Asian Capacity Building for Carbon Market Focuses on European Experiences", "content": "climate change Workshop on Asian Capacity Building for Carbon Market Focuses on European Experiences On 25 June 2014 the EPA joined forces with the European Economic and Trade Office (EETO) to hold the 2014 Workshop on Capacity Building of Regional Carbon Market in Asia: Experiences from Europe. Experts and scholars from governments in the EU and neighboring nations, as well as from major international organizations, came to Taiwan to discuss ways of building connections among international carbon markets. Over 150 participants gathered in the conference and discussions were lively and fruitful.In his opening remarks at the workshop, EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei emphasized that human activity was the major factor driving climate change. He called for the nations of the world to reach a consensus on how best to balance environmental protection with energy security and economic development, and said that action is needed immediately to keep climate change within safe parameters. Head of the European Economic and Trade Office (EETO) Frederic Laplanche stated that the EU has considerable expertise and experience in developing carbon trading mechanisms that have made substantive contributions to EU efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and meet its carbon reduction targets while still maintaining economic growth. Mr. Laplanche pointed out that China, the US and South Korea are all gradually developing carbon markets, and said that he hoped that the workshop would give the Europeans the opportunity to share their knowledge and experience in setting up carbon markets with the delegates from Taiwan and the other nations present.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "climate change", "titlename": "Workshop on Asian Capacity Building for Carbon Market Focuses on European Experiences", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-07" }, { "no": "3166", "title": "Taiwan and UK Hold Training on Low-carbon Cities for Mid- and High-Level Officials", "preview": "climate change Taiwan and UK Hold Training on Low-carbon Cities for Mid- and High-Level Officials", "content": "climate change Taiwan and UK Hold Training on Low-carbon Cities for Mid- and High-Level Officials From 23-27 June 2014 the EPA held the Workshop for Mid- and High-Level Implementors of the Low-carbon Sustainable Homeland Program in conjunction with The Bartlett School of Architecture of University College London (UCL), the first time the two organizations have worked together. The five days of training included personalized courses and classes based on dynamic group discussions. The training was designed to develop deeper and more lateral thinking among Taiwan’s low-carbon sustainability planners and policymakers. Twenty mid- to high-level officials from central and local governments participated in the program. \nThe building of low-carbon cities is a very important part of the energy saving and carbon reduction strategies and measures being adopted by nations worldwide, and many major cities are taking pride in developing low-carbon infrastructure. Low-carbon policymaking touches upon a number of special fields, including environment, energy, transportation, building and construction, land planning, and laws and regulations. Interdisciplinary integration is thus essential for avoiding wasteful repetition and conflict between written regulations and practical administration. It is therefore invaluable to learn how to apply spatial governance, strengthen strategic integration, and break down the barriers between one’s own position and other disciplines so that all related plans and measures are imbued with the concept of low-carbon sustainability. Learning and practicing these skills was the goal for the workshop. \nAs EPA Deputy Minister Shin-Cheng Yeh explained at the beginning of the workshop, The Bartlett School of Architecture is a large institute that combines a number of disciplines – including design, architecture, planning, development, construction, and facilities management – under one roof. This superior capability is the reason it has long been chosen to advise the British government on building low-carbon urban infrastructure, sustainable development strategic planning, and other professional topics. The Bartlett also designs tailor-made training courses for planners, policymakers, and other professionals in various government departments. \nWith regards to the training program, the EPA and UCL designed the course based upon the current state of low-carbon urban development in Taiwan. The course content included overall framework planning for low-carbon sustainable strategies, policy implementation, financial planning, and effective assessment of low-carbon cities. Also included was a review of interactions, cooperation, and mediation between the stakeholders that determine the success or failure of a project (including between central government departments, central and local government, and with the populace). Concepts were introduced to deliberate from the point of highest level, starting with consideration of the reasons and processes behind the formation of policies. The course then moved on to combining theoretical tools and practical skills to implement systematic planning for basic-level administration while applying non-conventional ways of thinking. The trainees were also shown how to nurture the development of knowledge and techniques to create a low-carbon sustainable homeland, how to teach others about sustainable development and urban management, and how to use the principles of planning for low-carbon sustainable cities. UCL sent three of its most experienced experts on low-carbon city planning and construction – Professor Peter Bishop, Dr. Marcos Cruz, and Mr. Oliver Wilton – to Taiwan. They all have many years of hands-on experience in the fields of low-carbon architectural design, urban planning and development, and the green economy, and have visited a number of countries in Europe and Asia to lecture or hold similar training programs. They were thus able to provide an excellent overview of the building of low-carbon cities and offer unique insights and solutions into some of the problems that might be encountered.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "climate change", "titlename": "Taiwan and UK Hold Training on Low carbon Cities for Mid and High Level Officials", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-07" }, { "no": "3165", "title": "Progress in Indoor Air Quality Control", "preview": "air quality Progress in Indoor Air Quality Control", "content": "air quality Progress in Indoor Air Quality Control Over the years there has been a change in the way the citizens live their lives with more time being spent in indoor areas. The impact of indoor air quality on human health has thus become a more important issue, resulting in Taiwan promulgating the Indoor Air Quality Act on 23 November 2012 and becoming the second nation after South Korea to have a law dedicated to regulating indoor air quality. A list of the first batch of premises that are to be regulated by the Indoor Air Quality Act was announced on 1 July 2014. \nEffects of Indoor Air Quality on Human Health Draws Greater Global Attention\nPeople are increasingly paying attention to the impact of indoor air pollutants on human health as it has been shown that the quality of indoor air can have a decisive impact on the efficiency and quality of work places. Improving indoor air quality thus not only safeguards human health but also improves work performance.\nThe issue of indoor air quality and its potential to harm human health has been gathering momentum in recent years following a shift in lifestyles over the last few decades that has resulted in a majority of residents spending large amounts of time at home or at work in closed-off rooms using air conditioning to keep the temperature at a comfortable level. This has led to the emergence of sick building syndrome, with insufficient fresh air circulating through some buildings and air-borne pollutants thus accumulating to the point of affecting indoor air quality. In 1982, sick building syndrome was officially recognized and defined by the World Health Organization. \nOutdoor sources of pollutants – such as motor vehicle exhaust and factory emissions – in combination with poorly maintained air intakes and filters of air conditioning systems where micro-organisms can reproduce, also have the potential to affect indoor air quality. As a sub-tropical nation, Taiwan is hot and humid for most of the year, conditions amenable for fungi and bacteria to reproduce easily. Thus it is important to regularly clean and maintain air conditioning systems.\nTaiwan the Second Nation to Regulate Indoor Air Quality\nThe average citizen spends around 90% of each day indoors, and is thus exposed to toxic substances such as formalin, toluene, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are produced in indoor environments and are known to be harmful to human health. In 2005, the EPA announced its Suggested Values for Indoor Air Quality and in 2006 began research and preparations for a draft of the Indoor Air Quality Act. The draft was approved by the Executive Yuan in 2008 and then sent to the Legislative Yuan for further review. Public opinion was strongly in favor of the bill, and on 8 November 2011 it passed both the second and third reading. On 23 November 2011, the act was promulgated and came into effect one year later. Taiwan thus became the second nation to have a law dedicated to indoor air quality control, with the act representing a milestone in the mission to improve indoor air quality. \nThe EPA announced five new regulations to accompany the implementation of the Indoor Air Quality Act on 23 November 2012. They were: the Indoor Air Quality Act Enforcement Rules, the Indoor Air Quality Standards, the Regulations Governing Dedicated Indoor Air Quality Management Personnel, the Regulations Governing Indoor Air Quality Analysis Management, and the Fine Determination Criteria for Violations of the Indoor Air Quality Act. \nAir quality standards are based upon the Suggested Values for Indoor Air Quality that was promulgated on 30 December 2005 in order to maintain and improve indoor air quality. The standard values for indoor air pollutants include: 1,000 ppm for CO2; 9 ppm for CO; and 0.08 ppm for toluene. For total VOCs, a combination of 12 different VOCs, the standard value is 0.56 ppm; for bacteria it is 1,500 CFU\/m3 (colony-forming units\/m3); and for fungi it is 1,000 CFU\/m3. For particulate matters (PM10) the value is 75 μg\/m3, while for fine particulate matters (PM2.5) it is 35 μg\/m3, and for ozone it is 0.06 ppm. \nRegulation of First Batch of Announced Premises Effective from 1 July 2014\nTo facilitate the rolling out and administration of the Indoor Air Quality Act, on 23 January 2014 the EPA announced the formulation of the First Batch of Announced Premises Regulated by the Indoor Air Quality Act that will be the legal basis for regulating selected premises. The announced premises were selected according to criteria laid out in Article 6 of the Indoor Air Quality Act. The EPA took into consideration overall visitor numbers, visitor entry and exit numbers, levels of risk of harm from indoor air pollutants, and any unique requirements for each of the premises. A list of indoor air pollutants and the scope of indoor areas to be regulated for each category of announced premises were also drawn up in accordance with the Indoor Air Quality Standards and Indoor Air Quality Testing Management Regulations.\nThe list of announced enterprises came into effect on 1 July 2014. After this date, all listed premises should begin the task of maintaining indoor air quality in accordance with the Indoor Air Quality Act. Operators of listed premises will be given a grace period to allow sufficient time for drawing up indoor air quality maintenance and management plans and to implement all of the requirements of the first periodic indoor air quality analysis. The first batch of announced premises includes: public premises; large-scale premises; premises where overall visitor numbers and visitor entry and exit numbers are large; and premises visited by vulnerable groups such as the elderly, students, etc. The sub-categories for said premises include: tertiary education institutions; libraries; hospitals and clinics; social welfare premises; government offices; railway transportation premises; civil aviation transportation premises; mass transit stations; exhibition centers; and shopping malls.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Progress in Indoor Air Quality Control", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-07" }, { "no": "3164", "title": "Changes to Halon Fire Extinguisher Controls Considered", "preview": "Air Quality Changes to Halon Fire Extinguisher Controls Considered", "content": "Air Quality Changes to Halon Fire Extinguisher Controls Considered Considering halon fire extinguishers are still required for use by the military and the aviation industry the EPA has drawn up a draft of revisions to the Regulations Governing Chemical Substances Listed in the Montreal Protocol. The revisions modify the listing of halon fire extinguishers so that their use can be reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the relevant industry competent authorities. \nIn order to abide by the stipulations of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, Taiwan has adopted at-source restrictions and drawn up a set of criteria for permit applications to import, export or manufacture ozone-depleting substances (ODS) for special uses. Taiwan aims to keep tight control over the circulation of ODS and prevent them from being discharged into the atmosphere. However, in some key areas – such as the aviation industry and the military services – there are no alternatives to the use of halon fire extinguishers. In such special cases the government has thus decided to allow the import of products that contain ODS. \nHalon fire extinguishers are still necessary for use by Taiwan’s armed forces and aviation industry, and aviation equipment containing halon must be approved by the industry competent authorities in order to meet aviation industry regulations. For aviation equipment businesses wishing to import or export halon fire extinguishers, permit application procedures have been simplified by the amendments to the Regulations Regarding Chemical Substances Listed in the Montreal Protocol, which modify the listing of halon fire extinguishers so that the use of such equipment can be evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the relevant industry competent authorities. In addition, the definition of listed chemical substances has been modified, regulations concerning the export of listed products have been deleted, regulations regarding deadlines for submitting supplementary information for incomplete or incorrect applications have been added, and the stipulation that returned cargo should be handled according to the Customs Act has been amended.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Changes to Halon Fire Extinguisher Controls Considered", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-07" }, { "no": "no", "title": "title", "preview": "preview", "content": "content", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "assortment", "titlename": "titlename", "position": "position" }, { "no": "3163", "title": "Online Water Quality Monitoring to Control Effluent and Protect Rivers", "preview": "Water Online Water Quality Monitoring to Control Effluent and Protect Rivers", "content": "Water Online Water Quality Monitoring to Control Effluent and Protect Rivers The EPA is striving to gain control over major pollution sources and to this end is using new technological tools to enhance the use of pollution emissions data. In the future automatic real-time online monitoring of effluent quality and quantity will be required for major pollution sources. To date, installation of such monitoring facilities has been completed at eight of Taiwan’s industrial parks.\nProtecting river environments relies on inspections of pollution sources by environmental inspectors and patrols by enthusiastic local volunteers. The EPA is also using technological tools to enhance the use of pollution emissions data by rigorously rolling out automatic real-time online monitoring of effluents from major pollution sources. To date, installation of said monitoring facilities has been completed at eight industrial parks, which represents a big step forward in the effort to control pollution sources. There have already been a number of occasions when the automatic monitoring system has warned of abnormal effluent quality, which has resulted in the EPA working successfully with industrial park service centers to catch four enterprises in the act of illegally discharging effluent. This is proof that the automatic online monitoring system is providing the warnings it should and is effectively helping to prevent illegal discharges. \nIn the past, water pollution control was done by inspectors taking samples on site and sending them to laboratories to check whether or not the water was up to standard. This method is not only time consuming but is also subject to time and manpower constraints, making it difficult to increase the frequency of inspections and allowing operators the chance to profit from breaking environmental regulations. Employing technological tools such as automatic real-time online monitoring facilities allows the EPA to gain better control and keep better records of effluent discharge so that abnormal discharges can be quickly discovered and polluting activities prevented.\nNew environmental regulations stipulate that automatic online monitoring facilities must be installed in 36 industrial parks by 14 July 2014. The eight parks that currently have them are: Kuanyin Industrial Park in Taoyuan County; New Taipei Industrial Park; Nangang Industrial Park in Nantou County; Changhua Coastal Industrial Park; Yunlin Technology-based Industrial Park; Kaohsiung Linhai Industrial Park; Hsinchu Science Park; and the Southern Taiwan Science Park in Tainan City. Trial operations are currently being conducted at the other 28 locations. Another 60 enterprises must also install automatic online monitoring facilities by the end of the year. Taking Kuanyin Industrial Park in Taoyuan as an example, from January to March 2014 the automatic monitoring equipment detected abnormal pH readings for water in rainwater drains on four occasions. Being authorized to carry out inspections, the park’s service center was able to assist the EPA by uncovering four cases of factories in the park illegally discharging wastewater into rainwater drains, a good demonstration of the monitoring equipment’s effectiveness.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Water", "titlename": "Online Water Quality Monitoring to Control Effluent and Protect Rivers", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-06" }, { "no": "3162", "title": "Executive Yuan Passes Draft Revisions to the Water Act to Impose Heavy Penalties on Illegal Discharges", "preview": "water Executive Yuan Passes Draft Revisions to the Water Act to Impose Heavy Penalties on Illegal Discharges", "content": "water Executive Yuan Passes Draft Revisions to the Water Act to Impose Heavy Penalties on Illegal Discharges On 5 June 2014 the Executive Yuan approved a draft revision of the Water Pollution Control Act (水污染防治法) that was put forward by the EPA. The revisions include large increases in the maximum fines that can be levied on polluters along with a new provision covering criminal responsibility. The draft will soon be sent to the Legislative Yuan for review.\nThere have recently been a number of major environmental pollution incidents, with the general public consensus being that the current penalty regime is insufficient to deter polluters and thus needs to be amended. To this end, the EPA has formulated draft revisions to the act. The main points of the revisions to the penalty regime include raising the maximum fine from NT$600,000 to NT$20 million and stipulating criminal responsibility for incidents of illegal discharges of wastewater that lead to human injury or loss of life. The legal basis for confiscating illegal gains has also been clarified. The EPA hopes that the forthcoming regime of stiffer penalties will deter polluters and thus assist in protecting environmental water bodies.\nThe revisions also allow for part of the fines to be used for rewarding members of the public who report incidents of pollution to the EPA. Details of how corporate whistleblowers are to be protected have also been added. In addition, there is a stipulation that confiscated illicit gains and part of the levied fines are to be used to capitalize a special water pollution prevention fund, with the remediation of polluted water bodies to be given priority. The EPA expects the new measures will encourage the public to be on the watch for illegal activities, as well as speed up the remediation of polluted water bodies.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Executive Yuan Passes Draft Revisions to the Water Act to Impose Heavy Penalties on Illegal Discharges", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-06" }, { "no": "3161", "title": "Petrol Station Pollution Prevention and Investigation Reaps Fruitful Results", "preview": "soil and groundwater_Petrol Station Pollution Prevention and Investigation Reaps Fruitful Results", "content": "soil and groundwater_Petrol Station Pollution Prevention and Investigation Reaps Fruitful Results On 6 May 2014 the EPA held the Petrol Station Pollution Prevention, Investigation and Remediation Workshop and Achievement Exhibition. On display at this event were the achievements from implementing investigation and prevention measures for petrol station pollution nationwide over the years. Fourteen enterprises were invited to set up exhibition booths to provide relevant industry and policy planning information to members of the petrol station industry, and to demonstrate the advanced level of soil and groundwater pollution prevention and remediation technologies at Taiwan’s petrol stations. In addition to a full house for the workshop, the exhibition attracted more than 400 visitors.\nIn earlier years, petrol station pollution prevention was no more than a management tool for industrial safety. However, the mode of thinking has recently shifted to one that places equal emphasis on pollution prevention and self-regulation. After 10 years of actively carrying out tasks for petrol station pollution prevention and underground environment investigation, the EPA has reaped fruitful results. Other than applying the newest investigation technologies to keep track of the potential for underground pollution, the EPA also has introduced advanced technologies from abroad to improve and enhance the prevention and remediation of petrol station pollution, thus greatly reducing the chances of petrol stations polluting the underground environment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "soil and groundwater", "titlename": "Petrol Station Pollution Prevention and Investigation Reaps Fruitful Results", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-06" }, { "no": "3160", "title": "Taiwan and US Hold Workshop on Soil and Groundwater Technology", "preview": "Soil & Groundwater Taiwan and US Hold Workshop on Soil and Groundwater Technology", "content": "Soil & Groundwater Taiwan and US Hold Workshop on Soil and Groundwater Technology On 21 May 2014 the EPA’s Soil and Groundwater Remediation Fund held the Taiwan-US Workshop on Soil, Groundwater and Sediment. The workshop was divided into two sections – one for the application of sediment technology and the other for application of geophysical exploration technology. A number of American experts, including Dr. D. Dale Werkema, Jr. from the USEPA, Professors Upal Ghosh and Donald Hayes, Mr. Edward Buchak, and Mr. Harry Zahakos attended the workshop to give presentations and exchange experiences with their Taiwan counterparts. \nThe section on the application of geophysical exploration technology focused on case analyses and research on new methodologies being applied to pollution inspections and remediation assessments, with the intention of advancing mutual transfers of knowledge and technology. The workshop was also an opportunity for the participants from government, industry, and academia to broaden their horizons and raise their competitiveness in their fields. \nThe section on the application of sediment technology focused on using model evaluation tools to establish sediment remediation technologies that meet the particular characteristics of different types of Taiwan’s unique aqueous environments. \nIn recent years the EPA has been conducting soil and groundwater pollution investigations on high pollution potential sites. In addition to applying the new technologies to gain a better understanding of underground pollution, the EPA has also developed localized inspection standards, work procedures and remediation technologies. These have allowed the EPA to effectively detect pollution at sites with high potential of pollution, so as to put measures in place to prevent the pollution from spreading. \nAs of the end of 2013, the EPA has completed inspections at 90 factories with high pollution potential around Taiwan. In addition to conducting inspections inside the premises, the EPA has been taking advantage of the precision that the new geophysical exploration technologies can offer to investigate occurrences of hidden pipes as well as illegal dumping. Dr. D. Dale Werkema, Jr. an expert on geophysics at the USEPA, was specially invited to the workshop to share his knowledge and experiences of related technologies. \nFor the section on the application of sediment technology, the EPA invited four experts from abroad to Taiwan and arranged the workshop according to their fields of expertise. These fields included: bioavailability and its assessment methods; the application of water quality models during and after sediment remediation; and the latest sediment remediation techniques and their challenges. The participants agreed that the exchanges that occurred were fruitful and had enhanced their professional knowledge.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil & Groundwater", "titlename": "Taiwan and US Hold Workshop on Soil and Groundwater Technology", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-06" }, { "no": "3159", "title": "Promoting Eco-friendly Products through Preferential Recycling Fee Rates", "preview": "recycling Promoting Eco-friendly Products through Preferential Recycling Fee Rates", "content": "recycling Promoting Eco-friendly Products through Preferential Recycling Fee Rates In order to balance the revenue and the expenditure for the Recycling Fund and to promote the design of eco-friendly products in 2013 the EPA pre-announced revisions to the recycling fee rates for electrical and electronic goods so that green products in this category can be charged 30% less than the conventional products. The EPA hopes that economic incentives such as this will encourage green design and green consumption for the benefit of the environment. \nSince 1998, the EPA has been adding importers and manufacturers of various containers and products to the list of enterprises required to pay a recycling fee. For importers, the fee is collected according to the volumes of import; for manufacturers, it is collected by their amounts sold. Importers and manufacturers are required to pay – via banks or the post office – their recycling fees to the Recycling Fund Management Board by the 30th of every other month.\nRapid technological advancements have brought a wide variety of complex consumer electronic products onto the market. It also means that environmental pollution from substances from recycled e-waste such as refrigerant, fluorescent powder, mercury and liquid crystal have to be guarded against. In order to encourage Taiwan’s enterprises to manufacture or import eco-friendly consumer goods, in 2013 the EPA amended the relevant regulations to allow for reduced recycling fee rates for green electrical and electronic products. \nPreferential Fee Rates Extended to All Eco-labelled Products\nThere is an ongoing international trend toward both strengthening controls over substances containing mercury and also toward recycling them. This, along with the rapid development of the market for electronic products, has led the EPA to revise the clearance and disposal fee rates for such products in accordance with Article 16 Paragraph 5 of the Waste Disposal Act (廢棄物清理法). Products that have been issued the Green Mark or Energy Label accreditation now enjoy a 30% discount on recycling fee rates. The new regime took effect in March 2014. \n\nThe revisions to the Information Technology Products Recycling Fee Rates were introduced in 2013 after a full review of all of the relevant factors involved. These included recycling and disposal costs, the administration costs of collecting the fees, the reuse value of the materials, the overall environmental impact, and the financial stability of the Recycling Fund. In order to encourage enterprises to develop green products and help promote green shopping habits, the EPA expanded the scope of the fee discount to include any product that has been awarded any of Taiwan’s certified eco-labels. \nElectrical and electronic goods eligible for the reduced fee rate are those that carry the Green Mark, Energy Label, Water Label, or accord with grades 1 or 2 of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA)’s Energy Efficiency Rating and Labeling. The preferential rate for information technology (IT) products is applied to products carrying the Green Mark or Energy Label. The recycling fee rates for printers will be reviewed each year for the next three years based on the revenue and expenditure of the Recycling Fund. \nThe announced list of recyclable IT products includes portable computers, casings, motherboards, monitors, hard drives, printers, power supplies, and keyboards (see attached table for details). The most recent revisions saw the addition of a fee rate of NT$25.3 per unit for tablet computers; classifying external hard drives as hard drives with the fee rate remaining unchanged; reclassifying closed circuit television (CCTV) as “monitors” and subject to the same unchanged fee rate as other image output devices that have a diagonal width of 27 inches or less.\nGraded Subsidies Seen As Way of Stimulating Technological Advances \nTaiwan has established a treatment system for dealing with waste electrical and electronic products, and related treatment technologies are maturing rapidly. But the issue of how to further improve treatment technology and gradually increase the reuse rate of reusable waste remains important. Disposal of e-waste results in a number of hazardous substances, such as refrigerants, fluorescent powder and mercury. This makes e-waste difficult to recycle, as evidenced by the large variations in recycling rates between different recycling plants. Getting recycling operators to improve their treatment of these unique and harmful substances so that they do not impact the environment is a major objective for the EPA. \nExperts in Taiwan have suggested that a comprehensive indicator system should be established to evaluate organizations so that they can be given different levels of subsidies such as with the green fee rates from the EPA. This would promote economies of scale among organizations receiving subsidies, and would particularly encourage e-waste treatment plant operators to scale up. Along with improved technology and lower costs, this would lead to reduced total recycling and treatment costs. \nAs the green fee rate policy was rolled out only three months ago, it is still too early to assess its effectiveness and the public response to it. The EPA is calling upon responsible enterprises, the trade associations that they belong to, and environmental organizations to feel free to provide scientific data and information at any time to assist the EPA in conducting reviews and revisions. Such data will be passed on to the Resource Recycling Fee Review Committee for evaluation, which amends regulations and announces the revisions in accordance with the stipulations of the Waste Disposal Act. Calling for more public participation is in line with both public expectations and the government’s guidelines for implementing policies.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "recycling", "titlename": "Promoting Eco-friendly Products through Preferential Recycling Fee Rates", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-06" }, { "no": "3158", "title": "Taiwan and US Hold Workshop on Soil and Groundwater Technology", "preview": "Soil & Groundwater Taiwan and US Hold Workshop on Soil and Groundwater Technology", "content": "Soil & Groundwater Taiwan and US Hold Workshop on Soil and Groundwater Technology On 21 May 2014 the EPA’s Soil and Groundwater Remediation Fund held the Taiwan-US Workshop on Soil, Groundwater and Sediment. The workshop was divided into two sections – one for the application of sediment technology and the other for application of geophysical exploration technology. A number of American experts, including Dr. D. Dale Werkema, Jr. from the USEPA, Professors Upal Ghosh and Donald Hayes, Mr. Edward Buchak, and Mr. Harry Zahakos attended the workshop to give presentations and exchange experiences with their Taiwan counterparts. \nThe section on the application of geophysical exploration technology focused on case analyses and research on new methodologies being applied to pollution inspections and remediation assessments, with the intention of advancing mutual transfers of knowledge and technology. The workshop was also an opportunity for the participants from government, industry, and academia to broaden their horizons and raise their competitiveness in their fields. \nThe section on the application of sediment technology focused on using model evaluation tools to establish sediment remediation technologies that meet the particular characteristics of different types of Taiwan’s unique aqueous environments. \nIn recent years the EPA has been conducting soil and groundwater pollution investigations on high pollution potential sites. In addition to applying the new technologies to gain a better understanding of underground pollution, the EPA has also developed localized inspection standards, work procedures and remediation technologies. These have allowed the EPA to effectively detect pollution at sites with high potential of pollution, so as to put measures in place to prevent the pollution from spreading. \nAs of the end of 2013, the EPA has completed inspections at 90 factories with high pollution potential around Taiwan. In addition to conducting inspections inside the premises, the EPA has been taking advantage of the precision that the new geophysical exploration technologies can offer to investigate occurrences of hidden pipes as well as illegal dumping. Dr. D. Dale Werkema, Jr. an expert on geophysics at the USEPA, was specially invited to the workshop to share his knowledge and experiences of related technologies. \nFor the section on the application of sediment technology, the EPA invited four experts from abroad to Taiwan and arranged the workshop according to their fields of expertise. These fields included: bioavailability and its assessment methods; the application of water quality models during and after sediment remediation; and the latest sediment remediation techniques and their challenges. The participants agreed that the exchanges that occurred were fruitful and had enhanced their professional knowledge.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil & Groundwater", "titlename": "Taiwan and US Hold Workshop on Soil and Groundwater Technology", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-06" }, { "no": "3157", "title": "First Taiwan-Denmark Water Resources and Environmental Education Symposium Held", "preview": "First Taiwan-Denmark Water Resources and Environmental Education Symposium Held", "content": "Environmental Education First Taiwan-Denmark Water Resources and Environmental Education Symposium Held \nOn 15 May 2014 the EPA and The Trade Council of Denmark, Taipei jointly held the first Taiwan-Denmark Water Resources and Environmental Education Symposium in Taipei. Over 200 experts, researchers, and industry representatives, as well as personnel from the EPA, the Ministry of Economic Affairs’ Water Resources Agency, and water providers such as Taiwan Water Corporation and the Taipei Water Department attended the event. \nThe Danish experts were invited to Taiwan for four days of events, with the symposium being held on the final day. For the first two days, the Danish experts divided into two groups, with one group going to Kaohsiung City to tour non-revenue water resources and tap water leaks, and the other group going to Yilan County to study how environmental protection is carried out in conjunction with the economic development of the hot and cold spring resources there. As EPA Deputy Minister Shin-Cheng Yeh pointed out in his remarks at the opening ceremony of the symposium, the preliminary conclusions from the two field inspections seemed to be very positive and he had the utmost confidence that the two nations could develop technology exchanges. Deputy Minister Yeh said that although it seemed the Danish side was giving more than it was taking he was confident that in the future Taiwan would be able to offer to Denmark its plentiful experiences in the fields of flashflood prevention and urban flood prevention. \nMr. Svend Olling, Director of the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Mr. Mikkel Hall, Deputy Director of the Nature Agency, Danish Ministry of the Environment, also attended the symposium. Mr Olling said that Denmark’s government considers the protection of water resources to be one of its top national development priorities. He pointed out that Denmark’s water tax of up to 25% of the retail price ensures that the price of water accurately reflects the cost of treating and transporting it. He emphasized that the importance attached to water resources was unaffected by political changes. He also said that Denmark’s tap water comes from groundwater and can be drunk from the tap even though Danish law stipulates that disinfectants cannot be added to tap water. Denmark’s regulatory standards and its people's expectations are the reason why Denmark’s water resource industry is highly energy efficient and its water technologies are leading the world. \nMr. Hall pointed out that although Denmark, like Taiwan, does not have natural resources such as oil or coal, both nations have a wealth of human capital. He said that the two days of field trips had led the team of Danish experts to conclude that Danish techniques could be quickly adapted for use in Taiwan and would quickly produce results. The Director of The Trade Council of Denmark, Taipei – Sune Kjeldsen – mentioned that cooperation between the council and the Taiwan EPA began two years ago with the Green Island Elephant environmental education project. More recently, the council has had the honor of introducing to Taiwan the work of the highly acclaimed environmental organization, INDEX: Design to Improve Life, with the hope that the Danish approach to environmental education – which is both humanistic and pragmatic – can be absorbed into Taiwan’s system of environmental education.\nDenmark does not have nuclear power stations nor does it produce oil, but it does lead the world in renewable energy development and is the best place on Earth to live. However, in 2001 there was a serious incident of groundwater pollution that threatened the safety of tap water and in 2011 a flashflood in Copenhagen caused NT$40 billion of damage. But the problems were quickly dealt with because Danish politicians hold respect for the environment as one of their highest principles, regardless of political affiliation. Since 1981 Denmark has forged ahead with developing renewable energy regardless of the party in power, and the Danish government has set a target of 100% of electricity to be generated from renewable sources by 2050. \nFollowing many years of continuous mediation, communication and cooperation between representatives of government, industry and academia, Denmark has developed comprehensive and integrated technology that cover water pollution prevention, groundwater surveying and monitoring, water leak detection and follow-up, flashflood prevention, and urban flood prevention. In recent years, Denmark’s government and water companies have been actively working with designers and educational organizations to bring water resource issues into environmental education courses based on the concept of humanism. Human-centered design is now a common theme on Denmark’s campuses. \nThe Trade Council of Denmark, Taipei, along with the EPA and the MOEA’s Water Resources Agency, held a series of practice exchanges related to water resources and environmental education from 12-16 May 2014. In order to strengthen water resource technology exchanges and commercial cooperation between Taiwan and Denmark, central government departments were mobilized and local governments were also invited to participate. The Trade Council of Denmark, Taipei arranged for a team of engineers that also works for the Danish government, to come to Taiwan to conduct on-site surveys and give diagnoses. They gave pragmatic suggestions regarding the problems they identified, and also learned about Taiwan’s experience with flood prevention, which they planned to share with colleagues back in Denmark. \nNote: Non-revenue water volume rate (%) = Volume of water supplied free of charge \/ total volume of water supplied x 100. “Volume of water supplied free of charge” includes water leaks, inaccuracies in the volume of water supplied, water used for firefighting, water thefts, and metering inaccuracy.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "First Taiwan-Denmark Water Resources and Environmental Education Symposium Held", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-06" }, { "no": "3156", "title": "Revisions to the Guidelines for the National Environmental Education Awards Announced", "preview": "Environmental Education Revisions to the Guidelines for the National Environmental Education Awards Announced", "content": "Environmental Education Revisions to the Guidelines for the National Environmental Education Awards Announced To enhance the implementation of national environmental education the EPA has, in accordance with the stipulations of Article 20 of the Environmental Education Act, formulated the Guidelines for the National Environmental Education Awards. Furthermore, the EPA processed the selection and commendation of the National Environmental Education Awards as per the guidelines which were partially amended and promulgated on 12 May 2014. \nThe amendments added “environmental education volunteer” into the individual category of recipients; added a legal basis of the awards; defined the “community” and “individual” categories and the contribution of individual award recipients; added application documents for government agencies, state-run enterprises, and schools below the senior high school level and juridical associations who derive more than 50% of their income from government donations; added the enrollment quota, time periods for primary, secondary and final reviews for private enterprises as well as for government agencies, state-run enterprises, schools below the senior high school level and juridical associations who derive more than 50% of their income from government donations; and, defined the restrictions to past winners who wanted to enlist for the awards again.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Revisions to the Guidelines for the National Environmental Education Awards Announced", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-06" }, { "no": "3155", "title": "Taiwan Develops Harmless PVC Substitute", "preview": "recycling Taiwan Develops Harmless PVC Substitute", "content": "recycling Taiwan Develops Harmless PVC Substitute Polyvinylchloride (PVC) has a major impact upon the environment with citizens being particularly concerned about the PVC content in containers for various products. The problem of finding a more eco-friendly substitute for PVC was solved last year through the cooperation between the EPA and the Plastics Industry Development Center, who spent a year working together before a breakthrough led to the development of a new PVC substitute – liquid silicone rubber (LSR). LSR is non-toxic to a degree that accords with the Food Sanitation Act, and so it can be used to make lid linings for glass containers. \nThere is an international trend toward reducing the use of PVC, and the EPA has been responding to this trend since 2005, when it began raising the recycling fees for container accessories, such as lids, that contain PVC. To encourage manufacturers to stop using PVC container accessories, started from 2008 the recycling fee, which is calculated by the total weight of the container, has been doubled when PVC is used for container accessories. However, no manufacturer has yet developed a PVC substitute for the PVC in the metal lug caps that are commonly used for sealing glass containers. \nTo overcome the aforementioned bottleneck and assist manufacturers to use a PVC substitute for lid linings for glass containers, in 2013 the EPA commissioned the Plastics Industry Development Center to implement an innovative R&D plan that eventually resulted in the development of eco-friendly, non-toxic LSR as a lining material. LSR is not only an excellent PVC substitute for lug cap manufacturers but can also be used in the food packaging industry. In 2014, the Industrial Development Bureau of the Ministry of Economic Affairs began investigating technologies to achieve large-scale manufacturing of LSR. \nThe modified LSR can help to mitigate the long-standing food safety and eco-hazard issues surrounding the use of PVC. Enhancement of LSR's basic material and mechanical properties also gives it the same functionality as PVC (such as elasticity and cap removal torque). Silicone rubber also has the advantage of not containing added plasticizers or heavy metals, and thus meets the food container and packaging safety test standards for dissolution of toxic phthalates such as di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and heavy metals, set by the Ministry of Health and Welfare. Silicone rubber can also withstand heat up to 200°C – which is well above the industry standard of 125°C for 90 minutes for sterilizing bottled food and beverages – and does not come off or age easily, thus making it an ideal candidate for use in the bottled food and beverage industry.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "recycling", "titlename": "Taiwan Develops Harmless PVC Substitute", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-06" }, { "no": "3154", "title": "Fines and a Mandatory Course Imposed on People Who Spit Betel Nut Juice on the Ground", "preview": "environmental sanitation Fines and a Mandatory Course Imposed on People Who Spit Betel Nut Juice on the Ground", "content": "environmental sanitation Fines and a Mandatory Course Imposed on People Who Spit Betel Nut Juice on the Ground On 14 March 2014 the EPA announced the Implementation Regulations for the Quit-Betel Nut Courses, which specified that the mandatory courses should be mapped out by competent health and sanitation authorities. Offenders who receive notices to attend the course should report to the designated time and place.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "environmental sanitation", "titlename": "Fines and a Mandatory Course Imposed on People Who Spit Betel Nut Juice on the Ground", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-06" }, { "no": "3153", "title": "Foreign Experts Gather to Facilitate Carbon Capture and Storage in Taiwan", "preview": "environmental sanitation Fines and a Mandatory Course Imposed on People Who Spit Betel Nut Juice on the Ground", "content": "Climate Change Foreign Experts Gather to Facilitate Carbon Capture and Storage in Taiwan The EPA held the 2014 International Conference on Carbon Capture and Storage on 19 May 2014. Experts from Taiwan Australia, France, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Netherlands, the Philippines, Thailand, the UK, the USA and the EU attended the event.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Foreign Experts Gather to Facilitate Carbon Capture and Storage in Taiwan", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-06" }, { "no": "3152", "title": "EPA Releases Documentary One Earth one chance on World Environment Day", "preview": "climate change EPA Releases Documentary One Earth one chance on World Environment Day", "content": "Climate Change EPA Releases Documentary One Earth one chance on World Environment Day To mark 2014 World Environment Day the EPA held a release ceremony for its documentary film, One Earth, One Chance on 5 June. Also on 8 June, the EPA planted trees and pledged to reduce carbon to save the Earth. The documentary explains the measures Taiwan’s citizens are adopting in their daily lives to mitigate climate change, and also introduces the cooperative plans, past and future, that Taiwan has drawn up with its allies among the small island nations of the South Pacific. These plans are a response to the United Nations’ call for nations around the world to join forces to fight climate change. Ambassadors from some small island developing nations and representatives of other nations or state governments were invited to participate in the events. \nDocumentary released to share with the world what Taiwan has done for the 2014 World Environment Day Challenge\nIn the face of global climate change and the threat of rising sea levels, there is not a moment to lose for international cooperation in environmental protection. At the screening ceremony EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei spoke about how the United Nations (UN) declared 2014 to be the International Year of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in order to raise awareness about the forthcoming climate change-induced challenges that these nations face due to their topography. The slogan for this year’s World Environment Day is “Raise Your Voice, Not the Sea Level” and the UN is using this message to urge the international community to take action to assist the SIDS in coping with the increasing threats that they face, of which climate change is the greatest.\nAmbassadors of Kiribati, Nauru, Palau and Tuvalu, and a representative of the State of Hawaii Office in Taipei were invited to the screening, where they jointly urged the world to focus more upon the crisis that the SIDS face. Also present at the screening were the internationally famous environmental artist Vincent J.F. Huang and the entertainer Chris Downs, who is originally from Canada and now married and residing in Taiwan. Both of them spoke to the audience about how the film had affected them. \nThe four challenges of the 2014 World Environment Day raised by the United Nations Environment Programme were: power down, reduce food footprints, go greener, and purge plastics, all of which the citizens of Taiwan have already been doing in their daily lives for many years. The EPA therefore decided to release its documentary One Earth, One Chance on World Environment Day to help people around the world better understand the mindset of Taiwan’s residents toward environmental protection. The documentary includes interviews with the ambassador of Tuvalu, the artist Vincent J.F. Huang and Ms. Yu-Juan Wu, a Taiwan environmental volunteer who works overseas, in which they discuss climate change and how the SIDS are responding. As the documentary’s main narrator, Chris Downs comments from the perspective of a foreign spouse on the many different aspects of environmental protection to be found all over Taiwan. \nTaiwan’s cooperation commitment to cooperate with Pacific island allies\nIn addition to screening the documentary, the EPA also used the occasion to reiterate Taiwan’s commitment to implementing cooperative projects with six Pacific island nations. The projects include:\nClean energy: Lighting every community with renewable energy.\nFood security: Sending an agricultural technical mission to each nation. \nMedical and sanitation: Sending a mobile medical mission to each nation.\nEducation: Establishing partnerships with each nation to improve local education.\nEPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei also asked the ambassadors and representatives of nations and local governments in attendance to join him in a small ceremony in which everyone called out \"Raise Your Voice, Not the Sea Level\" to express their determination to tackle climate change.\nEPA planted trees and pledged to reduce carbon to save the Earth on World Environment Day\nThe annual World Environment Day is also the anniversary of the enactment of Taiwan’s Environmental Education Act. It has been three years since the implementation of the act. Statistics show that as of 30 April 2014, the cumulative number of person-hours spent participating in environmental education activities had reached nearly 90 million, with a total of 84 environmental education facilities, 19 environmental education institutes and 3,125 certified environmental education personnel actively participating in environmental education. Through these activities, environmental awareness has been raised and the public is encouraged to take actions to face the challenge of climate change. \nCapitalizing on this rare occasion, on 8 June 2014, the EPA went to Taoyuan County to hold celebration activities for World Environment Day. Minister Kuo-Yen Wei, accompanied by ambassadors from Tuvalu and Kiribati, and representatives from the American Institute in Taiwan, the State of Hawaii Office in Taipei, the Indonesian Economic and Trade Office in Taipei, Minister Bao-ji Chen of the Council of Agriculture, Director General Tao-Sheng Lee of the Forestry Bureau, and Director General Shyh-Wei Chen of the Taoyuan County Environmental Protection Bureau, planted trees and signed the “Reduce Carbon to Save the Earth” pledge.\nThe EPA also invited these ambassadors and representatives to visit the Laojei River to witness how the Taoyuan County Government has spared no efforts in improving the living conditions of its people. At the site, the ambassadors and representatives were requested to write a World Environment Day pledge in the language of their respective countries. Thus, through the tree-planting ceremony, the “Reduce Carbon to Save the Earth” pledge was implemented, while Taiwan showed its determination to face climate change with the rest of the world.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "EPA Releases Documentary One Earth one chance on World Environment Day", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-06" }, { "no": "3151", "title": "Subsidies Launched for Electric Trailers at Siluo Wholesale Produce Market", "preview": "air quality Subsidies Launched for Electric Trailers at Siluo Wholesale Produce Market", "content": "air quality Subsidies Launched for Electric Trailers at Siluo Wholesale Produce Market", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Subsidies Launched for Electric Trailers at Siluo Wholesale Produce Market", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-06" }, { "no": "3150", "title": "Real-Time Air Quality Information is the Most Viewed Open Data", "preview": "air quality Real-Time Air Quality Information is the Most Viewed Open Data", "content": "Real-Time Air Quality Information is the Most Viewed Open Data In keeping with the Executive Yuan’s policy to make governmental information open to the public the EPA on its part has established its own open data platform (http:\/\/opendata.epa.gov.tw). Since its inception, this platform has accumulated 67 datasets with more than 540,000 pieces of information. As of the end of April 2014, the website has had over 110,000 visits, and machine to machine downloads have exceeded 1 million. According to the results of the EPA's combined random sampling, the user satisfaction rate has exceeded 80%. \nAt present, the data available for public access include information on various types of environmental monitoring, basic information on listed controlled pollution sources, abstracts of environmental impact assessments, etc. Of the above information, the ones that are most often downloaded are: real-time air pollution indicators, current ultraviolet index, latest 10-minute precipitation report, air quality forecast, and abstracts of environmental protection projects.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Real-Time Air Quality Information is the Most Viewed Open Data", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-06" }, { "no": "3149", "title": "Wetland Restoration Successes Have Ecological and Educational Value", "preview": "Water Wetland Restoration Successes Have Ecological and Educational Value", "content": "waste American ITIC Delegates Visit EPA to Discuss Cooperation on Waste Electronic Products\nFrom 10-11 April 2014 the US’s Information Technology Industry Council (ITIC) held its annual conference in Taiwan. On 11 April five delegates representing major international corporations such as Dell, Apple, and Lenovo visited the EPA to discuss Taiwan’s management of the recycling and import\/export of waste information and communication technology (ICT) products. The foreign guests left with a deeper understanding of Taiwan’s waste ICT product policies and expressed the desire to use existing channels of cooperation to establish partnerships with Taiwan. \nThe ITIC’s membership is drawn from over 50 of the US’s most renowned information technology companies and has long been involved in environmental issues. Every year it holds its annual conference in a different region of the world so that the import\/export and disposal\/recycling of ICT products can be discussed with the host nation. \nThe ITIC delegates were particularly interested in Taiwan’s management of the import\/export of waste ICT products. EPA staff explained to them that Taiwan’s policy is to evaluate each import\/export application on a case-by-case basis while prohibiting import\/export until permits have been issued. Details of treatment processes and the final destination of any peripheral waste must also be submitted online and tracked so that proper control can be maintained from initial import\/export to final treatment. The EPA also pointed out that the import of hazardous waste is prohibited under Taiwan’s law, meaning that waste computers and information technology that are classified as hazardous industrial waste cannot be imported. \nThe EPA estimates that in 2013 there was an average of 6.01 kg of electric and electronic waste for every resident of Taiwan, which is above the EU target of 4 kg per person per year, and is evidence of Taiwan’s outstanding recycling performance. The EPA statistics also showed that in 2012 the recycling rate for announced recyclable items reached 80.4%.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Wetland Restoration Successes Have Ecological and Educational Value", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-05" }, { "no": "3148", "title": "American ITIC Delegates Visit EPA to Discuss Cooperation on Waste Electronic Products", "preview": "Waste American ITIC Delegates Visit EPA to Discuss Cooperation on Waste Electronic Products", "content": "Waste American ITIC Delegates Visit EPA to Discuss Cooperation on Waste Electronic Products", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "American ITIC Delegates Visit EPA to Discuss Cooperation on Waste Electronic Products", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-05" }, { "no": "3147", "title": "Management Regulations for Using Category 4 Toxic Substances Preannounced", "preview": "Toxic Substances Management Regulations for Using Category 4 Toxic Substances Preannounced", "content": "Toxic Substances Management Regulations for Using Category 4 Toxic Substances Preannounced\nIn order to strengthen permit regulations the EPA has preannounced a draft of the Management Regulations Governing Permission to Use Category 4 Toxic Chemical Substances, that will provide local environmental agencies with a better set of regulations to refer to when approving the use of such chemicals.\nOn 11 December 2013, the EPA announced revisions to the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act to update regulations regarding approval of use of toxic chemicals. At the same time the EPA also preannounced the formulation of a draft of the Toxic Management Regulations Governing Permission to Use Category 4 Toxic Chemical Substances that stipulates periods of validity for Category 4 toxic chemical substance related documents, and specifies how said substances must be handled. The regulations can be referred to by local competent authorities when reviewing applications to use Category 4 toxic chemical substances. \nIn order to prevent toxic chemical substances from polluting the environment or harming human health, the EPA formulated the Management Regulations Governing Permission to Use Category 4 Toxic Chemical Substances as authorized by the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act. The regulations cover: permit application; review procedures; permit issuance; change, extension, suspension and cancellation of permit; and the content of each application form. These application forms can be downloaded by applicants from the EPA’s information platform. The regulations also state that Category 4 toxic chemical substance permits issued before the promulgation of the new regulations will be treated as temporary permits and that holders should apply for new permits within three years.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substances", "titlename": "Management Regulations for Using Category 4 Toxic Substances Preannounced", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-05" }, { "no": "3146", "title": "A New Era of Electronic Management for Waste Clearance and Disposal Organizations", "preview": "waste A New Era of Electronic Management for Waste Clearance and Disposal Organizations", "content": "waste A New Era of Electronic Management for Waste Clearance and Disposal Organizations\nThe EPA formally launched its Waste Clearance and Disposal Organizations Service and Management Information System (http:\/\/wcds.epa.gov.tw\/) on 1 May 2014. The EPA has asked local government environmental protection bureaus to inform waste clearance and disposal organizations within their jurisdictions about the new regime and to assist them with online registration, which will enhance their management. \nTo provide waste clearance and disposal organizations with a dedicated website that can provide users with a convenient and efficient query service and also to facilitate the management of such enterprises by environmental agencies, the EPA began planning out the new information system in 2012. The system has eight major functions: information disclosure, permit applications, permit review inquiry, information submission, inspections and auditing, information inquiry, statistics, and information maintenance. Once the system goes online it is expected to bring the benefits described below. \n1. Information sharing to facilitate good service and management\nBoth manufacturers and the general public can use the system to find information on licensed waste clearance and disposal organizations around Taiwan. The system also provides updates on revisions to regulations. For waste clearance and disposal operators, there is information on the latest waste management policies and upcoming meetings, and there are lateral connections to related systems so that they can submit waste disposal reports. In addition, environmental agencies can use the system to allocate tasks according to authority, and conduct inspections and implement controls. \n2. Experience sharing to improve interaction and communication\nThe system allows local government environmental protection bureaus to publicly commend outstanding enterprises within their jurisdictions by providing performance data that manufacturers and the public can check online. The clearance and disposal operators can also use the system to discuss their problems and opinions with environmental agency personnel, thus strengthening lateral connections between them.\n3. Full digitalization of online applications\nThe EPA expects that by September 2014 clearance and disposal organizations can use the system for permit application, extension or change. Environmental agencies can also use the system to review received permit applications and issue permit certification. This function is in line with the EPA’s target of full electronic management of permit applications. \nAt present there are 3,602 clearance enterprises and 168 disposal enterprises in Taiwan. The EPA plans to upgrade the system by establishing a real-time monitoring mechanism to help prevent illegal dumping.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "A New Era of Electronic Management for Waste Clearance and Disposal Organizations", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-05" }, { "no": "3145", "title": "Recycling Fee Rates for Fluorescent Tubes to Be Raised", "preview": "Recycling Recycling Fee Rates for Fluorescent Tubes to Be Raised", "content": "recycling Recycling Fee Rates for Fluorescent Tubes to Be Raised\nThe EPA is currently formulating revisions to recycling fee rates and subsidy fee rates. The increase in recycling fee rates for fluorescent light tubes is tentatively set for 1 July 2014. \nIn recent years there has been a large increase in the recycling rate for waste light bulbs and light tubes in Taiwan and thus there has been an increase of subsidy fees paid by the recycling fund. In order to stabilize the recycling of waste illumination sources and the operation of the recycling fund, the EPA is looking into revising related recycling fee rates and subsidy fee rates. The adjustments are slated to take effect in July 2014. \nIn recent years, the lighter T5 fluorescent tube has gradually replaced the conventional T8 tube, which has resulted in a significant decrease in recycling fund revenue. Due to the longer life of T5 products, the bulk of tubes currently being recycled are of the heavier T8 type, which means a larger proportion of subsidies are being paid out for less environmentally friendly products. In order to stabilize the recycling of waste illumination sources, the EPA conducted a review of the recycling costs and decided that revisions to the fee rates were required. \nThe amendments to the recycling fee rates and subsidy fee rates for illumination sources have been drafted after a thorough review of recycling costs, fee collecting costs, reuse value, environmental impact, and the financial status of the recycling fund in question. The recycling fee rates are expected to be increased while the subsidy fee rates are expected to be decreased. The EPA is urging citizens, public and private organizations, and corporations not to heedlessly dispose of waste illumination sources but rather to dispose of them through the proper recycling channels in order to protect the environment. The said channels include local government resource recycling vehicles, lighting retailers, or any other recycling organization that has been approved by an environmental agency.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Recycling Fee Rates for Fluorescent Tubes to Be Raised", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-05" }, { "no": "3144", "title": "USEPA Administrator Gina McCarthy Visits Taiwan", "preview": "International Cooperation UEEPA Administrator Gina McCarthy Visits Taiwan", "content": "International Cooperation USEPA Administrator Gina McCarthy Visits Taiwan USEPA Administrator Gina McCarthy recently spent a three-day visit in Taiwan which included a meeting with President Ma Ying-jeou on 14 April 2014. During her time in Taiwan Administrator McCarthy took part in a number of events including the Taiwan-US Sustainable Schools Partnership Program, the Taiwan-US 20 Years of Cooperation Exhibition, and the First Meeting of the Global Environmental Education Partnership. She also delivered a public speech at National Taiwan University. \nUSEPA Administrator Gina McCarthy visited Taiwan from 14-16 April. Her visit was the first ever by a USEPA administrator and the first in 14 years by a member of the US cabinet since 2000. When President Ma Ying-jeou received Administrator McCarthy on 14 April, he spoke about how she has been working in the field of environmental protection for 30 years, which gave her the depth of experience necessary to take over the reins of the USEPA in July 2013. He also expressed his admiration for the way she has handled complex environmental issues. President Ma went on to thank the US for the assistance it has given to Taiwan over the last 20 years of mutual cooperation in environmental protection that has led to enormous achievements. These include a 70% reduction of heavily polluted sections of 50 major rivers in the last 10 years; a 73% reduction of poor air quality days since President Ma took office; a 66% reduction in refuse production from a peak of 1.1 kg per capita per day to the current 0.38 kg; and a reduction in fuel combustion CO2 emissions from 2.76 million tonnes to 2.64 million tonnes annually, which helped Taiwan drop from the world’s 18th largest greenhouse gas emitting entity to the 21st in terms of per capita emissions. \nTo mark her visit, the EPAs of Taiwan and the US held a series of partnership meetings and events. During Administrator McCarthy's visit to the Taiwan EPA, Minister Kuo-Yen Wei expressed Taiwan’s delight in welcoming her and he praised her for the intelligent way she has been implementing President Obama’s climate change policies and for the concrete contributions she has made toward environmental protection in the international arena. \nTwenty-one Years of Cooperation in Creating a Sustainable Environment\nSince the 1993 signing of the Agreement between the American Institute in Taiwan and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States for Technical Cooperation in the Field of Environmental Protection there has been continuous close cooperation between the EPAs of Taiwan and the US. Through the medium of 200 cooperative programs over the last 21 years, the AIT and the USEPA have selflessly shared their knowledge of risk management and environmental law administration in the fields of environmental monitoring, information systems, and soil, air, and water management. The many examples of successful technology transfer have done much to raise environmental capacities of Taiwan governments at all levels, a model for neighboring emerging nations to emulate.\nAdministrator McCarthy’s trip to Taiwan has been an affirmation of the joint efforts over the last three years by Taiwan’s central and local governments, the general public, and the USEPA to promote regional partnerships for environmental governance and technology exchanges. She also praised Taiwan’s practical efforts to create a sustainable environment, and Taiwan’s willingness to lend a helping hand overseas. \nDuring her visit, Administrator McCarthy toured Jian-An Elementary School in New Taipei City to see their low-carbon classrooms and eco-pond, and to give a talk as part of a video conference between the young students and their counterparts in Ben Franklin Elementary School, New Jersey. Following that, she went to view the Taiwan-US 20 Years of Cooperation Exhibition, and then delivered a speech at National Taiwan University. In her speech she lauded the amazing progress Taiwan has made in environmental protection, especially in the fields of policymaking and technology development that she said should be shared with the world. \nAdministrator McCarthy also pointed out that pollution is blind to borders and thus needs the cooperation of all nations involved to solve environmental problems. She said that the establishment of the International Environmental Partnership would not only increase the number of nations participating in partnership programs but would also act as a platform for Taiwan to share its environmental successes and thus help to improve the global environment. \nReaffirming Taiwan’s Waste Reduction as a Role Model\nAdministrator McCarthy started her speech by pointing out that the Taiwan Relations Act (TRA), enacted on 10 April 1979, has now served as the cornerstone of Taiwan-US relations for 35 years. More than three decades of implementation of the Taiwan Relations Act has seen relations between the peoples of Taiwan and the US deepened as the world has become more connected. But pollution doesn’t stop at borders, she said – in an increasingly interconnected world, our shared challenge is clear. It demands a unified response.\nAdministrator McCarthy said that the Taiwan EPA is not only a willing partner but an emerging leader as one of the first agencies in the Asia Pacific region to tackle pollution in the face of rapid industrial growth. She also said that since the signing of the cooperative agreement in 1993 there have been many years of bilateral cooperation and exchanges of knowledge and technology on environmental matters such as air and water quality, chemical safety, soil contamination, e-waste recycling, etc. Taiwan today, she said, is earning recognition as a worldwide environmental leader. As an example, Taiwan’s success in reducing e-waste could be a model for e-waste initiatives in Central America and Africa.\nAdministrator McCarthy mentioned that the main purpose of her visit was to support Taiwan’s new international environmental partnership, which recognizes past progress and the important future contributions Taiwan can make around the world. She believes that “The progress we (US and Taiwan) have made together made peoples' lives better on both sides of the Pacific Ocean. When we work together – we can succeed together.” She continued, “But today, many environmental and health challenges have persisted and become more complex. These challenges call for continued cooperation. And no threat requires more commitment and cooperation than the threat of global climate change.” \nMitigating the Threat of Climate Change Requires Universal Participation and Cooperation\nExtreme weather events – such as Hurricane Sandy that battered the northeastern US in 2012 and Typhoon Haiyan that hit the Philippines in 2013 – are becoming more frequent and powerful. These events are a threat to both human safety and economic development. The latest report from the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change warns of the threats to food security and increasing water scarcity. \nAdministrator McCarthy said that we are all vulnerable to the unfolding risks of a changing climate, be it from temperature changes and more disease-carrying insects, or increased storms and floods and diminished crop yields. The impacts of climate change will vary around the world, but as has been seen with record-breaking hurricanes, wildfires, and drought in the US – no one is immune. \n“We all face climate change together. We must fight it together.” Administrator McCarthy also emphasized that the United States is firmly committed to joining with Taiwan and economies around the world in supporting research and taking action to address climate change. Hundreds of US communities and businesses are engaged. \nEnvironmental Education Reminds Us that We Live in a Global Village\nAdministrator McCarthy was particularly impressed with Jian-An Elementary School in New Taipei City, pointing out that environmental education not only has the power to make communal environments more livable and more sustainable, but also reminds us that we live in a global community and share a common destiny. She lauded the cooperation between the young students of Jian-An Elementary School and Ben Franklin Elementary School in New Jersey in organizing their own green councils and running air and water conservation operations. \nShe concluded her speech by saying that the pragmatic actions of these young environmental leaders of the future was educational not just for themselves but also for the people in their local community, and were food for thought for all of us. They are the eco-warriors of the future pushing environmental protection forward by building on the foundations laid down over the past 20 years.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "International Cooperation", "titlename": "USEPA Administrator Gina McCarthy Visits Taiwan", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-05" }, { "no": "3143", "title": "EPA Launches the International Environmental Partnership Plan", "preview": "International Cooperation EPA Launches the International Environmental Partnership Plan", "content": "International Cooperation EPA Launches the International Environmental Partnership Plan On 14 April 2014 EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei read out the founding declaration for the International Environmental Partnership under the witness of President Ma Ying-jeou at the Office of the President. USEPA Administrator Gina McCarthy was also present to witness the declaration, and stated that the US was to be one of the founding partners of this program which covers a variety of areas.\nEPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei read out the founding declaration for the International Environmental Partnership on the morning of 14 April 2014, under the witness of both President Ma Ying-jeou and USEPA Administrator Gina McCarthy. President Ma said he was delighted to have witnessed the EPA’s establishment of the International Environmental Partnership, which is a major milestone in Taiwan-US relations that clearly demonstrates Taiwan’s partnership with the US and also displays Taiwan’s commitment to contributing to the international community by giving regional and global partners the chance to share in Taiwan’s successful experiences.\nAdministrator McCarthy stated that the US was to be one of the founding partners of this important program. She stated that the partnership was of immense value in that it will help Taiwan to share environmental expertise and experience with leading environmental organizations in nations around the globe. She reaffirmed the close cooperation between the EPAs of Taiwan and the US, and said that she felt deeply honored that the two nations were able to be founding members of the International Environmental Partnership. \nThe scope of the International Environmental Partnership program currently covers the following:\n?Soil and groundwater contamination site remediation and management\n?Air quality protection\n?Greenhouse gas emissions reduction\n?Clean-air ports\n?Taiwan-US sustainable schools\n?Sustainable low-carbon communities\n?Electrical and electronic waste recycling\n?Environmental enforcement\n?Environmental education\n?Climate change adaptation", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "International Cooperation", "titlename": "EPA Launches the International Environmental Partnership Plan", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-05" }, { "no": "3142", "title": "Number of People Holding Environmental Education Learning Passports Exceeds 10000", "preview": "Environmental Education Number of People Holding Environmental Education Learning Passports Exceeds 10", "content": "Environmental Education Number of People Holding Environmental Education Learning Passports Exceeds 10000 To raise the environmental literacy level, the EPA has established the “Environmental Education Lifelong Learning Net” for the general public to use. In addition, on 1 March 2014 it kicked off the “2014 Environmental Education Lifelong Learning Promotion Plan” to encourage citizens to cultivate lifelong learning habits through the full use of learning resources. Although it has been only two months since the launch of the plan, the number of people who hold valid leaning passports has already exceeded 10,000. \nA prize draw is also provided for those who have successfully registered on the E-learning Net of the EPA, completed at least one-hour course in environmental education and clicked “Yes” to participate in the prize draw. For detailed information, please log onto the designated website at http:\/\/elearn.epa.gov.tw\/epp\/index.html.\n\n\nTo raise the environmental literacy level, the EPA has established the “Environmental Education Lifelong Learning Net” for the general public to use. In addition, on 1 March 2014 it kicked off the “2014 Environmental Education Lifelong Learning Promotion Plan” to encourage citizens to cultivate lifelong learning habits through the full use of learning resources. Although it has been only two months since the launch of the plan, the number of people who hold valid leaning passports has already exceeded 10,000. \nA prize draw is also provided for those who have successfully registered on the E-learning Net of the EPA, completed at least one-hour course in environmental education and clicked “Yes” to participate in the prize draw. For detailed information, please log onto the designated website at http:\/\/elearn.epa.gov.tw\/epp\/index.html.\n\n\nAt the International Conference on Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) held on 19 May 2014, EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei and Director Christopher Marut of the American Institute in Taiwan both emphasized the pressing need for international cooperation on environmental affairs in their opening remarks. The 250 or so delegates who attended the conference consisted of government officials, academic experts, and a large number of manufacturers concerned about global warming and interested in mitigation technology. Members of the press and general public were also in attendance, and some expressed their concerns and interest in the visions for, and development of, carbon reduction technologies in Taiwan. \nIn his closing remarks chairperson Professor Hsiao-Kang Ma particularly thanked the International Energy Agency, the Global CCS Institute, the Japanese CCS consultancy Japan CCS Co., Ltd., the Dutch firm Ecofys, and all of the experts from Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand and the UK for their support and contributions during the conference. Professor Ma also said that the meaningful exchanges and experience sharing between the gathered experts had provided a clearer picture of the conditions necessary – in terms of technological development, supportive policies, accompanying regulation and public participation – for CCS to be successful. He said that the spirited discussions between the participants and the invited experts on the topics of the environmental impact and risk management for CCS had led to the exploration of many different ideas.\nProfessor Ma said it was clear that there is a role for CCS in reducing carbon emissions. He also emphasized the need to combine thorough geological surveys and monitoring technology with adequate risk management and emergency response measures to ensure the safety and efficacy of CCS. He pointed out that Taiwan is seeking to cooperate with other nations on the development of CCS technologies and once again emphasized that the establishment of a Taiwan CCS association would stimulate CCS development in Taiwan and lead to the formation of regional partnerships and CCS pilot plans.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Environmental Education_Number of People Holding Environmental Education Learning Passports Exceeds 10", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-05" }, { "no": "3141", "title": "First Meeting of the Global Environmental Education Partnership a Success", "preview": "Environmental Education First Meeting of the Global Environmental Education Partnership a Success", "content": "Environmental Education First Meeting of the Global Environmental Education Partnership a Success From 14-16 April 2014 the EPA held the First Meeting of the Global Environmental Education Partnership, which was attended by USEPA Administrator Gina McCarthy and experts from various nations. The purpose of the conference was to promote and show support for environmental education partnership programs around the world. The conference concluded on 16 April with attendants expressing their satisfaction with the outcome. EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei said that the First Meeting of the Global Environmental Education Partnership falls under the framework of the 10th Implementation Arrangements for the Agreement between the American Institute in Taiwan and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States for Technical Cooperation in the Field of Environmental Protection, as one of the regional\/global environmental partnership plans that both sides agreed to implement from 2013-2015. The experts participating in the First Meeting of the Global Environmental Education Partnership were from nine countries: Brazil, Honduras, Indonesia, Japan, Mexico, Nicaragua, the Philippines, Taiwan and the US. The meeting was an opportunity for the experts to discuss the state of environmental education in their nations and future challenges, as well as to plan future cooperation on key issues and establish channels for exchanges. \nThe First Meeting of the Global Environmental Education Partnership opened on 14 April at the Taiwan EPA. To allow deeper and broader discussion, on 15 April a meeting was held in conjunction with the International Conference on Environmental Education Capacity-Cross Boundary and Capacity Building. Presided by EPA Deputy Minister Hsin-Cheng Yeh, the meeting wrapped up discussions about the next two years of cooperation for the Global Environmental Education Partnership Plan and the formation of task forces. \nDeputy Minister Yeh gave a speech during the closing ceremony, at which he specially thanked the attendants for their hard work and contributions during the three days of the meeting and expressed his admiration for the efficient way they got things done. He pointed out that the strong consensus reached meant that there was now a clear set of plans for future tasks. These include:\n1. Holding an annual conference to discuss key issues. \n2. Taiwan and the US will make a concerted effort with their partners worldwide to promote the Global Environmental Education Partnership Plan. A special effort will be made to enhance the capabilities of key environmental education projects. \n3. An Internet platform will be established to facilitate video conferencing, the exchange of information, and planning and implementing the related projects.\n\n\nEPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei said that the First Meeting of the Global Environmental Education Partnership falls under the framework of the 10th Implementation Arrangements for the Agreement between the American Institute in Taiwan and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States for Technical Cooperation in the Field of Environmental Protection, as one of the regional\/global environmental partnership plans that both sides agreed to implement from 2013-2015. The experts participating in the First Meeting of the Global Environmental Education Partnership were from nine countries: Brazil, Honduras, Indonesia, Japan, Mexico, Nicaragua, the Philippines, Taiwan and the US. The meeting was an opportunity for the experts to discuss the state of environmental education in their nations and future challenges, as well as to plan future cooperation on key issues and establish channels for exchanges. \nThe First Meeting of the Global Environmental Education Partnership opened on 14 April at the Taiwan EPA. To allow deeper and broader discussion, on 15 April a meeting was held in conjunction with the International Conference on Environmental Education Capacity-Cross Boundary and Capacity Building. Presided by EPA Deputy Minister Hsin-Cheng Yeh, the meeting wrapped up discussions about the next two years of cooperation for the Global Environmental Education Partnership Plan and the formation of task forces. \nDeputy Minister Yeh gave a speech during the closing ceremony, at which he specially thanked the attendants for their hard work and contributions during the three days of the meeting and expressed his admiration for the efficient way they got things done. He pointed out that the strong consensus reached meant that there was now a clear set of plans for future tasks. These include:\n the Global Environmental Education Partnership Plan. A special effort will be made to enhance the capabilities of key environmental education projects. \n3. An Internet platform will be established to facilitate video conferencing, the exchange of information, and planning and implementing the related projects.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "First Meeting of the Global Environmental Education Partnership a Success", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-05" }, { "no": "3140", "title": "EPA Advocates Sustainable City on 2014 Earth Day", "preview": "Environmental Education EPA Advocates Sustainable City on 2014 Earth Day", "content": "Environmental Education EPA Advocates Sustainable City on 2014 Earth Day Earth Day falls on 22 April every year and is enthusiastically observed around the world. On 27 April 2014, Minister Kuo-Yen Wei made a special trip to the Maple Garden Ecological Park in Taichung City to preside over an Earth Day activity aimed at advocating the importance of establishing sustainable cities, an endeavor that can mitigate the impacts of climate change and global warming. By so doing, the EPA calls upon citizens to pay attention to environmental issues and to adopt a low-carbon lifestyle. \nEarth Day was established in 1960; this year marks the 45th year that Earth Day has been celebrated globally. Every year, on 22 April, nations in the world advocate the importance of loving the Earth, and this year was no exception. This year, the global theme of Earth Day was “Sustainable City” of which the three major points were sustainable energy, green buildings, and low-carbon transport. Since Taichung City was selected as a “Green City” by Environment Online in 2012 and was the first Asian city to receive such an honor, the EPA specifically collaborated with the government of Taichung City to organize this year’s Earth Day celebration activities, hoping that through their diversified nature, the general public could learn about the new concepts of sustainable city as well as the substance and components thereof.\nThe Earth Day celebration activities invited three special guest entertainers: Ah-Fu from Germany, Sylvia from Nigeria and Shaun from the UK. Sylvia said that once she took a fun trip to Taichung and took out NT$50 for the bus fare. To her surprise, the bus driver told her that the ride was free of charge. After inquiring around, she learned that any ride shorter than 8 kilometers was free in Taichung. This was made possible by the City Government of Taichung, which used this measure as an impetus for its citizens to take public transportation in order to promote low-carbon transportation. As this has become nationally famous, Taichung City can be said to be a paragon of virtue insofar as building a sustainable city is concerned. \nCapitalizing on the occasion, the EPA set up exhibits for the new electric compression garbage trucks and some low-carbon transportation vehicles. Interactive booths on sustainable cities, prize draws for winners of environmental educational games, and auctions of recycled bicycles were also held, while electrical motorcycles and electrical bicycles were offered to the general public for free test rides to allow people to try out low-carbon transportation.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Environmental Education_EPA Advocates Sustainable City on 2014 Earth Day", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-05" }, { "no": "3139", "title": "Samples to be Tested at Three Analysis Laboratories to Avert Disputes", "preview": "Environmental Analysis Samples to be Tested at Three Analysis Laboratories to Avert Disputes", "content": "Environmental Analysis Samples to be Tested at Three Analysis Laboratories to Avert Disputes In order that environmental test results become more representative and to increase credibility of data the EPA now allows environmental agencies that conduct environmental pollution investigation to select three environmental analysis laboratories to conduct comparative testing and to calculate results with dispensed samples so that the whole process may be as open and fair as possible. \nThe citizens of Taiwan are becoming increasingly insistent when it comes to environmental test data quality. Whenever there is an environmental change, the change can be verified through samples taken from test sites. However, test results for the same sites can show variation due to differences in location, time, or the test process adopted. In order to minimize the public's doubts on about test results, the EPA now allows environmental agencies that conduct environmental pollution investigation to select three environmental analysis laboratories to conduct comparative testing and to calculate results with dispensed samples. Doing so will allow testing to be carried out in accordance with environmental regulations and will also avert arguments about the validity of test results. \nIn the past, both environmental organizations and factory operators questioned the legality and adequacy of having a single set of test results produced by a single analysis laboratory to decide whether or not a factory had been responsible for environmental pollution. On 14 April 2014, the EPA announced procedures for dividing samples for environmental testing, so that collected and dispensed samples can be sent to three different analysis laboratories for testing. The test results will thus be more acceptable to those concerned, removing the main cause of interminable disputes over test results. For example, disputes commonly revolve around whether or not pollution concentrations in a sample of soil are above legal limits. If all three analysis laboratories report that the sample exceeds or falls within limits then this would obviously be more persuasive to the stakeholders involved. \nThe EPA points out that sending samples to three different laboratories neither violates nor requires revisions to existing regulations but is simply applying a statistical method to increase the credibility of data. For example, the triple analyses for heavy metals in soil done by three laboratories will reduce the variation in results from 15% to 5%. \n\n\nIn keeping with the Executive Yuan’s policy to make governmental information open to the public, the EPA on its part has established its own open data platform (http:\/\/opendata.epa.gov.tw). Since its inception, this platform has accumulated 67 datasets with more than 540,000 pieces of information. As of the end of April 2014, the website has had over 110,000 visits, and machine to machine downloads have exceeded 1 million. According to the results of the EPA's combined random sampling, the user satisfaction rate has exceeded 80%. \nAt present, the data available for public access include information on various types of environmental monitoring, basic information on listed controlled pollution sources, abstracts of environmental impact assessments, etc. Of the above information, the ones that are most often downloaded are: real-time air pollution indicators, current ultraviolet index, latest 10-minute precipitation report, air quality forecast, and abstracts of environmental protection projects.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Analysis", "titlename": "Samples to be Tested at Three Analysis Laboratories to Avert Disputes", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-05" }, { "no": "3138", "title": "Delving into Climate Change Policy Innovations to Pursue Green Growth", "preview": "climate change Delving into Climate Change Policy Innovations to Pursue Green Growth", "content": "climate change Delving into Climate Change Policy Innovations to Pursue Green Growth To explore the issues around formulating and implementing policy instruments dealing with climate change and the harmonization and uncertainty of international green financing schemes faced by major nations the EPA organized the “International Conference on Innovations of Climate Change Policy Instruments and Green Financing” on 5 May 2014. \nFor this international conference, the EPA invited experts from several international institutes to share their opinions and experiences. These institutes included: the Energy Saving Trust of the UK, the Fraunhofer Institute of Germany, the Capital R Street Institute of the US, the Environment Institute of Korea and Nagoya University of Japan. The British expert spoke on the Green Deal mechanism and the responsibility of energy companies; the German expert spoke on green investment and strategies for green financing; the American expert talked about the viewpoints of greenhouse gas control strategies; the Korean expert talked about the policy instruments for greenhouse gas reduction; while the Japanese expert elaborated on energy taxes and emission trading mechanisms. Through these experts’ keynote speeches, Taiwan greatly expanded its horizons in terms of academic perspectives and policy implementation.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "climate change", "titlename": "Delving into Climate Change Policy Innovations to Pursue Green Growth", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-05" }, { "no": "3137", "title": "App for Environmental Management System Now Available", "preview": "waste App for Environmental Management System Now Available", "content": "waste App for Environmental Management System Now Available The EPA recently developed an app for its Environmental Management System (EMS). The app went online in April 2014 and will allow environmental inspectors in the field conducting inspections or giving guidance to be able to instantly download a variety of information and thus do away with the need to carry large amounts of written material or portable computers. \nBy using the EMS mobile app inspectors will be able to access information on air pollutants in industrial emissions, wastewater, industrial waste, etc. via their smartphones or tablet computers. The app will also allow them to access the registered information on the enterprises they are inspecting, such as permit details, industrial waste production reporting records, and inspection and penalty records. Easy access to such records will facilitate the inspectors’ understanding of manufacturing and operating data for listed enterprises, on-site facilities and waste storage facilities, industrial waste disposal plans, environmental impact assessment statements and details on industrial waste flows. \nThe EPA began streamlining the system of permit applications in 2006, and to date has integrated information on air pollution control, water pollution prevention, waste and toxic substance management, and soil and groundwater remediation into the system. The EPA has also been vigorously promoting the EMS as a convenient and friendly one-stop portal for listed enterprises to use for all of their environmental permit matters. \nIn response to the spread of mobile applications in recent years, the EPA pressed ahead to complete the development of its EMS mobile app in 2014 so that EPA inspectors will not need to carry large amounts of written information with them when they are out in the field. The EPA will continue to work on improving app functions by adding spatial application functions such as road navigation and map distance measurement.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "App for Environmental Management System Now Available", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-04" }, { "no": "3136", "title": "Guidelines Announced for Subsidizing Local Governments to Inspect and Assess Soil and Groundwater Pollution", "preview": "Soil & Groundwater Guidelines Announced for Subsidizing Local Governments to Inspect and Assess Soil and Groundwater Pollution", "content": "Soil & Groundwater Guidelines Announced for Subsidizing Local Governments to Inspect and Assess Soil and Groundwater Pollution On 13 March 2014 the EPA formulated a set of guidelines that will facilitate the provision of subsidies to local government environmental protection authorities for the inspection, verification and assessment of soil and groundwater pollution. \nAs laid out in the Guidelines Governing Subsidies for Local Government Environmental Protection Authorities to Inspect, Verify and Assess Soil and Groundwater Pollution, the subsidies are for the following items: \n1) The tasks of inspecting, verifying, controlling, assessing and monitoring at sites that are suspected of having soil and groundwater contamination. \n2) The tasks of inspecting, assessing, verifying, supervising, monitoring and auditing for sites announced as contaminated.\n3) Any other items assessed by the EPA as necessary in accordance with Article 28 of the Soil and Groundwater Remediation Act.\nAs stated in the said guidelines, the procedure for local government environmental protection authorities to apply for the subsidies is as follows:\n1) Prior to applying for subsidies, the local authority must demand polluters, persons potentially responsible for pollution and interested parties of the polluted site to fulfill all of their legal obligations to remediate the sites in question. If the identity of the said persons cannot be verified or they do not fulfill their legal obligations, then the local authority can apply for subsidies to remediate the site. \n2) Applications for subsidies should be submitted before the end of April every year by filling out the relevant forms on the EPA’s online soil and groundwater management information system. Urgent cases, however, are not bound to this deadline.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil & Groundwater", "titlename": "Guidelines Announced for Subsidizing Local Governments to Inspect and Assess Soil and Groundwater Pollution", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-04" }, { "no": "3135", "title": "American Institute in Taiwan Praises Taiwan", "preview": "International Cooperation American Institute in Taiwan Praises Taiwan", "content": "International cooperation American Institute in Taiwan Praises Taiwan’s Contribution to Protect the Global Environment", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "International Cooperation", "titlename": "American Institute in Taiwan Praises Taiwan", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-04" }, { "no": "3134", "title": "Preannouncement Application Review Time for Drinking Water Treatment Agents to be Shortened", "preview": "Environmental Sanitation Preannouncement Application Review Time for Drinking Water Treatment Agents to be Shortened", "content": "Environmental Sanitation Preannouncement Application Review Time for Drinking Water Treatment Agents to be Shortened In order to enhance the effectiveness of public service and shorten the processing time of applications the EPA preannounced its amendment of Article 7 of the Application Guidelines for Announcing Drinking Water Treatment Agents. Once passed, the review time and the extended review time for complicated cases will both be shortened from 90 working days to 50 working days. \nThe current guidelines were promulgated and became effective on 6 July of 2006. Article 7 of the guidelines originally stipulated that “Application cases with complete documents and information shall be reviewed within 90 working days” and that “in cases where the contents of the application are especially complicated, the central competent authority may notify the applicant of an extension of the review period. Such extension can only be given once and the length of the extension is limited to 90 working days.” \nAfter reviewing the existing procedures, the EPA found it necessary to shorten the review time. With the amendments to the guidelines, the review time for cases with complete documents and information will be limited to 50 working days, whereas for cases whose contents are especially complicated, the review period may be extended once, and is also limited to 50 working days. The EPA believes that the amendments will improve the efficiency of the review.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Sanitation", "titlename": "Preannouncement Application Review Time for Drinking Water Treatment Agents to be Shortened", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-04" }, { "no": "3133", "title": "Minister Wei Leads a Beach Cleanup Campaign to Kick off the Earth Environmental Season", "preview": "environmental sanitation Minister Wei Leads a Beach Cleanup Campaign to Kick off the Earth Environmental Season", "content": "environmental sanitation Minister Wei Leads a Beach Cleanup Campaign to Kick off the Earth Environmental Season", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Sanitation", "titlename": "Minister Wei Leads a Beach Cleanup Campaign to Kick off the Earth Environmental Season", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-04" }, { "no": "3132", "title": "Friendly Urban and Rural Environment Subsidy Recipients to Be Selected", "preview": "Environmental Sanitation Friendly Urban and Rural Environment Subsidy Recipients to Be Selected", "content": "Environmental Sanitation Friendly Urban and Rural Environment Subsidy Recipients to Be Selected From 2015 to 2018 the EPA will give subsidies to between 32 to 60 districts – in villages, towns and cities – to build friendly urban and rural environments. The maximum subsidy available will be about NT$70 million, and all funds obtained must be used to improve upon 14 environmental sanitation sustainability indicators that indicate quality of life. Selection of the districts that will receive subsidies in 2015 will begin in June 2014. \nThe Constructing Friendly Urban and Rural Environments Plan will be implemented for four years from 2015 to 2018. The subsidies will be available to districts to construct either “top class” or “outstanding” urban-rural environments in villages, towns or cities. To be awarded NT$70 million for “top class” projects, the districts must achieve at least 10 of the 14 environmental sanitation sustainability indicator targets; to be awarded NT$20 million for “outstanding” projects, the districts must achieve at least 3 of the 14 targets. \nAs the subsidies are only available for a limited number of candidates, the EPA has incorporated an element of competition into the selection process. City and county governments will first select the districts within their jurisdiction that they judge to have the best performance in terms of environmental sanitation and volunteer mobilization. The districts selected must then pass three-tiers of evaluation – documents review, on-site inspections and overall evaluation – before being awarded as excellent or advanced. Each year, three to five districts will be awarded as top class and five to ten districts will be awarded as outstanding. More information can be found in the Building Quiet and Comfortable Homeland – Constructing Friendly Urban and Rural Environments at http:\/\/ecolife.epa.gov.tw\/default.aspx.\nThe EPA hopes that the Constructing Friendly Urban and Rural Environments Plan will help promote the 14 environmental sanitation sustainability indicators. Combined with the strength of local culture, comfortable and appealing living environments can be created to give residents a high degree of satisfaction. The 14 abovementioned indicators are:\n．Cleanliness of public washrooms\n．Promotion of “pick up after your dog” \n．Local environmental quality\n．Gutter and sewage system maintenance\n．Tidiness of cables and wires \n．Cleanliness of home surroundings \n．Landscape improvements\n．Greening of vacant buildings and spaces \n．Standardizing public facilities \n．Greening of public spaces \n．Indoor air quality\n．Road quality \n．Amenity of living environment \n．Healthy and toxin-free environment", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Sanitation", "titlename": "Friendly Urban and Rural Environment Subsidy Recipients to Be Selected", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-04" }, { "no": "3131", "title": "Eight Cities and Counties Awarded in National Cleanup Campaign", "preview": "environmental sanitation Eight Cities and Counties Awarded in National Cleanup Campaign", "content": "environmental sanitation Eight Cities and Counties Awarded in National Cleanup CampaignOn 25 March EPA Minister Kuo-Yen Wei presented awards to local government agencies in recognition of their outstanding performance in maintaining and safekeeping a clean environment. He commended the local government employees for their meritorious efforts and expressed his gratitude toward them. The award presentation ceremony turned out to be a good opportunity for local governmental agencies to exchange their experiences and learn from one another. The special municipalities and counties with outstanding performance were: Taipei City, New Taipei City, Tainan City, Kaohsiung City, Yilan County, Changhua County, Kinmen County and Penghu County. \n\nA good opportunity for local governmental agencies to exchange their experiences and learn from one another. The special municipalities and counties with outstanding performance were: Taipei City, New Taipei City, Tainan City, Kaohsiung City, Yilan County, Changhua County, Kinmen County and Penghu County.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "environmental sanitation", "titlename": "Eight Cities and Counties Awarded in National Cleanup Campaign", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-04" }, { "no": "3130", "title": "Controls not Relaxed for Hotels and Guesthouses in Drinking Water Source Protection Areas", "preview": "Environmental Sanitation Controls not Relaxed for Hotels and Guesthouses in Drinking Water Source Protection Areas", "content": "Environmental Sanitation Controls not Relaxed for Hotels and Guesthouses in Drinking Water Source Protection Areas", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Sanitation", "titlename": "Controls not Relaxed for Hotels and Guesthouses in Drinking Water Source Protection Areas", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-04" }, { "no": "3129", "title": "Conference Held to Discuss Carbon Neutrality and Promote PAS 2060 Standard", "preview": "Climate Change Conference Held to Discuss Carbon Neutrality and Promote PAS 2060 Standard", "content": "Climate Change Conference Held to Discuss Carbon Neutrality and Promote PAS 2060 Standard In order to demonstrate Taiwan’s progress in promoting carbon neutrality on 24 March 2014 the EPA held a conference on carbon neutral technology. In the conference, the EPA also made public the Chinese version of the PAS 2060 Standard for Carbon Neutrality (PAS 2060:2014), which the EPA formulated together with the British Standards Institute. \nIn order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the EPA has been actively drawing up various carbon management strategies and promoting technological development. The EPA also introduced the concept of carbon neutrality in 2009 and has been promoting it throughout local industries since then. Taiwan’s successes in this field have been exceptional to the degree that the British Standards Institution (BSI) invited Taiwan to work together with it to formulate the Standard for Carbon Neutrality (PAS 2060:2014). \nThe Sustainable Energy Policy Guidelines – approved by the Executive Yuan in June 2008 – state that related government policies must incorporate the concept of carbon neutrality management. Since 2009, the EPA has been promoting schemes to calculate carbon footprints, supporting low-carbon events and activities, and working on building a carbon neutral system based upon the widely-used BSI PAS 2060:2010 standards. Since 2010, Taiwan has also been building a carbon neutral registration management platform and formulating guidelines for carbon footprint calculations for products and services as well as guidelines for implementing and announcing carbon neutrality. This trend toward low-carbon operations has been actively picked up by government agencies and private enterprises. To date there are 14 accredited carbon neutral projects in Taiwan.\nIn addition to the announcement of the completion of the PAS 2060:2014 Chinese version, the conference was also an occasion for experts in the field of carbon neutrality to give presentations and exchange opinions on such topics as responding to extreme weather events, building a suitable carbon neutral mechanism, and the results of promoting carbon neutrality in Taiwan in recent years.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Conference Held to Discuss Carbon Neutrality and Promote PAS 2060 Standard", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-04" }, { "no": "3128", "title": "Deputy Minister Yeh Visits Taoyuan Enterprises with Outstanding Environmental Performances", "preview": "Control & Evaluation Deputy Minister Yeh Visits Taoyuan Enterprises with Outstanding Environmental Performances", "content": "Control & Evaluation Deputy Minister Yeh Visits Taoyuan Enterprises with Outstanding Environmental Performances EPA Deputy Minister Shin-Cheng Yeh recently visited the Yangmei factories of Unimicron Technology Corporation and 3M Company. These two enterprises have outstanding records in environmental management pollution prevention, and promoting environmental concepts. They were both winners of the Enterprises Environmental Protection Awards in 2013. \nOn 28 March, EPA Deputy Minister Shin-Cheng Yeh visited the Yangmei factories of Unimicron Technology Corporation and 3M Company in order to gain a better understanding of the good results that Taoyuan County enterprises have achieved in promoting environmental protection. The EPA team sat down with industry representatives and Taoyuan County Environmental Protection Bureau Deputy Director Ping-Hsiung Ni to hear their opinions and share experiences concerning environmental matters. \nThe Enterprises Environmental Protection Awards – which were first held in 1992 and are now in their 23rd year – were devised by the EPA to encourage Taiwan’s enterprises to take pride in environmental protection. As of 2013, 256 of Taiwan’s companies have won awards, of which 32 have won awards for three years in a row. One of the companies that the EPA visited in Taoyuan – Unimicron Carrier SBU S1 plant – won awards in 2011, 2012 and 2013, and has had the special honor of winning the Environmental Protection Honorary Trophy. 3M Company’s Yangmei plant won the Enterprise Environmental Protection Award in 2012 and 2013. \nUnimicron Technology Corporation is the world’s largest specialized printed circuit board and integrated circuit (IC) carrier manufacturer in terms of revenue, and is one of the world’s top suppliers of advanced circuit boards and IC carriers for mobile phones. Unimicron is not only famous for its technological achievements; it is also a leader in the field of environmental protection. During the visit, the EPA team was particularly impressed by Unimicron’s biological treatment facilities, their vegetable factory as well as their newly-developed dust collectors and exhaust gas turbine generators, both of which have been awarded a number of patents.\n3M makes a wide variety of well-known products that are used in the automobile, chemical, telecommunications, fiber optic, electronic, power generation and construction materials industries. Deputy Minister Yeh and the team visited 3M’s Customer Technical Service Center in Yangmei, which is the first 3M green building in the world to receive both Diamond Level accreditation from Taiwan and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) accreditation from the USA. On display in the center are some of 3M’s technologies in the fields of abrasives, image display, filtering and purification, and efficient cleaning. The displays are evidence of 3M’s efforts and successes both in developing useful technologies and in environmental protection.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Control & Evaluation", "titlename": "Deputy Minister Yeh Visits Taoyuan Enterprises with Outstanding Environmental Performances", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-04" }, { "no": "3127", "title": "Sharing Experiences with South Korea in Carbon Capture and Storage", "preview": "climate change Sharing Experiences with South Korea in Carbon Capture and Storage", "content": "Sharing Experiences with South Korea in Carbon Capture and Storage Facing the serious challenge of greenhouse gas reduction nations in the world are actively trying out every possible opportunity to reduce carbon emissions. Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology is considered by experts to have a potential of cutting 20% of global carbon emissions. In view of this, the EPA held a forum on “Promoting Strategies for Carbon Management and Reduction Technology” on 19 March 2014, to which Professor Chonghun Han of Seoul University and Dr. Robert Yie-Zu Hu, Deputy General Director of the Green Energy and Environment Research Laboratories of the Industrial Technology Research Institute, were invited to give keynote speeches on South Korea’s and Taiwan’s carbon management and CCS promotional strategies. The conference was attended by about 120 people including scholars, experts, and representatives of government agencies, industries and nongovernmental organizations, amidst a very lively atmosphere. \n\n\nFacing the serious challenge of greenhouse gas reduction, nations in the world are actively trying out every possible opportunity to reduce carbon emissions. Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology is considered by experts to have a potential of cutting 20% of global carbon emissions. In view of this, the EPA held a forum on “Promoting Strategies for Carbon Management and Reduction Technology” on 19 March 2014, to which Professor climate change Sharing Experiences with South Korea in Carbon Capture and Storage Chonghun Han of Seoul University and Dr. Robert Yie-Zu Hu, Deputy General Director of the Green Energy and Environment Research Laboratories of the Industrial Technology Research Institute, were invited to give keynote speeches on South Korea’s and Taiwan’s carbon management and CCS promotional strategies. The conference was attended by about 120 people including scholars, experts, and representatives of government agencies, industries and nongovernmental organizations, amidst a very lively atmosphere.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "climate change", "titlename": "Sharing Experiences with South Korea in Carbon Capture and Storage", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-04" }, { "no": "3126", "title": "Regulations for Distribution of Water Pollution Control Fees Drafted", "preview": "Water Quality Regulations for Distribution of Water Pollution Control Fees Drafted", "content": "Water Quality Regulations for Distribution of Water Pollution Control Fees Drafted The Water Pollution Control Act authorizes the EPA to collect water pollution control fees from water users based upon the quality and quantity of the wastewater that they discharge. In order that the fees collected go toward helping local governments undertake water pollution control work the EPA has formulated the Regulations Governing Distribution of Water Pollution Control Fees between Central and Local Governments to provide the legal basis for the distribution of said fees. \nArticle 11 of the Water Pollution Control Act authorizes the central competent authority to collect water pollution control fees from enterprises, sewage systems and households that discharge wastewater or sewage into surface water bodies based on their discharge water quality and water volume, or based on their discharge water quality and water volume as determined through a calculation method designated by the said authority. Paragraph 5 in the same article of the act also states that collected fees should be distributed between the central and local governments in accordance with the needs of each city and county as decided by the central competent authority. \nThe Regulations Governing Distribution of Water Pollution Control Fees between Central and Local Governments will become the legal basis on which the EPA will distribute water pollution control fees once they have been collected. The regulations contain six articles, which primarily cover the following:\n1) Items determined as being necessary for water pollution control work (Article 2).\n2) The proportions of the collected water pollution control fees that the competent authorities in each city or county will receive (Article 3).\n3) Timetables and content of water pollution control plans that the competent authorities in each city or county must submit (Article 4). \n4) That the central competent authority may specially allocate budget for each local competent authority to cover administration costs incurred based upon the water pollution control plans submitted (Article 5). \nArticle 2 of the regulations stipulate that collected fees should be distributed between local government competent authorities in accordance with their water pollution control needs, as decided by the central competent authority according to the following:\n1) The results of evaluation of water pollution control performance.\n2) Water pollution control implementing plans.\n3) Other operational needs as determined by the central competent authority. As stated in Article 11 Paragraph 5 of the Water Pollution Control Act, the allocation of water pollution control fees is to be determined by the water pollution control needs of local government competent authorities. \nThe regulations also stipulate that local government competent authorities should submit their annual water pollution control implementation plans by March of every year. The content of said plans must be submitted to the central competent authority and should include the main pollution prevention tasks, measures, expected benefits, details of costs, and a budget report.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Regulations for Distribution of Water Pollution Control Fees Drafted", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-03" }, { "no": "3125", "title": "Real time Garbage Truck Query System under Evaluation", "preview": "waste Real time Garbage Truck Query System under Evaluation", "content": "waste Real time Garbage Truck Query System under Evaluation The EPA said that the idea of apps for real-time garbage trucks was modeled after the ongoing real-time bus query system. Now in Taoyuan County and in parts of Yunlin County and four other municipalities, the concept of real-time information on garbage trucks has been introduced and GPS systems have been installed on garbage trucks, so that the general public can access the whereabouts of garbage trucks through the Internet or cellphones. After reviewing the needs and performance of the various municipalities, the EPA intends to take one step further by creating a nationwide real-time garbage truck query system and cellphone app, so that local governments and the general public can download the instant information when there is a need. \nGarbage collection is a matter falling under the jurisdiction of local governments. It follows that methods of garbage collection and other related matters shall vary in accordance with the conditions in each municipality. In view of the rapid development of the electronics industry, the EPA will continue to incorporate the capabilities of electronic communications into environmental protection affairs, thereby providing the general public with a more convenient garbage truck query service.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Real time Garbage Truck Query System under Evaluation", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-03" }, { "no": "3124", "title": "Revisions to Management Regulations for Recycling Enterprises Handling Regulated Recyclable Waste Preannounced", "preview": "recycling Revisions to Management Regulations for Recycling Enterprises Handling Regulated Recyclable Waste Preannounced", "content": "recycling Revisions to Management Regulations for Recycling Enterprises Handling Regulated Recyclable Waste Preannounced To continue strengthening the management of the recycling industry the EPA periodically reviews and revises the relevant regulations to ensure that operators are protecting the environment at every stage of their operations. The EPA also simplifies registration procedures to improve administrative efficiency. \nThe primary aim of the revisions is to clarify which types of recycling enterprise have to register with the EPA. Any recycling enterprise that only collects and stores end-of-life vehicles without disassembling them must register with the EPA, regardless of the size of their premises. To ensure that enterprises handle recycling operations appropriately and efficiently, the registration review process will be in two stages – establishment and test runs – and permits for establishment will expire after three years. Regulations have also been added to cover the documents that must be submitted with registration applications. The application procedure for modification has been revised as well. The revisions will allow the EPA greater understanding and control over ongoing recycling operations. \nIn order to simplify procedures and reduce application review times, enterprises will no longer need to submit additional copies of documents that are accessible in digital forms on information platforms belonging to any government agency. The revision also stipulates that reviews for premises where an on-site inspection is not deemed necessary must be completed within 30 days. \nThe EPA also reminds end-of-life vehicle recycling enterprises that had been established before the revision but were not registered, that they must register with the EPA within six months of the regulations taking effect. Details of the revisions can be viewed and downloaded from the EPA’s news website: http:\/\/ivy5.epa.gov.tw\/enews\/fact_index.asp.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "recycling", "titlename": "Revisions to Management Regulations for Recycling Enterprises Handling Regulated Recyclable Waste Preannounced", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-03" }, { "no": "3123", "title": "Green IT Products Enjoy Discounted Recycling Fee Rates as of March 2014", "preview": "Recycling Green IT Products Enjoy Discounted Recycling Fee Rates as of March 2014", "content": "Recycling Green IT Products Enjoy Discounted Recycling Fee Rates as of March 2014 In order to encourage greener design of IT products and as a result of tablet computers and external hard drives being declared recyclable items the EPA has announced revisions to the IT Products Recycling Fee Rates. Green IT products will henceforth enjoy a 30% discount on recycling fee rates and a recycling fee rate for tablet computers has been also added. The revisions took effect on 1 March 2014. \nThe revisions are in response to the international trends in strengthening the management and recycling of mercury containing substances and the difficulty in classifying new IT products that continue to come onto the market. The revisions to the Scope of Responsible Enterprises for Recyclable Products or Containers includes a 30% discount in the recycling fee rates for green IT products that carry the Green Mark or Energy Label, and a 5% discount for such printers. \nConcordant with the revisions to the scope of responsible enterprise is the addition of a new fee rate for tablet computers that has been set at NT$25.3 per unit. External hard drives have also been added to the category of hard disc drives and will have the same fee rate as hard disc drives. “Monitors,” redefined as image output devices that have a diagonal width of 27 inches or less, will be subject to the same regulations with an unchanged fee rate. Meanwhile, image output devices with a diagonal width over 27 inches are classified as televisions under the electrical and electronic appliances category. \nOn the list of announced recyclable items, the IT products section includes portable computers, casings, motherboards, monitors, hard disc drives, printers, power supply units and keyboards. Manufacturers or importers of recyclable items are required to register each item within two months of initial manufacture or import. They are also required within 15 days after making their bimonthly business tax declarations to report to the EPA details of production\/import volumes of the previous two months, and to pay a recycling fee accordingly. Enterprises that have queries about recycling matters can refer to the information on the recycling business reporting webpage or call the EPA’s recycling services hotline at 0800-085717.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Recycling", "titlename": "Green IT Products Enjoy Discounted Recycling Fee Rates as of March 2014", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-03" }, { "no": "3122", "title": "Multiple Management Measures Abate Construction Noise", "preview": "Noise Control Multiple Management Measures Abate Construction Noise", "content": "Noise Control Multiple Management Measures Abate Construction Noise In 2013 the EPA began implementing its Construction Noise Control Plan, which involves adopting a variety of measures such as noise reduction negotiations, inspection patrols and guidance, and unannounced inspections. These approaches have so far effectively reduced, by an estimated 3,000 annually, construction noise complaints that would otherwise have been received by the EPA. \nThe plan has a stated target of achieving zero growth in the number of construction noise complaints within three years. In 2013, officials from local environmental protection bureaus held 90 negotiation meetings and conducted 2,000 scheduled visits and 2,000 unannounced inspections at construction sites. \nIn 2013, the EPA received a total of 18,990 construction noise-related complaints, a slight increase on the 18,931 received in 2012. However, in recent years, the number of construction-related noise complaints has increased by 17% per year, which means that if the EPA hadn’t adopted the above measures the total for 2013 could have been as high as 22,149. This reduction by around 3,000 related complaints received by the EPA shows that the measures are effective. \nLast year, local environmental protection bureaus combined the construction site noise inspection patrol with the fugitive dust inspection patrol. By adopting proactive measures such as noise reduction negotiation, inspection patrols and guidance, and unannounced inspections for sites responsible for large numbers of complaints, it expects to reduce noise at source, thereby mitigating the construction noise pollution problem. \nThe five cities and counties that showed the greatest reductions in noise complaints in 2013 were Kaohsiung City, Taipei City, Keelung City, Nantou County and Tainan City. The three cities and counties that showed the greatest increases in noise complaints in 2013 were New Taipei City, Taichung City and Taoyuan County. \nEPA statistics for noise complaints over the last few years indicated that from 2006 to 2013, the number of complaints received rose steadily at an average rate of 10% annually. The number of construction noise complaints also rose annually at a rate of 17%, reaching over 20,000 in 2010 and overtaking entertainment industry noise complaints to top the list. Ninety percent of these complaints were from the residents of the five largest cities plus Taoyuan County, clear proof that construction noise has become an issue of serious concern for Taiwan’s urban residents. \nAnalysis of construction noise complaints also showed that around one third of the complaints related to road works, which is probably due to the fact that many road works take place at night. In order to improve road work noise control the EPA has decided to manufacture and employ portable noise screens, an approach used in Japan in minor road works. Tests done in Japan have shown that using such screens can reduce noise levels by about ten decibels. The EPA will be promoting the use of portable noise screens, and will be asking local government environmental protection bureaus to require enterprises responsible for nighttime road work complaints to use these screens to effectively reduce nighttime noise pollution.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Noise Control", "titlename": "Multiple Management Measures Abate Construction Noise", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-03" }, { "no": "3121", "title": "Dr. Kuo-Yen Wei Takes Over as EPA Minister", "preview": "General Policy Dr Kuo-yen Wei Takes Over as EPA minister", "content": "General Policy Dr Kuo-yen Wei Takes Over as EPA minister On 3 March 2014 Dr. Kuo-Yen Wei took over as head of the EPA. During the inauguration ceremony, Minister Wei indicated that he was ready to apply his lifetime of experience and expertise in the fields of geology, marine science, biogeochemical cycles, ecology and meteorology to the task of protecting Taiwan’s environment. He particularly stressed the need for the new Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources to be quickly established so that Taiwan’s vision of environmental protection could be expanded and to stride toward sustainable development. \nAt the inauguration ceremony, outgoing minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen - who was in office for over five years and nine months - handed over the Ministerial Seal of Office to Dr. Wei, previously a professor in the Department of Geosciences at National Taiwan University. The ceremony symbolized the continuing efforts in the mission of protecting Taiwan’s environment and pursuing sustainable development.\nEco-warrior Hands Over to Multi-Discipline Scholar\nSupervising the handover ceremony was Dr. Shi-Shuenn Chen, a minister without portfolio. He praised Dr. Wei for his academic achievements, his experience in government both at the central and local levels, and his expertise spanning the fields of geology, marine science, biogeochemical cycles, ecology and meteorology. Minister Chen pointed out that during Dr. Wei’s time as a university professor, he set up an introductory course in Earth System Science and also published the first textbook in Taiwan on the subject of global change, An Introduction to Global Environmental Change, which is still being used in universities. He called Minister Wei an outstanding scholar, one of the few in Taiwan who possess multi-disciplinary expertise concerning the atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere and geosphere. Minister Chen also had kind words for outgoing Minister Shen, calling him an eco-warrior and praising his achievements in the key areas of air, water and eco-labeling during his time in office. \nInter-disciplinary Expert to be a New Force for the Establishment of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources\nMinister Wei has a doctorate in oceanography from Rhode Island University, USA. He also did post-doctoral research in the field of marine science at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and once served as an assistant professor at Yale University’s Department of Geology and Geophysics. In terms of administrative experience, Minister Wei has also been Vice Chairman of the Research, Development and Evaluation Commission, Executive Yuan, and Chairman of the Research, Development and Evaluation Commission of the Taipei City Government. Immediately before accepting the position of EPA Minister, he was a professor in the Department of Geosciences at National Taiwan University and an adjunct research fellow at the Academia Sinica’s Institute of Earth Sciences. \nPushing for the Establishment of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources to Drive toward Sustainable Development\nDuring his inauguration speech, Minister Wei said that from the very first day that he began studying geology, he had been preparing for the day when he could put his knowledge to good use. Now, 43 years later, he was being given the chance to put his expertise to the service of Taiwan. \nAs Minister Wei pointed out, restructuring the EPA involves coordinating mergers with other government agencies to form the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources. The other agencies in question include: the Ministry of Economic Affairs’ Water Resources Agency, Department of Mines, Bureau of Mine, and Central Geological Survey; the Soil and Water Conservation Bureau and the Forestry Bureau under the Council of Agriculture; the Ministry of the Interior’s Construction and Planning Agency; and the Ministry of Transportation and Communications’ Central Weather Bureau. Integrating human resources from different agencies to form a new team presents a huge challenge for the new ministry.\nMinister Wei said that the forthcoming Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources will have a much broader range of missions, covering tasks related to weather, water resources, environmental protection, natural resources, land and water conservation, and national parks. However, upgrading the EPA into the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources is still facing the last mile challenge. Minister Wei said that he would do his best to complete the transition in the very near future. \nThe thorniest challenge for the new ministry is integrating the various government agencies. As Minister Wei pointed out, having environment-related affairs and programs split between numerous government agencies is not cost effective. He also promised to apply his expertise in the fields of geology, marine science, biogeochemical cycles, ecology and meteorology to lead Taiwan’s environmental protection work to a broader vision and move toward sustainable development.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "Dr Kuo-yen Wei Takes Over as EPA minister", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-03" }, { "no": "3120", "title": "Environmental Education Life-Long Learning Passports Rolled Out", "preview": "Environmental Education Environmental Education Life Long Learning Passports Rolled Out", "content": "Environmental Education Environmental Education Life Long Learning Passports Rolled Out On 1 March 2014 the EPA formally launched a series of events to promote its Environmental Education Life-Long Learning Passport. All members of Taiwan society are eligible to apply for a learning passport, and anyone or any organization that actively promotes environmental education and undertakes life-long learning will have a chance to win cash prizes. More details can be found on the EPA’s dedicated environmental education life-long learning website: http:\/\/elearn.epa.gov.tw\/. \nThere are four types of awards for learning passport holders: the Valid Passport Award, the Bring a Friend Award, the Individual Diligence Award and the Award for Organizations Holding Classes. The scheme aims to provide a systematic and step-by-step approach to environmental education life-long learning for members of the general public. Therefore, the learning credits will not be given for lessons taken more than once by the same individual, and environmental education organizations are also encouraged to hold more classes to provide opportunities for more people to come into contact with environmental education. \nThe Individual Diligence Award is based upon a system of five more advanced grades: Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum and Diamond. For example, for people who get the learning passports in 2014 and then attend 200 hours of environmental education classes with a maximum of 40 hours annually, the earliest time they could get a Bronze Individual Diligence Award would be in 2019. The silver, gold, platinum and diamond levels are based on the same principle, and each person can only gain one award for each level, with the intention of nudging people toward life-long environmental learning.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Environmental Education Life Long Learning Passports Rolled Out", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-03" }, { "no": "3119", "title": "Guidelines for Greenhouse Gas Analysis and Auditing Organization Management Promulgated", "preview": "climate change Guidelines for Greenhouse Gas Analysis and Auditing Organization Management Promulgated", "content": "climate change Guidelines for Greenhouse Gas Analysis and Auditing Organization Management Promulgated In order to effectively administer greenhouse gas analysis and auditing on 17 February 2013 the EPA promulgated the Guidelines for Greenhouse Gas Analysis and Auditing Organization Management, which took effect on the same day. The guidelines form the legal basis for greenhouse gas analysis and auditing, as well as the application review for special greenhouse gas reduction cases. All organizations in Taiwan that carry out greenhouse gas analysis and auditing in accordance with United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change obligations are required to comply with these regulations. The guidelines, which are being administered through standard EPA management procedures, cover the criteria that must be met by greenhouse gas analysis and auditing organizations, as well as permit issuing and revocation procedures, minimum qualifications for personnel, review procedures and various other legal requirements. The EPA had already issued permits to 11 greenhouse gas analysis and auditing organizations prior to promulgation of the regulations. These organizations are still qualified to hold permits but they are required to renew their permits within one year of the regulations coming into effect.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "climate change", "titlename": "Guidelines for Greenhouse Gas Analysis and Auditing Organization Management Promulgated", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-03" }, { "no": "3118", "title": "Clean Development and Carbon Credit Management Strategic Alliance Formally Established", "preview": "Climate Change Clean Development and Carbon Credit Management Strategic Alliance Formally Established", "content": "Climate Change Clean Development and Carbon Credit Management Strategic Alliance Formally Established On 18 February 2014 the EPA held an establishment ceremony for the Clean Development and Carbon Credit Management Strategic Alliance, during which it announced that the Alliance had been formally established and has started operation. Nearly 100 enterprises and organizations have responded favorably to the Alliance and lent their support. \nThe purpose of the Alliance is to enhance carbon reduction partnerships between the government and the private sector and to promote the spread and experience sharing of carbon reduction actions among private enterprises. Under the advocacy of the EPA, the Clean Development and Carbon Credit Management Strategic Alliance kicked off its operation in 2013 and has gained the support of nearly 100 private enterprises and corporate organizations since then. To facilitate the full operation of the Alliance, the EPA held an establishment ceremony on 18 February 2014, in which it announced that the Alliance had formally started its operation. \nOver recent years, the EPA has mapped out a number of greenhouse gas management policies and measures, including: a greenhouse gas inventory, early action and offset projects, auditing systems and carbon reduction labels, and others. The EPA reports these policies and measures have attained preliminary results. Now, with the establishment of the Alliance, the EPA hopes to promote the bilateral interaction between the government and the private sector by providing local enterprises with carbon reduction technology and channels for information and experience sharing, so that more enterprises can be enticed to join the Alliance. \nDuring the inauguration ceremony, three guests were invited to give opening remarks: a representative from the Ministry of Economic Affairs; Mr. Chris Wood, representative of the British Trade and Culture Office; and Mr. Giuseppe Izzo, Chairman of the European Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Sush-der Lee, Chairman of the Taiwan Financial Services Roundtable; Mr. Shih-Chun Hsu, Chair of the Taiwan Institute of Directors; Mr. Thomas Fann, President of Ford Lio Ho Motor Company; and Mr. Sou-shan Wu, Chairman of the GreTai Securities Market were also invited to give keynote speeches and engaged in strategic dialogue with Deputy Minister Shin-Cheng Yeh of the EPA. Panel discussions were held on topics such as “Carbon Market and Reduction Projects” and “Corporate Risk Management under Climate Change.” Experts from different fields were invited to share their opinions on what actions domestic enterprises may take to mitigate the impact of climate change.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Clean Development and Carbon Credit Management Strategic Alliance Formally Established", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-03" }, { "no": "3117", "title": "Standards for Special Industrial Park Buffer Zones and Installation of Air Monitoring Facilities Revised", "preview": "Air Quality Standards for Special Industrial Park Buffer Zones and Installation of Air Monitoring Facilities Revised", "content": "Air Quality Standards for Special Industrial Park Buffer Zones and Installation of Air Monitoring Facilities Revised In order to make the regulations controlling air quality monitoring more comprehensive and to reduce risks to public health the EPA has revised the Standards for Special Industrial Park Buffer Zones and Installation of Air Monitoring Facilities. Considering that air pollution from special industrial parks may sometimes be emitted in large volumes or have a complex chemical composition, the EPA has revised the Standards for Special Industrial Park Buffer Zones and Installation of Air Monitoring Facilities. The main points of the revisions are as follows: \n1. Article 15 of the Air Pollution Control Act requires that efforts be made to reduce the impact on air quality and public health from pollutants emitted by development activity in special industrial parks. To this end and to ensure that the buffer zones and air quality monitoring facilities set up by special industrial park developers accord with EPA regulatory standards, the EPA now requires developers to submit to their local government competent authority a buffer zone and air quality monitoring facility installation plan. Development activities can only begin in the zones after such plan has been approved. \n2. Regulations have also been added to cover review procedures and timetables for such plan in order to improve administrative efficiency and regulatory oversight. \n3. As the revisions require much more frequent monitoring of a greater number of items to be done by more monitoring stations, the EPA has given special industrial parks established by 22 September 2012 a reasonable grace period to adapt to the new regime. \n4. The period for which monitoring data must be kept has been extended from three years to five years to allow competent authorities to conduct more effective audits when necessary. \n5. To facilitate better control over air quality, regulations have been added to ensure the online availability of data from all local authority monitoring stations and to cover data submission procedures for data handlers. \nIn order to reduce public concerns about health risks and environmental impact, air quality monitoring in special industrial parks is an absolute necessity. The EPA is urging the relevant developers to fulfill their obligations to protect the environment and undertake air quality monitoring in accordance with the aforementioned standards. \n\n\n\nConsidering that air pollution from special industrial parks may sometimes be emitted in large volumes or have a complex chemical composition, the EPA has revised the Standards for Special Industrial Park Buffer Zones and Installation of Air Monitoring Facilities. The main points of the revisions are as follows: \n1. Article 15 of the Air Pollution Control Act requires that efforts be made to reduce the impact on air quality and public health from pollutants emitted by development activity in special industrial parks. To this end and to ensure that the buffer zones and air quality monitoring facilities set up by special industrial park developers accord with EPA regulatory standards, the EPA now requires developers to submit to their local government competent authority a buffer zone and air quality monitoring facility installation plan. Development activities can only begin in the zones after such plan has been approved. \n2. Regulations have also been added to cover review procedures and timetables for such plan in order to improve administrative efficiency and regulatory oversight. \n3. As the revisions require much more frequent monitoring of a greater number of items to be done by more monitoring stations, the EPA has given special industrial parks established by 22 September 2012 a reasonable grace period to adapt to the new regime. \n4. The period for which monitoring data must be kept has been extended from three years to five years to allow competent authorities to conduct more effective audits when necessary. \n5. To facilitate better control over air quality, regulations have been added to ensure the online availability of data from all local authority monitoring stations and to cover data submission procedures for data handlers. \nIn order to reduce public concerns about health risks and environmental impact, air quality monitoring in special industrial parks is an absolute necessity. The EPA is urging the relevant developers to fulfill their obligations to protect the environment and undertake air quality monitoring in accordance with the aforementioned standards.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Standards for Special Industrial Park Buffer Zones and Installation of Air Monitoring Facilities Revised", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-03" }, { "no": "3116", "title": "Revisions to Glass Industry Nitrous Oxides Emission Standards Preannounced", "preview": "Air Quality Revisions to Glass Industry Nitrous Oxides Emission Standards Preannounced", "content": "Air Quality Revisions to Glass Industry Nitrous Oxides Emission Standards Preannounced To bring emission standards and regulatory controls more into line with current emission control requirements and thus further reduce air pollutants, the EPA has drawn up a draft revision of the Glass Industry Nitrous Oxides Emission Standards. \nThe Glass Industry Nitrous Oxides Emission Standards were first formulated and promulgated in 1993, and have been in effect for over 18 years. Apart from a single revision in 1999 to make the standards consistent with the Air Pollution Control Act, the emission maximum values have not been otherwise adjusted. However, techniques developed overseas for controlling glass firing and treating exhaust gases have advanced significantly in recent years, and the actual emissions concentrations from Taiwan’s glass factories are already in accord with the current standards. Taking this into account, and after examining the emissions standards of developed nations, the available control technology and the results of a cost-benefit analysis, the EPA decided to revise the Glass Industry Nitrous Oxides Emission Standards. The revisions will bring about reductions in overall air pollution caused by the glass industry, particularly fine particulate matter and their precursors. \nThe main points of the revisions are as follows:\n1) Tighter restrictions for new smelters include particulate matter maximums going from 50 mg\/Nm3 to 25 mg\/Nm3; Sox from 300 ppm for both solid and liquid fuel to 60 ppm. For existing glass smelters, particulate matter maximums will go from 100 mg\/Nm3 to 50 mg\/Nm3 and Sox from 300 ppm to 100 ppm. \n2) For new smelters that use air-assisted combustion, a single Nox standard of 180 ppm from the date of announcement will henceforth be used. For existing furnaces, the new standards will be enforced in stages to give manufacturers reasonable time to adjust. For existing furnaces that use air-assisted combustion the maximum value will be 300 ppm, which will be further reduced to 180 ppm from 1 January 2019 or if shutdown maintenance to the smelters is undertaken. \n3) For new electric smelters and new smelters that use pure oxygen combustion or oxygen-enriched combustion, the maximum value for Nox has been set at 3 kg per tonne of smelted glass, effective from the date of announcement. For existing smelters of these types the maximum has been set at 6 kg per tonne of smelted glass, which will then be tightened to 3 kg per tonne of smelted glass from 1 January 2016.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Revisions to Glass Industry Nitrous Oxides Emission Standards Preannounced", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-03" }, { "no": "3115", "title": "First Free Electric Two Wheeled Vehicle Test Rides Held in New Taipei City", "preview": "Air Quality First Free Electric Two Wheeled Vehicle Test Rides Held in New Taipei City", "content": "Air Quality First Free Electric Two Wheeled Vehicle Test Rides Held in New Taipei City In collaboration with a private-sector enterprise the EPA held free electric two-wheeled vehicle test rides in New Taipei City from 20 February 2014, to demonstrate the workings of the electric vehicle battery swapping system. \nOn 18 February, the EPA and CityPower Co. jointly kicked off a one-month free test ride for electric two-wheeled vehicles in New Taipei City to demonstrate the battery swapping system. The activity gives the public a chance to test ride electric two-wheeled vehicles (including electric motorcycles, electric bicycles, and power-assisted bicycles) and gain an understanding of the battery swapping system. The test rides were available through 19 March, with 100 electric two-wheeled vehicles made available at ten different locations for members of the public to try out. In tandem with the activity, the EPA also implemented a one-month problem diagnosis project, part of which was to invite opinions from those who have test ridden the vehicles.\nThe uptake of electric two-wheeled vehicles has been hampered by the inconvenience of having to recharge batteries and the vehicles’ short ranges. To overcome these problems the EPA has subsidized the establishment of a battery swapping system, with 30 stations run by CityPower Co. that are now in operation. CityPower has been testing the battery swapping system for some time already, but it is likely some problems remain to be ironed out. To this end, the EPA is currently calling upon members of the public to report any problems they encounter with the system or give other suggestions for improvements to the EPA. People whose suggestions are implemented will be rewarded with convenience store vouchers. \nIn order that more people may have the chance to try out the electric two-wheeled vehicle and battery swapping system, the EPA has asked the Taiwan Electric Vehicles Development Association to implement the EPA’s Battery Swapping System Demonstration Project. This project, which began on 20 February 2014, provides the public with free test rides at ten of the 30 existing battery swapping stations in Banchiao, Hsinchuang, Luchou, Shulin and Sanchong. During the first stage of the project 100 electric two-wheeled vehicles will be made available for test rides; during the second and third stages the vehicles available for test rides will gradually go up to 600 for one year so that people can get a feel for these eco-friendly vehicles. More information on the test rides is available on the EPA website http:\/\/mobile.epa.gov.tw\/ec\/cellexchange.html. \nIn addition to the test rides, the EPA has also been thinking of other ways to encourage people to buy electric motorcycles with universal batteries. For example, the first 5,000 buyers of these motorcycles who also buy membership for CityPower’s battery swapping system will receive a NT$10,000 rebate on the cost of swapping batteries. In addition, the first 2,500 buyers of electric bicycles who also become members of CityPower’s battery swapping system will receive a NT$5,000 rebate on the cost of swapping batteries. The EPA is keen to quickly build up a critical mass of members, as this will facilitate assessing the technological and operational feasibility of the scheme.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "First Free Electric Two Wheeled Vehicle Test Rides Held in New Taipei City", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-03" }, { "no": "3114", "title": "Effluent Standards for Chemical Industry Announced", "preview": "Water Quality Effluent Standards for Chemical Industry Announced", "content": "Water Quality Effluent Standards for Chemical Industry Announced The EPA has formulated the Effluent Standards for the Chemical Industry which were announced on 22 January 2014. In addition to the original control items in effluent standards that pertained to the chemical industry, the EPA has also added the two-stage controls for ammonia nitrogen and has added standards for amounts of 14 organic compounds and 2 heavy metals. \nWhenever ammonia nitrogen is discharged into water bodies in the environment it consumes dissolved oxygen, leading to deterioration in water quality, eutrophication, and subsequent harm to aqueous organisms. Some organic compounds are carcinogenic, and heavy metals from manufacturing processes may also be discharged into water bodies, hence the need for controls on such substances. The updated list of items to be controlled also includes the current list of items from the chemical industry effluent standards, bringing the total number of items on the list to 49. \nMaximum limitations and grace periods for implementation of ammonia nitrogen controls will differ between new and existing chemical companies. The maximum limitation for new enterprises has been set at 20 mg\/L, and came into effect from the date of promulgation. For existing enterprises, limitations will differ according to whether or not the manufacturing process is classed as high-nitrogen. For existing enterprises that do not discharge high levels of nitrogen, the limit has been fixed at 20 mg\/L, and will come into effect on 1 July 2014. Any enterprises that need to carry out improvements in manufacturing to accord with the new standards should submit an effluent pollutant reduction plan to the EPA, which, if approved, will give them until 31 December 2017 before the new limits are enforced. For existing enterprises that discharge high-nitrogen, the new controls will be implemented in two phases: Phase 1, starting 31 December 2016, will see the limit set at 150 mg\/L; phase 2, starting 31 December 2018, will see the limit reduced to 60 mg\/L. The grace period for phase 2 is comparatively long since the enterprises in question will also have to upgrade their wastewater treatment facilities. \nIn the interests of risk management and pollution prevention, two heavy metals (cobalt and barium), eight VOCs (benzene, ethyl benzene, chloroform, dichloromethane, 1,2-dichloroethane, vinyl chloride, trichloroethylene and nitrobenzene), and six plasticizers (di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate, DEHP; dimethyl phthalate, DMP; dibutyl phthalate, DBP; benzyl butyl phthalate, BBP; diethyl phthalate, DEP; and di-n-octylphthalate, DNOP) have also been added to the list. Controls on all of them will come into effect on 1 July 2014. For enterprises that use 1,2-dichloroethane and vinyl chloride, and that need to carry out manufacturing improvements to accord with the new standards, an effluent pollutant reduction plan should be submitted to the EPA, which, if approved, will give them to 1 July 2016 before needing to comply with the new limits for these two substances.\nAlthough enforcement of some of the new maximum limits is being delayed to allow for the relevant enterprises to make adjustments, once the deadline passes all effluents must abide by the stated standards. Exceeding the maximums is a violation of Article 7 of the Water Pollution Control Act, and will incur a fine of NT$60,000~NT$600,000.\nThe EPA estimates that once the new standards come into effect there will be 2,600 kg less ammonia nitrogen being discharged into rivers and other water bodies per day. This will lead to a marked amelioration of river pollution, and thus cleaner rivers and better water-accessibility in freshwater environments. However effluent standards are an end-of-pipe control mechanism, and so in addition to urging manufacturers to ensure that their wastewater treatment facilities are in good working order and are being operated properly, the EPA is also urging them to strengthen source controls over waste solvents produced during manufacturing processes in order to reduce the amounts of chemicals entering wastewater treatment facilities and thus reduce the complexity of end-of-pipe wastewater treatment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Effluent Standards for Chemical Industry Announced", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-02" }, { "no": "3113", "title": "Strengthening Risk Management of Toxic Chemicals", "preview": "toxic substance Strengthening Risk Management of Toxic Chemicals", "content": "toxic substance Strengthening Risk Management of Toxic Chemicals In order to promote the reuse of goods the EPA launched its Used Goods Information Exchange Platform (i2so5) in January 2014. The platform enables the public to search for used goods for exchange or sale all over Taiwan and also provides information on flea market locations and operating times, as well as on other fixed locations for exchanging or selling used products. \nOf Taiwan’s 22 local governments, 11 have already set up exchange platforms for used goods, and 18 have fixed exchange locations. The seven categories of goods for exchanging or selling are: books, clothing, furniture, vehicles, electrical appliances, household goods, and general merchandise. Of these, furniture is the most commonly exchanged\/sold item, making up 70% of all transactions. Some of the more well-known centers, such as Taipei City’s Yanhui Book Warehouse and Taichung City’s Pochilin Furniture Reclamation Center, have already been integrated into the EPA’s i2so5 platform (“i2so5” sounds like “love second-hand goods” in Mandarin Chinese; 愛二手物). Since January 2014, the online platform has been helping people find things they need by providing information on locations, operating times, goods, prices, and other information on flea markets around Taiwan. \nThe EPA’s Used Goods Information Exchange (i2so5) Platform is convenient and easy to use. By simply typing in a keyword for location, type of goods or transaction method (cash, barter, donation, etc.) users can quickly find the product they are looking for, if it is available. The platform also has a map search function that pinpoints the locations of flea markets around Taiwan. For Internet novices the platform also has a hot keywords function, so that the names of the most commonly-searched for goods will automatically show up in a drop down list, and clicking on a name will take the user to a page showing where the item is available. \nThe EPA is presently working on integrating local used goods Web sites into the Used Goods Information Exchange (i2so5) Platform. This year the EPA will continue to work on bringing government agencies and civic organizations into the system, on making the platform more accessible, and on enhancing its content and functions. By 2015, the EPA hopes to improve the system to the point where members of the public will be able to register and exchange or sell their own unwanted belongings so that used goods can gain a new lease on life in someone else’s home. \nChinese New Year is a time when Taiwan’s residents like to replace old stuff for new, and the EPA made a special appeal at the time for everyone to use the Used Goods Information Exchange (i2so5) Platform at http:\/\/i2so5.epa.gov.tw, and to pick up a piece of furniture or one of the many other items on offer. Doing this will save people money and will help to keep household goods in homes, where they belong. Recycling resources will also save energy and reduce carbon emissions, leading to a more sustainable environment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "toxic substance", "titlename": "Strengthening Risk Management of Toxic Chemicals", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-02" }, { "no": "3112", "title": "Used Goods Information Exchange Platform Launched", "preview": "Waste Used Goods Information Exchange Platform Launched", "content": "Waste Used Goods Information Exchange Platform Launched", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Used Goods Information Exchange Platform Launched", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-02" }, { "no": "3111", "title": "Methods and Facility Standards Governing the Storage Clearance and Disposal of Waste Containers Amended", "preview": "waste Methods and Facility Standards Governing the Storage Clearance and Disposal of Waste Containers Amended", "content": "waste Methods and Facility Standards Governing the Storage Clearance and Disposal of Waste Containers Amended To improve the management of the disposal of waste containers the EPA preannounced its amendment of Article 7 and Article 8 of the Methods and Facility Standards Governing the Storage, Clearance, and Disposal of Waste Containers. The purpose of the amendment, as per the EPA, is to allow the waste containers to be treated by general waste incinerators when the disposal facilities cease operation or are undercapacity. After the amendment goes into effect, public grievances about the lack of channelization of recycled containers can thus be reduced.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Methods and Facility Standards Governing the Storage Clearance and Disposal of Waste Containers Amended", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-02" }, { "no": "3110", "title": "All Mercury-containing Light Bulbs to be Recycled", "preview": "recycling All Mercury containing Light Bulbs to be Recycled", "content": "recycling All Mercury containing Light Bulbs to be Recycled To keep up with the international trend on the management and recycling of mercury-containing substances the EPA has announced that effective from 1 March 2014, cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL), magnetic induction lamps (MIL) and other mercury-containing lighting sources are to be classified as recyclable items. In keeping with the amendment of the scope of responsible industries, the EPA also preannounced the adjustment of the fee rates for the recycling, clearance and disposal of lighting sources, which will become effective from 1 March 2014.\nThe newly added recyclable items and amendment of the fee rates were decided upon after thorough review of the clearance and disposal costs, the auditing costs, the reuse value, the impact on the environment, and the financial position of the Resource Recycling Fund. To maintain the standards of our living environment, it behooves the general public, government organizations and companies not to litter used lighting sources. Rather, they can be recovered through a variety of channels, including resource recycling vehicles, stores that sell lighting fixtures or recycling organizations approved by environmental protection authorities.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "recycling", "titlename": "All Mercury containing Light Bulbs to be Recycled", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-02" }, { "no": "3109", "title": "Guidance on Inspection and Penalty Issuance Provided", "preview": "environmental inspection Guidance on Inspection and Penalty Issuance Provided", "content": "environmental inspection Guidance on Inspection and Penalty Issuance Provided A spate of recent major environmental pollution cases has highlighted the degree to which the existing inspections and penalties regime is no longer a sufficient deterrent to prevent certain enterprises from environmental violations. The EPA has thus set new guidance on inspection and penalty issuance for environmental personnel to follow closely in the ongoing battle against polluters. \nSince 2009 the EPA has been actively promoting in-depth inspection to replace end-of-pipe controls. The EPA has also been employing the Administrative Penalty Act to punish violators who have made long-term illegal gains by breaking the law. To date, the EPA has found 28 such violations and has issued NT$850 million in fines (including confiscated illegal gains). However, among local governments, only Taichung City, Tainan City, and Kaohsiung City have prosecuted a total of four successful cases leading to fines of NT$144 million. In 2011, the EPA also changed the penalty for illegally diluting effluent or discharging effluent via hidden conduits. Manufacturers charged with such violations will face immediate suspension of operations, without the previous benefit of having two written warnings. However, this measure is still not being widely enforced, which indicates that local government environmental protection bureaus have yet to come up to speed with the new inspections and penalties system. \nThe EPA, therefore, set new guidance on environmental inspection and penalty issuance and asked environmental personnel to follow closely. The guidance includes:\n(1) Inspecting for pollution but not determining its cause is deemed as connivance: In the past, environmental inspectors would take effluent samples from discharge outlets for testing, but rarely did they enter factories to inspect wastewater treatment facilities or audit operation records. Thus faulty treatment facilities or monitoring equipment and falsified records were not discovered in time, nor was it possible to uncover the clues to hidden pipes that some factory owners had installed for illegally discharging effluent. Issuing fines for substandard effluent but not entering premises to find the cause of the pollution was, in fact, letting violators off the hook. There have been major cases in which factory owners were finally ordered to shut down operations after serious violations involving irreversible environmental pollution. Such delays are clearly unacceptable. \n(2) Inspecting inside factories to find and rectify flaws and immediately issuing penalties: Inspectors will henceforth be required to not only take water samples during routine factory inspections but also enter premises and make a concerted effort to uncover causes of substandard effluent and investigate any other illegal activities. Timely intervention by inspectors can prevent manufacturers from engaging in activities such as bypass discharge or discharge via hidden conduits, diluting effluent instead of treating it, turning off part or all of the treatment facility, not adding enough treatment agents to the effluent, using faulty monitoring equipment, or not keeping accurate records. The goals of inspection should be to both penalize infractions and to ensure that improvements are carried out. \n(3) Imposing immediate suspension of operations (instead of after two warnings) for illegal discharge via hidden pipes: On 1 September 2011 and 12 November 2012, the EPA ordered the shutdown of operations for premises where wastewater was being discharged: through unauthorized conduits; through unauthorized treatment units; through authorized treatment units in which part or all of the treatment facility had been turned off; or where insufficient water treatment agents were being used, or polluted wastewater was being diluted and then discharged. Since hidden pipes, diverted wastewater, and instances of wastewater dilution are extremely difficult to uncover, the EPA decided to order the immediate cessation of operations – removing the previous requirement of two written warnings to be given – for such cases where the impact upon environmental water quality is deemed sufficiently serious. However, inspectors should still prepare written warnings to manufacturers outlining the violations that will lead to operations being shut down so that if any manufacturers persist in hiding discharge pipes or diverting effluent, inspectors can immediately halt plant operations, with fair warning having been given. \n(4) Imposing suspension of operations for unreported facility malfunctions, with resumption of operations granted only after evaluation: Failure of a manufacturing or wastewater treatment facility that leads to pollutants or hazardous substances being discharged in amounts exceeding standards or maximum limitations should be managed using load shedding. If this is not possible, then the substandard effluent should be returned to source or sent to suitable storage facilities, and the manufacturing process producing the effluent should be halted. Once the manufacturing or wastewater treatment facilities have been repaired, the wastewater treatment facilities should be restarted first to ensure that they are able to treat the wastewater properly. The effluent stored during the breakdown period can then be treated and discharged, and the normal manufacturing operations can be resumed afterwards. If any unreported mechanical failures causing environmental water pollution are discovered during inspection, manufacturing operations will be immediately suspended. Major violators will have to submit an operations resumption plan – including installation of automatic monitoring, online reporting equipment, emergency response measures and drills – to their competent authority for evaluation and approval before operations can be resumed. \n(5) Implementing in-depth inspection, effective fines and tracing of illegal gains: All environmental personnel should thoroughly implement the new inspection and penalty regime of in-depth inspection and limitless fines in order to root out the making of illegal gains by enterprises breaking environmental regulations. The EPA is fully aware of just how devious some of these long-term violators are, and intends to use the full force of the Administrative Penalty Act – which allows for all illicit gains to be taken into account when setting fines – to deter such violators from further damaging the environment. \n(6) Provisional seizure is necessary for preventing fraudulent transfer and for securing compensation: Environmental cases inevitably involve considerable damage to the environment, and the clean-up and remediation costs can be enormous, as can the amounts of illegal gains pursued by the EPA. In order to prevent polluters from hiding or transferring ownership of their assets, and thus protect the EPA's compensation rights, in cases where environmental officers believe that large sums of illegal gains are involved, they should apply to the courts for provisional seizure of the violator’s assets. \nThe EPA is urging all of Taiwan’s environmental agencies to break out of their old law-enforcement habits and adopt the guidance outlined above. A firmer approach is needed to bolster environmental law enforcement and turn it into a truly formidable weapon in the fight against environmental violations. Most importantly, only if all of Taiwan’s enterprises abide by the law and make an effort to protect the environment will Taiwan’s labor force and overall economy benefit.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "environmental inspection", "titlename": "Guidance on Inspection and Penalty Issuance Provided", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-02" }, { "no": "3108", "title": "Logo Design Competition Held to Promote Environmental Bonus Points", "preview": "Ecolabelling Logo Design Competition Held to Promote Environmental Bonus Points", "content": "Ecolabelling Logo Design Competition Held to Promote Environmental Bonus Points The EPA is holding a logo competition to select a suitable logo to represent environmental bonus point scheme. Members of the public are invited to submit logo designs. There will be cash prizes and the winning design will be adopted as the official logo. To promote green lifestyles and green consumption, the EPA has devised an environmental bonus point scheme by integrating both governmental and private sector resources. Based on the concept of adding value to environmental activities, the mechanism allows consumers to redeem points for cash or discounts on green products in order to encourage adoption of greener consumption and lifestyles. \nSouth Korea and Japan have also rolled out similar policies. In 2011, South Korea started issuing Green Credit Cards based upon a system of points accumulated by purchasing green products. The points can then be used to buy discounted entry tickets to Korea’s national parks.\nIn the future, Taiwan’s green bonus point scheme will not only include green purchases but will also extend to other low-carbon behaviors such as saving energy and water or using public transport. Estimations of the environmental benefits of each of the applicable activities will be made so that points can be awarded accordingly. Consumers will be able to use their accumulated points to buy green products and gain discounts on environmental education or tickets to forestry recreation areas.\nThe EPA is thus holding an environmental bonus point logo competition to select a suitable logo. Information on the competition has been posted at http:\/\/greenliving.epa.gov.tw\/\nThe winning logo will not only appear on bonus point cards but also on the packaging of green products, at the counters of shops selling green products or any other outlet offering green services. \n\n\nTo promote green lifestyles and green consumption, the EPA has devised an environmental bonus point scheme by integrating both governmental and private sector resources. Based on the concept of adding value to environmental activities, the mechanism allows consumers to redeem points for cash or discounts on green products in order to encourage adoption of greener consumption and lifestyles. \nSouth Korea and Japan have also rolled out similar policies. In 2011, South Korea started issuing Green Credit Cards based upon a system of points accumulated by purchasing green products. The points can then be used to buy discounted entry tickets to Korea’s national parks.\nIn the future, Taiwan’s green bonus point scheme will not only include green purchases but will also extend to other low-carbon behaviors such as saving energy and water or using public transport. Estimations of the environmental benefits of each of the applicable activities will be made so that points can be awarded accordingly. Consumers will be able to use their accumulated points to buy green products and gain discounts on environmental education or tickets to forestry recreation areas.\nThe EPA is thus holding an environmental bonus point logo competition to select a suitable logo. Information on the competition has been posted at http:\/\/greenliving.epa.gov.tw\/\nThe winning logo will not only appear on bonus point cards but also on the packaging of green products, at the counters of shops selling green products or any other outlet offering green services.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Ecolabelling", "titlename": "Logo Design Competition Held to Promote Environmental Bonus Points", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-02" }, { "no": "3107", "title": "Green Consumption Milestone Reached with Issuance of 10,000th Green Mark Certification", "preview": "ecolabeling Green Consumption Milestone Reached with Issuance of 10,000th Green Mark Certification", "content": "ecolabeling Green Consumption Milestone Reached with Issuance of 10,000th Green Mark Certification On 20 January 2014, the Electronics Testing Center, contracted by the EPA to conduct Green Mark certification, issued the ten thousandth certificate, eviden", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "ecolabeling", "titlename": "Green Consumption Milestone Reached with Issuance of 10,000th Green Mark Certification", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-02" }, { "no": "3106", "title": "Educational Video Changing Climate, Sustainable Taiwan Released", "preview": "Climate Change Educational Video Changing Climate Sustainable Taiwan Released", "content": "Climate Change Educational Video Changing Climate Sustainable Taiwan Released In order to raise awareness of climate change and encourage citizens to adopt low-carbon lifestyles, the EPA has made a short educational video on climate change entitled Changi", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Educational Video Changing Climate Sustainable Taiwan Released", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-02" }, { "no": "3105", "title": "First Batch of Public Premises Required to Comply with Indoor Air Quality Act Announced", "preview": "air quality First Batch of Public Premises Required to Comply with Indoor Air Quality Act Announced", "content": "air quality First Batch of Public Premises Required to Comply with Indoor Air Quality Act Announced\nOn 23 January 2014 the EPA announced the first batch of public premises that are to comply with provisions of the Indoor Air Quality Act coming into effect on 1 July 2014. The announcement was made in accordance with Article 6 of the act. In addition to outlining the type of indoor space and air pollutants that should be placed under control, the EPA also demanded that owners, managers or operators of public areas submit an Indoor Air Quality Maintenance and Management Plan by 31 December 2015 as well as carry out regular indoor air quality tests and measurements by 30 June 2016. The results of these regular checkups should be made known to the public and records should be kept thereof.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "First Batch of Public Premises Required to Comply with Indoor Air Quality Act Announced", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-02" }, { "no": "3104", "title": "EPA Provides PM2.5 Alert Service", "preview": "air quality EPA Provides PM2 alert service", "content": "air quality EPA Provides PM2 alert service To give better advance notice of occurrences of high concentrations of fine particulate matters PM2.5 the EPA has followed Japan’s Ministry of the Environment by posting PM2.5 alerts on a dedicated website http:\/\/taqm.epa.gov.tw. Real-time data on average PM2.5 concentrations from Taiwan’s monitoring stations are collected at 5 am, 6 am and 7 am. A public health alert for locations where the average concentration over these three hours exceeds 80 μg\/m3 will be posted on the website before 9 am. The Central Weather Bureau and the local environmental protection bureaus with jurisdiction over the affected areas are then notified immediately to deal with the situation. \nIn February 2013, Japan’s Ministry of the Environment brought together a team of environment and health experts to report on effects of and possible responses to PM2.5 air pollution. According to their report, a daily average PM2.5 value of over 70 μg\/m3 could result in the health of people susceptible to allergies being affected. Further analysis of the data from the Japanese monitoring stations shows that whenever average concentrations for the 5-7 am time period exceed 85 μg\/m3, there is a high probability that the average for the day will reach 70 μg\/m3. The Japanese government thus issues a health alert whenever a morning average exceeds 85 μg\/m3. \nThe EPA adopted the same methodology in October 2013 to analyze monitoring data of the previous three years for days on which the average of PM2.5 readings taken from 5-7 am reached 80 μg\/m3. It found a 70% chance that a PM2.5 early morning average of 80 μg\/m3 would be followed by the average for the day reaching 70 μg\/m3. \nThe real-time PM2.5 data from the EPA’s 76 air quality monitoring stations is not only available on the EPA’s website but can also be accessed by downloading the EPA’s free environment app, which automatically alerts users whenever the maximum values they set for monitoring data have been exceeded.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "EPA Provides PM2.5 Alert Service", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-02" }, { "no": "3103", "title": "Scope of Enterprises Required to Designate Waste Disposal Professionals Expanded", "preview": "Waste Scope of Enterprises Required to Designate Waste Disposal Professionals Expanded", "content": "Waste Scope of Enterprises Required to Designate Waste Disposal Professionals Expanded The EPA announced its amendments to the Enterprises Required to Designate Waste Disposal Professionals in which the scope of enterprises under regulation was greatly expanded to cover an additional 1,632 enterprises. \nThe amendment was based on the following considerations: 1) the growing importance of the functions of waste disposal specialists; 2) strengthening the self-regulation of the waste production source; 3) strict management of waste disposal; and 4) source reduction of wastes. The EPA is thus tightening controls on enterprises which report in excess of the maximum monthly production of 60 tonnes of hazardous wastes or which exceed the monthly maximum of 100 tonnes for non-hazardous sludge. By so doing, 90% of hazardous industrial wastes and 82% of non-hazardous sludge will be controlled. \nIn an effort to encourage large scale enterprises to fulfill their environmental responsibilities, the EPA also amended its regulations regarding manufacturing industries that should submit waste disposal plans. Enterprises with a registered capital of over NT$2 billion are required to designate waste disposal professionals. \nThe EPA reminds local environmental protection bureaus to communicate the amended regulations to the enterprises under their jurisdiction. Enterprises that are newly ordained to have waste disposal professionals are urged to select appropriate personnel to undergo waste disposal training sessions and obtain suitable qualifications. Alternatively, these enterprises may opt to hire personnel who have already acquired such qualifications. Information on the related training courses can be found at http:\/\/www.eps.gov.tw\/traini8ng\/index.html. Regarding the contents of the amendments, please refer to http:\/\/ivv5.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Waste", "titlename": "Scope of Enterprises Required to Designate Waste Disposal Professionals Expanded", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-01" }, { "no": "3102", "title": "Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act Revised to Launch Chemical Substance Registration", "preview": "Toxic Substance Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act Revised to Launch Chemical Substance Registration", "content": "Toxic Substance _Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act Revised to Launch Chemical Substance Registration In December 2013 President Ma Ying-jeou announced revisions to the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act (毒性化學物質管理法) that will initiate a national registration system for chemical substances in 2014. The 17 revisions include the addition of 4 new articles and revisions to 13 existing articles, which will provide for the formulation of chemical substance management regulations, thereby facilitating control over the manufacture or import of such substances and enhancing the overall management of Category 4 toxic substances. \nThe revised act authorizes the EPA to formulate and promulgate the necessary subsidiary laws within one year (i.e., before 11 December 2014). These bylaws include regulations governing chemical substance registration, approval of Category 4 toxic substances for use, and enforcement rules for toxic chemical substance control. They also include regulations governing outsourcing review of chemical substance registration applications, labeling and safe-handling information for toxic chemicals, standards for permit application fees to handle toxic chemicals, and emergency response vehicles that respond to incidents involving toxic chemicals (to be formulated in conjunction with the Ministry of Transportation and Communications). The EPA is currently endeavoring to carry out the research and planning for a draft of the above regulations, and expects to begin a series of public hearings and consultations from September 2014 to take on board the public’s opinions. \nUnder the provisions of the act, there will be a system for controlling chemical substances at the source, and manufacturers and importers of chemical substances will be required to register information on said substances with the EPA. This information must include the status of manufacture and importation, physical and chemical properties, toxicity, and exposure and risk assessments. EPA approval must be gained before the said substances can be manufactured or imported. Details of implementation rules will be specified in the draft of the Management Regulations Governing Chemical Substance Registration (化學物質登錄管理辦法). Currently, the draft covers the following:\n1) Registration of new chemical substances – based on the category of the substance, three types of registration will be used: standard registration, simple registration, and small-volume registration. \n2) Registration of existing chemical substances will be carried out in batches and in stages. \nThe EPA would like to stress that enterprises that manufacture or import new chemical substances without approval are liable to a fine of NT$200,000~2,000,000; manufacturing or importing existing chemicals without approval could result in a fine of NT$30,000~300,000. Violators who do not make improvements before the given deadline will incur repeat fines. Violators who do not make improvements after receiving two written warnings will face suspension of operations, suspension of business or will be forced to ship back the offending batch of chemicals. \nBoth local circumstances and international trends will be taken into account for the draft of the Management Regulations Governing Chemical Substance Registration. The EPA will continue to consult with experts from the government, industry and academia on issues related to chemical substance registration, such as tonnage range, types, information to be registered, regular reporting of manufacturing\/importation methods and volumes, and disclosure of information. The ultimate goal is the establishment of a complete at-source chemical substance registration system.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "toxic substance", "titlename": "Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act Revised to Launch Chemical Substance Registration", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-01" }, { "no": "3101", "title": "Soil Pollution Monitoring Standards Revised", "preview": "Soil & Groundwater Soil Pollution Monitoring Standards Revised", "content": "Soil & Groundwater Soil Pollution Monitoring Standards Revised In response to the need to update Taiwan’s soil pollution controls the EPA has announced revisions to Article 4 of the Soil Pollution Monitoring Standards (土壤污染監測標準). The revisions will bring soil pollution management more into line with on-the-ground requirements, and should result in land being put to more effective use. \nSince the promulgation of the Soil Pollution Monitoring Standards on 31 January 2011, Taiwan’s economy and manufacturing industries have undergone certain changes. Meanwhile risk assessments and other useful reference information from Taiwan and overseas have become more comprehensive. All of these have allowed for a more pragmatic approach to environmental risk control and adopting more effective land use. Following a period of research, discussions, and collection of the public’s opinions, the EPA conducted a review of the Soil Pollution Monitoring Standards and made revisions to Article 4. \nThe EPA summarized the main points of the revisions as follows:\n1. Control standard values for five heavy metals – arsenic, cadmium, copper, lead, and zinc – have been revised, changing the wording of “food crop farmland” to “agricultural land and drinking water source and quality protected area.” Heavy metal control standards for industrial parks have also been added. \n2. In order to maintain the effectiveness of pollution risk management, and after taking into account current restrictions on land use and the way land is re-designated for industrial use, the EPA has decided that the newly-added heavy metal control standards for industrial parks and high factory-density areas will be applied only to areas which are designated for industrial use only. These are the same industrial parks, export processing zones, science-based parks, and environmental science and technology parks stated in Article 6 Paragraph 3 Item 1 of the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "soil & groundwater", "titlename": "Soil Pollution Monitoring Standards Revised", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-01" }, { "no": "3100", "title": "2013 International Conference on Resource Recycling Held", "preview": "recycling 2013 International Conference on Resource Recycling Held", "content": "recycling 2013 International Conference on Resource Recycling Held From 18-19 December 2013 the EPA held the 2013 International Conference on Resource Recycling, to which government representatives from Canada, Germany, India, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Thailand, and the UK were invited to share their experiences in resource recycling. Through keynote speeches and panel discussions, the delegates exchanged information on their respective governments’ recycling management systems and provided many feasible ideas on planning the construction of sustainable cities. On 20 December, the delegates visited several waste sorting plants of the local environmental protection bureaus as well as some privately owned waste recycling enterprises. The guests expressed that they were deeply impressed with Taiwan’s accomplishments in resource recycling, and in particular with Taiwan’s ability to implement the sorting of household garbage. They also trusted that Taiwan’s advanced technology in waste recycling would provide a paragon for other nations to follow, and that based on the solid foundation laid by Taiwan, the international community will be able to march toward the construction of sustainable cities.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "recycling", "titlename": "2013 International Conference on Resource Recycling Held", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-01" }, { "no": "3098", "title": "New Environmental Measures for 2014", "preview": "General policy New Environmental Measures for 2014", "content": "General policy New Environmental Measures for 2014 With the arrival of 2014 the EPA has announced nine new measures that directly enhance environmental protection. These include revisions to construction project air pollution control fee rates, the upgrading of GPS systems on industrial waste transportation vehicles, and other measures that all came into effect on 1 January 2014.\nThe nine measures that came into effect on 1 January 2014 are as follows:\n1. From the beginning of 2014, adjustments will be made in two stages to the recycling fee rates for dry cell batteries.\n2. Attachments for Article 2 and Article 7 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Documents Review Fee-charging Standards have been revised. \n3. Reference regulations for sediment quality have been issued that will help to protect aquatic organisms and public health. \n4. The Construction Project Air Pollution Control Fee Rates have been revised along with the Construction Project Air Pollution Control Equipment Management Regulations.\n5. Natural compounds to be used in the environment as insect repellants will require approval from the EPA. Documentation of natural ingredients and their efficacy as repellants must be submitted with applications. \n6. Two sets of regulations governing GPS installation in industrial waste transportation vehicles have been merged; the new regulations also require the upgrading of GPS in older vehicles. \n7. The Management Regulations Governing the Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions (溫室氣體排放量申報管理辦法) have been promulgated and the Public and Private Premises Required to Report Greenhouse Gas Emission Volumes as Stationary Pollution Sources (公私場所應申報溫室氣體排放量之固定污染源) have been announced. The regulations immediately went into effect for enterprises that emit over 25,000 tonnes of CO2e greenhouse gases per year.\n8. As required by Article 105 Paragraph 1 of the Water Pollution Control Measures and Test Reporting Management Regulations, large-scale industries, industrial parks, and power stations were given a year from a designated date to complete the installation of automatic monitoring equipment in their sewer systems that can continuously transmit data online. \n9. The Air Pollution Control and Emission Standards for Volatile Organic Compounds (揮發性有機物空氣污染管制及排放標準) have come into effect (as detailed below). \nDetails of the above regulations are shown in the following table.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "General Policy", "titlename": "New Environmental Measures for 2014", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-01" }, { "no": "3097", "title": "Using Fish shrimp and Algae as environmental indicators", "preview": "Environmental Analysis Using Fish shrimp and Algae as environmental indicators", "content": "Environmental Analysis Using Fish shrimp and Algae as environmental indicators The EPA has been announcing the results of research that employ river organisms such as fish shrimp and algae in order to set benchmarks for effluent toxicity in aquatic life forms. The tests could be used by enterprises to conduct self-assessments of their effluent with the aim of improving the protection of river water quality. \nBiological toxicity testing refers to the practice of using certain living organisms to evaluate the toxic effect of pollutants in water samples on organisms in general. Biological toxicity is commonly divided into two types: acute and chronic. Acute toxicity testing assesses the impact upon the organism’s survival, with death thus being the final possible outcome. Chronic toxicity testing involves long-term observation of the effect of toxicity on the organism’s biology, and so the assessment criteria include determining whether growth, reproduction, etc. have been impacted. \nIn 1993, the EPA began developing biological toxicity testing standards that would be suitable for use in Taiwan. After many years of hard work, the EPA has developed different sets of testing standards for the following indigenous species: carps, Pseudorasbora parva, Zacco platypus, Neocardina denticulate sinensis, water fleas (Daphnia pulex), and algae. A number of different species is necessary because organisms in their natural ecosystems are intimately connected – no single species can survive without the others – and there is no single species that is equally sensitive to all forms of toxicity, hence the need for different tests for different species. Toxicity testing should also cover organisms in at least two different nutrient levels, such as fish and shrimps, or fish and water fleas. \nCosts for biological testing are not low, so the EPA is calling on Taiwan’s businesses to remember their corporate social responsibility as they pursue economic growth and develop their own biological toxicity tests in the effluent they discharge. Not only would this improve their corporate image but it would also help Taiwan along the road to having healthy and sustainable ecosystems.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Analysis", "titlename": "Using Fish shrimp and Algae as environmental indicators", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-01" }, { "no": "3096", "title": "Draft of Guidelines for Greenhouse Gas Analysis and Auditing Organization Management Regulations Preannounced", "preview": "Climate Change Draft of Guidelines for Greenhouse Gas Analysis and Auditing Organization Management Regulations Preannounced", "content": "Climate Change Draft of Guidelines for Greenhouse Gas Analysis and Auditing Organization Management Regulations Preannounced In order to streamline and improve the management of greenhouse gas testing and auditing organizations the EPA has formulated a draft of the Greenhouse Gas Analysis and Auditing Organization Management Regulations (溫室氣體檢驗測定及查驗機構管理辦法). The regulations will provide a framework for the management of such organizations and their staff. \nTo ensure that Taiwan’s greenhouse gas emission volumes and reduction data is accurate, in 2009 the EPA promulgated the Greenhouse Gas Auditing Organization Working Guidelines (溫室氣體查驗機構作業原則). The guidelines improved the management of greenhouse gas auditing organizations by specifying application and evaluation procedures. On 9 May 2012, the EPA further announced that CO2 and five other greenhouse gases were to be classified as air pollutants. The draft of the Greenhouse Gas Analysis and Auditing Organization Management Regulations aims to streamline and improve the administration of greenhouse gas analysis and procedures for evaluating greenhouse gas auditing organizations. The regulations comprise a comprehensive set of legislation that facilitates the management of greenhouse gas analysis and auditing organizations and their staff. \nThe management procedures laid out in the draft are similar to those laid out in the Environmental Analysis Organization Management Regulations and the Environmental Analysis Organization Working Guidelines in that they stipulate the conditions that greenhouse gas analysis and auditing organizations must meet, permit application and revocation procedures, minimum qualifications for personnel, auditing procedures, and other legal requirements. After the regulations are implemented, the EPA will grant sufficient time for obtaining the new permit to the organizations that currently have a valid permit to conduct greenhouse gas analysis, as well as to the 11 approved auditing organizations.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "climate change", "titlename": "Draft of Guidelines for Greenhouse Gas Analysis and Auditing Organization Management Regulations Preannounced", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-01" }, { "no": "3095", "title": "Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards Revised", "preview": "air quality Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards Revised", "content": "air quality Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards Revised It was announced in 2012 that six major greenhouse gases would be classified as air pollutants and hence subject to controls. In light of this the EPA announced the amendments to the Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards, including the addition of CO2 emission standards for vehicles. The amendments will extend the reach of Taiwan’s greenhouse gas reduction efforts even further. \nGreenhouse gases are a cause of global warming and climate change, and thus indirectly impact, change and damage our living environment. Hence, on 9 May 2012, the EPA officially announced that CO2, methane, nitrous oxide, HFCs, SF6, and CF4 to be air pollutants, and so it became necessary to add CO2 to the Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards. \nThe first stage of implementation will target passenger cars and will use 2009 as the base year. A target of a 15% reduction in CO2 emissions from new cars will be phased in starting from 2015. Taiwan’s emission standards were set after consulting the EU’s emission standards for passenger cars. \nThe EU’s linear target curve method has been adopted and CO2 emission reporting values will be calculated using factory sales weighted averages. The EU has set its control standard value at 130 g\/km but has also stated that factories that sell less than 300,000 vehicles per year can go up to 25% over the limit. As the total number of annual newly-registered passenger cars in Taiwan has never exceeded 300,000, the EPA has decided to set the control standard value at 163 g\/km (130g\/km × 1.25) so that it is in line with current standards in the EU. \nIn order to encourage enterprises to manufacture or import low-carbon emission vehicles, the amendments also allow for the recognition of extra credits for the lower CO2 emission volumes from electric or hybrid (i.e., low emission) vehicles. Furthermore, if average emissions for some of the manufacturers’ vehicles are below the set control standard then the difference can be counted – within a stated time period – as a credit against other vehicles that have higher emissions. Credits will also be given for the adoption of new environmental technologies that have been recognized by developed nations. All of the new measures aim to encourage Taiwan’s auto industry to manufacture or import low-emission vehicles for consumers.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Vehicular Air Pollutant Emission Standards Revised", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-01" }, { "no": "3094", "title": "Subsidies Extended for Purchasing New Electric and Electric-assisted Bicycles", "preview": "air quality Subsidies Extended for Purchasing New Electric and Electric-assisted Bicycles", "content": "air quality Subsidies Extended for Purchasing New Electric and Electric-assisted Bicycles In order to encourage the general public to purchase electric bicycles and electric-assisted bicycles the EPA has extended the application deadline for subsidies to 30 November 2015. In addition, the subsidy amount is higher for early birds who opt to use the swappable universal batteries with standard specifications. From 1 January 2015, however, only owners who use universal batteries will be eligible for the subsidies, and the amount of subsidies will also be curtailed. For detailed information about the subsidies, please refer to the chart below. The first 2,500 members who participate in the battery swapping system will be entitled to receive up to NT$5,000 for battery swapping expenses. The EPA hopes that the promotion of electric bicycles and the battery swapping system will be accelerated through these multiple measures.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Subsidies Extended for Purchasing New Electric and Electric-assisted Bicycles", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-01" }, { "no": "3093", "title": "Subsidies Announced for Converting Two-wheeled Vehicles to Use Universal Battery", "preview": "air quality Subsidies Announced for Converting Two-wheeled Vehicles to Use Universal Battery", "content": "air quality Subsidies Announced for Converting Two-wheeled Vehicles to Use Universal Battery The EPA has announced the Regulations Regarding Subsidies for Converting Two-wheeled Vehicles to Use Universal Batteries (電動二輪車改裝使用共通電池補助辦法). The subsidies will be available to manufacturers of two-wheeled electric vehicles and battery exchange operators who wish to switch to the swappable universal batteries that meet the EPA’s specifications. New regulations have also been announced governing the testing procedures for the universal battery. The aim of the new regime is to encourage enterprises to quickly adopt the universal batteries which will promote the uptake of two-wheeled electric vehicles and the battery swapping system. \nThe EPA is currently actively promoting the use of two-wheeled electric vehicles and the battery swapping system and has already provided subsidies to two enterprises that have each set up over 30 battery swapping stations. Vehicle owners who join the battery swapping system do not need to worry about the cost of maintaining or replacing batteries but instead can have their batteries exchanged as conveniently as filling a conventional vehicle up with gas. Having a network of swapping stations thus gives two-wheeled electric vehicles a far greater range, which is what the vehicle owners want. Starting in 2010, the EPA has held almost 30 meetings with operators in order to reach a consensus on the specifications of the universal batteries. On 9 December 2013, the EPA announced the Regulations Regarding Testing Universal Batteries in the Two-wheeled Electric Vehicle Battery Swapping System (電動二輪車電池交換系統共通電池審驗規範) and promulgated the Regulations Regarding Subsidies for Converting Two-wheeled Vehicles to Use Universal Batteries (電動二輪車改裝使用共通電池補助辦法). Enterprises that join the scheme will be able to claim subsidies for converting their facilities in order to handle the universal batteries and also for carrying out battery testing. \nIn order to encourage members of the public to buy two-wheeled electric vehicles with swappable batteries, the EPA is offering a subsidy of NT$10,000 on battery swapping fees for each of the first 10,000 people who buy a two-wheeled electric vehicle and become members of the EPA battery swapping system. This will facilitate technology and operating feasibility assessments for the system and should also accelerate the spread of two-wheeled electric vehicles. \nTwo-wheeled electric vehicles operate entirely by electricity and thus generate less air pollution than conventional combustion engine motor bikes. The EPA encourages the public to purchase two-wheeled electric vehicles that use swappable universal batteries and likewise encourages industry to adopt such batteries for their products. Air quality is thus bound to improve with people pitching in to do their part.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Subsidies Announced for Converting Two-wheeled Vehicles to Use Universal Battery", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-01" }, { "no": "3092", "title": "Emission Standards for Volatile Organic Compounds Take Effect", "preview": "Air Quality Emission Standards for Volatile Organic Compounds Take Effect", "content": "Air Quality Emission Standards for Volatile Organic Compounds Take Effect\nOn 1 February 2011 the EPA announced revisions to the Air Pollution Control and Emission Standards for Volatile Organic Compounds (揮發性有機物空氣污染管制及排放標準). Considering that operators of existing pollution sources would need time to make the improvements to bring them into line with the law, different timescales were laid out with the latest being three and a half years from the date of promulgation. New manufacturing operations, however, have had to abide by the regulations since 1 February 2011. \nThe relevant emission standards that took effect from 1 January 2014 are explained below: \n1. Flare Stacks\n(1) Regulations that govern the installation of monitoring equipment in flare stacks and subsequent reporting procedures include: \n‧Equipment for monitoring waste gas composition and concentrations must also indicate gross\/net heat values. Oil refineries should add equipment to monitor total sulfur concentrations in the waste gas. \n‧Flow meters should be installed in the independent fuel systems that feed the pilot light.\n‧Equipment that has water sealed tanks installed should also have water level or pressure gauges installed on the tanks to indicate how well the water seals are functioning. \n‧Steam flow meters should be installed in steam-assisted combustion. \n(2) Public and private premises that have monitoring equipment but are exempt from the requirement for continuous automatic monitoring should still inspect their flare stack every six days, or hire a specialized analysis organization to do so. \n(3)Every year at the end of January, April, July and October, public and private premises should submit quarterly reports to their local competent authority. Said reports should include total flare stack operation time, volume of waste gas, rate of discharge, volume of pilot light fuel, water levels or pressures of water sealed tanks, gross\/net heat values, waste gas composition and concentrations, steam volume, and calculated air pollutant emission volumes.\n(4)Attachment 1 in the standards stipulates the calibration and function specification for flare stack monitoring facilities. These include frequency of calibration and function inspections for flow meters installed on the flare stack feeder pipes. \n2. The cleaning of storage tanks that hold liquid VOCs should be done when the tank is empty and all residual gas has been collected. The tank should only be opened after VOC concentration has been 50% below the explosive threshold or below 34,000 ppm for at least one hour. However, if a cleaning machine is installed, these restrictions do not apply. In such a case, when the tank is opened, the operator should ensure that any residual VOC gas is collected and treated properly before being discharged in order to minimize its impact on the surrounding environment and the chance of public complaints arising. \n3. Effluent Treatment Facilities\n(1) The regulations stipulate that liquid effluent in petrochemical industry wastewater collection systems must not come into contact with the atmosphere, and thus must be covered or enclosed.\n(2) The regulations state that the preliminary treatment units and biological aerated filters in petrochemical industry wastewater treatment plants must be hermetically sealed and regularly maintained. In cases where the volume of wastewater from petrochemical operations does not exceed 40% of the total volume of wastewater received at the industrial park wastewater treatment plants, or when safety considerations or special circumstances arise and there is no cause for public complaint, then the effluent may be left uncovered with the prior approval of the local competent authority. In such cases, the operator must submit reports giving details on foul odors noticed in the vicinity of wastewater facilities, wastewater sources and flow volumes, as well as water volumes and VOC concentrations in the biological aerated filtering systems. The report must be submitted to the local competent authority before the end of January, April, July and October.\nThe above regulations are designed to prevent wastewater dispersing VOCs into the environment. Sludge treatment facilities should adopt sealed or enclosed gas collection systems that should be regularly maintained and kept sealed. Treatment should be continued until there has been a reduction in pollutants of over 85% or until a discharge concentration of below 150 ppm has been reached. The measure aims to ensure that VOCs will not escape from the sludge into the surrounding environment where the foul odors they create could lead to complaints from local residents.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Emission Standards for Volatile Organic Compounds Take Effect", "position": "print\/V17\/V17-01" }, { "no": "3091", "title": "Compulsory Registration of Manufactured or Imported Toxic Substances Starts from 2014", "preview": "Toxic Substance\n\nCompulsory Registration of Manufactured or Imported Toxic Substances Starts from 2014\n\nOn 22 November 2013 the Legislative Yuan passed the third reading of a draft bill containing amendments to some articles of the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act. Taiwan now has a more advanced system for registering toxic substances at source that will enable effective control over the manufacture or importation of these hazardous chemicals. A strengthening of the restrictions governing Category 4 substances will help to prevent enterprises from illegally using them. A total of 17 articles were amended or added, and will come into effect one year after being announced by President Ma Ying-jeou. \n\nOver the coming year, the EPA, as authorized by the recent amendments to the act, will be drawing up a set of management regulations to fully cover the registration and use of toxic substances. A toxic substances information platform will be established to facilitate the sharing of information such as policies, assessments, and plans from government agencies. The new regimen aims to protect the environment and citizens’ health by preventing Taiwan from becoming an international testing ground for newly emerged toxic substances or new chemicals that are still in the R&D stage. \n\nThe revisions and additions also include regulations covering the registration of contractors who handle toxic chemicals, and the disclosure and protection of commercial secrets regarding toxic substances. Some existing regulations have been enhanced, including those covering the mutual assistance organizations that toxic substance transport operators must form, the public disclosure of amounts of toxic substances released into the environment, and the labeling toxic accident response vehicles must show along with their degree of exemption from normal traffic regulations. The upgrade to the toxic substance management system is fully in keeping with trends home and abroad. \n\nThe EPA is keen to point out that the revisions to the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act will require manufacturers or importers of toxic chemicals to register certain information with the EPA. This includes information on the circumstances of the manufacture\/import of the chemicals, their physical forms, their chemical compositions, toxicities and exposures, and hazard assessments. Manufacture or import of such chemicals will only be permitted after the EPA has completed the registration process. Enterprises that manufacture or import new or existing toxic substances without the approval of the EPA will be liable to fines in the range of NT$200,000-2 million for manufacturers or NT$30,000-300,000 for importers. Failure to meet the given deadline for improvements will result in repeat fines being issued. Failure to meet two consecutive deadlines will result in operations being temporarily or permanently halted or in the offending chemicals being shipped out of the country. \n\nThe inclusion of a toxic substance point-of-source registration system brings Taiwan into line with international trends in this field. The EPA is continuing to meet with Taiwan’s manufacturers to explain the registration system and the other amendments. The EPA will be inviting experts to join in-depth discussions on suitable tonnage ranges, categories, information parameters and disclosure, and post-registration submission of manufacturing\/import volumes for toxic substances with the aim of formulating a set of registration regulations that are suitable for Taiwan.", "content": "Toxic Substance\n\nCompulsory Registration of Manufactured or Imported Toxic Substances Starts from 2014\n\nOn 22 November 2013 the Legislative Yuan passed the third reading of a draft bill containing amendments to some articles of the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act. Taiwan now has a more advanced system for registering toxic substances at source that will enable effective control over the manufacture or importation of these hazardous chemicals. A strengthening of the restrictions governing Category 4 substances will help to prevent enterprises from illegally using them. A total of 17 articles were amended or added, and will come into effect one year after being announced by President Ma Ying-jeou. \n\nOver the coming year, the EPA, as authorized by the recent amendments to the act, will be drawing up a set of management regulations to fully cover the registration and use of toxic substances. A toxic substances information platform will be established to facilitate the sharing of information such as policies, assessments, and plans from government agencies. The new regimen aims to protect the environment and citizens’ health by preventing Taiwan from becoming an international testing ground for newly emerged toxic substances or new chemicals that are still in the R&D stage. \n\nThe revisions and additions also include regulations covering the registration of contractors who handle toxic chemicals, and the disclosure and protection of commercial secrets regarding toxic substances. Some existing regulations have been enhanced, including those covering the mutual assistance organizations that toxic substance transport operators must form, the public disclosure of amounts of toxic substances released into the environment, and the labeling toxic accident response vehicles must show along with their degree of exemption from normal traffic regulations. The upgrade to the toxic substance management system is fully in keeping with trends home and abroad. \n\nThe EPA is keen to point out that the revisions to the Toxic Chemical Substances Control Act will require manufacturers or importers of toxic chemicals to register certain information with the EPA. This includes information on the circumstances of the manufacture\/import of the chemicals, their physical forms, their chemical compositions, toxicities and exposures, and hazard assessments. Manufacture or import of such chemicals will only be permitted after the EPA has completed the registration process. Enterprises that manufacture or import new or existing toxic substances without the approval of the EPA will be liable to fines in the range of NT$200,000-2 million for manufacturers or NT$30,000-300,000 for importers. Failure to meet the given deadline for improvements will result in repeat fines being issued. Failure to meet two consecutive deadlines will result in operations being temporarily or permanently halted or in the offending chemicals being shipped out of the country. \n\nThe inclusion of a toxic substance point-of-source registration system brings Taiwan into line with international trends in this field. The EPA is continuing to meet with Taiwan’s manufacturers to explain the registration system and the other amendments. The EPA will be inviting experts to join in-depth discussions on suitable tonnage ranges, categories, information parameters and disclosure, and post-registration submission of manufacturing\/import volumes for toxic substances with the aim of formulating a set of registration regulations that are suitable for Taiwan.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Compulsory Registration of Manufactured or Imported Toxic Substances Starts from 2014", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-12" }, { "no": "3090", "title": "Guidelines Amended for Identification of Due Diligence of Soil Pollution", "preview": "soil & groundwater\n\nGuidelines Amended for Identification of Due Diligence of Soil Pollution\n\nAs the proviso of Article 6 Paragraph 2 of the Guidelines for the Identification of Due Diligence of an Interested Party of Polluted Land as a Good Administrator some industrial entities, owing to their unfamiliarity with the regulations of the recycling of industrial wastes, are apt to pour recycled industrial wastes (such as furnace slag) into soil that is not allowed for such purposes. Actions like this can easily lead to food related health and safety concerns. In view of this, the EPA made a special effort to amend the provisory clause in Paragraph 2. Moreover, as agriculture, fishery and animal husbandry have the need to reuse such biomass wastes, the EPA added another provisory clause pertaining to exceptions in Paragraph 2.", "content": "soil & groundwater\n\nGuidelines Amended for Identification of Due Diligence of Soil Pollution\n\nAs the proviso of Article 6 Paragraph 2 of the Guidelines for the Identification of Due Diligence of an Interested Party of Polluted Land as a Good Administrator some industrial entities, owing to their unfamiliarity with the regulations of the recycling of industrial wastes, are apt to pour recycled industrial wastes (such as furnace slag) into soil that is not allowed for such purposes. Actions like this can easily lead to food related health and safety concerns. In view of this, the EPA made a special effort to amend the provisory clause in Paragraph 2. Moreover, as agriculture, fishery and animal husbandry have the need to reuse such biomass wastes, the EPA added another provisory clause pertaining to exceptions in Paragraph 2.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "soil & groundwater", "titlename": "Guidelines Amended for Identification of Due Diligence of Soil Pollution", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-12" }, { "no": "3089", "title": "New Business Opportunities in Soil and Groundwater Remediation and the Blue Economy", "preview": "Soil & Groundwater\n\nNew Business Opportunities in Soil and Groundwater Remediation and the Blue Economy\n\nSpeaking about the “blue economy” EPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen was clear and direct: “The soil and groundwater remediation industry has for a long time been seen as something for Taiwan to be proud of. Now is the time to seize the moment and take our environmental expertise overseas to capitalize on the growing trend for remediation.” To this end, on 12 November 2013 the EPA held the Blue Economy Innovation Forum and invited the creator of the blue economy concept, Mr. Gunter Pauli, to the event to give a speech on the topic. Over 200 environmental industry experts from Taiwan’s government, industry, and academia also attended the forum, and engaged in lively discussions on the subject. \n\nThe event began with an opening speech from Minister Shen. He pointed out that Taiwan’s past economic miracle had left Taiwan’s environment badly damaged due to a lack of environmental awareness at the time. However, starting in the 1990s the government began to conduct soil and groundwater contamination surveys and risk assessments and to devise emergency responses for all of Taiwan’s land. The concept of sustainable land use was successfully introduced into policy making, and Taiwan’s remediation techniques and experience are now the envy of Southeast Asia. \n\nIn his speech about the current status of the soil and groundwater industry in Taiwan, chairman of the Taiwan Soil and Groundwater Industry Strategic Alliance, Mr. Chen-Rong Chian, stated that he believed a combination of strength in unity deriving from alliances within the industry, and regulation and standardization from outside, would assist Taiwan’s soil and groundwater remediation industry in rising to the challenge of seeking out business opportunities and gaining a share of the huge international market. \n\nInternational environment expert Gunter Pauli shared his concept of a blue economy with the delegates. “Blue economy” is centered on the concept that suitable development approaches can be created to satisfy the needs of both environmental protection and business administration. He stated that Taiwan’s efforts to commercialize and internationalize environmental protection are a good example of the “blue economy” concept being put into practice. Mr. Pauli also shared details of some other examples of international environmental practices with the delegates and expressed high expectations for the future of Taiwan’s environmental industry, especially soil and groundwater remediation. \n\nMinister Shen emphasized this point in his closing remarks that “It’s like the title of this event says: ‘Creating New Horizons for an International Soil and Groundwater Industry with Taiwan as a Hub.’ Taiwan should look to the market in Asia and aim to become the Asia-Pacific center of development for the soil and groundwater remediation industry. I believe that by forming alliances and aiming to win overseas remediation contracts on the basis of our negotiated service industry trade agreements, Taiwan’s environmental protection industry has a very bright future.”", "content": "Soil & Groundwater\n\nNew Business Opportunities in Soil and Groundwater Remediation and the Blue Economy\n\nSpeaking about the “blue economy” EPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen was clear and direct: “The soil and groundwater remediation industry has for a long time been seen as something for Taiwan to be proud of. Now is the time to seize the moment and take our environmental expertise overseas to capitalize on the growing trend for remediation.” To this end, on 12 November 2013 the EPA held the Blue Economy Innovation Forum and invited the creator of the blue economy concept, Mr. Gunter Pauli, to the event to give a speech on the topic. Over 200 environmental industry experts from Taiwan’s government, industry, and academia also attended the forum, and engaged in lively discussions on the subject. \n\nThe event began with an opening speech from Minister Shen. He pointed out that Taiwan’s past economic miracle had left Taiwan’s environment badly damaged due to a lack of environmental awareness at the time. However, starting in the 1990s the government began to conduct soil and groundwater contamination surveys and risk assessments and to devise emergency responses for all of Taiwan’s land. The concept of sustainable land use was successfully introduced into policy making, and Taiwan’s remediation techniques and experience are now the envy of Southeast Asia. \n\nIn his speech about the current status of the soil and groundwater industry in Taiwan, chairman of the Taiwan Soil and Groundwater Industry Strategic Alliance, Mr. Chen-Rong Chian, stated that he believed a combination of strength in unity deriving from alliances within the industry, and regulation and standardization from outside, would assist Taiwan’s soil and groundwater remediation industry in rising to the challenge of seeking out business opportunities and gaining a share of the huge international market. \n\nInternational environment expert Gunter Pauli shared his concept of a blue economy with the delegates. “Blue economy” is centered on the concept that suitable development approaches can be created to satisfy the needs of both environmental protection and business administration. He stated that Taiwan’s efforts to commercialize and internationalize environmental protection are a good example of the “blue economy” concept being put into practice. Mr. Pauli also shared details of some other examples of international environmental practices with the delegates and expressed high expectations for the future of Taiwan’s environmental industry, especially soil and groundwater remediation. \n\nMinister Shen emphasized this point in his closing remarks that “It’s like the title of this event says: ‘Creating New Horizons for an International Soil and Groundwater Industry with Taiwan as a Hub.’ Taiwan should look to the market in Asia and aim to become the Asia-Pacific center of development for the soil and groundwater remediation industry. I believe that by forming alliances and aiming to win overseas remediation contracts on the basis of our negotiated service industry trade agreements, Taiwan’s environmental protection industry has a very bright future.”", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil & Groundwater", "titlename": "New Business Opportunities in Soil and Groundwater Remediation and the Blue Economy", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-12" }, { "no": "3088", "title": "Green Fee Rates for Recycling IT Products Starts from March 2014", "preview": "Resource Recycling\n\nGreen Fee Rates for Recycling IT Products Starts from March 2014\n\nIn order to stimulate greener designs for consumer products to stabilize the operation of the Resource Recycling Fund, and in response to revisions to the scope of responsible enterprises’ recycling responsibilities, the EPA has announced revisions to the recycling fee rates for IT products. Rates for five IT products, including motherboards, have been lowered, while the rate for printers has been raised. Green IT products will be given a 30% discount and a new rate has been added for tablet computers. The revisions will take effect from 1 March 2014. \n\nThe revisions to IT product recycling fee rates were introduced after a full review of all of the relevant factors involved. These include recycling and disposal costs, the administration costs of levying the fees, the reuse value of the materials, the overall environmental impact, and the financial stability of the Resource Recycling Fund. Fees have been reduced for motherboards, hard disc drives, power source hardware, covers anad casings, and keyboards. The fees for printers have been increased. In order to minimize the impact on businesses, printer fees will be increased incrementally over three years: For ink jet printers, it will go from NT$81 to NT$101 per unit in the first year, increasing to NT$144 per unit by the third year. \n\nThe EPA is always keen to encourage enterprises to keep in step with the trend toward green consumption and develop eco-friendly products, and so the latest revisions include a 30% discount in the fees for green IT products carrying Taiwan’s Green Mark or Energy Label certification (5% for printers). In addition, in keeping with previous revisions to responsible enterprises’ scope of responsibility, these revisions include a new levy of NT$25.3 on every portable tablet computer. External hard drives will henceforth also be subject to the same fee rate as hard disc drives. In addition, monitors are reclassified as image output devices, which includes devices with a diagonal width of 27 inches or less (over 27 inches would put them in the electrical appliances\/television category). The fee rate for such devices will remain the same. \n\nThe EPA would like to remind the enterprises responsible that from 1 March 2014 recycling fees for all amounts of manufactured or imported IT products and related electronic\/electrical items must be calculated and paid according to the amended rates. The cooperation of the concerned enterprises will greatly assist the EPA in the task of recycling and reusing waste IT products.", "content": "Resource Recycling\n\nGreen Fee Rates for Recycling IT Products Starts from March 2014\n\nIn order to stimulate greener designs for consumer products to stabilize the operation of the Resource Recycling Fund, and in response to revisions to the scope of responsible enterprises’ recycling responsibilities, the EPA has announced revisions to the recycling fee rates for IT products. Rates for five IT products, including motherboards, have been lowered, while the rate for printers has been raised. Green IT products will be given a 30% discount and a new rate has been added for tablet computers. The revisions will take effect from 1 March 2014. \n\nThe revisions to IT product recycling fee rates were introduced after a full review of all of the relevant factors involved. These include recycling and disposal costs, the administration costs of levying the fees, the reuse value of the materials, the overall environmental impact, and the financial stability of the Resource Recycling Fund. Fees have been reduced for motherboards, hard disc drives, power source hardware, covers anad casings, and keyboards. The fees for printers have been increased. In order to minimize the impact on businesses, printer fees will be increased incrementally over three years: For ink jet printers, it will go from NT$81 to NT$101 per unit in the first year, increasing to NT$144 per unit by the third year. \n\nThe EPA is always keen to encourage enterprises to keep in step with the trend toward green consumption and develop eco-friendly products, and so the latest revisions include a 30% discount in the fees for green IT products carrying Taiwan’s Green Mark or Energy Label certification (5% for printers). In addition, in keeping with previous revisions to responsible enterprises’ scope of responsibility, these revisions include a new levy of NT$25.3 on every portable tablet computer. External hard drives will henceforth also be subject to the same fee rate as hard disc drives. In addition, monitors are reclassified as image output devices, which includes devices with a diagonal width of 27 inches or less (over 27 inches would put them in the electrical appliances\/television category). The fee rate for such devices will remain the same. \n\nThe EPA would like to remind the enterprises responsible that from 1 March 2014 recycling fees for all amounts of manufactured or imported IT products and related electronic\/electrical items must be calculated and paid according to the amended rates. The cooperation of the concerned enterprises will greatly assist the EPA in the task of recycling and reusing waste IT products.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Resource Recycling", "titlename": "Green Fee Rates for Recycling IT Products Starts from March 2014", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-12" }, { "no": "3087", "title": "Battery Recycling Fee Rates to Be Adjusted in Two Phases Starting in 2014", "preview": "resource recycling\n\nBattery Recycling Fee Rates to Be Adjusted in Two Phases Starting in 2014 \n\nThe EPA has announced that it will raise the recycling fee rates for some dry batteries. In the same announcement some button type battery products whose mercury contents are lower than 5 ppm are provided with a 50% preferential green rate. To ease the impact on battery manufacturers, the new rates will become effective in two phases. The first phase will be implemented starting 1 January 2014, and the second phase will be implemented starting 1 January 2015. \n\nAfter reviewing the cost factors, the EPA adjusted the fee rates for the recycling of different kinds of dry batteries. In addition, in order to encourage industrial enterprises to develop green production technology to replace high-polluting dry batteries, the EPA offers a 50% preferential green rate to enterprises that manufacture low mercury-containing button type batteries including alkaline manganese, silver oxide, mercuric oxide and zinc-air batteries. These enterprises may apply to the EPA for such a green rate.", "content": "resource recycling\n\nBattery Recycling Fee Rates to Be Adjusted in Two Phases Starting in 2014 \n\nThe EPA has announced that it will raise the recycling fee rates for some dry batteries. In the same announcement some button type battery products whose mercury contents are lower than 5 ppm are provided with a 50% preferential green rate. To ease the impact on battery manufacturers, the new rates will become effective in two phases. The first phase will be implemented starting 1 January 2014, and the second phase will be implemented starting 1 January 2015. \n\nAfter reviewing the cost factors, the EPA adjusted the fee rates for the recycling of different kinds of dry batteries. In addition, in order to encourage industrial enterprises to develop green production technology to replace high-polluting dry batteries, the EPA offers a 50% preferential green rate to enterprises that manufacture low mercury-containing button type batteries including alkaline manganese, silver oxide, mercuric oxide and zinc-air batteries. These enterprises may apply to the EPA for such a green rate.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "resource recycling", "titlename": "Battery Recycling Fee Rates to Be Adjusted in Two Phases Starting in 2014", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-12" }, { "no": "3086", "title": "Promoting Environmental Education for All", "preview": "environmental education\n\nFeature Article\n\nPromoting Environmental Education for All\n\nEnvironmental education is the most fundamental and important link in the chain of policies that make up environmental protection. The power of environmental education lies in its potential to help citizens understand the importance of environmental protection and thus modify their values and behavior. The ultimate aim of environmental education is to have the whole population engaging in environmental protection and working towards a future based upon sustainable development. \n\nAccording to Article 1 of the Environmental Education Act environmental education is defined as using the provisions of the act to nurture understanding of environmental concepts and increase public awareness of environmental protection and related knowledge, techniques, attitudes and values. This is so that citizens will value their environment and take action to protect it and achieve sustainable development.\n\nMeaningful education is always a long-term venture, and environmental education is no exception. This means that it should be integrated with basic education policies so that it will become deep-rooted in people’s minds and an accepted part of their daily lives. Only then can it be called comprehensive environmental education for all. The government’s stated aim of promoting environmental education is based on the concepts of “one Earth; environmental justice; welfare for all generations; and sustainable development.” The aim is to cultivate environmental awareness and environmentally-responsible behavior in everyone in order to create a sustainable society based upon reuse and resource recycling for the welfare of all generations, as stated in the Guidelines for National Environmental Education. \n\nSeven Bylaws Created Since 2011\n\nThe Environmental Education Act officially entered into force in 2011, and since then the EPA has created seven bylaws, including the Enforcement Rules of the Environmental Education Act. The new regulations provide a legal basis for the EPA’s work in this area, which has both short-term and long-term targets. \n\nThe EPA’s short-term goal is to encourage all schools and government agencies\/organizations to carry out their environmental education obligations while abiding by the principles of sustainable development. The long-term goals include accelerating the expansion of environmental education, cultivating a deeper public understanding of environmental concepts to encourage citizens to take action to protect the environment and achieve sustainable development.\n\nIn terms of environmental education courses and information, the Guidelines for National Environmental Education sets out the following eight main categories:\n\n1) The EPA is charged with developing an environmental education framework that will contain graded and categorized content based upon “one Earth; environmental justice; welfare for all generations; and sustainable development.”\n\n2) The EPA is charged with creating an environmental education information system that will cover environmental education certification, courses, course materials, and results of research.\n\n3) Each competent authority should create its own environmental education lectures and lecture materials. \n\n4) Each education competent authority should supervise schools under its jurisdiction to make use of related curricula, engage campus space, create environmental education courses or teaching materials, and develop diverse educational activities. \n\n5) Central industry competent authorities should work with the EPA to introduce environmental education into their life-long learning and civil service staff training schemes. \n\n6) Each government agency should invest more resources for academic research related to environmental education and create courses, teaching materials, educational films and promotional materials that can be easily accessed by the public. \n\n7) Each government agency should actively disseminate environmental education information, and should seek media cooperation in publicizing environmental issues and education to encourage as much public participation as possible. \n\n8) Each government agency should collect information from overseas on environmental education and seek to cooperate with the international community on related programs, exchanges, and events. \n\nWorking toward Providing Environmental Education to All \n\nMaking environmental education available to all involves working with a wide variety of people throughout society. It is therefore necessary to adopt ordered implementation – from government agencies to schools to the individual, from public agencies to the private sector, from the near to the far – that will gradually expand environmental education through each segment of society. The order that the government intends to adopt is as follows:\n\n1) Government agencies, state-run enterprises, high schools and elementary schools, and any foundation that receives more than 50% of its funding from the government should create short-, medium-, and long-term environmental education plans that take into account current environmental issues and sustainable development. Each member of staff\/faculty and every student must receive at least four hours or more of environmental education annually.\n\n2) The EPA is charged with establishing a system of electronic environmental education life-long learning passports for all citizens. During the first stage, such passports will be issued to staff in government agencies and schools; during the second stage incentives will be offered to all members of the public to encourage them to use the learning passport.\n\n3) The Ministry of Education is tasked with encouraging universities and colleges to promote environmental education without government supervision by introducing it into current curricula. \n\n4) Each government agency should encourage all citizens, corporations, and social organizations to actively learn how they can modify their behavior to bring about a sustainable way of life. \n\nThe rolling out of environmental education over the last two years has shown many positive results that fall into one of the following four main areas:\n\n1. Building a Comprehensive Regulatory System\n\nSince the implementation of environmental education the EPA has created seven secondary laws, including the Enforcement Rules of the Environmental Education Act. Most of the regulatory framework is now completed. \n\n2. Establishing a Comprehensive Administrative System\n\nThe EPA has set up an accreditation system for environmental education personnel, institutes, and facilities and venues. At present, there are 75 facilities and venues, 15 institutes, and 1,927 personnel that have gained accreditation.\n\n3. Expanding Public Participation in Environmental Education\n\nEnvironmental education is currently in place in government agencies, state-run enterprises, high schools and elementary schools, and any foundation that receives more than 50% of its funding from the government. It is estimated that around four million attendees from 7,200 agencies have taken part in over 49.1 million hours of environmental education activities. The EPA is also encouraging those members of the public who wish to deepen their experience of environmental education to become environmental education volunteers. \n\n4. Administering Environmental Education Lectures\n\nThe EPA has been supervising and guiding local governments in handling cases of violations of environmental regulations that have resulted in orders to temporarily stop operations or cease trading, or in fines of NT$5,000 or more being issued. In addition to the above penalties, the violators are also required to attend one to eight hours of environmental lectures. As of 5 December 2013, 34,647 environmental violators have been asked to attend environmental lectures, and 25,540 attendees have completed the program for a completion rate of 73.7%.\n\nIn order to fulfill the sustainable environment aspect of the Golden Decade National Vision – unveiled by President Ma Ying-jeou in 2011 – the EPA has been expanding public participation in environmental education and has started drawing up sustainable environment action plans that will give residents a high-quality and healthy environment in which to live.", "content": "environmental education\n\nFeature Article\n\nPromoting Environmental Education for All\n\nEnvironmental education is the most fundamental and important link in the chain of policies that make up environmental protection. The power of environmental education lies in its potential to help citizens understand the importance of environmental protection and thus modify their values and behavior. The ultimate aim of environmental education is to have the whole population engaging in environmental protection and working towards a future based upon sustainable development. \n\nAccording to Article 1 of the Environmental Education Act environmental education is defined as using the provisions of the act to nurture understanding of environmental concepts and increase public awareness of environmental protection and related knowledge, techniques, attitudes and values. This is so that citizens will value their environment and take action to protect it and achieve sustainable development.\n\nMeaningful education is always a long-term venture, and environmental education is no exception. This means that it should be integrated with basic education policies so that it will become deep-rooted in people’s minds and an accepted part of their daily lives. Only then can it be called comprehensive environmental education for all. The government’s stated aim of promoting environmental education is based on the concepts of “one Earth; environmental justice; welfare for all generations; and sustainable development.” The aim is to cultivate environmental awareness and environmentally-responsible behavior in everyone in order to create a sustainable society based upon reuse and resource recycling for the welfare of all generations, as stated in the Guidelines for National Environmental Education. \n\nSeven Bylaws Created Since 2011\n\nThe Environmental Education Act officially entered into force in 2011, and since then the EPA has created seven bylaws, including the Enforcement Rules of the Environmental Education Act. The new regulations provide a legal basis for the EPA’s work in this area, which has both short-term and long-term targets. \n\nThe EPA’s short-term goal is to encourage all schools and government agencies\/organizations to carry out their environmental education obligations while abiding by the principles of sustainable development. The long-term goals include accelerating the expansion of environmental education, cultivating a deeper public understanding of environmental concepts to encourage citizens to take action to protect the environment and achieve sustainable development.\n\nIn terms of environmental education courses and information, the Guidelines for National Environmental Education sets out the following eight main categories:\n\n1) The EPA is charged with developing an environmental education framework that will contain graded and categorized content based upon “one Earth; environmental justice; welfare for all generations; and sustainable development.”\n\n2) The EPA is charged with creating an environmental education information system that will cover environmental education certification, courses, course materials, and results of research.\n\n3) Each competent authority should create its own environmental education lectures and lecture materials. \n\n4) Each education competent authority should supervise schools under its jurisdiction to make use of related curricula, engage campus space, create environmental education courses or teaching materials, and develop diverse educational activities. \n\n5) Central industry competent authorities should work with the EPA to introduce environmental education into their life-long learning and civil service staff training schemes. \n\n6) Each government agency should invest more resources for academic research related to environmental education and create courses, teaching materials, educational films and promotional materials that can be easily accessed by the public. \n\n7) Each government agency should actively disseminate environmental education information, and should seek media cooperation in publicizing environmental issues and education to encourage as much public participation as possible. \n\n8) Each government agency should collect information from overseas on environmental education and seek to cooperate with the international community on related programs, exchanges, and events. \n\nWorking toward Providing Environmental Education to All \n\nMaking environmental education available to all involves working with a wide variety of people throughout society. It is therefore necessary to adopt ordered implementation – from government agencies to schools to the individual, from public agencies to the private sector, from the near to the far – that will gradually expand environmental education through each segment of society. The order that the government intends to adopt is as follows:\n\n1) Government agencies, state-run enterprises, high schools and elementary schools, and any foundation that receives more than 50% of its funding from the government should create short-, medium-, and long-term environmental education plans that take into account current environmental issues and sustainable development. Each member of staff\/faculty and every student must receive at least four hours or more of environmental education annually.\n\n2) The EPA is charged with establishing a system of electronic environmental education life-long learning passports for all citizens. During the first stage, such passports will be issued to staff in government agencies and schools; during the second stage incentives will be offered to all members of the public to encourage them to use the learning passport.\n\n3) The Ministry of Education is tasked with encouraging universities and colleges to promote environmental education without government supervision by introducing it into current curricula. \n\n4) Each government agency should encourage all citizens, corporations, and social organizations to actively learn how they can modify their behavior to bring about a sustainable way of life. \n\nThe rolling out of environmental education over the last two years has shown many positive results that fall into one of the following four main areas:\n\n1. Building a Comprehensive Regulatory System\n\nSince the implementation of environmental education the EPA has created seven secondary laws, including the Enforcement Rules of the Environmental Education Act. Most of the regulatory framework is now completed. \n\n2. Establishing a Comprehensive Administrative System\n\nThe EPA has set up an accreditation system for environmental education personnel, institutes, and facilities and venues. At present, there are 75 facilities and venues, 15 institutes, and 1,927 personnel that have gained accreditation.\n\n3. Expanding Public Participation in Environmental Education\n\nEnvironmental education is currently in place in government agencies, state-run enterprises, high schools and elementary schools, and any foundation that receives more than 50% of its funding from the government. It is estimated that around four million attendees from 7,200 agencies have taken part in over 49.1 million hours of environmental education activities. The EPA is also encouraging those members of the public who wish to deepen their experience of environmental education to become environmental education volunteers. \n\n4. Administering Environmental Education Lectures\n\nThe EPA has been supervising and guiding local governments in handling cases of violations of environmental regulations that have resulted in orders to temporarily stop operations or cease trading, or in fines of NT$5,000 or more being issued. In addition to the above penalties, the violators are also required to attend one to eight hours of environmental lectures. As of 5 December 2013, 34,647 environmental violators have been asked to attend environmental lectures, and 25,540 attendees have completed the program for a completion rate of 73.7%.\n\nIn order to fulfill the sustainable environment aspect of the Golden Decade National Vision – unveiled by President Ma Ying-jeou in 2011 – the EPA has been expanding public participation in environmental education and has started drawing up sustainable environment action plans that will give residents a high-quality and healthy environment in which to live.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "environmental education", "titlename": "Promoting Environmental Education for All", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-12" }, { "no": "3085", "title": "Chingtan Water Quality and Quantity Protection Area Preannounced as a Catchment Area above an Important Drinking Water Intake Point", "preview": "Drinking water\n\nChingtan Water Quality and Quantity Protection Area Preannounced as a Catchment Area above an Important Drinking Water Intake Point \n\nIn order to protect drinking water quality for the Greater Taipei area the EPA has drawn up a plan to reclassify the Chingtan Water Quality and Quantity Protection Area as a catchment area above an important drinking water intake point. The reclassification has been preannounced and has now entered the stage of public hearings and deliberation. In the future raising pigs within the catchment area will be subject to up to one year of imprisonment, criminal detention or a fine being issued in accordance with the Water Supply Act. \n\nIn order to protect the water quality for the 3.46 million residents in the Greater Taipei area, the piggeries in the Chingtan catchment area have been taken down and their owners compensated. However, after hearing the suggestions of the Taipei City Government and the Taipei Water Management Office of the MOEA’s Water Resources Agency, the EPA agreed – on the basis of Article 11 of the Water Supply Act – to reclassify the area as a catchment above an important drinking water intake point, thus banning the raising of any pigs within the area. After the reclassification is announced, anyone who is caught raising pigs in the area is liable to a sentence of up to one year in jail, criminal detention, or a fine of NT$500, as stipulated in Article 96 of the Water Supply Act. \n\nArticle 11 Paragraph 1 of the Water Supply Act outlines the obligations of water supply enterprises regarding protection of water sources. In addition to the Water Supply Act stipulation that they must gain operating permits from the competent authority for water, they must also, if deemed necessary, ask the competent authority to consult with other relevant agencies for the purpose of establishing a Water Quality and Quantity Protection Area. The Water Supply Act and other related regulations stipulate that activities which may harm water quality and water volumes in these areas are to be banned or restricted. Such activities include raising pigs in a catchment area above an important water intake point as stated in Article 11 of the Water Supply Act. \n\nThe catchment area above Chingtan on the Xindian River was first designated a water quality and quantity protection area in 1979. At the time, the responsibility for protecting the cleanliness of water sources, overall water quality, and the security of water volumes in the area was borne by the Taipei Water Management Committee (the predecessor to the Taipei Water Management Office). In order to prevent slurry from piggeries polluting water in the area, between 1986 and 1988 the committee ordered piggeries in the Chingtan catchment area to be taken down and their owners compensated. \n\nSince the piggeries in the protected area have already been knocked down and the owners compensated, it was therefore possible to designate the Xindian River Chingtan Water Quality and Quantity Protection Area as a catchment area above an important drinking water intake point in order to fully protect the water source. The Xindian River Chingtan Water Quality and Quantity Protection Area is 717 km2 in area and lies within the boundaries of Xindian, Shiding, Pinglin, Shuangxi, and Wulai (all part of New Taipei City). Water from the area is purified at the Jhihtan, Changshing, and Gungguan purification stations and is then supplied to 3.46 million people living in Taipei City and part of New Taipei City.", "content": "Drinking water\n\nChingtan Water Quality and Quantity Protection Area Preannounced as a Catchment Area above an Important Drinking Water Intake Point \n\nIn order to protect drinking water quality for the Greater Taipei area the EPA has drawn up a plan to reclassify the Chingtan Water Quality and Quantity Protection Area as a catchment area above an important drinking water intake point. The reclassification has been preannounced and has now entered the stage of public hearings and deliberation. In the future raising pigs within the catchment area will be subject to up to one year of imprisonment, criminal detention or a fine being issued in accordance with the Water Supply Act. \n\nIn order to protect the water quality for the 3.46 million residents in the Greater Taipei area, the piggeries in the Chingtan catchment area have been taken down and their owners compensated. However, after hearing the suggestions of the Taipei City Government and the Taipei Water Management Office of the MOEA’s Water Resources Agency, the EPA agreed – on the basis of Article 11 of the Water Supply Act – to reclassify the area as a catchment above an important drinking water intake point, thus banning the raising of any pigs within the area. After the reclassification is announced, anyone who is caught raising pigs in the area is liable to a sentence of up to one year in jail, criminal detention, or a fine of NT$500, as stipulated in Article 96 of the Water Supply Act. \n\nArticle 11 Paragraph 1 of the Water Supply Act outlines the obligations of water supply enterprises regarding protection of water sources. In addition to the Water Supply Act stipulation that they must gain operating permits from the competent authority for water, they must also, if deemed necessary, ask the competent authority to consult with other relevant agencies for the purpose of establishing a Water Quality and Quantity Protection Area. The Water Supply Act and other related regulations stipulate that activities which may harm water quality and water volumes in these areas are to be banned or restricted. Such activities include raising pigs in a catchment area above an important water intake point as stated in Article 11 of the Water Supply Act. \n\nThe catchment area above Chingtan on the Xindian River was first designated a water quality and quantity protection area in 1979. At the time, the responsibility for protecting the cleanliness of water sources, overall water quality, and the security of water volumes in the area was borne by the Taipei Water Management Committee (the predecessor to the Taipei Water Management Office). In order to prevent slurry from piggeries polluting water in the area, between 1986 and 1988 the committee ordered piggeries in the Chingtan catchment area to be taken down and their owners compensated. \n\nSince the piggeries in the protected area have already been knocked down and the owners compensated, it was therefore possible to designate the Xindian River Chingtan Water Quality and Quantity Protection Area as a catchment area above an important drinking water intake point in order to fully protect the water source. The Xindian River Chingtan Water Quality and Quantity Protection Area is 717 km2 in area and lies within the boundaries of Xindian, Shiding, Pinglin, Shuangxi, and Wulai (all part of New Taipei City). Water from the area is purified at the Jhihtan, Changshing, and Gungguan purification stations and is then supplied to 3.46 million people living in Taipei City and part of New Taipei City.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Drinking water", "titlename": "Chingtan Water Quality and Quantity Protection Area Preannounced as a Catchment Area above an Important Drinking Water Intake Point", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-12" }, { "no": "3084", "title": "Taiwan’s Diverse Market Mechanisms for Carbon Reduction in Line with International Practice", "preview": "Climate Change\n\nTaiwan’s Diverse Market Mechanisms for Carbon Reduction in Line with International Practice\n\nThe latest round of talks on the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP19\/CMP9) was recently held in Warsaw Poland. On the evening of 19 November, representatives of Taiwan’s Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) and the International Emissions Trading Association (IETA) jointly held a side event on the topic of “Market and Non-Market Mechanisms in Emerging Nations.” Delegates from a number of nations shared their experience and opinions, and held valuable discussions on developments and trends in international carbon markets and on trading mechanisms. \n\nDr. Hui-Chen Chien, Counselor and Executive Director of the EPA Greenhouse Gas Reduction Management Office, led Taiwan’s delegation and gave a speech at the side event. Other overseas experts who also gave speeches included Mr. Andrei Marcu, senior advisor at the Centre for European Policy Studies; Ms. Xueman Wang, senior counsel on carbon finance at the World Bank; Dr. Hee Chan Kang, senior research fellow at Korea’s National Institute of Environmental Research; and Ms. Harmke Immink, principal carbon advisor of South Africa’s Promethium Carbon. The delegates enjoyed fruitful discussions and exchanges on key topics such as the mushrooming of carbon markets and carbon trading mechanisms among developed and emerging nations, and the current stage of the climate change convention in terms of the Framework for Various Approaches (FVA), New Market Mechanisms (NMM), and Non-Market-Based Approaches (NMA). \n\nDr. Chien outlined Taiwan’s integrated approach to carbon reduction using market and non-market mechanisms and gave a detailed description of Taiwan’s greenhouse gas emissions controls, the government’s low carbon policy framework, and its vision for future development. She mentioned some specific policies for bringing about greenhouse gas reduction, including reduction in phases that began with encouraging manufacturers to voluntarily engage in auditing and reduction. This was gradually superseded by the currently-implemented Early Action Program, and the Carbon Trading Offset Program, that is linked to the UN’s Clean Development Mechanism (CDM). \n\nTaiwan’s Air Pollution Control Act contains regulations for enforcing emissions reporting, for planning and formulating emissions standards, and for establishing the Clean Development and Carbon Rights Trading Alliance, a carbon reduction partnership between the government and the private sector. Future directions include passing a greenhouse gas reduction bill into law, and setting a cap-and-trade mechanism, with the eventual aim of building a framework that connects Taiwan’s emission reduction credits with international ones. Taiwan’s efforts to build a management platform for auditing, recording, and verifying greenhouse gas emissions are clearly in line with international Measurable, Reportable and Verifiable (MRV) standards. Management systems are also maturing quickly and have the potential to be easily linked to international mechanisms. \n\nThe delegates engaged in lively discussions about the role that carbon trading could play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions worldwide, its potential to stimulate development, and the issues that require particular attention. They also expressed optimism and hope regarding the ongoing development of carbon market mechanisms in many nations around the world, especially after observing how the climate change convention is producing regulatory planning downstream and transforming itself into varied ways of policy making in nations, regions, and government agencies worldwide. If the offset systems of each nation gradually adopt non-Kyoto quotas that then become the basis of each nation’s carbon reduction pledge, they will lead to climate change treaties formally recognizing the value of diversified mechanisms. They could then become part of the criteria used to verify that each nation is sticking to its reduction pledge. \n\nThe delegates also mentioned the competition and cooperation inherent in the financial mechanisms of emissions trading and carbon tax regimes. They suggested that each nation should use income derived from these financial mechanisms to further improve energy efficiency and the development of renewable energy sources. From this it can be seen that reduction targets and market mechanisms are already trending toward bilateral and multilateral agreements, and are thus moving away from being administered solely by the United Nations. This trend leaves Taiwan with more flexibility and room to operate when it comes to implementing future reduction policies, and Taiwan will continue to closely monitor the dynamic development of future decisions at the UNFCCC. Taiwan’s greenhouse gas reduction strategies will also continue to be based upon the convention’s fundamental emission reduction principles of using lowest cost methods and maintaining cost effectiveness.", "content": "Climate Change\n\nTaiwan’s Diverse Market Mechanisms for Carbon Reduction in Line with International Practice\n\nThe latest round of talks on the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP19\/CMP9) was recently held in Warsaw Poland. On the evening of 19 November, representatives of Taiwan’s Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) and the International Emissions Trading Association (IETA) jointly held a side event on the topic of “Market and Non-Market Mechanisms in Emerging Nations.” Delegates from a number of nations shared their experience and opinions, and held valuable discussions on developments and trends in international carbon markets and on trading mechanisms. \n\nDr. Hui-Chen Chien, Counselor and Executive Director of the EPA Greenhouse Gas Reduction Management Office, led Taiwan’s delegation and gave a speech at the side event. Other overseas experts who also gave speeches included Mr. Andrei Marcu, senior advisor at the Centre for European Policy Studies; Ms. Xueman Wang, senior counsel on carbon finance at the World Bank; Dr. Hee Chan Kang, senior research fellow at Korea’s National Institute of Environmental Research; and Ms. Harmke Immink, principal carbon advisor of South Africa’s Promethium Carbon. The delegates enjoyed fruitful discussions and exchanges on key topics such as the mushrooming of carbon markets and carbon trading mechanisms among developed and emerging nations, and the current stage of the climate change convention in terms of the Framework for Various Approaches (FVA), New Market Mechanisms (NMM), and Non-Market-Based Approaches (NMA). \n\nDr. Chien outlined Taiwan’s integrated approach to carbon reduction using market and non-market mechanisms and gave a detailed description of Taiwan’s greenhouse gas emissions controls, the government’s low carbon policy framework, and its vision for future development. She mentioned some specific policies for bringing about greenhouse gas reduction, including reduction in phases that began with encouraging manufacturers to voluntarily engage in auditing and reduction. This was gradually superseded by the currently-implemented Early Action Program, and the Carbon Trading Offset Program, that is linked to the UN’s Clean Development Mechanism (CDM). \n\nTaiwan’s Air Pollution Control Act contains regulations for enforcing emissions reporting, for planning and formulating emissions standards, and for establishing the Clean Development and Carbon Rights Trading Alliance, a carbon reduction partnership between the government and the private sector. Future directions include passing a greenhouse gas reduction bill into law, and setting a cap-and-trade mechanism, with the eventual aim of building a framework that connects Taiwan’s emission reduction credits with international ones. Taiwan’s efforts to build a management platform for auditing, recording, and verifying greenhouse gas emissions are clearly in line with international Measurable, Reportable and Verifiable (MRV) standards. Management systems are also maturing quickly and have the potential to be easily linked to international mechanisms. \n\nThe delegates engaged in lively discussions about the role that carbon trading could play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions worldwide, its potential to stimulate development, and the issues that require particular attention. They also expressed optimism and hope regarding the ongoing development of carbon market mechanisms in many nations around the world, especially after observing how the climate change convention is producing regulatory planning downstream and transforming itself into varied ways of policy making in nations, regions, and government agencies worldwide. If the offset systems of each nation gradually adopt non-Kyoto quotas that then become the basis of each nation’s carbon reduction pledge, they will lead to climate change treaties formally recognizing the value of diversified mechanisms. They could then become part of the criteria used to verify that each nation is sticking to its reduction pledge. \n\nThe delegates also mentioned the competition and cooperation inherent in the financial mechanisms of emissions trading and carbon tax regimes. They suggested that each nation should use income derived from these financial mechanisms to further improve energy efficiency and the development of renewable energy sources. From this it can be seen that reduction targets and market mechanisms are already trending toward bilateral and multilateral agreements, and are thus moving away from being administered solely by the United Nations. This trend leaves Taiwan with more flexibility and room to operate when it comes to implementing future reduction policies, and Taiwan will continue to closely monitor the dynamic development of future decisions at the UNFCCC. Taiwan’s greenhouse gas reduction strategies will also continue to be based upon the convention’s fundamental emission reduction principles of using lowest cost methods and maintaining cost effectiveness.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Taiwan s Diverse Market Mechanisms for Carbon Reduction in Line with International Practice", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-12" }, { "no": "3083", "title": "Fruitful Results from Taiwan’s Participation in the Southeast Asia Atmospheric Monitoring Program", "preview": "climate change\n\nFruitful Results from Taiwan’s Participation in the Southeast Asia Atmospheric Monitoring Program\n\nOn 11-12 November 2013 the EPA and National Central University (NCU) joined forces to hold the 7th Seven-South East Asian Studies (7-SEAS) International Experiment Results Presentation. Over 20 delegates from Taiwan, the US, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam attended the announcement of the results, which included the results from Taiwan’s monitoring stations at Lulin Mountain, Hengchun, and the Dongsha and Nansha atolls. The presentation also included news on the latest developments in atmospheric monitoring, which will assist participating nations in understanding international background air quality and the need to import advanced monitoring technology. \n\nAs EPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen pointed out in his speech that opened proceedings at the presentation, 7-SEAS is an international atmospheric monitoring program that was instigated by the US NASA with the purpose of researching the long-distance, cross-border transmission of pollutants caused by biomass burning such as flame cultivation and agricultural burning, as well as the relationships between biomass burning, atmospheric pollutants, the environment, radiation, and climate. Continuous cooperation between the participating nations over the last few years has provided the solid foundation upon which such large-scale, systematic monitoring and experimentation can be carried out. \n\nIn his speech, senior researcher of US NASA Dr. Brent Holbern thanked Taiwan for providing a set of monitoring instruments that were sent to Doi Ang Khan in Thailand for this year’s experiments. He also presented a copy of the well-known international journal Atmospheric Environment to the EPA. It includes details of 28 sets of results from Taiwan’s participation in South China Sea regional atmospheric monitoring, proof that Taiwan’s environmental monitoring capabilities have come to the attention of the international community. \n\nThe results presentation included detailed discussions covering a number of fields such as atmospheric radiation, atmospheric monitoring, weather observation, atmospheric chemistry and the long-range transmission of pollutants. The results presentation provided a useful opportunity to increase international technical exchanges and to increase the take up of Taiwan’s atmospheric monitoring data.", "content": "climate change\n\nFruitful Results from Taiwan’s Participation in the Southeast Asia Atmospheric Monitoring Program\n\nOn 11-12 November 2013 the EPA and National Central University (NCU) joined forces to hold the 7th Seven-South East Asian Studies (7-SEAS) International Experiment Results Presentation. Over 20 delegates from Taiwan, the US, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam attended the announcement of the results, which included the results from Taiwan’s monitoring stations at Lulin Mountain, Hengchun, and the Dongsha and Nansha atolls. The presentation also included news on the latest developments in atmospheric monitoring, which will assist participating nations in understanding international background air quality and the need to import advanced monitoring technology. \n\nAs EPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen pointed out in his speech that opened proceedings at the presentation, 7-SEAS is an international atmospheric monitoring program that was instigated by the US NASA with the purpose of researching the long-distance, cross-border transmission of pollutants caused by biomass burning such as flame cultivation and agricultural burning, as well as the relationships between biomass burning, atmospheric pollutants, the environment, radiation, and climate. Continuous cooperation between the participating nations over the last few years has provided the solid foundation upon which such large-scale, systematic monitoring and experimentation can be carried out. \n\nIn his speech, senior researcher of US NASA Dr. Brent Holbern thanked Taiwan for providing a set of monitoring instruments that were sent to Doi Ang Khan in Thailand for this year’s experiments. He also presented a copy of the well-known international journal Atmospheric Environment to the EPA. It includes details of 28 sets of results from Taiwan’s participation in South China Sea regional atmospheric monitoring, proof that Taiwan’s environmental monitoring capabilities have come to the attention of the international community. \n\nThe results presentation included detailed discussions covering a number of fields such as atmospheric radiation, atmospheric monitoring, weather observation, atmospheric chemistry and the long-range transmission of pollutants. The results presentation provided a useful opportunity to increase international technical exchanges and to increase the take up of Taiwan’s atmospheric monitoring data.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "climate change", "titlename": "Fruitful Results from Taiwan s Participation in the Southeast Asia Atmospheric Monitoring Program", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-12" }, { "no": "3082", "title": "EPA Response to the CCPI 2014 Ranking", "preview": "Climate Change\n\nEPA Response to the CCPI 2014 Ranking\n\nOn 18 November 2013 Germanwatch and Climate Action Network Europe announced the Climate Change Performance Index results for 2014 (CCPI 2014). Taiwan ranked 52 among 58 rated nations. The EPA pointed out that Taiwan has seen some specific successes in recent years in carbon reduction. Taiwan’s carbon emissions decreased steadily in the past five years. A gradual decoupling of economic growth and carbon emissions is also observed. However, the waiting for the Legislative Yuan’s approval of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act leaves the international community with the impression that Taiwan is not totally committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In the future, the EPA will work even harder on the legislation of the bill to further Taiwan’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. \n\nThe CCPI rates the performances of 58 CO2 emitting nations by assessing and comparing 15 criteria in 5 major categories. Taiwan scored a total of 46.8 points, a reduction of 2.6 points on last year’s 49.4 points. Taiwan’s ranking thus remained at 52 – the same as for the previous year – putting it on par with other economic powerhouses in the region such as Japan, Korea, and Singapore. \n\nThe 58 nations are chosen due to their publication of adequate emissions data and their adoption of clearly-defined climate change actions. The assessment method used for the 2014 rankings are exactly the same as used for 2013: 15 indices falling into the 5 major categories of greenhouse gas emission levels, by-sector CO2 emissions, renewable energy, efficiency (including energy efficiency and carbon intensity), and climate policies. The compilers of the ranking have judged that no single nation has done enough this year to respond to climate change, so the top three places have once again been left unfilled. \n\nOf the 58 nations ranked, 26 have seen an improvement in their position, 9 have maintained the same position, while 23 have fallen further down the rankings. Most of the countries that have climbed up the rankings – such as the UK, which has gone from 10th to 5th – have done so because their energy efficiency and policy\/law making have shown clear improvements, thus affecting their overall performance. \n\nAdapting to climate change is a huge challenge for the whole world, but Taiwan has seen some specific successes in recent years due to a combination of factors: the government’s capability to mobilize its manpower, investment and participation from industry, and the ongoing efforts of a large section of the general public. Taiwan’s carbon emissions from fuel combustion saw negative growth for the first time in 2008. In addition, the emissions decreased by a yearly average of 0.6% between 2008 and 2012 – much improved compared to the average yearly increase of 2.7% for the years 2004-2007. In 2012, Taiwan’s economy grew by 1.32% and yet carbon emissions decreased by 1.9%, indicating a gradual decoupling of economic growth and carbon emissions. Taiwan’s hard work in responding to climate change has clearly paid dividends, and the only reason Taiwan has not improved its ranking is that other countries have improved even quicker. One of the key reasons for this is that the Legislative Yuan has yet to pass a draft of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act, which leaves the international community with the impression that Taiwan is not totally committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The EPA hopes that the bill will be passed in the near future and thus improve the ranking.", "content": "Climate Change\n\nEPA Response to the CCPI 2014 Ranking\n\nOn 18 November 2013 Germanwatch and Climate Action Network Europe announced the Climate Change Performance Index results for 2014 (CCPI 2014). Taiwan ranked 52 among 58 rated nations. The EPA pointed out that Taiwan has seen some specific successes in recent years in carbon reduction. Taiwan’s carbon emissions decreased steadily in the past five years. A gradual decoupling of economic growth and carbon emissions is also observed. However, the waiting for the Legislative Yuan’s approval of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act leaves the international community with the impression that Taiwan is not totally committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In the future, the EPA will work even harder on the legislation of the bill to further Taiwan’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. \n\nThe CCPI rates the performances of 58 CO2 emitting nations by assessing and comparing 15 criteria in 5 major categories. Taiwan scored a total of 46.8 points, a reduction of 2.6 points on last year’s 49.4 points. Taiwan’s ranking thus remained at 52 – the same as for the previous year – putting it on par with other economic powerhouses in the region such as Japan, Korea, and Singapore. \n\nThe 58 nations are chosen due to their publication of adequate emissions data and their adoption of clearly-defined climate change actions. The assessment method used for the 2014 rankings are exactly the same as used for 2013: 15 indices falling into the 5 major categories of greenhouse gas emission levels, by-sector CO2 emissions, renewable energy, efficiency (including energy efficiency and carbon intensity), and climate policies. The compilers of the ranking have judged that no single nation has done enough this year to respond to climate change, so the top three places have once again been left unfilled. \n\nOf the 58 nations ranked, 26 have seen an improvement in their position, 9 have maintained the same position, while 23 have fallen further down the rankings. Most of the countries that have climbed up the rankings – such as the UK, which has gone from 10th to 5th – have done so because their energy efficiency and policy\/law making have shown clear improvements, thus affecting their overall performance. \n\nAdapting to climate change is a huge challenge for the whole world, but Taiwan has seen some specific successes in recent years due to a combination of factors: the government’s capability to mobilize its manpower, investment and participation from industry, and the ongoing efforts of a large section of the general public. Taiwan’s carbon emissions from fuel combustion saw negative growth for the first time in 2008. In addition, the emissions decreased by a yearly average of 0.6% between 2008 and 2012 – much improved compared to the average yearly increase of 2.7% for the years 2004-2007. In 2012, Taiwan’s economy grew by 1.32% and yet carbon emissions decreased by 1.9%, indicating a gradual decoupling of economic growth and carbon emissions. Taiwan’s hard work in responding to climate change has clearly paid dividends, and the only reason Taiwan has not improved its ranking is that other countries have improved even quicker. One of the key reasons for this is that the Legislative Yuan has yet to pass a draft of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act, which leaves the international community with the impression that Taiwan is not totally committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The EPA hopes that the bill will be passed in the near future and thus improve the ranking.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "EPA Response to the CCPI 2014 Ranking", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-12" }, { "no": "3081", "title": "Emission Standards Revised for Particulate Pollution from Steel Smelting Industry Electric Arc Furnaces", "preview": "Air Quality\n\nEmission Standards Revised for Particulate Pollution from Steel Smelting Industry Electric Arc Furnaces \n\nElectric arc furnaces used in the steel smelting industry are a major source of pollution. In order to attain tighter control over air pollution from the steel smelting industry the EPA has amended the Steel Smelting Industry Electric Arc Furnace Particulate Pollution Control and Emission Standards and changed the name to Steel Smelting and Casting Electric Arc Furnace Particulate Pollution Control and Emission Standards. Details of the revisions have been posted on the EPA’s Web site for public perusal (on the page labeled Latest Environmental Regulations): http:\/\/ivy5.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/.\n\nImprovement of air quality is a task that the EPA takes full responsibility for. On 14 May 2012, the EPA announced the amended Air Quality Standards, which introduced controls for fine particulate matters (PM2.5) and outlined a comprehensive set of related control strategies. The EPA is also currently actively engaged in research and consultations regarding strengthening air pollutant emission standards for stationary pollution sources in the steel smelting, glass, and power generation industries. Since there is a clear international trend toward tightening emission standards in the steel smelting industry and since the technologies for preventing and treating emissions from manufacturing processes are rapidly improving, the EPA decided the time was right to further improve Taiwan’s air quality by tightening the standards. \n\nElectric arc furnaces are used in the steel industry to smelt steel and to cast steel or grey iron. The change in the name of the regulations thus clarifies what is actually being controlled. In addition, the tightening of particulate pollutant emissions standards for exhaust vents affects electric arc smelting as follows: Exhaust vent particulate pollutant concentrations have decreased from 50 mg\/Nm3 to 15 mg\/Nm3 (for existing pollution sources) and 10 mg\/Nm3 (for new pollution sources). For electric arc casting, exhaust vent particulate pollutant concentrations have gone from 50 mg\/Nm3 to 15 mg\/Nm3 (for existing pollution sources) and 12 mg\/Nm3 (for new pollution sources).\n\nFor electric arc casting, exhaust vent particulate pollutant concentration values will be implemented in two stages. Values will be tightened to 30 mg\/Nm3 in the first stage (from the date of announcement), and then to 15 mg\/Nm3 in the second stage (from 1 January 2017). This gives the affected enterprises ample time to adjust. To further reduce fugitive particulate matters, the EPA is also considering stiffening regulations covering dust extractor systems used in steel plants; opacity values for the periods when raw material is added to the furnace and for when the steel is removed could be adjusted to 10%, down from the current values of 20% and 40%, respectively. \n\nThe EPA is charged with improving the quality of Taiwan’s environment and is thus regularly amending emission standards. The EPA hopes, however, that the affected enterprises will find ways to strive for economic development while still fulfilling their environmental obligations, thus creating a win-win situation for all concerned.", "content": "Air Quality\n\nEmission Standards Revised for Particulate Pollution from Steel Smelting Industry Electric Arc Furnaces \n\nElectric arc furnaces used in the steel smelting industry are a major source of pollution. In order to attain tighter control over air pollution from the steel smelting industry the EPA has amended the Steel Smelting Industry Electric Arc Furnace Particulate Pollution Control and Emission Standards and changed the name to Steel Smelting and Casting Electric Arc Furnace Particulate Pollution Control and Emission Standards. Details of the revisions have been posted on the EPA’s Web site for public perusal (on the page labeled Latest Environmental Regulations): http:\/\/ivy5.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/.\n\nImprovement of air quality is a task that the EPA takes full responsibility for. On 14 May 2012, the EPA announced the amended Air Quality Standards, which introduced controls for fine particulate matters (PM2.5) and outlined a comprehensive set of related control strategies. The EPA is also currently actively engaged in research and consultations regarding strengthening air pollutant emission standards for stationary pollution sources in the steel smelting, glass, and power generation industries. Since there is a clear international trend toward tightening emission standards in the steel smelting industry and since the technologies for preventing and treating emissions from manufacturing processes are rapidly improving, the EPA decided the time was right to further improve Taiwan’s air quality by tightening the standards. \n\nElectric arc furnaces are used in the steel industry to smelt steel and to cast steel or grey iron. The change in the name of the regulations thus clarifies what is actually being controlled. In addition, the tightening of particulate pollutant emissions standards for exhaust vents affects electric arc smelting as follows: Exhaust vent particulate pollutant concentrations have decreased from 50 mg\/Nm3 to 15 mg\/Nm3 (for existing pollution sources) and 10 mg\/Nm3 (for new pollution sources). For electric arc casting, exhaust vent particulate pollutant concentrations have gone from 50 mg\/Nm3 to 15 mg\/Nm3 (for existing pollution sources) and 12 mg\/Nm3 (for new pollution sources).\n\nFor electric arc casting, exhaust vent particulate pollutant concentration values will be implemented in two stages. Values will be tightened to 30 mg\/Nm3 in the first stage (from the date of announcement), and then to 15 mg\/Nm3 in the second stage (from 1 January 2017). This gives the affected enterprises ample time to adjust. To further reduce fugitive particulate matters, the EPA is also considering stiffening regulations covering dust extractor systems used in steel plants; opacity values for the periods when raw material is added to the furnace and for when the steel is removed could be adjusted to 10%, down from the current values of 20% and 40%, respectively. \n\nThe EPA is charged with improving the quality of Taiwan’s environment and is thus regularly amending emission standards. The EPA hopes, however, that the affected enterprises will find ways to strive for economic development while still fulfilling their environmental obligations, thus creating a win-win situation for all concerned.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Emission Standards Revised for Particulate Pollution from Steel Smelting Industry Electric Arc Furnaces", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-12" }, { "no": "3080", "title": "Top Performers in Toxic Chemicals Operation Management Awarded", "preview": "toxic substance\n\nTop Performers in Toxic Chemicals Operation Management Awarded\n\nThe EPA held the nationwide Toxic Chemical Substance Management Merit Selection the results of which were made public on 24 October, and the winning enterprises were publicly commended. The selection panel consisted of officials from the EPA and relevant ministries, as well as scholars with professional expertise. The evaluation process involved document verification and on-site evaluation. After meticulous screening, the enterprises with outstanding performance in operation management and technology development were selected. Among the 25 enterprises that competed, 24 passed the preliminaries, with 23 enterprises registering for operation management and one enterprise registering for technological development. After careful deliberation by the selection panel, five enterprises were chosen as finalists in operation management, while one enterprise was chosen as the finalist in technology development. Then, the on-site evaluation processes ensued, and it was resolved that the Fab 14 of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited (TSMC) would be awarded the top prize (gold), with United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC) winning the first runner-up (silver), and the National Central University and the Taiwan Responsible Care Association winning the second runner up (bronze). The prize for technological development was left unawarded.", "content": "toxic substance\n\nTop Performers in Toxic Chemicals Operation Management Awarded\n\nThe EPA held the nationwide Toxic Chemical Substance Management Merit Selection the results of which were made public on 24 October, and the winning enterprises were publicly commended. The selection panel consisted of officials from the EPA and relevant ministries, as well as scholars with professional expertise. The evaluation process involved document verification and on-site evaluation. After meticulous screening, the enterprises with outstanding performance in operation management and technology development were selected. Among the 25 enterprises that competed, 24 passed the preliminaries, with 23 enterprises registering for operation management and one enterprise registering for technological development. After careful deliberation by the selection panel, five enterprises were chosen as finalists in operation management, while one enterprise was chosen as the finalist in technology development. Then, the on-site evaluation processes ensued, and it was resolved that the Fab 14 of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited (TSMC) would be awarded the top prize (gold), with United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC) winning the first runner-up (silver), and the National Central University and the Taiwan Responsible Care Association winning the second runner up (bronze). The prize for technological development was left unawarded.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "toxic substance", "titlename": "Top Performers in Toxic Chemicals Operation Management Awarded", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-11" }, { "no": "3079", "title": "Taiwan in Step with World in Following Minamata Convention", "preview": "Toxic Substance\n\nTaiwan in Step with World in Following Minamata Convention\n\nThe Diplomatic Conference for the Minamata Convention on Mercury that was recently convened in Japan by the UNEP passed a resolution calling for a reduction in global mercury emissions. Taiwan’s controls on mercury are already in step with those of advanced nations and during the conference Taiwan’s delegates were able to share results and experience of controlling mercury emissions with delegates from over 10 nations, including the US, Japan, and Burkina Faso. \n\nThe United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) representatives and delegates from various nations gathered in Kumamoto, Japan, for the Diplomatic Conference for the Minamata Convention on Mercury. The conference concluded on 11 October 2013 and was attended by over 1,000 participants. Over 130 nations were represented, and 60 of the signatory nations were represented by their leaders or environment ministers. Also contributing to the proceedings were delegates from other governmental organizations, NGOs and UN agencies.\n\nThe UNEP statistics show that in 2010 the global mercury emissions produced by human activity was approximately 1,960 tonnes. The largest source of this pollution was small-scale mining operations, accounting for 37%. Second largest was the 25% from the burning of fossil fuels, such as fuel oil in thermal power plants. Trace mercury is present in the bodies of human beings all over the planet and its impact upon human health is cause for grave concern. To bring this point home, on the opening day of the Kumamoto conference, sufferers of Minamata disease were invited to speak of the great pain and suffering that they and their families had experienced over the years. The victims also called upon the nations of the world to focus more upon the negative impact that mercury is having upon the global environment and human health, and to take immediate preventative action. \n\nThe conference resolutions were unanimously agreed on by the participant states. The Convention contains 35 articles and five annexes that aim to reduce global mercury emissions by restricting the mining, use, import and export of mercury, thus protecting the environment and human health. The convention specifies the particular areas requiring stricter controls as: products containing mercury; manufacturing processes that use mercury or mercury compounds; manual and small-scale mining operations; mercury or mercury compounds; atmospheric emission stationary sources of mercury; waste mercury products; and contaminated sites. At present, over 50 nations have signed the Convention and it is expected to come into effect within 90 days of being signed. It is hoped that the first Conference of the Parties to the Minamata Convention will be convened by 2016. \n\nIn order to show its deep commitment and readiness to protect the global environment, Taiwan will implement any international environmental treaty in step with other nations and will continue to share its knowledge and experience with the international community. Taiwan’s mercury controls are already concordant with those of developed nations, and during the conference Taiwan’s delegates were able to share results and experience of controlling mercury emissions with delegates from over 10 nations, including the US, Japan, and Burkina Faso. The active exchanges at the conference won Taiwan significant recognition for its efforts and achievements in restricting mercury and for its firm commitment to environmental protection.", "content": "Toxic Substance\n\nTaiwan in Step with World in Following Minamata Convention\n\nThe Diplomatic Conference for the Minamata Convention on Mercury that was recently convened in Japan by the UNEP passed a resolution calling for a reduction in global mercury emissions. Taiwan’s controls on mercury are already in step with those of advanced nations and during the conference Taiwan’s delegates were able to share results and experience of controlling mercury emissions with delegates from over 10 nations, including the US, Japan, and Burkina Faso. \n\nThe United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) representatives and delegates from various nations gathered in Kumamoto, Japan, for the Diplomatic Conference for the Minamata Convention on Mercury. The conference concluded on 11 October 2013 and was attended by over 1,000 participants. Over 130 nations were represented, and 60 of the signatory nations were represented by their leaders or environment ministers. Also contributing to the proceedings were delegates from other governmental organizations, NGOs and UN agencies.\n\nThe UNEP statistics show that in 2010 the global mercury emissions produced by human activity was approximately 1,960 tonnes. The largest source of this pollution was small-scale mining operations, accounting for 37%. Second largest was the 25% from the burning of fossil fuels, such as fuel oil in thermal power plants. Trace mercury is present in the bodies of human beings all over the planet and its impact upon human health is cause for grave concern. To bring this point home, on the opening day of the Kumamoto conference, sufferers of Minamata disease were invited to speak of the great pain and suffering that they and their families had experienced over the years. The victims also called upon the nations of the world to focus more upon the negative impact that mercury is having upon the global environment and human health, and to take immediate preventative action. \n\nThe conference resolutions were unanimously agreed on by the participant states. The Convention contains 35 articles and five annexes that aim to reduce global mercury emissions by restricting the mining, use, import and export of mercury, thus protecting the environment and human health. The convention specifies the particular areas requiring stricter controls as: products containing mercury; manufacturing processes that use mercury or mercury compounds; manual and small-scale mining operations; mercury or mercury compounds; atmospheric emission stationary sources of mercury; waste mercury products; and contaminated sites. At present, over 50 nations have signed the Convention and it is expected to come into effect within 90 days of being signed. It is hoped that the first Conference of the Parties to the Minamata Convention will be convened by 2016. \n\nIn order to show its deep commitment and readiness to protect the global environment, Taiwan will implement any international environmental treaty in step with other nations and will continue to share its knowledge and experience with the international community. Taiwan’s mercury controls are already concordant with those of developed nations, and during the conference Taiwan’s delegates were able to share results and experience of controlling mercury emissions with delegates from over 10 nations, including the US, Japan, and Burkina Faso. The active exchanges at the conference won Taiwan significant recognition for its efforts and achievements in restricting mercury and for its firm commitment to environmental protection.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Taiwan in Step with World in Following Minamata Convention", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-11" }, { "no": "3078", "title": "Power Generation from Incinerators Hits New Annual High of 3,060 GWh", "preview": "Waste management\n\nSolid Waste\n\nPower Generation from Incinerators Hits New Annual High of 3,060 GWh\n\nFollowing ten years of auditing and evaluation by the EPA, Taiwan’s 24 incineration plants have seen a distinct improvement in the way they incinerate was", "content": "Waste management\n\nSolid Waste\n\nPower Generation from Incinerators Hits New Annual High of 3,060 GWh\n\nFollowing ten years of auditing and evaluation by the EPA, Taiwan’s 24 incineration plants have seen a distinct improvement in the way they incinerate was", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Power Generation from Incinerators Hits New Annual High of 3,060 GWh", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-11" }, { "no": "3077", "title": "Regulations for Environmental Impact and Health Risk Assessments of Polluted Sites Come Into Effect", "preview": "Soil and Groundwater\n\nRegulations for Environmental Impact and Health Risk Assessments of Polluted Sites Come Into Effect \n\nOn 31 October 2013 the EPA announced the implementation of the Regulations for Environmental Impact and Health Risk Assessments for Soil and Groundwater Remediation Sites. The regulations accord with Article 24 of the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act and are composed of a total of 12 articles.\n\nInspecting a soil and groundwater polluted site on the basis of its risk to human health is the first step in deciding whether or not the site should be remediated. The results of the health risk assessment are used to formulate the remediation targets, and the above regulations are similar to those adopted by European and North American nations. It has taken quite a few years between the public hearings for the first draft and their recent implementation. According to Article 4 of the Act, the evaluation process should include:\n\n1) Hazard identification: Including collecting inspection data and pollutant test results from polluted sites, confirming the types and concentrations of harmful chemicals of concern (COCs), determining carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic toxicity, evaluating possible pollutant transport pathways and possible receivers of COCs and building a site conceptual model for pollution sites. \n\n2) Dose response assessment: Carcinogen slope factor (CSF) should be clearly stated for carcinogenic COCs, while reference dose (RfD) or reference concentration (RfC) should be clearly stated for non-carcinogenic COCs. \n\n3) Exposure assessment: Analysis of the transport vectors and possible receivers of exposure during transport for each COC in each type of environmental medium will be conducted. Following dissemination of COC, the type of medium and exposure pathway should be factored into the assessment of the total dose response. \n\n4) Risk characterization: Using the results of the evaluations and assessments laid out in 1) to 3) above, conduct overall assessments to determine the total carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks of each type of COC. Uncertainty analyses – including data variability and uncertainties of model or parameters adopted – should be conducted to explain any possible discrepancies between empirical and estimated results. \n\nAccording to the aforementioned regulations, before the EPA can approve a remediation plan, consideration must be given to the current and possible future uses of the land. The principles governing the granting of approval are as follows:\n\n1) The estimated risk of cancer after risk management measures have been taken must be no greater than 1 in 10,000.\n\n2) Negative effects must not be observed in representative species.\n\n3) The total non-carcinogenic hazard index must be no greater than 1.0\n\nDetails of the above regulations have been published on the EPA Web site under “environmental regulations”: http:\/\/ivy5.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx.", "content": "Soil and Groundwater\n\nRegulations for Environmental Impact and Health Risk Assessments of Polluted Sites Come Into Effect \n\nOn 31 October 2013 the EPA announced the implementation of the Regulations for Environmental Impact and Health Risk Assessments for Soil and Groundwater Remediation Sites. The regulations accord with Article 24 of the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act and are composed of a total of 12 articles.\n\nInspecting a soil and groundwater polluted site on the basis of its risk to human health is the first step in deciding whether or not the site should be remediated. The results of the health risk assessment are used to formulate the remediation targets, and the above regulations are similar to those adopted by European and North American nations. It has taken quite a few years between the public hearings for the first draft and their recent implementation. According to Article 4 of the Act, the evaluation process should include:\n\n1) Hazard identification: Including collecting inspection data and pollutant test results from polluted sites, confirming the types and concentrations of harmful chemicals of concern (COCs), determining carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic toxicity, evaluating possible pollutant transport pathways and possible receivers of COCs and building a site conceptual model for pollution sites. \n\n2) Dose response assessment: Carcinogen slope factor (CSF) should be clearly stated for carcinogenic COCs, while reference dose (RfD) or reference concentration (RfC) should be clearly stated for non-carcinogenic COCs. \n\n3) Exposure assessment: Analysis of the transport vectors and possible receivers of exposure during transport for each COC in each type of environmental medium will be conducted. Following dissemination of COC, the type of medium and exposure pathway should be factored into the assessment of the total dose response. \n\n4) Risk characterization: Using the results of the evaluations and assessments laid out in 1) to 3) above, conduct overall assessments to determine the total carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks of each type of COC. Uncertainty analyses – including data variability and uncertainties of model or parameters adopted – should be conducted to explain any possible discrepancies between empirical and estimated results. \n\nAccording to the aforementioned regulations, before the EPA can approve a remediation plan, consideration must be given to the current and possible future uses of the land. The principles governing the granting of approval are as follows:\n\n1) The estimated risk of cancer after risk management measures have been taken must be no greater than 1 in 10,000.\n\n2) Negative effects must not be observed in representative species.\n\n3) The total non-carcinogenic hazard index must be no greater than 1.0\n\nDetails of the above regulations have been published on the EPA Web site under “environmental regulations”: http:\/\/ivy5.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil and Groundwater", "titlename": "Regulations for Environmental Impact and Health Risk Assessments of Polluted Sites Come Into Effect", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-11" }, { "no": "3076", "title": "Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Training Held for Asia Pacific Region", "preview": "Soil and Groundwater\n\nSoil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Training Held for Asia Pacific Region \n\nTaiwan is a member of the Working Group on Remediation for Soil and Groundwater Pollution of Asian and Pacific Countries a group composed of 12 nations in the Asia Pacific region. As a way of contributing to international society, from 30 September to 11 October 2013 in Taiwan, the EPA held a 10-day remediation training course for 14 environmental and agricultural officials from seven nations: South Korea, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Australia, and New Zealand. In addition to introducing remediation theory, the course included local case studies and remediation site visits. The course was taught by 28 local experts from government, industry, and academia with considerable experience in the field of remediation. The EPA expected that the trainees would be able to take useful knowledge home with them and will give them ideas for resolving remediation problems in their own countries. They will also be able to contact their instructors in Taiwan if they encounter any particularly complicated problems in the future. Taiwan’s vision of becoming a hub for the dissemination of remediation knowledge and technology in the Asia Pacific region has thus come one step closer to being realized.", "content": "Soil and Groundwater\n\nSoil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Training Held for Asia Pacific Region \n\nTaiwan is a member of the Working Group on Remediation for Soil and Groundwater Pollution of Asian and Pacific Countries a group composed of 12 nations in the Asia Pacific region. As a way of contributing to international society, from 30 September to 11 October 2013 in Taiwan, the EPA held a 10-day remediation training course for 14 environmental and agricultural officials from seven nations: South Korea, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Australia, and New Zealand. In addition to introducing remediation theory, the course included local case studies and remediation site visits. The course was taught by 28 local experts from government, industry, and academia with considerable experience in the field of remediation. The EPA expected that the trainees would be able to take useful knowledge home with them and will give them ideas for resolving remediation problems in their own countries. They will also be able to contact their instructors in Taiwan if they encounter any particularly complicated problems in the future. Taiwan’s vision of becoming a hub for the dissemination of remediation knowledge and technology in the Asia Pacific region has thus come one step closer to being realized.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil and Groundwater", "titlename": "Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Training Held for Asia Pacific Region", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-11" }, { "no": "3075", "title": "Tablet PCs, External Hard Drives, and Mercury-containing Bulbs to be Recycled from March 2014", "preview": "resource recycling\n\nTablet PCs, External Hard Drives, and Mercury-containing Bulbs to be Recycled from March 2014\n\nOn 5 August 2013, the EPA announced the amended Scope of Enterprises Responsible for the Recycling, Clearance and Disposal of Packaging and", "content": "resource recycling\n\nTablet PCs, External Hard Drives, and Mercury-containing Bulbs to be Recycled from March 2014\n\nOn 5 August 2013, the EPA announced the amended Scope of Enterprises Responsible for the Recycling, Clearance and Disposal of Packaging and", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "resource recycling", "titlename": "Tablet PCs, External Hard Drives, and Mercury-containing Bulbs to be Recycled from March 2014", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-11" }, { "no": "3074", "title": "Environmental Training Expanded to Include Environmental Education Personnel", "preview": "Environmental Training\n\nFeature Article\n\nEnvironmental Training Expanded to Include Environmental Education Personnel\n\nSince the promulgation of the Environmental Education Act the Environmental Professionals Training Institute (EPTI) – which has always conducted a variety of training programs – has had a new mission: environmental education training. As the soon-to-be-established Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources is expected to assume the jurisdictions of many government departments, EPTI will soon undergo a corresponding transformation. There will be an expected increase in the types of trainees. \n\n \n\nEPTI Tasks\n\nThe EPTI was officially inaugurated on 1 July 1991, taking charge of training the nation’s environmental professionals in 21 categories under seven general fields, including air pollution control, wastewater treatment and waste clearance and treatment. With the enactment of the Environmental Education Act in 2011, the Institute began providing a certification mechanism for environmental education organizations, personnel and facilities and venues.\n\nThe main responsibilities of the EPTI at present are:\n\n1) Training for environmental professionals \n\n2) Training for environmental protection certification \n\n3) Accreditation for environmental education personnel, organizations and facilities and venues \n\n \n\n2012 Training Achievements\n\nTaking 2012 as an example, the EPTI has achieved the following in the fields of environmental training and accreditation management:\n\n1. Training for Environmental Professionals \n\nThe EPTI aims to provide better professional training for all levels of environmental agencies and businesses, as well as training in the areas of pollution control and management of air, water, waste, and toxic chemicals. To date, the Institute has conducted trainings for 161,401 people, covering all areas of pollution control technology, environmental management, application of pollution control information systems and administrative management. From January to the end of October 2013, the EPTI has conducted 183 training courses for a total of 8,714 trainees. This year, the Institute has also expanded its target trainees to complement the implementation of new environmental policies.\n\n2. Training for Environmental Professionals’ Certification \n\nTo complement environmental protection regulations, the EPTI has conducted specialist and technician certification trainings for a total of 208,446 trainees, resulting in the issuance of 167,710 licenses in all categories of environmental protection. From January to the end of October 2013, a total of 9,618 people received certification training in all 21 categories under seven fields of environmental protection. This resulted in the issuance of 6,770 licenses. For an overall picture of licensing statistics, please see the accompanying chart. The EPTI has also established a refresher training mechanism for environmental professionals who are already employed in industries. Categories are set according to the scope of work duties, and refresher courses are held at the workplaces of each type of environmental professional, helping them to stay updated with the latest environmental regulations and techniques. From January to the end of October 2013, a total of 13 courses for 1,760 professionals have been held in the area of air pollution control. \n\n3. Comprehensive environmental education accreditation\n\nSince 2011, the EPTI has provided accreditation services for environmental education personnel, organizations and facilities and venues. From January to the end of October 2013, 1,927 people, 75 facilities and venues and 15 organizations have received accreditation. Meanwhile the Institute has also been actively formulating environmental education professional course credits, developing core subject areas and teaching materials for all specialized fields so as to speed up the application process and raise the quality of accreditation work. \n\n \n\nBringing About Public Participation by Expanding the Trainee Base \n\nLooking to the future, in order to meet the demand for manpower and a greater variety of environmental protection duties, the EPTI aims to maintain a service attitude that upholds professional innovation and strives for high quality and high satisfaction through the following tasks:\n\n1. Expand target of environmental personnel training: \n\n?Continue to hold environmental professional training to build the professional capacities of government and industry pollution control personnel \n\n?Expand training targets and encourage public participation in environmental protection\n\n2. Strengthen environmental accreditation training and management\n\n?Continue to hold environmental accreditation training in all 21 categories under 7 fields\n\n?Hold on-the-job training for air pollution control professionals in each county and municipality\n\n?Put refresher training mechanisms into place to further the knowledge and technical expertise of environmental professionals\n\n3. Develop a high quality e-learning environment\n\n?Make information and teaching material on environmental living, environmental education and hot international environmental topics available in electronic form\n\n?Spread pertinent knowledge and concepts regarding environmental protection \n\n?Continue to cooperate with the National Academy of Civil Service and Regional Civil Service Development Institute, Central Personnel Administration to put teaching material online for more universal access\n\n4. Promote environmental education accreditation\n\n?Continue to carry out accreditation for environmental education organizations, personnel, and facilities and venues\n\n?Expand the professional knowledge of those who have already received accreditation\n\n?Provide guidance for those wishing to obtain accreditation so as to enhance the quality of environmental education organizations and facilities and venues\n\n5. Upgrade administrative e-services\n\n?Continue to develop online registration, score query and computerized examination systems for environmental professionals and accreditation training\n\n?Put information on environmental education accreditation online so as to provide more convenient service", "content": "Environmental Training\n\nFeature Article\n\nEnvironmental Training Expanded to Include Environmental Education Personnel\n\nSince the promulgation of the Environmental Education Act the Environmental Professionals Training Institute (EPTI) – which has always conducted a variety of training programs – has had a new mission: environmental education training. As the soon-to-be-established Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources is expected to assume the jurisdictions of many government departments, EPTI will soon undergo a corresponding transformation. There will be an expected increase in the types of trainees. \n\n \n\nEPTI Tasks\n\nThe EPTI was officially inaugurated on 1 July 1991, taking charge of training the nation’s environmental professionals in 21 categories under seven general fields, including air pollution control, wastewater treatment and waste clearance and treatment. With the enactment of the Environmental Education Act in 2011, the Institute began providing a certification mechanism for environmental education organizations, personnel and facilities and venues.\n\nThe main responsibilities of the EPTI at present are:\n\n1) Training for environmental professionals \n\n2) Training for environmental protection certification \n\n3) Accreditation for environmental education personnel, organizations and facilities and venues \n\n \n\n2012 Training Achievements\n\nTaking 2012 as an example, the EPTI has achieved the following in the fields of environmental training and accreditation management:\n\n1. Training for Environmental Professionals \n\nThe EPTI aims to provide better professional training for all levels of environmental agencies and businesses, as well as training in the areas of pollution control and management of air, water, waste, and toxic chemicals. To date, the Institute has conducted trainings for 161,401 people, covering all areas of pollution control technology, environmental management, application of pollution control information systems and administrative management. From January to the end of October 2013, the EPTI has conducted 183 training courses for a total of 8,714 trainees. This year, the Institute has also expanded its target trainees to complement the implementation of new environmental policies.\n\n2. Training for Environmental Professionals’ Certification \n\nTo complement environmental protection regulations, the EPTI has conducted specialist and technician certification trainings for a total of 208,446 trainees, resulting in the issuance of 167,710 licenses in all categories of environmental protection. From January to the end of October 2013, a total of 9,618 people received certification training in all 21 categories under seven fields of environmental protection. This resulted in the issuance of 6,770 licenses. For an overall picture of licensing statistics, please see the accompanying chart. The EPTI has also established a refresher training mechanism for environmental professionals who are already employed in industries. Categories are set according to the scope of work duties, and refresher courses are held at the workplaces of each type of environmental professional, helping them to stay updated with the latest environmental regulations and techniques. From January to the end of October 2013, a total of 13 courses for 1,760 professionals have been held in the area of air pollution control. \n\n3. Comprehensive environmental education accreditation\n\nSince 2011, the EPTI has provided accreditation services for environmental education personnel, organizations and facilities and venues. From January to the end of October 2013, 1,927 people, 75 facilities and venues and 15 organizations have received accreditation. Meanwhile the Institute has also been actively formulating environmental education professional course credits, developing core subject areas and teaching materials for all specialized fields so as to speed up the application process and raise the quality of accreditation work. \n\n \n\nBringing About Public Participation by Expanding the Trainee Base \n\nLooking to the future, in order to meet the demand for manpower and a greater variety of environmental protection duties, the EPTI aims to maintain a service attitude that upholds professional innovation and strives for high quality and high satisfaction through the following tasks:\n\n1. Expand target of environmental personnel training: \n\n?Continue to hold environmental professional training to build the professional capacities of government and industry pollution control personnel \n\n?Expand training targets and encourage public participation in environmental protection\n\n2. Strengthen environmental accreditation training and management\n\n?Continue to hold environmental accreditation training in all 21 categories under 7 fields\n\n?Hold on-the-job training for air pollution control professionals in each county and municipality\n\n?Put refresher training mechanisms into place to further the knowledge and technical expertise of environmental professionals\n\n3. Develop a high quality e-learning environment\n\n?Make information and teaching material on environmental living, environmental education and hot international environmental topics available in electronic form\n\n?Spread pertinent knowledge and concepts regarding environmental protection \n\n?Continue to cooperate with the National Academy of Civil Service and Regional Civil Service Development Institute, Central Personnel Administration to put teaching material online for more universal access\n\n4. Promote environmental education accreditation\n\n?Continue to carry out accreditation for environmental education organizations, personnel, and facilities and venues\n\n?Expand the professional knowledge of those who have already received accreditation\n\n?Provide guidance for those wishing to obtain accreditation so as to enhance the quality of environmental education organizations and facilities and venues\n\n5. Upgrade administrative e-services\n\n?Continue to develop online registration, score query and computerized examination systems for environmental professionals and accreditation training\n\n?Put information on environmental education accreditation online so as to provide more convenient service", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Training", "titlename": "Environmental Training Expanded to Include Environmental Education Personnel", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-11" }, { "no": "3073", "title": "Two Environmental Education Bylaws Revised", "preview": "Environmental Education\n\nTwo Environmental Education Bylaws Revised \n\nThe Environmental Education Act Enforcement Rules and the Regulations Governing Environmental Education Personnel Certification and Management are part of regulations pertaining to the Environmental Education Act. The enforcement rules and the regulations were amended to adjust to the problems encountered during the implementation of these rules.\n\nThe Environmental Education Act Enforcement Rules are basically ancillary provisions to the Environmental Education Act. They were formulated in accordance with Article 25 of the Act and contain 17 articles. The enforcement rules were announced on 3 June 2011 marking the first time these rules have been amended. The amendments were made to adjust to the problems encountered during the implementation of these rules. Major focuses of the amendments are as follows: \n\n1. The Indoor Air Quality Act is an environmental protection law as stipulated by the Environmental Education Act. \n\n2. To avoid misunderstanding, governments, schools and organizations regulated by the Act no longer need to provide the total number of employees, teachers and students. Article 10 is therefore deleted. \n\n3. Clearly stipulating that, when reporting the implementation results of environmental education, or the targets of the implementation results, the names, status, and the last 4 digits of the personal ID of the trainees should be provided.\n\n4. Adding a clause that, when a competent authority orders enterprises to attend an environmental education activity for violating environmental regulations in accordance with Article 23 or Article 24 Paragraph 1 of the Environmental Education Act, the name of the enterprise should be clearly identified in the Penalty Notice, and the penalized enterprise should provide the name(s) of personnel held responsible for the violation. \n\nFurthermore, the Regulations Governing Environmental Education Personnel Certification and Management are also part of regulations pertaining to the Environmental Education Act. The regulations were formulated in accord with Article 10 Paragraph 4 of the Environmental Education Act and Article 10 Paragraph 1 of the Charges and Fees Act, and were promulgated on 22 June 2011. This is the first time that the above regulations have been revised since promulgation, and the main points are as follows: \n\n1) Environmental education personnel will be classified as two types: Administrative staff and teaching staff.\n\n2) Specialized areas will be applied to teaching staff only. Such specialized areas may include school and community environmental education, climate change, disaster prevention and response, nature conservation, pollution control, environment and resource management, cultural conservation, and community participation.\n\n3) Regulations regarding environmental education personnel certification have been amended to include education, experience or expertise, recommendations, examinations, and specialized training. \n\n4) Applications for environmental education personnel certification based on experience or expertise must henceforth meet certain criteria and must be accompanied by the relevant original documents. \n\n5) Environmental education personnel designated by schools in accordance with the above regulations will have the environmental education personnel evaluation and certification fees waived.", "content": "Environmental Education\n\nTwo Environmental Education Bylaws Revised \n\nThe Environmental Education Act Enforcement Rules and the Regulations Governing Environmental Education Personnel Certification and Management are part of regulations pertaining to the Environmental Education Act. The enforcement rules and the regulations were amended to adjust to the problems encountered during the implementation of these rules.\n\nThe Environmental Education Act Enforcement Rules are basically ancillary provisions to the Environmental Education Act. They were formulated in accordance with Article 25 of the Act and contain 17 articles. The enforcement rules were announced on 3 June 2011 marking the first time these rules have been amended. The amendments were made to adjust to the problems encountered during the implementation of these rules. Major focuses of the amendments are as follows: \n\n1. The Indoor Air Quality Act is an environmental protection law as stipulated by the Environmental Education Act. \n\n2. To avoid misunderstanding, governments, schools and organizations regulated by the Act no longer need to provide the total number of employees, teachers and students. Article 10 is therefore deleted. \n\n3. Clearly stipulating that, when reporting the implementation results of environmental education, or the targets of the implementation results, the names, status, and the last 4 digits of the personal ID of the trainees should be provided.\n\n4. Adding a clause that, when a competent authority orders enterprises to attend an environmental education activity for violating environmental regulations in accordance with Article 23 or Article 24 Paragraph 1 of the Environmental Education Act, the name of the enterprise should be clearly identified in the Penalty Notice, and the penalized enterprise should provide the name(s) of personnel held responsible for the violation. \n\nFurthermore, the Regulations Governing Environmental Education Personnel Certification and Management are also part of regulations pertaining to the Environmental Education Act. The regulations were formulated in accord with Article 10 Paragraph 4 of the Environmental Education Act and Article 10 Paragraph 1 of the Charges and Fees Act, and were promulgated on 22 June 2011. This is the first time that the above regulations have been revised since promulgation, and the main points are as follows: \n\n1) Environmental education personnel will be classified as two types: Administrative staff and teaching staff.\n\n2) Specialized areas will be applied to teaching staff only. Such specialized areas may include school and community environmental education, climate change, disaster prevention and response, nature conservation, pollution control, environment and resource management, cultural conservation, and community participation.\n\n3) Regulations regarding environmental education personnel certification have been amended to include education, experience or expertise, recommendations, examinations, and specialized training. \n\n4) Applications for environmental education personnel certification based on experience or expertise must henceforth meet certain criteria and must be accompanied by the relevant original documents. \n\n5) Environmental education personnel designated by schools in accordance with the above regulations will have the environmental education personnel evaluation and certification fees waived.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Education", "titlename": "Two Environmental Education Bylaws Revised", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-11" }, { "no": "3072", "title": "Promoting Green Industry to Create Smart Green Cities", "preview": "ecolabeling\n\nPromoting Green Industry to Create Smart Green Cities\n\nTo promote the marketing of green industries the EPA launched the “2013 Taiwan International Green Industry Show,” held from 30 October to 2 November. This show was anchored around the four basic necessities of life, namely food, clothing, housing and transportation. It featured five pavilions with the themes of: “Innovative value-added instruments for recycling waste glass containers”; “Low-carbon transport to protect the environment”; “No idling and battery swapping stations for electric scooters and motorcycles, Eco-driving and indoor air purifying plants”; “Low-carbon diets and energy saving and carbon reduction”; and “Green consumption - electrical appliances, information and cleaning products with Green Marks and Green Hotels.” In the meantime, the EPA held the “Taiwan International Smart Green City Expo,” which had a dedicated Green Trade Zone that displayed green products made by using the green building concept. Inside the exhibition room, visitors could see a variety of building materials made in Taiwan that carried the Green Mark. Panasonic Taiwan Co., Ltd. Also showcased its smart home energy management system to promote energy conservation.", "content": "ecolabeling\n\nPromoting Green Industry to Create Smart Green Cities\n\nTo promote the marketing of green industries the EPA launched the “2013 Taiwan International Green Industry Show,” held from 30 October to 2 November. This show was anchored around the four basic necessities of life, namely food, clothing, housing and transportation. It featured five pavilions with the themes of: “Innovative value-added instruments for recycling waste glass containers”; “Low-carbon transport to protect the environment”; “No idling and battery swapping stations for electric scooters and motorcycles, Eco-driving and indoor air purifying plants”; “Low-carbon diets and energy saving and carbon reduction”; and “Green consumption - electrical appliances, information and cleaning products with Green Marks and Green Hotels.” In the meantime, the EPA held the “Taiwan International Smart Green City Expo,” which had a dedicated Green Trade Zone that displayed green products made by using the green building concept. Inside the exhibition room, visitors could see a variety of building materials made in Taiwan that carried the Green Mark. Panasonic Taiwan Co., Ltd. Also showcased its smart home energy management system to promote energy conservation.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "ecolabeling", "titlename": "Promoting Green Industry to Create Smart Green Cities", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-11" }, { "no": "3071", "title": "Regulations Revised for Reporting High-polluting Vehicles", "preview": "Air Quality\n\nRegulations Revised for Reporting High-polluting Vehicles \n\nThe EPA has revised the Regulations Governing the Reporting of High-polluting Vehicles and Rewards for Reporting. Besides stipulating that the informant must provide photographic or videographic evidence other regulations have been amended to ensure that cash incentives are being employed effectively and that cases are being dealt with properly. The revisions are intended to further reduce exhaust from high-polluting vehicles. \n\nThe EPA stated that in over 90% of reported cases of polluting vehicles, the informant is able to provide photographic or video graphic evidence. In order to ensure that the rewarding of cash incentives is effective in reducing pollution, the EPA gathered opinions and suggestions from informants, reported vehicle owners and local environmental protection bureaus (EPBs), and conducted a review of the criteria for the rewarding of incentives. In cases of multiple informants reporting the same offending vehicle, the revision stipulates that only the first informant to report will be given the cash incentive, assuming that the photos\/video they submit show exceeding of opacity standards. The local EPB can then verify that a pollution problem probably exists and inform the owner to take the vehicle to be tested. The revision will thus ensure that the incentive budget is being used wisely. \n\nThe revision also reduces the time period for submitting a report to within 15 days after the photo or video was taken. It also stipulates that polluting vehicles must be blacklisted until the problem is remedied, which sends the message to the public that their efforts to eliminate polluting vehicles are achieving results. Some administrative practicalities were also taken into account when drawing up the revisions: Photos\/videos must not be taken at night, when it is raining, or when the road is wet, and eye-witness evidence will no longer be accepted to eliminate disputes.", "content": "Air Quality\n\nRegulations Revised for Reporting High-polluting Vehicles \n\nThe EPA has revised the Regulations Governing the Reporting of High-polluting Vehicles and Rewards for Reporting. Besides stipulating that the informant must provide photographic or videographic evidence other regulations have been amended to ensure that cash incentives are being employed effectively and that cases are being dealt with properly. The revisions are intended to further reduce exhaust from high-polluting vehicles. \n\nThe EPA stated that in over 90% of reported cases of polluting vehicles, the informant is able to provide photographic or video graphic evidence. In order to ensure that the rewarding of cash incentives is effective in reducing pollution, the EPA gathered opinions and suggestions from informants, reported vehicle owners and local environmental protection bureaus (EPBs), and conducted a review of the criteria for the rewarding of incentives. In cases of multiple informants reporting the same offending vehicle, the revision stipulates that only the first informant to report will be given the cash incentive, assuming that the photos\/video they submit show exceeding of opacity standards. The local EPB can then verify that a pollution problem probably exists and inform the owner to take the vehicle to be tested. The revision will thus ensure that the incentive budget is being used wisely. \n\nThe revision also reduces the time period for submitting a report to within 15 days after the photo or video was taken. It also stipulates that polluting vehicles must be blacklisted until the problem is remedied, which sends the message to the public that their efforts to eliminate polluting vehicles are achieving results. Some administrative practicalities were also taken into account when drawing up the revisions: Photos\/videos must not be taken at night, when it is raining, or when the road is wet, and eye-witness evidence will no longer be accepted to eliminate disputes.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Regulations Revised for Reporting High-polluting Vehicles", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-11" }, { "no": "3070", "title": "EPA and Transport Companies Sign Eco-Driving Agreement", "preview": "Air Quality\n\nEPA and Transport Companies Sign Eco-Driving Agreement\n\nIn order to encourage energy saving and carbon reduction in government departments and transport sectors the EPA has been promoting an eco-friendly driving training scheme. Preliminary estimates indicate that the scheme leads to carbon emissions being reduced by approximately 8%. To thank transport teams and companies for their assistance in encouraging participation in the eco-driving training scheme, the EPA held a special ceremony in their honor, during which an eco-driving agreement was also signed between the EPA, local environmental protection bureaus and transportation companies. . \n\nEstimates derived from the first round of statistical results from the scheme indicated that if all of the 4,900 refuse collection vehicles in Taiwan were to be driven in an eco-friendly manner, the annual fuel savings per vehicle would add up to around NT$9,000 – a total of NT$44 million for the whole fleet. In addition, for a car driven 16,000 km in a year, the fuel savings would add up to around NT$5,000 annually, meaning that if 1,000 drivers take the eco-driving course annually then fuel savings would be to the tune of NT$5 million. The more drivers who participate in the scheme, the greater the effect will be on saving energy and reducing carbon emissions. \n\nEco-driving involves giving drivers the proper set of driving habits through education. These include avoiding idling and engine warming, not carrying unnecessary loads, keeping an eye on air conditioning settings, and taking the vehicle for regular maintenance, all of which have the direct effect of saving fuel. Research carried out in Europe shows that improving driving behaviors can lead to a 40% decrease in traffic accidents and a 5-8% decrease in CO2 emissions and energy consumption. Promoting eco-driving among corporations and government departments is thus an excellent way to reduce accident rates, cut fuel expenses, as well as save energy and reduce carbon emissions. \n\nOver the last few years the EPA has been guiding Taiwan’s bus operators, haulage operators, taxi companies, and refuse collecting teams in the setting up of eco-driving training courses. Ho-Hsin Bus Traffic Co., for example, has embarked upon a long-term program of eco-driving training, and has installed high-tech monitoring instruments on its vehicles, upgraded its vehicle maintenance system, designed tailor-made training courses, and created an incentive system. This has resulted in Ho-Hsin’s fleet achieving an improvement in fuel efficiency of 12%, which represents considerable annual savings for the company.\n\nAnother corporation that has been very keen to join the EPA’s eco-friendly driving training scheme is Formosa Petrochemical Corp., one of Taiwan’s major producers of oil products. It has adopted the Smith System, a safe driving system developed in the U. S. Also worth mentioning is Formosa Transport Co. Ltd., which operates a fleet of 60 tractor heads that are mainly used to haul car carrier trailers or containers around Taiwan. Formosa Transport first designed a system for their drivers that rewards them with cash for saving fuel and fines them for wasting it, thus giving the drivers a strong incentive to drive in an eco-friendly way. Formosa Transport then went on to install GPS tracking systems and wind deflectors on their vehicles, and trained their drivers in eco-friendly driving. They found that correcting their drivers’ poor driving habits immediately reduced their fuel costs and, correspondingly, emissions of greenhouse gases. \n\nTaiwan Taxi is another company that is making the most of the latest technologies. It has installed a GPS dispatch system in its vehicles that always dispatches the nearest available taxi to call-in customers, thus reducing the mileage that drivers accumulate by driving around to look for passengers. Its fleet is also 35% hybrid – LPG\/electric – and all of the drivers attend eco-driving classes every year. \n\nThe Industrial Technology Research Institute is also encouraging its staff to use eco-friendly vehicles and has assisted the EPA in setting up low-carbon, energy-saving vehicle schemes and the eco-driving training courses. The courses are taught by expert instructors, who not only correct poor driving habits but also provide technical advice, thus involving the general public in the effort to reduce CO2 emissions from vehicles. \n\nAt the beginning of last year, the EPA helped Tainan City Environment Protection Bureau’s refuse collection team to run the first eco-driving training course. This year, besides working with Ho-Hsin, the EPA has also assisted the environmental bureaus of Tainan City, Taoyuan County, Chaiyi City, Nantou County, Kaohsiung City, Taitung County, Hualian County, and Yilan County to improve the driving behaviors of their refuse collection teams in the hope of reaching the 8% reduction in carbon emissions. The EPA has created an audio-visual file using the class material from the eco-driving training courses that is now available to download from: http:\/\/ecodriving.itri.org.tw\/.", "content": "Air Quality\n\nEPA and Transport Companies Sign Eco-Driving Agreement\n\nIn order to encourage energy saving and carbon reduction in government departments and transport sectors the EPA has been promoting an eco-friendly driving training scheme. Preliminary estimates indicate that the scheme leads to carbon emissions being reduced by approximately 8%. To thank transport teams and companies for their assistance in encouraging participation in the eco-driving training scheme, the EPA held a special ceremony in their honor, during which an eco-driving agreement was also signed between the EPA, local environmental protection bureaus and transportation companies. . \n\nEstimates derived from the first round of statistical results from the scheme indicated that if all of the 4,900 refuse collection vehicles in Taiwan were to be driven in an eco-friendly manner, the annual fuel savings per vehicle would add up to around NT$9,000 – a total of NT$44 million for the whole fleet. In addition, for a car driven 16,000 km in a year, the fuel savings would add up to around NT$5,000 annually, meaning that if 1,000 drivers take the eco-driving course annually then fuel savings would be to the tune of NT$5 million. The more drivers who participate in the scheme, the greater the effect will be on saving energy and reducing carbon emissions. \n\nEco-driving involves giving drivers the proper set of driving habits through education. These include avoiding idling and engine warming, not carrying unnecessary loads, keeping an eye on air conditioning settings, and taking the vehicle for regular maintenance, all of which have the direct effect of saving fuel. Research carried out in Europe shows that improving driving behaviors can lead to a 40% decrease in traffic accidents and a 5-8% decrease in CO2 emissions and energy consumption. Promoting eco-driving among corporations and government departments is thus an excellent way to reduce accident rates, cut fuel expenses, as well as save energy and reduce carbon emissions. \n\nOver the last few years the EPA has been guiding Taiwan’s bus operators, haulage operators, taxi companies, and refuse collecting teams in the setting up of eco-driving training courses. Ho-Hsin Bus Traffic Co., for example, has embarked upon a long-term program of eco-driving training, and has installed high-tech monitoring instruments on its vehicles, upgraded its vehicle maintenance system, designed tailor-made training courses, and created an incentive system. This has resulted in Ho-Hsin’s fleet achieving an improvement in fuel efficiency of 12%, which represents considerable annual savings for the company.\n\nAnother corporation that has been very keen to join the EPA’s eco-friendly driving training scheme is Formosa Petrochemical Corp., one of Taiwan’s major producers of oil products. It has adopted the Smith System, a safe driving system developed in the U. S. Also worth mentioning is Formosa Transport Co. Ltd., which operates a fleet of 60 tractor heads that are mainly used to haul car carrier trailers or containers around Taiwan. Formosa Transport first designed a system for their drivers that rewards them with cash for saving fuel and fines them for wasting it, thus giving the drivers a strong incentive to drive in an eco-friendly way. Formosa Transport then went on to install GPS tracking systems and wind deflectors on their vehicles, and trained their drivers in eco-friendly driving. They found that correcting their drivers’ poor driving habits immediately reduced their fuel costs and, correspondingly, emissions of greenhouse gases. \n\nTaiwan Taxi is another company that is making the most of the latest technologies. It has installed a GPS dispatch system in its vehicles that always dispatches the nearest available taxi to call-in customers, thus reducing the mileage that drivers accumulate by driving around to look for passengers. Its fleet is also 35% hybrid – LPG\/electric – and all of the drivers attend eco-driving classes every year. \n\nThe Industrial Technology Research Institute is also encouraging its staff to use eco-friendly vehicles and has assisted the EPA in setting up low-carbon, energy-saving vehicle schemes and the eco-driving training courses. The courses are taught by expert instructors, who not only correct poor driving habits but also provide technical advice, thus involving the general public in the effort to reduce CO2 emissions from vehicles. \n\nAt the beginning of last year, the EPA helped Tainan City Environment Protection Bureau’s refuse collection team to run the first eco-driving training course. This year, besides working with Ho-Hsin, the EPA has also assisted the environmental bureaus of Tainan City, Taoyuan County, Chaiyi City, Nantou County, Kaohsiung City, Taitung County, Hualian County, and Yilan County to improve the driving behaviors of their refuse collection teams in the hope of reaching the 8% reduction in carbon emissions. The EPA has created an audio-visual file using the class material from the eco-driving training courses that is now available to download from: http:\/\/ecodriving.itri.org.tw\/.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "EPA and Transport Companies Sign Eco-Driving Agreement", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-11" }, { "no": "3069", "title": "Technical Guidelines for Best Management of Rainfall Runoff Promulgated", "preview": "Water Quality\n\nTechnical Guidelines for Best Management of Rainfall Runoff Promulgated \n\nIn order to reduce the amount of pollutants in topsoil that are being washed into rivers by rainfall runoff the EPA has formulated the Technical Guidelines for Best Management of Rainfall Runoff Non-Point Source Pollution. The guidelines are intended to assist local governments and competent authorities for roads to make rainfall runoff pollution management obligatory in major projects such as urban development, zone expropriation, and construction of roads with four lanes or more. Taking pre-emptive action is the best way to prevent rainwater that runs off land and roads from polluting aqueous environments after the development activity has been completed. \n\nPollution in environmental bodies is mainly caused by effluent from industry and households, but rainfall runoff pollution from non-point sources can also create a significant water quality problem for rivers and reservoirs. Continuous advancements in pollution control techniques and management methods mean that industrial and household effluent can now be effectively controlled, and in developed countries the control of rainfall runoff pollution from non-point sources is also receiving more attention. For example, in Pennsylvania and Washington states in the U.S., curb sides, parking lots, and other public areas have had structures such as permeable paving, infiltration trenches, rain gardens, and grass ditches built to reduce rainfall runoff pollution. \n\nAfter taking a close look at local and overseas methods of managing rainfall runoff pollution, the EPA has announced 17 types of treatment that it considers to be most suitable for use in land development and road construction projects. These are permeable paving, infiltration ponds, subsurface infiltration beds, infiltration trenches, rain gardens, infiltration dry wells, filtration equipment, vegetated ditches, vegetated filter strips, infiltration embankments, green roofing, rain collection systems, constructed wetlands, wet detention ponds, dry detention ponds, water quality filtration equipment, and coastal buffer strip maintenance. Six major management measures have also been announced: Avoid development in environmentally sensitive areas; centralized development for buildings and facilities; keeping maintenance costs low and reducing site disturbance; reducing impermeable surfaces; preventing runoff from directly flowing into drainage systems; and reducing pollution at source. \n\nResearch has shown that collecting and treating the first 30 minutes or 15 mm of rainfall runoff effectively controls 80% of pollution from non-point sources. The EPA recommends that when local governments, competent authorities for roads and developers draw up work plans for large projects, they should choose the most suitable management technique from those listed above and assess the size of the area to which it can be applied, the amount of runoff that it will collect, and the overall benefit to pollution reduction.\n\nTaiwan receives abundant rainfall, sometimes to the point of flooding, and yet water shortages and water pollution are also persistent problems. Imitating nature by storing rainfall so that it seeps naturally through the surface of the land and then slowly drains away is a viable solution to the problem of rainfall runoff pollution and can also reduce the threat of flooding.", "content": "Water Quality\n\nTechnical Guidelines for Best Management of Rainfall Runoff Promulgated \n\nIn order to reduce the amount of pollutants in topsoil that are being washed into rivers by rainfall runoff the EPA has formulated the Technical Guidelines for Best Management of Rainfall Runoff Non-Point Source Pollution. The guidelines are intended to assist local governments and competent authorities for roads to make rainfall runoff pollution management obligatory in major projects such as urban development, zone expropriation, and construction of roads with four lanes or more. Taking pre-emptive action is the best way to prevent rainwater that runs off land and roads from polluting aqueous environments after the development activity has been completed. \n\nPollution in environmental bodies is mainly caused by effluent from industry and households, but rainfall runoff pollution from non-point sources can also create a significant water quality problem for rivers and reservoirs. Continuous advancements in pollution control techniques and management methods mean that industrial and household effluent can now be effectively controlled, and in developed countries the control of rainfall runoff pollution from non-point sources is also receiving more attention. For example, in Pennsylvania and Washington states in the U.S., curb sides, parking lots, and other public areas have had structures such as permeable paving, infiltration trenches, rain gardens, and grass ditches built to reduce rainfall runoff pollution. \n\nAfter taking a close look at local and overseas methods of managing rainfall runoff pollution, the EPA has announced 17 types of treatment that it considers to be most suitable for use in land development and road construction projects. These are permeable paving, infiltration ponds, subsurface infiltration beds, infiltration trenches, rain gardens, infiltration dry wells, filtration equipment, vegetated ditches, vegetated filter strips, infiltration embankments, green roofing, rain collection systems, constructed wetlands, wet detention ponds, dry detention ponds, water quality filtration equipment, and coastal buffer strip maintenance. Six major management measures have also been announced: Avoid development in environmentally sensitive areas; centralized development for buildings and facilities; keeping maintenance costs low and reducing site disturbance; reducing impermeable surfaces; preventing runoff from directly flowing into drainage systems; and reducing pollution at source. \n\nResearch has shown that collecting and treating the first 30 minutes or 15 mm of rainfall runoff effectively controls 80% of pollution from non-point sources. The EPA recommends that when local governments, competent authorities for roads and developers draw up work plans for large projects, they should choose the most suitable management technique from those listed above and assess the size of the area to which it can be applied, the amount of runoff that it will collect, and the overall benefit to pollution reduction.\n\nTaiwan receives abundant rainfall, sometimes to the point of flooding, and yet water shortages and water pollution are also persistent problems. Imitating nature by storing rainfall so that it seeps naturally through the surface of the land and then slowly drains away is a viable solution to the problem of rainfall runoff pollution and can also reduce the threat of flooding.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Technical Guidelines for Best Management of Rainfall Runoff Promulgated", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-10" }, { "no": "3068", "title": "Sustainable Use of Water Resources", "preview": "Water Quality\n\nSustainable Use of Water Resources\n\nTo encourage greener consumer habits among Taiwan’s citizens the government has been promoting its product carbon labeling system. The system also aims to push businesses to review their manufacturing processes and supply chains to see where carbon reductions can be made. Over the last four years, the system has received widespread support from all government departments, as well as private enterprises and members of the public. Their combined efforts are going a long way toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions. \n\nThe current strategies and measures in force to realize the sustainable use of water resources are described below. \n\nI. Promote integrated river basin management to reduce flood and water damage\n\n1. Promote integrated planning and management for all sections of river basins and coastal regions, and utilize powerful strategies that preserve water in upstream areas, retard flooding in midstream areas, store rainwater in downstream areas, and reduce the intensity of land use in lowlands.\n\n2. Establish a comprehensive disaster prevention and response system, including allocation measures for flood control equipment such as mobile water pumps, to enhance emergency response capabilities for floods and typhoons.\n\n3. Promote the control of land use in flood-prone area along with non-engineering flood control measures such as flood insurance, flood warning systems, community alliances, and the strengthening of flood education and drills.\n\n4. Expedite the Integrated River Basin Management Plan and formulate the Integrated River Basin Management Master Plan and the River Environment Management Plan, to implement integrated river management, division of government tasks and integrated environmental management.\n\n5. In response to increased hydrological parameters as a consequence of climate change, a study on the flood protection standards of rivers governed by the central government was carried out to set suitable flood protection standards and formulate appropriate response strategies.\n\nⅡ. Reasonable and effective water consumption to ensure steady water supply\n\n1. Expedite reservoir management and maintenance and carry out silt prevention and dredging for major reservoirs.\n\n2. Promote inter-district water resource allocation projects, establish water source and tap water backup systems, and review measures for the allocation of agricultural water and compensation mechanisms.\n\n3. Expedite the replacement of old tap water pipes, and improve water supply for highland and remote areas.\n\n4. Promote various water source developments such as the recycling and reuse of conventional water sources, desalination of seawater and recycling and reuse of wastewater.\n\n5. Facilitate the cooperation of agricultural units in adjusting agricultural production and farming systems based on district water supplies in order to improve the efficiency of water resource allocation and utilization.\n\nⅢ. Strengthen soil and water conservation to build a sound hydrologic cycle \n\n1. Improve the management of reservoir catchment areas and water resource conservation by implementing the conservation of water resource protection areas and providing corresponding incentives.\n\n2. Collect the Water Resource Conservation and Compensation Fee, improve conservation of important water resource protection areas and reservoir catchment areas, encourage and reward active conservationists, and place water protection responsibilities upon developers.\n\n3. Consider flood protection standards during land development, and ensure that upstream developments do not increase the load of downstream drainage.\n\n4. Formulate implementation plans to improve storage of rainwater and surface runoff in plain areas and recharging of groundwater; strengthen the storage and infiltration measures for rainwater and surface runoff; improve water retention capacity and groundwater conservation, thereby facilitating a sound hydrologic cycle.\n\n5. Plan reasonable utilization of water and land resources, continue to promote prevention of land subsidence, and assist in the improvement of living environments and industrial development in areas with land subsidence.\n\nⅣ. Improve coastal environments and build a water-accessible ecosystem \n\n1. Promote river and coastal environment development; and integrate local history, culture and community development into projects on river disaster prevention and reduction, and environmental improvement and restoration.\n\n2. Comprehensively investigate basic information on water environment and ecosystem, and restore the integrity, continuity and diversity of natural habitats with consideration of naturalness, ecosystems and safety.\n\n3. Study and promote natural water purification facilities, and coordinate relevant agencies and administrations to control industrial wastewater, collect the Water Pollution Control Fees, expedite the construction of sewage systems, and actively improve and protect the water quality of water bodies.\n\n4. Expedite the diversified provision of gravel and its reasonable excavation in accordance with the Sand and Gravel Excavation Act, Water Act and pertinent regulations, and implement management mechanisms to improve river management efficacy.\n\nⅤ. Promote water recycling and reuse and enhance water industry development\n\n1. Establish the cross-ministerial Water Recycling and Reuse Taskforce that coordinates the supply of recycled water in regions facing water shortages, thereby facilitating an actual model of industrial usage of effluent from urban wastewater treatment plants.\n\n2. Continue the legislative process to foster the water recycling industry and create a legal framework for water recycling.\n\n3. Execute research and development projects regarding risk management technologies for recycled water, and build capacity for local water recycling industries by integrating the concepts of energy conservation and carbon reduction, strengthening risk assessment of recycled water usage, conducting studies on control technology and risk aversion strategies. Also, reduce the public’s concerns and raise their confidence in recycled water usage with scientific evidence, public education and personnel training.\n\nⅥ. Build a sound water administrative system in collaboration with government restructuring\n\n1. Integrate authorities for water, land, forestry and coastal management of river basins; establish a cross-ministerial agency with environmental protection and conservation of ecosystems, national land resource, water resource and forest management as its core responsibilities. \n\n2. Integrate authorities for key river basins or surrounding river basins to form a dedicated river basin managerial agency that handles core responsibilities such as land resource management, disaster prevention and response, and integrated basin development.\n\n3. The local governments should emphasize water utilization affairs and consider the establishment of a dedicated office for such purposes to promote sewer system construction, soil and water conservation in watershed areas, management of locally governed rivers and district drainage, etc.\n\n4. Strengthen the functions of the water resources coordination platform prior to government restructuring to reduce interface lags of the water resource sections of various ministries, thereby improving administrative efficiency.\n\n5. Formulate a water management capacity building program on water industry management, the latest disaster prevention technology, integrated river planning and international sustainable development trends.\n\nⅦ. Overhaul water regulations to ensure policy implementation\n\n1. Amend the Water Act – adjust flexibility of water resource allocation of the given water management system during water shortages; establish a professional certification system; encourage water conservation; require submission of a water resource utilization plan or drainage plan for developments involving water usage or drainage.\n\n2. Amend the Water Supply Act, and review the development of the tap water industry and water fee rates.\n\n3. Amend the Hot Spring Act and corresponding bylaws, and assist hot spring enterprises to obtain legal registrations.\n\n4. Formulate regulations for the development of emerging water sources, and assist and reward the formation of industries that recycle\/reuse seawater, rainwater and wastewater.\n\n5. Continue to promote and review the conservation and compensation mechanisms of water quality and quantity protection areas.\n\nⅧ. Promote research and development and facilitate international cooperation \n\n1. Complete planning for a pilot industrial wastewater recycling plant; complete investigation on the quantity and quality of treated water; and set up an online information platform for the water industry.\n\n2. Develop technologies for water conservation and ecosystem preservation to balance the supply and demand of water resources and improve the quantity and quality of water resources, stabilize water supply to all water consumption sectors, reduce losses from droughts, and safeguard public health.\n\n3. Establish indicators for the assessment of ecosystems at reservoir catchment areas in order to facilitate a comprehensive assessment of the structure, change, continuity and integrity of affected ecosystems. Research on applicability of developed ecological engineering methods is also conducted.\n\n4. Establish ecological engineering methods for the construction of sea dikes, and establish coastal ecological information for regions under research.\n\n5. Improve risk assessment for floods and droughts and compile more precise information on the evaluation of potential floods; strengthen real-time monitoring networks for floods; strengthen the efficiency of current drought warning systems and response operations; formulate indicators for the evaluation of flood prevention and response tasks.\n\n6. Strengthen international exchanges and cooperative projects on water technologies, and actively participate in international water resource activities.\n\n7. Expand recruitment of volunteers for water protection and build voluntary capacity.\n\n8. Integrate civil resources and mass media to improve outcomes of water resource education efforts.", "content": "Water Quality\n\nSustainable Use of Water Resources\n\nTo encourage greener consumer habits among Taiwan’s citizens the government has been promoting its product carbon labeling system. The system also aims to push businesses to review their manufacturing processes and supply chains to see where carbon reductions can be made. Over the last four years, the system has received widespread support from all government departments, as well as private enterprises and members of the public. Their combined efforts are going a long way toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions. \n\nThe current strategies and measures in force to realize the sustainable use of water resources are described below. \n\nI. Promote integrated river basin management to reduce flood and water damage\n\n1. Promote integrated planning and management for all sections of river basins and coastal regions, and utilize powerful strategies that preserve water in upstream areas, retard flooding in midstream areas, store rainwater in downstream areas, and reduce the intensity of land use in lowlands.\n\n2. Establish a comprehensive disaster prevention and response system, including allocation measures for flood control equipment such as mobile water pumps, to enhance emergency response capabilities for floods and typhoons.\n\n3. Promote the control of land use in flood-prone area along with non-engineering flood control measures such as flood insurance, flood warning systems, community alliances, and the strengthening of flood education and drills.\n\n4. Expedite the Integrated River Basin Management Plan and formulate the Integrated River Basin Management Master Plan and the River Environment Management Plan, to implement integrated river management, division of government tasks and integrated environmental management.\n\n5. In response to increased hydrological parameters as a consequence of climate change, a study on the flood protection standards of rivers governed by the central government was carried out to set suitable flood protection standards and formulate appropriate response strategies.\n\nⅡ. Reasonable and effective water consumption to ensure steady water supply\n\n1. Expedite reservoir management and maintenance and carry out silt prevention and dredging for major reservoirs.\n\n2. Promote inter-district water resource allocation projects, establish water source and tap water backup systems, and review measures for the allocation of agricultural water and compensation mechanisms.\n\n3. Expedite the replacement of old tap water pipes, and improve water supply for highland and remote areas.\n\n4. Promote various water source developments such as the recycling and reuse of conventional water sources, desalination of seawater and recycling and reuse of wastewater.\n\n5. Facilitate the cooperation of agricultural units in adjusting agricultural production and farming systems based on district water supplies in order to improve the efficiency of water resource allocation and utilization.\n\nⅢ. Strengthen soil and water conservation to build a sound hydrologic cycle \n\n1. Improve the management of reservoir catchment areas and water resource conservation by implementing the conservation of water resource protection areas and providing corresponding incentives.\n\n2. Collect the Water Resource Conservation and Compensation Fee, improve conservation of important water resource protection areas and reservoir catchment areas, encourage and reward active conservationists, and place water protection responsibilities upon developers.\n\n3. Consider flood protection standards during land development, and ensure that upstream developments do not increase the load of downstream drainage.\n\n4. Formulate implementation plans to improve storage of rainwater and surface runoff in plain areas and recharging of groundwater; strengthen the storage and infiltration measures for rainwater and surface runoff; improve water retention capacity and groundwater conservation, thereby facilitating a sound hydrologic cycle.\n\n5. Plan reasonable utilization of water and land resources, continue to promote prevention of land subsidence, and assist in the improvement of living environments and industrial development in areas with land subsidence.\n\nⅣ. Improve coastal environments and build a water-accessible ecosystem \n\n1. Promote river and coastal environment development; and integrate local history, culture and community development into projects on river disaster prevention and reduction, and environmental improvement and restoration.\n\n2. Comprehensively investigate basic information on water environment and ecosystem, and restore the integrity, continuity and diversity of natural habitats with consideration of naturalness, ecosystems and safety.\n\n3. Study and promote natural water purification facilities, and coordinate relevant agencies and administrations to control industrial wastewater, collect the Water Pollution Control Fees, expedite the construction of sewage systems, and actively improve and protect the water quality of water bodies.\n\n4. Expedite the diversified provision of gravel and its reasonable excavation in accordance with the Sand and Gravel Excavation Act, Water Act and pertinent regulations, and implement management mechanisms to improve river management efficacy.\n\nⅤ. Promote water recycling and reuse and enhance water industry development\n\n1. Establish the cross-ministerial Water Recycling and Reuse Taskforce that coordinates the supply of recycled water in regions facing water shortages, thereby facilitating an actual model of industrial usage of effluent from urban wastewater treatment plants.\n\n2. Continue the legislative process to foster the water recycling industry and create a legal framework for water recycling.\n\n3. Execute research and development projects regarding risk management technologies for recycled water, and build capacity for local water recycling industries by integrating the concepts of energy conservation and carbon reduction, strengthening risk assessment of recycled water usage, conducting studies on control technology and risk aversion strategies. Also, reduce the public’s concerns and raise their confidence in recycled water usage with scientific evidence, public education and personnel training.\n\nⅥ. Build a sound water administrative system in collaboration with government restructuring\n\n1. Integrate authorities for water, land, forestry and coastal management of river basins; establish a cross-ministerial agency with environmental protection and conservation of ecosystems, national land resource, water resource and forest management as its core responsibilities. \n\n2. Integrate authorities for key river basins or surrounding river basins to form a dedicated river basin managerial agency that handles core responsibilities such as land resource management, disaster prevention and response, and integrated basin development.\n\n3. The local governments should emphasize water utilization affairs and consider the establishment of a dedicated office for such purposes to promote sewer system construction, soil and water conservation in watershed areas, management of locally governed rivers and district drainage, etc.\n\n4. Strengthen the functions of the water resources coordination platform prior to government restructuring to reduce interface lags of the water resource sections of various ministries, thereby improving administrative efficiency.\n\n5. Formulate a water management capacity building program on water industry management, the latest disaster prevention technology, integrated river planning and international sustainable development trends.\n\nⅦ. Overhaul water regulations to ensure policy implementation\n\n1. Amend the Water Act – adjust flexibility of water resource allocation of the given water management system during water shortages; establish a professional certification system; encourage water conservation; require submission of a water resource utilization plan or drainage plan for developments involving water usage or drainage.\n\n2. Amend the Water Supply Act, and review the development of the tap water industry and water fee rates.\n\n3. Amend the Hot Spring Act and corresponding bylaws, and assist hot spring enterprises to obtain legal registrations.\n\n4. Formulate regulations for the development of emerging water sources, and assist and reward the formation of industries that recycle\/reuse seawater, rainwater and wastewater.\n\n5. Continue to promote and review the conservation and compensation mechanisms of water quality and quantity protection areas.\n\nⅧ. Promote research and development and facilitate international cooperation \n\n1. Complete planning for a pilot industrial wastewater recycling plant; complete investigation on the quantity and quality of treated water; and set up an online information platform for the water industry.\n\n2. Develop technologies for water conservation and ecosystem preservation to balance the supply and demand of water resources and improve the quantity and quality of water resources, stabilize water supply to all water consumption sectors, reduce losses from droughts, and safeguard public health.\n\n3. Establish indicators for the assessment of ecosystems at reservoir catchment areas in order to facilitate a comprehensive assessment of the structure, change, continuity and integrity of affected ecosystems. Research on applicability of developed ecological engineering methods is also conducted.\n\n4. Establish ecological engineering methods for the construction of sea dikes, and establish coastal ecological information for regions under research.\n\n5. Improve risk assessment for floods and droughts and compile more precise information on the evaluation of potential floods; strengthen real-time monitoring networks for floods; strengthen the efficiency of current drought warning systems and response operations; formulate indicators for the evaluation of flood prevention and response tasks.\n\n6. Strengthen international exchanges and cooperative projects on water technologies, and actively participate in international water resource activities.\n\n7. Expand recruitment of volunteers for water protection and build voluntary capacity.\n\n8. Integrate civil resources and mass media to improve outcomes of water resource education efforts.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Sustainable Use of Water Resources", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-10" }, { "no": "3067", "title": "EPA Holds International Workshop on Marine Pollution Response", "preview": "water quality\n\nEPA Holds International Workshop on Marine Pollution Response\n\nOn 30 September the EPA held the 2013 Marine Pollution Response and Practice International Workshop, which was attended by a number of maritime lawyers and delegates from international organizations. These included France’s Centre of Documentation, Research and Experimentation on Accidental Water Pollution (CEDRE), the International Tanker Owners Pollution Federation Limited (ITOPF), the International Group of Protection and Indemnity Clubs, and the University of Nebraska, USA. The main topics of discussion were emergency responses to marine pollution incidents both in Taiwan’s territory and in international waters (with reference to historical cases), and the application of advanced techniques to inspect and collect evidence of marine pollution. The local experts took the opportunity to engage in wide ranging exchanges on marine pollution response techniques with their foreign counterparts. \n\nThe experts from abroad drew upon an incident from last year – that of the 80,000-tonne German container ship MSC Flaminia, which caught fire in the Atlantic Ocean – to analyze hazard levels for ships carrying dangerous cargoes. They suggested marine pollution response measures that decision makers could adopt to deal with hazardous or toxic cargo or oil spills. They also suggested that Taiwan should study overseas emergency response methods while also seeking to protect the safety of emergency workers. To clarify the links between liability insurance and follow-up compensation claims during an emergency response, discussions centered on liabilities arising from oil spills as well as ship owners’ responses and claim processing in the event of ocean pollution incidents.", "content": "water quality\n\nEPA Holds International Workshop on Marine Pollution Response\n\nOn 30 September the EPA held the 2013 Marine Pollution Response and Practice International Workshop, which was attended by a number of maritime lawyers and delegates from international organizations. These included France’s Centre of Documentation, Research and Experimentation on Accidental Water Pollution (CEDRE), the International Tanker Owners Pollution Federation Limited (ITOPF), the International Group of Protection and Indemnity Clubs, and the University of Nebraska, USA. The main topics of discussion were emergency responses to marine pollution incidents both in Taiwan’s territory and in international waters (with reference to historical cases), and the application of advanced techniques to inspect and collect evidence of marine pollution. The local experts took the opportunity to engage in wide ranging exchanges on marine pollution response techniques with their foreign counterparts. \n\nThe experts from abroad drew upon an incident from last year – that of the 80,000-tonne German container ship MSC Flaminia, which caught fire in the Atlantic Ocean – to analyze hazard levels for ships carrying dangerous cargoes. They suggested marine pollution response measures that decision makers could adopt to deal with hazardous or toxic cargo or oil spills. They also suggested that Taiwan should study overseas emergency response methods while also seeking to protect the safety of emergency workers. To clarify the links between liability insurance and follow-up compensation claims during an emergency response, discussions centered on liabilities arising from oil spills as well as ship owners’ responses and claim processing in the event of ocean pollution incidents.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "EPA Holds International Workshop on Marine Pollution Response", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-10" }, { "no": "3066", "title": "Coliform Controls to Be Added to Effluent Standards", "preview": "Water Quality\n\nColiform Controls to Be Added to Effluent Standards \n\nOn 3 October 2013 the EPA preannounced revisions to Taiwan's effluent standards, adding the coliform group to the list of controlled items. The addition of the coliform group is designed to reduce incidents of livestock disease and subsequent transmission, and will affect abattoirs, food processing plants that undertake carcass rendering, incineration plants, and other waste treatment plants. \n\nIn recent years there have been numerous cases of livestock in Taiwan catching infectious diseases. In order to gain greater control over the risk of biological infection in abattoirs and enterprises that render animal carcasses, the EPA has added the coliform group to the list of control items in effluent standards for the above enterprises. The intent is to encourage such enterprises to improve their disinfection procedures and thus lower the risk of infection. The maximum limit has been set at 200,000 CFU\/100 mL and will take effect from the date of promulgation.\n\nDisinfection procedures using chlorine, ozone, or UV are all effective in killing the coliform bacteria. The EPA will continue with rolling reviews of effluent standards for other industries in order to protect environmental water quality.", "content": "Water Quality\n\nColiform Controls to Be Added to Effluent Standards \n\nOn 3 October 2013 the EPA preannounced revisions to Taiwan's effluent standards, adding the coliform group to the list of controlled items. The addition of the coliform group is designed to reduce incidents of livestock disease and subsequent transmission, and will affect abattoirs, food processing plants that undertake carcass rendering, incineration plants, and other waste treatment plants. \n\nIn recent years there have been numerous cases of livestock in Taiwan catching infectious diseases. In order to gain greater control over the risk of biological infection in abattoirs and enterprises that render animal carcasses, the EPA has added the coliform group to the list of control items in effluent standards for the above enterprises. The intent is to encourage such enterprises to improve their disinfection procedures and thus lower the risk of infection. The maximum limit has been set at 200,000 CFU\/100 mL and will take effect from the date of promulgation.\n\nDisinfection procedures using chlorine, ozone, or UV are all effective in killing the coliform bacteria. The EPA will continue with rolling reviews of effluent standards for other industries in order to protect environmental water quality.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Coliform Controls to Be Added to Effluent Standards", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-10" }, { "no": "3065", "title": "Chemical Industry Effluent Standards Draft Preannounced", "preview": "Water Quality\n\nChemical Industry Effluent Standards Draft Preannounced \n\nOn 3 October 2013 the EPA preannounced a draft of the Chemical Industry Effluent Standards. In addition to the existing controlled items, the main purpose of the draft is to add restrictions in two stages for ammonia nitrogen and to add controls for 14 organic compounds and 2 heavy metals. \n\nIf ammonia nitrogen is discharged into aqueous environments it will consume dissolved oxygen, leading to a decline in water quality and eutrophication that will harm water-borne organisms. A number of organic compounds are carcinogenic and the heavy metals used in special manufacturing processes can easily end up in environmental water bodies, hence there is a need to control these toxic substances. The draft of the standards contains a total of 49 items including substances particular to the chemical industry that are already included in currently enforced standards.\n\nThe EPA has formulated different chemical industry ammonia nitrogen maximum values and grace periods for adopting them, according to whether the enterprise is new or existing. For new enterprises, the maximum has been set at 20 mg\/L and will be enforced from the date of announcement. For existing enterprises, the value will vary according to whether or not the manufacturing process is classed as “high nitrogen.” For non-high nitrogen existing enterprises the maximum has been set at 20 mg\/L, and will take effect from 1 July 2014. Enterprises that will need to upgrade their manufacturing process can submit an effluent pollutant reduction plan to the EPA, which if approved and implemented according to plan will give the enterprise a grace period of two years – until 1 July 2016 – before having to abide by the new standards. Existing enterprises that conduct high nitrogen manufacturing processes will see new standards introduced in two stages. The first stage will involve a maximum value of 150 mg\/L and will be enforced from 31 December 2016; the second stage will involve a maximum value of 60 mg\/L and requires upgrading wastewater treatment facilities, hence the grace period has been extended to 31 December 2018 at the latest. \n\nIn the interests of risk management and pollution prevention, the EPA has also added eight more volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and six more plasticizers to the list attached to the standards. These items will all be restricted from 1 July 2014. Enterprises that use 1,2-dichloroethane and vinyl chloride and which need to upgrade their manufacturing processes can submit an effluent pollutant reduction plan to the EPA, which, if approved and implemented according to plan, will give enterprises a grace period, until 1 July 2016, before having to abide by the new standards.", "content": "Water Quality\n\nChemical Industry Effluent Standards Draft Preannounced \n\nOn 3 October 2013 the EPA preannounced a draft of the Chemical Industry Effluent Standards. In addition to the existing controlled items, the main purpose of the draft is to add restrictions in two stages for ammonia nitrogen and to add controls for 14 organic compounds and 2 heavy metals. \n\nIf ammonia nitrogen is discharged into aqueous environments it will consume dissolved oxygen, leading to a decline in water quality and eutrophication that will harm water-borne organisms. A number of organic compounds are carcinogenic and the heavy metals used in special manufacturing processes can easily end up in environmental water bodies, hence there is a need to control these toxic substances. The draft of the standards contains a total of 49 items including substances particular to the chemical industry that are already included in currently enforced standards.\n\nThe EPA has formulated different chemical industry ammonia nitrogen maximum values and grace periods for adopting them, according to whether the enterprise is new or existing. For new enterprises, the maximum has been set at 20 mg\/L and will be enforced from the date of announcement. For existing enterprises, the value will vary according to whether or not the manufacturing process is classed as “high nitrogen.” For non-high nitrogen existing enterprises the maximum has been set at 20 mg\/L, and will take effect from 1 July 2014. Enterprises that will need to upgrade their manufacturing process can submit an effluent pollutant reduction plan to the EPA, which if approved and implemented according to plan will give the enterprise a grace period of two years – until 1 July 2016 – before having to abide by the new standards. Existing enterprises that conduct high nitrogen manufacturing processes will see new standards introduced in two stages. The first stage will involve a maximum value of 150 mg\/L and will be enforced from 31 December 2016; the second stage will involve a maximum value of 60 mg\/L and requires upgrading wastewater treatment facilities, hence the grace period has been extended to 31 December 2018 at the latest. \n\nIn the interests of risk management and pollution prevention, the EPA has also added eight more volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and six more plasticizers to the list attached to the standards. These items will all be restricted from 1 July 2014. Enterprises that use 1,2-dichloroethane and vinyl chloride and which need to upgrade their manufacturing processes can submit an effluent pollutant reduction plan to the EPA, which, if approved and implemented according to plan, will give enterprises a grace period, until 1 July 2016, before having to abide by the new standards.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "Chemical Industry Effluent Standards Draft Preannounced", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-10" }, { "no": "3064", "title": "Waste Import and Export Management Regulations Revised and Renamed", "preview": "Waste management\n\nSolid Waste \n\nWaste Import and Export Management Regulations Revised and Renamed \n\nTo implement effective management of the import and export of industrial waste and increase the efficiency of application and evaluation procedures the EPA recently undertook a thorough review of the Management Regulations for the Import, Export, Transit and Transshipment of Waste (廢棄物輸入輸出過境轉口管理辦法). The review resulted in revisions to some articles plus a name change. \n\nAfter taking into consideration the operating requirements of the concerned enterprises and the agency’s own administrative necessities, the EPA decided to carry out a comprehensive review that resulted in a change of title to the Industrial Waste Import and Export Management Regulations (事業廢棄物輸入輸出管理辦法). The other main points of the revisions are as follows. \n\n1. Shipments of industrial waste to countries in the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) or other countries that have signed bilateral agreements with Taiwan are not subject to the 300-tonne limit on the first shipment. However, first shipments should still be followed by a report confirming proper treatment of the waste to facilitate the processing of future shipments.\n\n2. Signed affidavits will henceforth be required with all applications for industrial waste import\/export.\n\n3. Regulations have been added stating the conditions in which waste test reports are not required. \n\n4. The period that waste import\/export permits are valid has been revised. First permits will be valid for one year; further permits for three years. \n\n5. The procedures and documents required for special cases of waste import\/export have been revised. \n\nThe EPA is confident that the recent revisions will make the management of imported\/exported industrial waste more effective. To assist environmental protection agencies and businesses in understanding the new regimen, details of the revisions have been published on the “latest environmental regulations” page of the EPA Web site: http:\/\/ivy5.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx.", "content": "Waste management\n\nSolid Waste \n\nWaste Import and Export Management Regulations Revised and Renamed \n\nTo implement effective management of the import and export of industrial waste and increase the efficiency of application and evaluation procedures the EPA recently undertook a thorough review of the Management Regulations for the Import, Export, Transit and Transshipment of Waste (廢棄物輸入輸出過境轉口管理辦法). The review resulted in revisions to some articles plus a name change. \n\nAfter taking into consideration the operating requirements of the concerned enterprises and the agency’s own administrative necessities, the EPA decided to carry out a comprehensive review that resulted in a change of title to the Industrial Waste Import and Export Management Regulations (事業廢棄物輸入輸出管理辦法). The other main points of the revisions are as follows. \n\n1. Shipments of industrial waste to countries in the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) or other countries that have signed bilateral agreements with Taiwan are not subject to the 300-tonne limit on the first shipment. However, first shipments should still be followed by a report confirming proper treatment of the waste to facilitate the processing of future shipments.\n\n2. Signed affidavits will henceforth be required with all applications for industrial waste import\/export.\n\n3. Regulations have been added stating the conditions in which waste test reports are not required. \n\n4. The period that waste import\/export permits are valid has been revised. First permits will be valid for one year; further permits for three years. \n\n5. The procedures and documents required for special cases of waste import\/export have been revised. \n\nThe EPA is confident that the recent revisions will make the management of imported\/exported industrial waste more effective. To assist environmental protection agencies and businesses in understanding the new regimen, details of the revisions have been published on the “latest environmental regulations” page of the EPA Web site: http:\/\/ivy5.epa.gov.tw\/epalaw\/index.aspx.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Waste Import and Export Management Regulations Revised and Renamed", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-10" }, { "no": "3063", "title": "Short Online Documentary on Waste Management Covers Last 26 Years", "preview": "waste management\n\nSolid Waste\n\nShort Online Documentary on Waste Management Covers Last 26 Years \n\nA 10-minute highlight version of the 40-minute documentary Resource Recycling for Zero Waste - Everything Has Its Place in a Sustainable Environment, covers the last 26 years of waste management in Taiwan and is now viewable on the EPA Web site. The full-length documentary has had three public showings to date, and has received very positive feedback. \n\nThe documentary relates the key moments in the evolution of refuse treatment in Taiwan, interspersed with interviews with former government ministers and clips from archive material. The documentary starts with refuse treatment schemes from the 1970s, and then goes on to relate the development of the 4-in-1 Recycling System of the 1980s, the reduction at source policies and the establishment of the industrial waste control centers of the 1990s, and finally the concepts behind the forward-looking policies of resource recycling for zero waste that have been promoted over the previous decade or so. The documentary also explains the thinking behind the EPA’s promotion of its 5R (Reduction, Reuse, Recycling, Energy Recovery, Land Reclamation) scheme for bringing about zero waste. \n\nThe 10-minute documentary can now be watched on the EPA’s Web site at http:\/\/www.epa.gov.tw, and an English version will also soon be available. News of the documentary will be actively disseminated both locally and overseas to make people everywhere aware of Taiwan’s dedication to promoting environmental protection.", "content": "waste management\n\nSolid Waste\n\nShort Online Documentary on Waste Management Covers Last 26 Years \n\nA 10-minute highlight version of the 40-minute documentary Resource Recycling for Zero Waste - Everything Has Its Place in a Sustainable Environment, covers the last 26 years of waste management in Taiwan and is now viewable on the EPA Web site. The full-length documentary has had three public showings to date, and has received very positive feedback. \n\nThe documentary relates the key moments in the evolution of refuse treatment in Taiwan, interspersed with interviews with former government ministers and clips from archive material. The documentary starts with refuse treatment schemes from the 1970s, and then goes on to relate the development of the 4-in-1 Recycling System of the 1980s, the reduction at source policies and the establishment of the industrial waste control centers of the 1990s, and finally the concepts behind the forward-looking policies of resource recycling for zero waste that have been promoted over the previous decade or so. The documentary also explains the thinking behind the EPA’s promotion of its 5R (Reduction, Reuse, Recycling, Energy Recovery, Land Reclamation) scheme for bringing about zero waste. \n\nThe 10-minute documentary can now be watched on the EPA’s Web site at http:\/\/www.epa.gov.tw, and an English version will also soon be available. News of the documentary will be actively disseminated both locally and overseas to make people everywhere aware of Taiwan’s dedication to promoting environmental protection.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Short Online Documentary on Waste Management Covers Last 26 Years", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-10" }, { "no": "3062", "title": "Revisions to Methods and Facilities Standards for Storage, Clearance and Disposal of Industrial Waste Preannounced", "preview": "waste management\n\nRevisions to Methods and Facilities Standards for Storage, Clearance and Disposal of Industrial Waste Preannounced\n\nThe EPA has preannounced draft revisions to the Methods and Facilities Standards for Storage, Clearance and Disposal of I", "content": "waste management\n\nRevisions to Methods and Facilities Standards for Storage, Clearance and Disposal of Industrial Waste Preannounced\n\nThe EPA has preannounced draft revisions to the Methods and Facilities Standards for Storage, Clearance and Disposal of I", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Revisions to Methods and Facilities Standards for Storage, Clearance and Disposal of Industrial Waste Preannounced", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-10" }, { "no": "3061", "title": "International Forum Held for Sustainable Development Policy Making", "preview": "Sustainable Development\n\nInternational Forum Held for Sustainable Development Policy Making \n\nIn order for Taiwan to keep abreast of the most recent global sustainable development trends and to learn from other nations’ successful examples of policy implementation the National Council for Sustainable Development (NCSD) and the EPA held the “2013 International Forum on Sustainable Development,” where experts and representatives from organizations associated with sustainable development in North America, Europe and Asia gathered with their Taiwan counterparts on 13 September 2013 to deliver lectures on how sustainable development is being pursued worldwide and to exchange ideas with members of the public. It is hoped that the results of this forum will serve as valuable references to Taiwan’s NCSD in its future policy making. \n\nThe topics discussed at the forum included: international follow-up to Rio+20 resolutions, the strategy of green economy and green industry development, strategy for sustainable\/low-carbon cities promotion, and promotion of a low-carbon sustainable homeland. In the afternoon of September 13, Dr. Shin-Cheng Yeh, Deputy Minister of the EPA and Deputy CEO for the NCSD, chaired a panel discussion on “The Strategy of Sustainable Development and Green Economy,” which was attended by speakers of this forum, as well as by members of the NCSD. The discussions among the attendees are expected to be of substantial benefit to Taiwan’s promotion of sustainable development and green economy in the future.", "content": "Sustainable Development\n\nInternational Forum Held for Sustainable Development Policy Making \n\nIn order for Taiwan to keep abreast of the most recent global sustainable development trends and to learn from other nations’ successful examples of policy implementation the National Council for Sustainable Development (NCSD) and the EPA held the “2013 International Forum on Sustainable Development,” where experts and representatives from organizations associated with sustainable development in North America, Europe and Asia gathered with their Taiwan counterparts on 13 September 2013 to deliver lectures on how sustainable development is being pursued worldwide and to exchange ideas with members of the public. It is hoped that the results of this forum will serve as valuable references to Taiwan’s NCSD in its future policy making. \n\nThe topics discussed at the forum included: international follow-up to Rio+20 resolutions, the strategy of green economy and green industry development, strategy for sustainable\/low-carbon cities promotion, and promotion of a low-carbon sustainable homeland. In the afternoon of September 13, Dr. Shin-Cheng Yeh, Deputy Minister of the EPA and Deputy CEO for the NCSD, chaired a panel discussion on “The Strategy of Sustainable Development and Green Economy,” which was attended by speakers of this forum, as well as by members of the NCSD. The discussions among the attendees are expected to be of substantial benefit to Taiwan’s promotion of sustainable development and green economy in the future.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Sustainable Development", "titlename": "International Forum Held for Sustainable Development Policy Making", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-10" }, { "no": "3060", "title": "Noise Control Standards for Land Transportation Systems Revised", "preview": "noise control\n\nNoise Control Standards for Land Transportation Systems Revised\n\nThe Noise Control Standards for Land Transportation Systems were drawn up according to stipulations in the Noise Control Act and were promulgated on 21 January 2010. They set maximum noise levels for vehicles in motion on highways, freeways, railways, and mass transit systems. However, since the standards were first announced there have been revisions to calculation formulae for background noise levels (hourly equivalent noise level and average maximum noise levels) for track systems. This has resulted in the need, to clarify for administrative purposes, revisions to articles concerning determination and calculation methods for compound noise levels for transportation systems, as well as revisions to items that should be included in test records. The EPA thus conducted a full review of the standards and made the revisions, the main points of which are: \n\n1. Revisions to methods of calculating background noise levels (hourly equivalent noise level and average maximum noise levels) for track systems.\n\n2. Revisions to determination and calculation methods for compound noise levels for transportation systems, and to items that should be included in test records.", "content": "noise control\n\nNoise Control Standards for Land Transportation Systems Revised\n\nThe Noise Control Standards for Land Transportation Systems were drawn up according to stipulations in the Noise Control Act and were promulgated on 21 January 2010. They set maximum noise levels for vehicles in motion on highways, freeways, railways, and mass transit systems. However, since the standards were first announced there have been revisions to calculation formulae for background noise levels (hourly equivalent noise level and average maximum noise levels) for track systems. This has resulted in the need, to clarify for administrative purposes, revisions to articles concerning determination and calculation methods for compound noise levels for transportation systems, as well as revisions to items that should be included in test records. The EPA thus conducted a full review of the standards and made the revisions, the main points of which are: \n\n1. Revisions to methods of calculating background noise levels (hourly equivalent noise level and average maximum noise levels) for track systems.\n\n2. Revisions to determination and calculation methods for compound noise levels for transportation systems, and to items that should be included in test records.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "noise control", "titlename": "Noise Control Standards for Land Transportation Systems Revised", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-10" }, { "no": "3059", "title": "Standards for Development Activities Requiring Environmental Impact Assessments Revised", "preview": "Environmental Impact Assessment\n\nStandards for Development Activities Requiring Environmental Impact Assessments Revised \n\nOn 12 September 2013 the EPA announced revisions to the Standards for Determining Specific Items and Scope of Development Activities Requiring Environmental Impact Assessments (開發行為應實施環境影響評估細目及範圍認定標準). The revisions include new regulations to cover environmental impact assessments (EIA) for development activities in reservoir catchment areas and operating permit reapplications for existing facilities. \n\nThe EPA has elucidated the content of the revisions as follows: \n\n1. Regulations covering EIAs for development activities in reservoir catchment areas\n\nTo date, the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) has announced 96 reservoirs. With the definition of a reservoir catchment area as the area within the crest lines of a watershed, the 96 reservoir catchment areas combined represent 36% of Taiwan’s total surface area. Reflecting the majority opinion of their residents, the local governments of Nantou County, Pingtung County, and Kinmen County suggested that the regulations covering EIAs for development activities in reservoir catchment areas be revised. Since 2011, the EPA has been conducting a thorough review of these issues. Meetings of experts came to the conclusion that the suitable management of reservoir catchment areas should take into consideration types, grades, and locations. The EPA also commissioned the National Taipei University of Technology to conduct research and formulate EIA management strategies for development activities in reservoir catchment areas. As stipulated by law, the whole process involves three public hearings and three preannouncements so that the suggestions of the general public can be heard and properly evaluated. \n\nOnce the revisions take effect, the 96 reservoir catchment areas will be categorized and managed accordingly. A total of 75 reservoir catchment areas are delineated as highly sensitive Category 1 areas designated for household water supply, and 21 reservoir catchment areas are designated as less sensitive Category 2 areas for non-household water supply. Furthermore, different environmental impact standards will be in place for different categories of industry based on the pollution emitted. Polluting factories located within Category 1 reservoir catchment areas will be subject to stricter regulations and will be required to conduct an EIA. The total percentage of catchment area land thus subject to stricter regulations is 72%. Conversely, less polluting factories located within Category 2 reservoir catchment areas will be exempt from EIA requirements. The total percentage of land where regulations will be relaxed is 28%.\n\n2. Permit reapplications for existing facilities\n\nWhen an application for a development activity permit is submitted to the industry competent authority, it should accord with the regulations laid out in the current standards. Reapplications for permits from the industry competent authority for existing facilities will not need an EIA as long as the original permit conditions are being met. The EPA has thus added Article 28 Paragraph 9 and revised Article 36 so that environmental impact assessments will not be required for existing waste disposal facilities and other development activities. After taking into account the suggestions received following the public hearings and preannouncements, and in keeping with the spirit of Article 16 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act, the EPA has stipulated that the period for reapplications must be no longer than three years from the date of the original application.", "content": "Environmental Impact Assessment\n\nStandards for Development Activities Requiring Environmental Impact Assessments Revised \n\nOn 12 September 2013 the EPA announced revisions to the Standards for Determining Specific Items and Scope of Development Activities Requiring Environmental Impact Assessments (開發行為應實施環境影響評估細目及範圍認定標準). The revisions include new regulations to cover environmental impact assessments (EIA) for development activities in reservoir catchment areas and operating permit reapplications for existing facilities. \n\nThe EPA has elucidated the content of the revisions as follows: \n\n1. Regulations covering EIAs for development activities in reservoir catchment areas\n\nTo date, the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) has announced 96 reservoirs. With the definition of a reservoir catchment area as the area within the crest lines of a watershed, the 96 reservoir catchment areas combined represent 36% of Taiwan’s total surface area. Reflecting the majority opinion of their residents, the local governments of Nantou County, Pingtung County, and Kinmen County suggested that the regulations covering EIAs for development activities in reservoir catchment areas be revised. Since 2011, the EPA has been conducting a thorough review of these issues. Meetings of experts came to the conclusion that the suitable management of reservoir catchment areas should take into consideration types, grades, and locations. The EPA also commissioned the National Taipei University of Technology to conduct research and formulate EIA management strategies for development activities in reservoir catchment areas. As stipulated by law, the whole process involves three public hearings and three preannouncements so that the suggestions of the general public can be heard and properly evaluated. \n\nOnce the revisions take effect, the 96 reservoir catchment areas will be categorized and managed accordingly. A total of 75 reservoir catchment areas are delineated as highly sensitive Category 1 areas designated for household water supply, and 21 reservoir catchment areas are designated as less sensitive Category 2 areas for non-household water supply. Furthermore, different environmental impact standards will be in place for different categories of industry based on the pollution emitted. Polluting factories located within Category 1 reservoir catchment areas will be subject to stricter regulations and will be required to conduct an EIA. The total percentage of catchment area land thus subject to stricter regulations is 72%. Conversely, less polluting factories located within Category 2 reservoir catchment areas will be exempt from EIA requirements. The total percentage of land where regulations will be relaxed is 28%.\n\n2. Permit reapplications for existing facilities\n\nWhen an application for a development activity permit is submitted to the industry competent authority, it should accord with the regulations laid out in the current standards. Reapplications for permits from the industry competent authority for existing facilities will not need an EIA as long as the original permit conditions are being met. The EPA has thus added Article 28 Paragraph 9 and revised Article 36 so that environmental impact assessments will not be required for existing waste disposal facilities and other development activities. After taking into account the suggestions received following the public hearings and preannouncements, and in keeping with the spirit of Article 16 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act, the EPA has stipulated that the period for reapplications must be no longer than three years from the date of the original application.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Impact Assessment", "titlename": "Standards for Development Activities Requiring Environmental Impact Assessments Revised", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-10" }, { "no": "3058", "title": "Agencies Awarded for Good Performance as Green Procurement Hits New High in 2012", "preview": "Ecolabeling\n\nAgencies Awarded for Good Performance as Green Procurement Hits New High in 2012 \n\nOn 25 September 2013 the EPA announced that the 2012 total value of green procurement as reported by government agencies, private sector businesses, citizen groups, and green stores exceeded NT$44.7 billion, an increase of almost 200% on the figure for 2011. The EPA held an awards ceremony to show its appreciation of the wide support the scheme has garnered, with EPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen personally handing out the awards. Representatives from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and China Steel Corp. were also invited to share their experiences in green procurement. \n\nIn his speech, Minister Shen pointed out that government agency green procurement reached NT$9.5 billion, or 94.87% of total procurement, in 2012. A total of 827 companies and citizen groups (up from 664 in 2010) also undertook green procurement to the value of NT$7.8 billion, almost double the 2011 figure of NT$3.98 billion. Taiwan’s 11,000 green stores also reported sales of Green Mark products to the tune of NT$27.4 billion, meaning that the size of the market for green products in Taiwan last year was nearly NT$45 billion. \n\nAt the ceremony, awards were given to: 18 government agencies that turned in outstanding green procurement performances; 59 private sector enterprises and citizen groups that had each achieved green procurement of over NT$20 million; 18 green shops that had excelled in selling green products; and eight local government environmental protection bureaus that had performed well at administering the Implementation of Green Procurement among Corporations and Citizen Groups Plan.\n\nIn 2012 there were 59 businesses that notched up green purchases over NT$20 million, which was an increase of nearly 30% on the 2011 figure of 45. Four of these corporations alone - TSMC, Southern Taiwan Business Group of Chunghwa Telecom, Chiutang Mill of Chung Hwa Pulp Corp., and Shinkong Synthetic Fibers Corp. – spent over NT$500 million on green procurement. In the category of stores and wholesalers that sell Green Mark products, outstanding performers included:\n\n1. Cars - KaoDu Motor Ltd \n\n2. Motorcycles and scooters - Sanyang Industry Co. Ltd. \n\n3. Information, electrical and electronic appliances – Fuji Xerox Co. Ltd. \n\n4. Furniture and building materials – Champion Building Materials Co. Ltd.\n\n5. General goods (wholesale) – Far Eastern Ai Mai Co. Ltd\n\n6. Everyday products – Cotton Field Organic Co. Ltd.\n\n7. Stationery – Jin Yuh Tarng Writing Tools Co, Ltd.\n\n8. Virtual Shop – Chunghwa Telecom’s GoodsCome Web site also won an award for their Web page dedicated to selling green products.", "content": "Ecolabeling\n\nAgencies Awarded for Good Performance as Green Procurement Hits New High in 2012 \n\nOn 25 September 2013 the EPA announced that the 2012 total value of green procurement as reported by government agencies, private sector businesses, citizen groups, and green stores exceeded NT$44.7 billion, an increase of almost 200% on the figure for 2011. The EPA held an awards ceremony to show its appreciation of the wide support the scheme has garnered, with EPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen personally handing out the awards. Representatives from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and China Steel Corp. were also invited to share their experiences in green procurement. \n\nIn his speech, Minister Shen pointed out that government agency green procurement reached NT$9.5 billion, or 94.87% of total procurement, in 2012. A total of 827 companies and citizen groups (up from 664 in 2010) also undertook green procurement to the value of NT$7.8 billion, almost double the 2011 figure of NT$3.98 billion. Taiwan’s 11,000 green stores also reported sales of Green Mark products to the tune of NT$27.4 billion, meaning that the size of the market for green products in Taiwan last year was nearly NT$45 billion. \n\nAt the ceremony, awards were given to: 18 government agencies that turned in outstanding green procurement performances; 59 private sector enterprises and citizen groups that had each achieved green procurement of over NT$20 million; 18 green shops that had excelled in selling green products; and eight local government environmental protection bureaus that had performed well at administering the Implementation of Green Procurement among Corporations and Citizen Groups Plan.\n\nIn 2012 there were 59 businesses that notched up green purchases over NT$20 million, which was an increase of nearly 30% on the 2011 figure of 45. Four of these corporations alone - TSMC, Southern Taiwan Business Group of Chunghwa Telecom, Chiutang Mill of Chung Hwa Pulp Corp., and Shinkong Synthetic Fibers Corp. – spent over NT$500 million on green procurement. In the category of stores and wholesalers that sell Green Mark products, outstanding performers included:\n\n1. Cars - KaoDu Motor Ltd \n\n2. Motorcycles and scooters - Sanyang Industry Co. Ltd. \n\n3. Information, electrical and electronic appliances – Fuji Xerox Co. Ltd. \n\n4. Furniture and building materials – Champion Building Materials Co. Ltd.\n\n5. General goods (wholesale) – Far Eastern Ai Mai Co. Ltd\n\n6. Everyday products – Cotton Field Organic Co. Ltd.\n\n7. Stationery – Jin Yuh Tarng Writing Tools Co, Ltd.\n\n8. Virtual Shop – Chunghwa Telecom’s GoodsCome Web site also won an award for their Web page dedicated to selling green products.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Ecolabeling", "titlename": "Agencies Awarded for Good Performance as Green Procurement Hits New High in 2012", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-10" }, { "no": "3057", "title": "Taiwan and UK Exchange Experiences on Capacity Building for Low-carbon Sustainable Cities", "preview": "climate change\n\nTaiwan and UK Exchange Experiences on Capacity Building for Low-carbon Sustainable Cities\n\nOn 30 September 2013 the EPA and the British Trade and Cultural Office in Taiwan jointly organized the “Taiwan-UK Low-carbon and Sustainable City Forum.” Officials, consultants, experts and scholars who had actually participated in the planning and implementation of low-carbon sustainable cities were specifically invited to attend. The forum was launched for the purpose of exploring the overall promotional strategy of low-carbon cities, and analyzing how green transportation and low-carbon buildings can be utilized toward building low-carbon cities. In essence, the forum allowed Taiwan’s local government officials to have a chance to exchange experiences with top British experts and to start substantive cooperation. \n\nThe EPA indicated that the forum was the second time that the British Trade and Cultural Office in Taiwan cooperated with the EPA to launch activities related to low-carbon sustainable cities. The emphasis this year was to enhance the exchange of actual implementation experiences. In this respect, top officials and executives from participating companies were invited to attend the forum. Taiwan’s delegation to the forum was principally composed of representatives from the governments of New Taipei City, Kinmen County and Taichung City. Also attending was Dr. Show-ling Wen, President of the Taiwan Intelligent Building Association (TIBA), who gave a talk on the status quo and future prospects of Taiwan’s efforts in the overall construction of low-carbon cities, low-carbon transportation, and the promotion of intelligent buildings.", "content": "climate change\n\nTaiwan and UK Exchange Experiences on Capacity Building for Low-carbon Sustainable Cities\n\nOn 30 September 2013 the EPA and the British Trade and Cultural Office in Taiwan jointly organized the “Taiwan-UK Low-carbon and Sustainable City Forum.” Officials, consultants, experts and scholars who had actually participated in the planning and implementation of low-carbon sustainable cities were specifically invited to attend. The forum was launched for the purpose of exploring the overall promotional strategy of low-carbon cities, and analyzing how green transportation and low-carbon buildings can be utilized toward building low-carbon cities. In essence, the forum allowed Taiwan’s local government officials to have a chance to exchange experiences with top British experts and to start substantive cooperation. \n\nThe EPA indicated that the forum was the second time that the British Trade and Cultural Office in Taiwan cooperated with the EPA to launch activities related to low-carbon sustainable cities. The emphasis this year was to enhance the exchange of actual implementation experiences. In this respect, top officials and executives from participating companies were invited to attend the forum. Taiwan’s delegation to the forum was principally composed of representatives from the governments of New Taipei City, Kinmen County and Taichung City. Also attending was Dr. Show-ling Wen, President of the Taiwan Intelligent Building Association (TIBA), who gave a talk on the status quo and future prospects of Taiwan’s efforts in the overall construction of low-carbon cities, low-carbon transportation, and the promotion of intelligent buildings.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "climate change", "titlename": "Taiwan and UK Exchange Experiences on Capacity Building for Low-carbon Sustainable Cities", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-10" }, { "no": "3056", "title": "Establishing an Integrated Platform for Exchange of Second Hand Goods", "preview": "Waste management\n\nSolid Waste\n\nEstablishing an Integrated Platform for Exchange of Second Hand Goods \n\n“An 11-year old boy wanted a bicycle. His father had a rice cooker in good working order which he didn’t need so he took it to a Happy Swapping Station and swapped it for a bike. The boy was really happy and wanted to ride it home…” This touching little story happened at a Happy Swapping Station run by New Taipei City Environmental Protection Bureau (EPB). These government-run stations are a way for unwanted used goods to get a new lease on life and make someone else happy. The EPA is now building on this success by drawing up plans for an integrated second hand goods exchange information platform that will allow the public to easily find information on exchanging used goods and extending their life spans. \n\nWhen it comes to the reuse of second hand goods, most people in Taiwan are already familiar with the periodic auctions of refurbished furniture held by local government EPBs. Keelung City, Taichung City, Tainan City, Taipei City and Kaohsiung City all have working wonders that make good use of discarded items. However, both the government and private sector also often hold flea markets for second hand goods, or operate exchange platforms to encourage people to cherish their material possessions more and develop the good habit of not wasting resources, as reusing resources can significantly reduce volumes of waste. \n\nGovernment schemes for second hand goods are mainly implemented through local government environmental protection bureaus. Some of the particularly effective schemes include:\n\n‧Taipei City’s Expanded Wisdom Book Warehouse – for exchanging second hand books \n\n‧New Taipei City’s Surplus Goods Coupling Platform (part of the Happy Swapping Station) – donates recycled second hand goods to disadvantaged groups or households in difficulty and allows members of the public to swap their surplus goods.\n\n‧Taichung City’s Second Hand Goods Bank – in which donors receive credits depending upon what items they donate, which can then be exchanged for other second hand goods in the “bank.” \n\n‧Yilan County’s Story Express – Creative Charity Second Hand Goods Market – combines artistic and literary events with charity donation drives. \n\n‧Chiayi City’s Resource-treasuring Flea Market – combines various platforms into one channel for donating second hand goods to Chiayi’s Renewal Garden, a center for disabled people. \n\nOther counties and cities have also created exchange platforms for second hand goods, or are holding regular flea markets. Private sector organizations have also established a variety of exchange platforms for second hand goods, each with its own special features. For example, the urban collection centers for Da Fon Environmental Technology, a waste clearing company, are a far cry from the traditional image of recycling centers as dirty, messy places. Their convenience store-style centers, where people can leave second hand goods to be sold, are a revolutionary new concept in recycling. They have also attracted public interest by establishing an online platform for goods-for-goods swaps that also gives points for every successful match. The points are recorded in a member’s carbon reduction account and can later be used to participate in an online tree growing game. \n\nRegardless of whether the platforms have been set up by the government or the private sector, knowledge of them has been spread through government agencies, citizen groups and local communities, and public interest is being served as more people learn to value resources and protect the environment. However, information dissemination has yet to be fully integrated, and there is still no comprehensive plan for continuous public education and guidance, which means that some members of the public are still unaware of the second hand goods swapping channels available and do not know where to begin looking. The EPA is thus currently focusing more on reuse – one of the 5Rs in the important government policy of “resource recycling for zero waste” – and this year formulated a plan to integrate the available information on used goods exchange in the public and private sectors. Resource recycling is one of the priority tasks for the Low-carbon Sustainable Homeland Program, and so the EPA is in the process of integrating Taiwan’s information platforms for exchanging used goods into a central platform called I2so5, which in Mandarin Chinese sounds like “love second hand goods.” In accordance with the Low-carbon Sustainable Homeland Action Plan accreditation scheme, the EPA is also gradually spreading word of second hand goods exchange platforms throughout every township, village and community in Taiwan.", "content": "Waste management\n\nSolid Waste\n\nEstablishing an Integrated Platform for Exchange of Second Hand Goods \n\n“An 11-year old boy wanted a bicycle. His father had a rice cooker in good working order which he didn’t need so he took it to a Happy Swapping Station and swapped it for a bike. The boy was really happy and wanted to ride it home…” This touching little story happened at a Happy Swapping Station run by New Taipei City Environmental Protection Bureau (EPB). These government-run stations are a way for unwanted used goods to get a new lease on life and make someone else happy. The EPA is now building on this success by drawing up plans for an integrated second hand goods exchange information platform that will allow the public to easily find information on exchanging used goods and extending their life spans. \n\nWhen it comes to the reuse of second hand goods, most people in Taiwan are already familiar with the periodic auctions of refurbished furniture held by local government EPBs. Keelung City, Taichung City, Tainan City, Taipei City and Kaohsiung City all have working wonders that make good use of discarded items. However, both the government and private sector also often hold flea markets for second hand goods, or operate exchange platforms to encourage people to cherish their material possessions more and develop the good habit of not wasting resources, as reusing resources can significantly reduce volumes of waste. \n\nGovernment schemes for second hand goods are mainly implemented through local government environmental protection bureaus. Some of the particularly effective schemes include:\n\n‧Taipei City’s Expanded Wisdom Book Warehouse – for exchanging second hand books \n\n‧New Taipei City’s Surplus Goods Coupling Platform (part of the Happy Swapping Station) – donates recycled second hand goods to disadvantaged groups or households in difficulty and allows members of the public to swap their surplus goods.\n\n‧Taichung City’s Second Hand Goods Bank – in which donors receive credits depending upon what items they donate, which can then be exchanged for other second hand goods in the “bank.” \n\n‧Yilan County’s Story Express – Creative Charity Second Hand Goods Market – combines artistic and literary events with charity donation drives. \n\n‧Chiayi City’s Resource-treasuring Flea Market – combines various platforms into one channel for donating second hand goods to Chiayi’s Renewal Garden, a center for disabled people. \n\nOther counties and cities have also created exchange platforms for second hand goods, or are holding regular flea markets. Private sector organizations have also established a variety of exchange platforms for second hand goods, each with its own special features. For example, the urban collection centers for Da Fon Environmental Technology, a waste clearing company, are a far cry from the traditional image of recycling centers as dirty, messy places. Their convenience store-style centers, where people can leave second hand goods to be sold, are a revolutionary new concept in recycling. They have also attracted public interest by establishing an online platform for goods-for-goods swaps that also gives points for every successful match. The points are recorded in a member’s carbon reduction account and can later be used to participate in an online tree growing game. \n\nRegardless of whether the platforms have been set up by the government or the private sector, knowledge of them has been spread through government agencies, citizen groups and local communities, and public interest is being served as more people learn to value resources and protect the environment. However, information dissemination has yet to be fully integrated, and there is still no comprehensive plan for continuous public education and guidance, which means that some members of the public are still unaware of the second hand goods swapping channels available and do not know where to begin looking. The EPA is thus currently focusing more on reuse – one of the 5Rs in the important government policy of “resource recycling for zero waste” – and this year formulated a plan to integrate the available information on used goods exchange in the public and private sectors. Resource recycling is one of the priority tasks for the Low-carbon Sustainable Homeland Program, and so the EPA is in the process of integrating Taiwan’s information platforms for exchanging used goods into a central platform called I2so5, which in Mandarin Chinese sounds like “love second hand goods.” In accordance with the Low-carbon Sustainable Homeland Action Plan accreditation scheme, the EPA is also gradually spreading word of second hand goods exchange platforms throughout every township, village and community in Taiwan.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Establishing an Integrated Platform for Exchange of Second Hand Goods", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-09" }, { "no": "3055", "title": "Amendment to Standards for Defining Hazardous Industrial Waste Preannounced", "preview": "waste management\n\nAmendment to Standards for Defining Hazardous Industrial Waste Preannounced\n\nUsing the Basel Convention’s identification methods of mixed scrap metals as a reference the EPA announced the draft amendment to the Standards for Defining Hazardous Industrial Waste. In this amendment, light-emitting diodes, wafer scraps, sludge, as well as mixed scrap metals containing beryllium, antimony, tellurium, and thallium were moved from Attachment 2 to Attachment 1, which defines hazardous industrial wastes formed during manufacturing processes. The other 12 types of industrial wastes were also relocated to the category of General Industrial Wastes for control purposes. Through these amendments the EPA aims to keep in line with international methods of classifying industrial wastes. The EPA clearly specifies the “Application for Non-Classification of Hazardous Industrial Wastes Engendered during the Manufacturing Process” and its related affidavit, so that industries can apply to their local competent authorities for non-classification. In addition, the EPA listed the “Residues after the Treatment of Mixed Scrap Metals” as targets of control under the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedures (TCLP) testing process, so that industrial wastes can be properly controlled. To make the demarcations clear, the EPA takes into consideration actual implementation conditions and makes adjustments of the terms and conditions.", "content": "waste management\n\nAmendment to Standards for Defining Hazardous Industrial Waste Preannounced\n\nUsing the Basel Convention’s identification methods of mixed scrap metals as a reference the EPA announced the draft amendment to the Standards for Defining Hazardous Industrial Waste. In this amendment, light-emitting diodes, wafer scraps, sludge, as well as mixed scrap metals containing beryllium, antimony, tellurium, and thallium were moved from Attachment 2 to Attachment 1, which defines hazardous industrial wastes formed during manufacturing processes. The other 12 types of industrial wastes were also relocated to the category of General Industrial Wastes for control purposes. Through these amendments the EPA aims to keep in line with international methods of classifying industrial wastes. The EPA clearly specifies the “Application for Non-Classification of Hazardous Industrial Wastes Engendered during the Manufacturing Process” and its related affidavit, so that industries can apply to their local competent authorities for non-classification. In addition, the EPA listed the “Residues after the Treatment of Mixed Scrap Metals” as targets of control under the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedures (TCLP) testing process, so that industrial wastes can be properly controlled. To make the demarcations clear, the EPA takes into consideration actual implementation conditions and makes adjustments of the terms and conditions.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Amendment to Standards for Defining Hazardous Industrial Waste Preannounced", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-09" }, { "no": "3054", "title": "Geopolitical Monitor Lauds Taiwan Recycling System Lessons for Canada", "preview": "Sustainable Development\n\nGeopolitical Monitor Lauds Taiwan Recycling System Lessons for Canada \n\nOn 27 May 2013 Geopolitical Monitor, a Canadian intelligence publication and consultancy, published an article on its Web site (http:\/\/www.geopoliticalmonitor.com) entitled “Taiwan’s Recycling Revolution: Lessons for Canada.” \n\nThe article was written by Zachary Fillingham, a special correspondent for the journal. It pointed out that from 1998 to 2010, Taiwan’s GDP grew by 47%, and yet the daily per capita volume of refuse produced fell by 57.5%. Canada, by contrast, still has one of the highest per capita refuse rates in the world. The article analyzed Taiwan’s 4-in-1 recycling scheme, which it cited as a key factor in Taiwan’s refuse reduction success along with pay-per-bag refuse collection and the EPA’s Resource Recycling Fund. \n\nFillingham pointed out that pay-per-bag refuse collection gives people an economic incentive to recycle as much as possible and thus also gives them a greater sense of responsibility with regards to reducing refuse. From 1999 to 2003, some of Taiwan’s cities were able to reduce refuse volumes by 28.3% solely from implementing pay-per-bag refuse collection. \n\nFillingham also suggested that the problems encountered by the province of Ontario’s pioneering eco fee system could partially be solved by a mechanism employed by Taiwan’s recycling fund. He explained in detail how Taiwan’s Resource Recycling Fund was established and funded by the central government – which laid out the scope of its operation and how it should be funded in the future – and how day-to-day administration of the fund and adjustments to it are made by local governments so that the money is available to local governments, recycling enterprises, and local communities. The Taiwan model eliminates any public suspicion that the national government is meddling in affairs that have been traditionally controlled by sub-national governments. It also provides economic incentives for manufacturers to create innovative new green products that reduce paying the fee to the recycling fund. To conclude the article Fillingham warned that Canada’s growing refuse problem needs a revolutionary new solution and that Taiwan’s method – which does not involve the imposition of new taxes or central government interference in local affairs – could be the answer. \n\nThe EPA is grateful for the recognition for Taiwan’s refuse reduction and recycling achievements and the penetrating analysis of related government policies published by Geopolitical Monitor. The EPA also expresses its gratitude to the residents of Taiwan, as well as environmental personnel at every level, for making environmental protection a part of their daily lives and gaining international recognition for Taiwan’s recycling and refuse reduction achievements, based upon a model that other nations can adopt. The full article can be read online at http:\/\/www.geopoliticalmonitor.com\/topic\/environment\/.", "content": "Sustainable Development\n\nGeopolitical Monitor Lauds Taiwan Recycling System Lessons for Canada \n\nOn 27 May 2013 Geopolitical Monitor, a Canadian intelligence publication and consultancy, published an article on its Web site (http:\/\/www.geopoliticalmonitor.com) entitled “Taiwan’s Recycling Revolution: Lessons for Canada.” \n\nThe article was written by Zachary Fillingham, a special correspondent for the journal. It pointed out that from 1998 to 2010, Taiwan’s GDP grew by 47%, and yet the daily per capita volume of refuse produced fell by 57.5%. Canada, by contrast, still has one of the highest per capita refuse rates in the world. The article analyzed Taiwan’s 4-in-1 recycling scheme, which it cited as a key factor in Taiwan’s refuse reduction success along with pay-per-bag refuse collection and the EPA’s Resource Recycling Fund. \n\nFillingham pointed out that pay-per-bag refuse collection gives people an economic incentive to recycle as much as possible and thus also gives them a greater sense of responsibility with regards to reducing refuse. From 1999 to 2003, some of Taiwan’s cities were able to reduce refuse volumes by 28.3% solely from implementing pay-per-bag refuse collection. \n\nFillingham also suggested that the problems encountered by the province of Ontario’s pioneering eco fee system could partially be solved by a mechanism employed by Taiwan’s recycling fund. He explained in detail how Taiwan’s Resource Recycling Fund was established and funded by the central government – which laid out the scope of its operation and how it should be funded in the future – and how day-to-day administration of the fund and adjustments to it are made by local governments so that the money is available to local governments, recycling enterprises, and local communities. The Taiwan model eliminates any public suspicion that the national government is meddling in affairs that have been traditionally controlled by sub-national governments. It also provides economic incentives for manufacturers to create innovative new green products that reduce paying the fee to the recycling fund. To conclude the article Fillingham warned that Canada’s growing refuse problem needs a revolutionary new solution and that Taiwan’s method – which does not involve the imposition of new taxes or central government interference in local affairs – could be the answer. \n\nThe EPA is grateful for the recognition for Taiwan’s refuse reduction and recycling achievements and the penetrating analysis of related government policies published by Geopolitical Monitor. The EPA also expresses its gratitude to the residents of Taiwan, as well as environmental personnel at every level, for making environmental protection a part of their daily lives and gaining international recognition for Taiwan’s recycling and refuse reduction achievements, based upon a model that other nations can adopt. The full article can be read online at http:\/\/www.geopoliticalmonitor.com\/topic\/environment\/.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Sustainable Development", "titlename": "Geopolitical Monitor Lauds Taiwan Recycling System Lessons for Canada", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-09" }, { "no": "3053", "title": "Those Who Report Fraudulent Subsidy Claims Eligible for Rewards", "preview": "Resource Recycling\n\nThose Who Report Fraudulent Subsidy Claims Eligible for Rewards\n\nIn order to properly handle recyclable wastes the Resource Recycling Management Fund of the EPA offers subsidies to the recycling and disposal industries for the purpose of enhancing the outcomes of recycling. It turned out, however, that some, albeit very few, of the recycling and disposal enterprises defrauded the EPA of the subsidies. As a result, the EPA is encouraging the general public to report on fraudulent activities. By doing so, not only will justice and fairness be able to enhance eco-friendliness, informants are also eligible to receive a stipulated reward amount. According to the guidelines formulated by the EPA on 3 July 2013, the general public can provide evidence to the EPA on how these enterprises make fraudulent claims to the subsidies (such as tampering with the weight records, making the recyclable wastes enter the factories repeatedly, and forging the monitoring video images, etc). Once the EPA verifies the authenticity of the reported cases and administers penalties, those who reported on the fraudulent claims are eligible to receive 20% of the subsidies in question as a reward. The EPA guarantees that strict confidentiality is observed during the processing of the reported cases. Specially designated personnel are assigned to handle such fraudulent claims with assurances against undue exposure. If the general public have any questions concerning reporting fraudulent activity, they may call 02-23705888 ext. 3610 to make inquiries, or log on to the EPA’s resource recycling Web site at: http:\/\/recycle.epa.gov.tw\/epa\/index.asp.", "content": "Resource Recycling\n\nThose Who Report Fraudulent Subsidy Claims Eligible for Rewards\n\nIn order to properly handle recyclable wastes the Resource Recycling Management Fund of the EPA offers subsidies to the recycling and disposal industries for the purpose of enhancing the outcomes of recycling. It turned out, however, that some, albeit very few, of the recycling and disposal enterprises defrauded the EPA of the subsidies. As a result, the EPA is encouraging the general public to report on fraudulent activities. By doing so, not only will justice and fairness be able to enhance eco-friendliness, informants are also eligible to receive a stipulated reward amount. According to the guidelines formulated by the EPA on 3 July 2013, the general public can provide evidence to the EPA on how these enterprises make fraudulent claims to the subsidies (such as tampering with the weight records, making the recyclable wastes enter the factories repeatedly, and forging the monitoring video images, etc). Once the EPA verifies the authenticity of the reported cases and administers penalties, those who reported on the fraudulent claims are eligible to receive 20% of the subsidies in question as a reward. The EPA guarantees that strict confidentiality is observed during the processing of the reported cases. Specially designated personnel are assigned to handle such fraudulent claims with assurances against undue exposure. If the general public have any questions concerning reporting fraudulent activity, they may call 02-23705888 ext. 3610 to make inquiries, or log on to the EPA’s resource recycling Web site at: http:\/\/recycle.epa.gov.tw\/epa\/index.asp.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Resource Recycling", "titlename": "Those Who Report Fraudulent Subsidy Claims Eligible for Rewards", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-09" }, { "no": "3052", "title": "Cleaner and Greener Indigenous Villages", "preview": "Environmental Sanitation\n\nCleaner and Greener Indigenous Villages \n\nEPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen has been calling for more attention to be paid to indigenous settlements and thus, on 2 September 2013, traveled to Taitung County’s Donghe Township. He was accompanied by the Taitung County Magistrate Justin Huang and the Director of the Taitung County Environmental Protection Bureau (EPB), Ming-en Huang. In Donghe they joined local Amis residents in a clean-up activity to promote the government’s 5S campaign. \n\nThere are approximately 520,000 indigenous persons in Taiwan – 2% of the total population – concentrated in 55 townships, towns and cities in 12 of Taiwan’s counties\/special municipalities. Indigenous villages are often in areas of outstanding natural beauty, and their inhabitants are renowned for their unique cultures and celebratory ceremonies, all factors that have made them a significant tourism resource. \n\nThe environmental clean-up activity in Donghe Township was organized by the Taitung County EPB and was personally led by EPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen. The clean-up team included almost 300 personnel from: Corps 81 of the Coast Guard Administration’s East Coast Patrol Office; the Taiyuan Skill Training Institute of the Agency of Corrections, Ministry of Justice; the Township Representative Council; the Donghe Health Center; the Household Registration Office; the Farmers’ Association; an irrigation workstation; the Counseling Center for Military Reserves; a Taipower Service Center; the Donghe Emergency Rescue Team; and local environmental volunteers. The team helped out with sweeping the streets, cleaning the gutters, weeding, removing fly posters and banners, and eliminating breeding grounds for mosquitoes. It adopted the motto “Take trash to where it belongs for a beautiful homeland with a clean environment.” The activity was part of the 5S campaign (seiri, seiton, seiso, seiketsu, and shitsuke, Japanese for tidying up, reorganizing, sweeping, cleaning and cultivating good habits). This campaign is now being promoted in indigenous villages to raise the quality of residential environments. \n\nThe upkeep of residential environments requires the participation of the whole community. The 5S concept has proven ideal in getting indigenous communities to take practical measures in maintaining a clean living environment. This initiative has mobilized proactive efforts to clean up residential areas and create a high quality living environment that is also good for the greater environment.", "content": "Environmental Sanitation\n\nCleaner and Greener Indigenous Villages \n\nEPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen has been calling for more attention to be paid to indigenous settlements and thus, on 2 September 2013, traveled to Taitung County’s Donghe Township. He was accompanied by the Taitung County Magistrate Justin Huang and the Director of the Taitung County Environmental Protection Bureau (EPB), Ming-en Huang. In Donghe they joined local Amis residents in a clean-up activity to promote the government’s 5S campaign. \n\nThere are approximately 520,000 indigenous persons in Taiwan – 2% of the total population – concentrated in 55 townships, towns and cities in 12 of Taiwan’s counties\/special municipalities. Indigenous villages are often in areas of outstanding natural beauty, and their inhabitants are renowned for their unique cultures and celebratory ceremonies, all factors that have made them a significant tourism resource. \n\nThe environmental clean-up activity in Donghe Township was organized by the Taitung County EPB and was personally led by EPA Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen. The clean-up team included almost 300 personnel from: Corps 81 of the Coast Guard Administration’s East Coast Patrol Office; the Taiyuan Skill Training Institute of the Agency of Corrections, Ministry of Justice; the Township Representative Council; the Donghe Health Center; the Household Registration Office; the Farmers’ Association; an irrigation workstation; the Counseling Center for Military Reserves; a Taipower Service Center; the Donghe Emergency Rescue Team; and local environmental volunteers. The team helped out with sweeping the streets, cleaning the gutters, weeding, removing fly posters and banners, and eliminating breeding grounds for mosquitoes. It adopted the motto “Take trash to where it belongs for a beautiful homeland with a clean environment.” The activity was part of the 5S campaign (seiri, seiton, seiso, seiketsu, and shitsuke, Japanese for tidying up, reorganizing, sweeping, cleaning and cultivating good habits). This campaign is now being promoted in indigenous villages to raise the quality of residential environments. \n\nThe upkeep of residential environments requires the participation of the whole community. The 5S concept has proven ideal in getting indigenous communities to take practical measures in maintaining a clean living environment. This initiative has mobilized proactive efforts to clean up residential areas and create a high quality living environment that is also good for the greater environment.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Sanitation", "titlename": "Cleaner and Greener Indigenous Villages", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-09" }, { "no": "3051", "title": "Working with US to Monitor Atmospheric Quality over South China Sea", "preview": "Environmental Monitoring\n\nWorking with US to Monitor Atmospheric Quality over South China Sea \n\nSince February 2013 Taiwan and a number of Southeast Asian nations have been working with the US NASA on the 7 South East Asian Studies (7-SEAS) project. This is the first time that there has been an international effort to systematically monitor and compare the quality of the atmosphere in the South China Sea region. The results will be published in international academic journals by the end of the year. \n\nThe cooperation between the Taiwan EPA, the US NASA, and a number of Southeast Asian nations over 7-SEAS involves integrating monitoring facilities in each nation. Since February 2013, for a period of about four months, precision instruments monitored air quality on the Thailand-Myanmar border; in northern Vietnam; and on Mt. Lulin, the Hengchun Peninsula, Dongsha Islands and Nansha Islands of Taiwan. This is the first time that there has been an international program to systematically monitor and evaluate the quality of the atmosphere in the South China Sea region, and the results are liable to attract wide international attention. The EPA was recently informed that the internationally-esteemed journal Atmospheric Environment will publish a special report of 28 papers regarding this monitoring effort before the end of 2013. \n\nThe 7-SEAS international atmospheric monitoring project was drawn up and orchestrated by US NASA, with the seven primary participating nations being Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Malaysia. The objective of the project is to investigate the long-distance transboundary transmission of pollutants from flame cultivation and open field biomass burning in Southeast Asia, and the interactions between biomass burning and atmospheric pollutants, the environment, radiation, and climate patterns. \n\nThe EPA played its part in the 7-SEAS research and monitoring projects by, for the first time, providing air quality monitoring instruments that were set up on Mt. Doi Ang (Doi Ang Khan) in Thailand to collect data for comparison studies. Overall, the experiments have revealed the chemical composition and special characteristics of pollutants from biomass burning on the Indo-China Peninsula. For Taiwan specifically, analysis of the monitoring data has yielded the tentative discovery that pollutants from biomass burning are present at over 3,000 meters in the upper atmosphere and are being transported toward Taiwan during periodic changes in atmospheric patterns, with the possibility of impacting air quality over the western Taiwan plain and Hengchun Peninsula. \n\nTaiwan is located downwind of prevailing air currents passing over Southeast Asia, and is thus well-placed for determining the transmission mechanisms and routes of pollutants originating from biomass burning on the Indo-China Peninsula. In 2009, the EPA joined forces with the National Science Council, the Coast Guard Administration, National Central University, Dongsha Atoll National Park, and the Marine Bureau of the Kaohsiung City Government to establish an air quality monitoring station on Dongsha Atoll. In 2010, the EPA linked up with the US NASA to simultaneously station two monitoring vehicles – one from each agency – on the Dongsha Atoll for six months of cooperative monitoring. In 2012, the EPA set up solar radiation instruments on Nansha Atoll. \n\nThe experience in international cooperation accumulated by the EPA over the last few years has been the basis for this year’s successful participation in the large-scale, systematic series of research and monitoring projects. In addition to the US and the Southeast Asian nations that took part in this year’s 7-SEAS project, 14 domestic academic\/research institutions were also involved, including the EPA, the National Science Council, and National Central University. The observations and experiments primarily focused upon simultaneously analyzing baseline data from ground monitoring stations combined with data from satellite remote sensing, radar, and an international ground monitoring network. The operation schedule for Taiwan’s Formosa II satellite was specially adjusted so that it could be employed during the research period to take ultra-high resolution images of the Indo-China Peninsula, which were used to identify types of burning and their locations.", "content": "Environmental Monitoring\n\nWorking with US to Monitor Atmospheric Quality over South China Sea \n\nSince February 2013 Taiwan and a number of Southeast Asian nations have been working with the US NASA on the 7 South East Asian Studies (7-SEAS) project. This is the first time that there has been an international effort to systematically monitor and compare the quality of the atmosphere in the South China Sea region. The results will be published in international academic journals by the end of the year. \n\nThe cooperation between the Taiwan EPA, the US NASA, and a number of Southeast Asian nations over 7-SEAS involves integrating monitoring facilities in each nation. Since February 2013, for a period of about four months, precision instruments monitored air quality on the Thailand-Myanmar border; in northern Vietnam; and on Mt. Lulin, the Hengchun Peninsula, Dongsha Islands and Nansha Islands of Taiwan. This is the first time that there has been an international program to systematically monitor and evaluate the quality of the atmosphere in the South China Sea region, and the results are liable to attract wide international attention. The EPA was recently informed that the internationally-esteemed journal Atmospheric Environment will publish a special report of 28 papers regarding this monitoring effort before the end of 2013. \n\nThe 7-SEAS international atmospheric monitoring project was drawn up and orchestrated by US NASA, with the seven primary participating nations being Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Malaysia. The objective of the project is to investigate the long-distance transboundary transmission of pollutants from flame cultivation and open field biomass burning in Southeast Asia, and the interactions between biomass burning and atmospheric pollutants, the environment, radiation, and climate patterns. \n\nThe EPA played its part in the 7-SEAS research and monitoring projects by, for the first time, providing air quality monitoring instruments that were set up on Mt. Doi Ang (Doi Ang Khan) in Thailand to collect data for comparison studies. Overall, the experiments have revealed the chemical composition and special characteristics of pollutants from biomass burning on the Indo-China Peninsula. For Taiwan specifically, analysis of the monitoring data has yielded the tentative discovery that pollutants from biomass burning are present at over 3,000 meters in the upper atmosphere and are being transported toward Taiwan during periodic changes in atmospheric patterns, with the possibility of impacting air quality over the western Taiwan plain and Hengchun Peninsula. \n\nTaiwan is located downwind of prevailing air currents passing over Southeast Asia, and is thus well-placed for determining the transmission mechanisms and routes of pollutants originating from biomass burning on the Indo-China Peninsula. In 2009, the EPA joined forces with the National Science Council, the Coast Guard Administration, National Central University, Dongsha Atoll National Park, and the Marine Bureau of the Kaohsiung City Government to establish an air quality monitoring station on Dongsha Atoll. In 2010, the EPA linked up with the US NASA to simultaneously station two monitoring vehicles – one from each agency – on the Dongsha Atoll for six months of cooperative monitoring. In 2012, the EPA set up solar radiation instruments on Nansha Atoll. \n\nThe experience in international cooperation accumulated by the EPA over the last few years has been the basis for this year’s successful participation in the large-scale, systematic series of research and monitoring projects. In addition to the US and the Southeast Asian nations that took part in this year’s 7-SEAS project, 14 domestic academic\/research institutions were also involved, including the EPA, the National Science Council, and National Central University. The observations and experiments primarily focused upon simultaneously analyzing baseline data from ground monitoring stations combined with data from satellite remote sensing, radar, and an international ground monitoring network. The operation schedule for Taiwan’s Formosa II satellite was specially adjusted so that it could be employed during the research period to take ultra-high resolution images of the Indo-China Peninsula, which were used to identify types of burning and their locations.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Environmental Monitoring", "titlename": "Working with US to Monitor Atmospheric Quality over South China Sea", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-09" }, { "no": "3050", "title": "Promoting Product Carbon Labeling", "preview": "ecolabeling\n\nPromoting Product Carbon Labeling \n\nTo encourage greener consumer habits among Taiwan’s citizens the government has been promoting its product carbon labeling system. The system also aims to push businesses to review their manufacturing processes and supply chains to see where carbon reductions can be made. Over the last four years, the system has received widespread support from all government departments, as well as private enterprises and members of the public. Their combined efforts are going a long way toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions. \n\nA product carbon footprint indicates the total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that a product produces during its complete cradle to grave life cycle. Products are labeled with a clearly-identifiable icon that conveys to the consumer information on the product’s carbon footprint, allowing them to be more selective when shopping. A media campaign over the last few years has been aimed at reducing GHG emissions by encouraging greener consumer habits and getting businesses to review and find where reductions can be made, thus improving their image as responsible protectors of the environment. \n\nOn 5 June 2008, the Executive Yuan approved the Guidelines for Sustainable Energy Policy which includes specific targets for energy saving and carbon reduction, namely, reducing carbon emissions by one kilogram per capita per day. The former Chief Executive Officer of the National Council for Sustainable Development, Dr. Hsung-hsiung Tsai, spelled this out in the following terms: Establishing an eco-labeling system through amending the Trademark Act, accreditation, carbon credits, cooperation from distributors, and encouraging public participation with the specific target of reducing the carbon footprint by one kilogram per capita per day. The EPA has since observed international developments and trends, and has taken into account the situation in Taiwan, while developing Taiwan’s product carbon labeling system. \n\nTaiwan the Eleventh Nation to Start Carbon Labeling\n\nIn September 2009, the EPA held a competition to select an icon design for product carbon labels. The winner was selected from 1,286 entries and Taiwan became the eleventh nation worldwide to roll out carbon labeling for consumer products. Some of the main achievements over the last four years of promoting carbon labeling are as follows: \n\n1) Maintaining sound operation of the Carbon Labeling Communication Platform\n\nNine consultation meetings have so far been convened at which representatives from government, industry, academia, and citizen’s groups shared their opinions. Two evaluation meetings have also been convened at which information on carbon labeling overseas was analyzed and possible amendments to Taiwan’s carbon labeling system and regulations were discussed. \n\n2) Giving guidance to enterprises conducting carbon footprint audits and applying for carbon labeling\n\n1. In July 2010, 11 products were selected for trial subsidies as a part of the implementation of the Product Carbon Labeling Demonstration Subsidy Plan, and were later audited or verified for their carbon footprint. \n\n2. In order to maintain carbon footprint verification quality, the EPA has been regularly holding its Product Carbon Footprint Verification Personnel Training Course. The course upgrades the knowledge and skills of verification personnel and gives them a chance to share experiences and learn from each other. \n\n3. In September 2011, the EPA selected six different categories of products – bicycles, soy milk, blankets, eco-friendly shopping bags, pineapple cakes, and floor tiles – as models for carbon footprint labeling. They were later audited or verified for their carbon footprint, and in December 2012, the EPA held a press conference to announce the results of the audits. \n\n4. In 2011, the EPA’s Environmental Professionals Training Institute held four training courses on product carbon footprint and the process of applying for carbon labeling. A total of 317 personnel took part. \n\n5. In 2011, documents covering regulatory principles for four categories of products were completed, and three handbooks of guidelines for carbon footprints for three categories of products were compiled. \n\n6. Three carbon footprint practice sessions were held – one each in northern, central, and southern Taiwan – and certificates were later awarded to 33 of the attendees who provided evidence of having received supplementary training. \n\n3) Evaluation of carbon labeling\n\n1. On 29 January 2010, the EPA announced the Protocols for Establishing the Evaluation Committee for Promoting Product Carbon Labeling and set up the Evaluation Committee for Promoting Product Carbon Labeling. The committee is composed of experts from government, industry and academia, and has met 12 times as of June 2013. Its associated technical teams, audit teams, and promotional teams have met on 76 occasions. \n\n2. On 6 May 2010, the EPA completed the Operational Protocols for Product Carbon Labeling and the Operational Protocols for Pilot Period Applications for Product Carbon Labeling Certification. These regulations cover applications for product carbon labeling, as well as matters related to the evaluation, use, and management of such products. Manufacturers will be able to apply to use the Taiwan Carbon Label, and, after gaining EPA approval, will be able to use it either directly on the product, on its packaging, or on other marketing material to show the carbon footprint data for the product. \n\n3. In order to provide a basis for comparing the carbon footprints of products in different categories, it is necessary to formulate a set of regulations, called Product Category Rules for Carbon Footprint (CF-PCR). However, there is presently no international standard for CF-PCR. Thus, in July 2010, the EPA formulated the Formulation Guidelines for Product Category Rules for Carbon Footprint to be used as the basis for formulating CF-PCR, thus giving each category of product a single formula for calculating carbon footprint. This will also help in the promotion of carbon reduction systems in the future. As of June 2013, 47 product category rules for carbon footprint have been completed and announced. \n\n4. In June 2010, the EPA held the Award Ceremony for the First Batch of Accreditations for Taiwan Product Carbon Labeling. Seven products manufactured by five manufacturers were awarded the first batch of Product Carbon Labeling Certificates. \n\n5. In November 2010, the EPA completed registration for six auditing agencies qualified to conduct product carbon footprint audits. The decision was intended to facilitate third party product carbon footprint auditing and the issuing of audit declarations. As of June 2013, ten audit agencies have been registered with the EPA.\n\n6. As of June 2013, 160 products from 50 manufacturers have applied for and obtained the Product Carbon Labeling Certificates. These manufacturers will need to provide specific pledges to cut the greenhouse gas emissions for their product in the future and to label the product carbon footprint on their product, as well as help educate the general public. Initial estimates show carbon emission reductions around 11 million kg CO2e.\n\n4) Promoting international cooperation and exchanges on product carbon labeling\n\n1. In December 2010, the EPA held the Taiwan-UK Product Carbon Labeling and Carbon Reduction Technology Promotion Symposium, which was attended by 57 participants. The symposium provided an opportunity for Taiwan and the UK to build a mutually beneficial cooperative relationship to work together on issues of common concern such as developing an international product carbon labeling system, GHG reduction technology, and developing low-carbon commercial practices.\n\n2.In 2011, the EPA facilitated the signing of a cooperative memorandum between Taiwan’s Industrial Technology Research Institute and the UK’s Carbon Trust to promote product carbon labeling. At the same time the EPA held the International Forum on Carbon Labeling that was attended by experts from government, industry, and academia from the UK, Japan, China, and other nations. \n\n3.On 5 June 2013, Taiwan was invited to attend the World Trade Organization’s Committee on Trade and Environment meeting in Switzerland to report on the development of Taiwan’s carbon labeling system. France is the only nation that has considered drafting regulations for a mandatory carbon labeling system. France is now developing an environmental labeling system and has already conducted related research as well as initiated pilot programs. The EPA took this opportunity to learn from France’s valuable experience by scheduling visits in June 2013 with France’s Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Energy along with Bureau Veritas and two large French corporations – Casino and E. Leclerc – both of which have launched preliminary carbon labeling plans. In addition to providing a chance for meaningful exchange, this trip afforded the EPA a better understanding of how France is promoting its environmental footprint labeling system and the direction of future developments.\n\nAligning Taiwan with International Carbon Labeling Practice \n\nThe EPA is stepping up its involvement with various government agencies in order to speed up the creation of emission factors for measuring carbon footprints in Taiwan. The EPA is currently creating a carbon data disclosure service and calculation software that will allow Taiwan’s manufacturers to quickly and easily calculate the carbon footprint of their products. The EPA will continue to work with other government departments to hold seminars for manufacturers and industry associations on applying for carbon labeling. \n\nThe EPA will continue augmenting the product carbon labeling system in order to align Taiwan with international practice. The EPA is calling upon domestic enterprises to join in the carbon footprint disclosure scheme and apply for the Taiwan Carbon Label for their products, and also to pledge to reduce emissions by searching for reduction hotspots in their operations. The EPA has also set up the Taiwan Product Carbon Footprint Information Network (http:\/\/cfp.epa.gov.tw) and has started receiving electronic applications through its Product Carbon Labeling Certificate system. \n\nThe EPA will continue to observe international developments and is ready to adjust the product carbon labeling system, methods of promotion, and related measures in order to collaborate in implementing any future international unified standards. The EPA is also willing to sign bilateral agreements with developed nations such as the UK to facilitate mutual recognition of product carbon labeling for imported\/exported products, and thus further increase the benefits of Taiwan’s product carbon labeling system.", "content": "ecolabeling\n\nPromoting Product Carbon Labeling \n\nTo encourage greener consumer habits among Taiwan’s citizens the government has been promoting its product carbon labeling system. The system also aims to push businesses to review their manufacturing processes and supply chains to see where carbon reductions can be made. Over the last four years, the system has received widespread support from all government departments, as well as private enterprises and members of the public. Their combined efforts are going a long way toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions. \n\nA product carbon footprint indicates the total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that a product produces during its complete cradle to grave life cycle. Products are labeled with a clearly-identifiable icon that conveys to the consumer information on the product’s carbon footprint, allowing them to be more selective when shopping. A media campaign over the last few years has been aimed at reducing GHG emissions by encouraging greener consumer habits and getting businesses to review and find where reductions can be made, thus improving their image as responsible protectors of the environment. \n\nOn 5 June 2008, the Executive Yuan approved the Guidelines for Sustainable Energy Policy which includes specific targets for energy saving and carbon reduction, namely, reducing carbon emissions by one kilogram per capita per day. The former Chief Executive Officer of the National Council for Sustainable Development, Dr. Hsung-hsiung Tsai, spelled this out in the following terms: Establishing an eco-labeling system through amending the Trademark Act, accreditation, carbon credits, cooperation from distributors, and encouraging public participation with the specific target of reducing the carbon footprint by one kilogram per capita per day. The EPA has since observed international developments and trends, and has taken into account the situation in Taiwan, while developing Taiwan’s product carbon labeling system. \n\nTaiwan the Eleventh Nation to Start Carbon Labeling\n\nIn September 2009, the EPA held a competition to select an icon design for product carbon labels. The winner was selected from 1,286 entries and Taiwan became the eleventh nation worldwide to roll out carbon labeling for consumer products. Some of the main achievements over the last four years of promoting carbon labeling are as follows: \n\n1) Maintaining sound operation of the Carbon Labeling Communication Platform\n\nNine consultation meetings have so far been convened at which representatives from government, industry, academia, and citizen’s groups shared their opinions. Two evaluation meetings have also been convened at which information on carbon labeling overseas was analyzed and possible amendments to Taiwan’s carbon labeling system and regulations were discussed. \n\n2) Giving guidance to enterprises conducting carbon footprint audits and applying for carbon labeling\n\n1. In July 2010, 11 products were selected for trial subsidies as a part of the implementation of the Product Carbon Labeling Demonstration Subsidy Plan, and were later audited or verified for their carbon footprint. \n\n2. In order to maintain carbon footprint verification quality, the EPA has been regularly holding its Product Carbon Footprint Verification Personnel Training Course. The course upgrades the knowledge and skills of verification personnel and gives them a chance to share experiences and learn from each other. \n\n3. In September 2011, the EPA selected six different categories of products – bicycles, soy milk, blankets, eco-friendly shopping bags, pineapple cakes, and floor tiles – as models for carbon footprint labeling. They were later audited or verified for their carbon footprint, and in December 2012, the EPA held a press conference to announce the results of the audits. \n\n4. In 2011, the EPA’s Environmental Professionals Training Institute held four training courses on product carbon footprint and the process of applying for carbon labeling. A total of 317 personnel took part. \n\n5. In 2011, documents covering regulatory principles for four categories of products were completed, and three handbooks of guidelines for carbon footprints for three categories of products were compiled. \n\n6. Three carbon footprint practice sessions were held – one each in northern, central, and southern Taiwan – and certificates were later awarded to 33 of the attendees who provided evidence of having received supplementary training. \n\n3) Evaluation of carbon labeling\n\n1. On 29 January 2010, the EPA announced the Protocols for Establishing the Evaluation Committee for Promoting Product Carbon Labeling and set up the Evaluation Committee for Promoting Product Carbon Labeling. The committee is composed of experts from government, industry and academia, and has met 12 times as of June 2013. Its associated technical teams, audit teams, and promotional teams have met on 76 occasions. \n\n2. On 6 May 2010, the EPA completed the Operational Protocols for Product Carbon Labeling and the Operational Protocols for Pilot Period Applications for Product Carbon Labeling Certification. These regulations cover applications for product carbon labeling, as well as matters related to the evaluation, use, and management of such products. Manufacturers will be able to apply to use the Taiwan Carbon Label, and, after gaining EPA approval, will be able to use it either directly on the product, on its packaging, or on other marketing material to show the carbon footprint data for the product. \n\n3. In order to provide a basis for comparing the carbon footprints of products in different categories, it is necessary to formulate a set of regulations, called Product Category Rules for Carbon Footprint (CF-PCR). However, there is presently no international standard for CF-PCR. Thus, in July 2010, the EPA formulated the Formulation Guidelines for Product Category Rules for Carbon Footprint to be used as the basis for formulating CF-PCR, thus giving each category of product a single formula for calculating carbon footprint. This will also help in the promotion of carbon reduction systems in the future. As of June 2013, 47 product category rules for carbon footprint have been completed and announced. \n\n4. In June 2010, the EPA held the Award Ceremony for the First Batch of Accreditations for Taiwan Product Carbon Labeling. Seven products manufactured by five manufacturers were awarded the first batch of Product Carbon Labeling Certificates. \n\n5. In November 2010, the EPA completed registration for six auditing agencies qualified to conduct product carbon footprint audits. The decision was intended to facilitate third party product carbon footprint auditing and the issuing of audit declarations. As of June 2013, ten audit agencies have been registered with the EPA.\n\n6. As of June 2013, 160 products from 50 manufacturers have applied for and obtained the Product Carbon Labeling Certificates. These manufacturers will need to provide specific pledges to cut the greenhouse gas emissions for their product in the future and to label the product carbon footprint on their product, as well as help educate the general public. Initial estimates show carbon emission reductions around 11 million kg CO2e.\n\n4) Promoting international cooperation and exchanges on product carbon labeling\n\n1. In December 2010, the EPA held the Taiwan-UK Product Carbon Labeling and Carbon Reduction Technology Promotion Symposium, which was attended by 57 participants. The symposium provided an opportunity for Taiwan and the UK to build a mutually beneficial cooperative relationship to work together on issues of common concern such as developing an international product carbon labeling system, GHG reduction technology, and developing low-carbon commercial practices.\n\n2.In 2011, the EPA facilitated the signing of a cooperative memorandum between Taiwan’s Industrial Technology Research Institute and the UK’s Carbon Trust to promote product carbon labeling. At the same time the EPA held the International Forum on Carbon Labeling that was attended by experts from government, industry, and academia from the UK, Japan, China, and other nations. \n\n3.On 5 June 2013, Taiwan was invited to attend the World Trade Organization’s Committee on Trade and Environment meeting in Switzerland to report on the development of Taiwan’s carbon labeling system. France is the only nation that has considered drafting regulations for a mandatory carbon labeling system. France is now developing an environmental labeling system and has already conducted related research as well as initiated pilot programs. The EPA took this opportunity to learn from France’s valuable experience by scheduling visits in June 2013 with France’s Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Energy along with Bureau Veritas and two large French corporations – Casino and E. Leclerc – both of which have launched preliminary carbon labeling plans. In addition to providing a chance for meaningful exchange, this trip afforded the EPA a better understanding of how France is promoting its environmental footprint labeling system and the direction of future developments.\n\nAligning Taiwan with International Carbon Labeling Practice \n\nThe EPA is stepping up its involvement with various government agencies in order to speed up the creation of emission factors for measuring carbon footprints in Taiwan. The EPA is currently creating a carbon data disclosure service and calculation software that will allow Taiwan’s manufacturers to quickly and easily calculate the carbon footprint of their products. The EPA will continue to work with other government departments to hold seminars for manufacturers and industry associations on applying for carbon labeling. \n\nThe EPA will continue augmenting the product carbon labeling system in order to align Taiwan with international practice. The EPA is calling upon domestic enterprises to join in the carbon footprint disclosure scheme and apply for the Taiwan Carbon Label for their products, and also to pledge to reduce emissions by searching for reduction hotspots in their operations. The EPA has also set up the Taiwan Product Carbon Footprint Information Network (http:\/\/cfp.epa.gov.tw) and has started receiving electronic applications through its Product Carbon Labeling Certificate system. \n\nThe EPA will continue to observe international developments and is ready to adjust the product carbon labeling system, methods of promotion, and related measures in order to collaborate in implementing any future international unified standards. The EPA is also willing to sign bilateral agreements with developed nations such as the UK to facilitate mutual recognition of product carbon labeling for imported\/exported products, and thus further increase the benefits of Taiwan’s product carbon labeling system.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "ecolabeling", "titlename": "Promoting Product Carbon Labeling", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-09" }, { "no": "3049", "title": "EPA Research Shows that Planting Certain Trees near Industrial Parks Improves Air Quality", "preview": "Air quality\n\nEPA Research Shows that Planting Certain Trees near Industrial Parks Improves Air Quality\n\nThe EPA has been working with research organizations to select suitable species of trees that are able to improve air quality near industrial parks. An on-site survey of species presently growing at the boundaries and along main roads in industrial parks with concentrations of petroleum and steel industrial operations was conducted to select the species that displayed superior health. Additional evidence was also gathered from laboratory experiments that compared the ability of various species to purify polluted air. The EPA now has a list of species that have been proven to remove pollutants from the air in petroleum and steel industrial parks. \n\nThe species most suitable for planting near petroleum industry zones include Taiwan zelkova Chinese pistache, poonga oil tree, lobular terminalia, lemon eucaplyptus, Norfolk Island pine, bishopwood, Chinese tamarix, silvery messerschmidia, and India laurel fig. The species most suitable for planting near steel industry zones include eucalyptus urophylla, Chinese tamarix, date palm, silvery messerschmidia, Norfolk Island pine, and India laurel fig. The EPA is now recommending industrial park operators who wish to green their parks, and developers conducting environmental impact assessments, to plant the above species in green belts or wherever else greening is required. The EPA will soon be publishing relevant information on its Web site for viewing by the public.\n\nThe petroleum and steel industries have traditionally always been highly polluting and highly energy consumptive, as their manufacturing processes unavoidably produce air pollutants. The main pollutants produced by the petroleum industry are VOCs. For the steel industry there are three main pollutant categories according to the manufacturing process involved: Sox, Nox, hydrogen fluoride, and suspended fine particulate matter in smelting plants; particulate matter and dioxins from electric arc furnaces; and factories that reuse fly ash. Environmental agencies and industrial enterprises have been doing a fine job of reducing emissions through tightening emission standards and other measures but some air pollutants are still finding their way into the atmosphere, which is why planting trees that can naturally purify the air and beautify the environment is a sound strategy. \n\nTo assess the health of trees that have been planted near industrial parks, the EPA has drawn up a 1~5 scale based upon the proportion of each tree that show signs of disease, leaf loss, yellowing, browning, withering, or browning of leaves, with a higher score indicating a healthier tree. A recent survey by the EPA discovered that trees planted close to the aforementioned Category 2 industrial parks all had a health index in the 2 to 4 range, indicating that there is a need for more trees or different species to be planted. \n\nThe findings in the field were cross-checked with measurement data from lab tests using environmental test chambers and fumigation cabinets. The results of the lab tests showed that the best species for planting in areas with high concentrations of sulfur dioxide in the air are Norfolk Island pine, beef wood, Taiwan zelkova, date palm, and Chinese tamarix. The most suitable species for planting in areas with high concentrations of Nox in the air are Chinese tamarix, Taiwan zelkova, Chinese pistache, beef wood, and lemon eucalyptus. The best species for planting in areas with high concentrations of ethylene in the air are Taiwan zelkova, Chinese pistache, bishopwood, and lobular terminalia. The most effective species for planting in areas with high concentrations of toluene in the air are poonga oil tree, date palm, beef wood, Chinese pistache, and bishopwood. The best species for planting in areas with high concentrations of ozone in the air are Chinese pistache, silvery messerschmidia, Chinese tamarix, Indian almond, and India laurel fig. And the best species for planting in areas with high concentrations of hydrogen fluoride in the air are lobular terminalia, India laurel fig, Chinese tamarix, and Taiwan zelkova.", "content": "Air quality\n\nEPA Research Shows that Planting Certain Trees near Industrial Parks Improves Air Quality\n\nThe EPA has been working with research organizations to select suitable species of trees that are able to improve air quality near industrial parks. An on-site survey of species presently growing at the boundaries and along main roads in industrial parks with concentrations of petroleum and steel industrial operations was conducted to select the species that displayed superior health. Additional evidence was also gathered from laboratory experiments that compared the ability of various species to purify polluted air. The EPA now has a list of species that have been proven to remove pollutants from the air in petroleum and steel industrial parks. \n\nThe species most suitable for planting near petroleum industry zones include Taiwan zelkova Chinese pistache, poonga oil tree, lobular terminalia, lemon eucaplyptus, Norfolk Island pine, bishopwood, Chinese tamarix, silvery messerschmidia, and India laurel fig. The species most suitable for planting near steel industry zones include eucalyptus urophylla, Chinese tamarix, date palm, silvery messerschmidia, Norfolk Island pine, and India laurel fig. The EPA is now recommending industrial park operators who wish to green their parks, and developers conducting environmental impact assessments, to plant the above species in green belts or wherever else greening is required. The EPA will soon be publishing relevant information on its Web site for viewing by the public.\n\nThe petroleum and steel industries have traditionally always been highly polluting and highly energy consumptive, as their manufacturing processes unavoidably produce air pollutants. The main pollutants produced by the petroleum industry are VOCs. For the steel industry there are three main pollutant categories according to the manufacturing process involved: Sox, Nox, hydrogen fluoride, and suspended fine particulate matter in smelting plants; particulate matter and dioxins from electric arc furnaces; and factories that reuse fly ash. Environmental agencies and industrial enterprises have been doing a fine job of reducing emissions through tightening emission standards and other measures but some air pollutants are still finding their way into the atmosphere, which is why planting trees that can naturally purify the air and beautify the environment is a sound strategy. \n\nTo assess the health of trees that have been planted near industrial parks, the EPA has drawn up a 1~5 scale based upon the proportion of each tree that show signs of disease, leaf loss, yellowing, browning, withering, or browning of leaves, with a higher score indicating a healthier tree. A recent survey by the EPA discovered that trees planted close to the aforementioned Category 2 industrial parks all had a health index in the 2 to 4 range, indicating that there is a need for more trees or different species to be planted. \n\nThe findings in the field were cross-checked with measurement data from lab tests using environmental test chambers and fumigation cabinets. The results of the lab tests showed that the best species for planting in areas with high concentrations of sulfur dioxide in the air are Norfolk Island pine, beef wood, Taiwan zelkova, date palm, and Chinese tamarix. The most suitable species for planting in areas with high concentrations of Nox in the air are Chinese tamarix, Taiwan zelkova, Chinese pistache, beef wood, and lemon eucalyptus. The best species for planting in areas with high concentrations of ethylene in the air are Taiwan zelkova, Chinese pistache, bishopwood, and lobular terminalia. The most effective species for planting in areas with high concentrations of toluene in the air are poonga oil tree, date palm, beef wood, Chinese pistache, and bishopwood. The best species for planting in areas with high concentrations of ozone in the air are Chinese pistache, silvery messerschmidia, Chinese tamarix, Indian almond, and India laurel fig. And the best species for planting in areas with high concentrations of hydrogen fluoride in the air are lobular terminalia, India laurel fig, Chinese tamarix, and Taiwan zelkova.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "EPA Research Shows that Planting Certain Trees near Industrial Parks Improves Air Quality", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-09" }, { "no": "3048", "title": "Amendment to Management Regulations for Construction Project Air Pollution Control Facilities Preannounced", "preview": "air quality\n\nAmendment to Management Regulations for Construction Project Air Pollution Control Facilities Preannounced\n\nThe EPA preannounced its amendment of the Management Regulations for Construction Projects Air Pollution Control Facilities. In this amendment “dredging” was added as a category of construction project, and the engineering scale of first degree dredging was clearly specified. The oil composition limits for machinery used in construction projects were revised as well. The EPA points out that the air pollution control fees for construction projects were revised and announced in July 2013, and will become effective on 1 January 2014. The categories of dredging and the classification of the different levels of dredging are all defined in the management regulations, and are amended accordingly to facilitate the levying of air pollution control fees. In addition, the regulations for the oil composition limits for machinery used in construction projects were similarly revised.", "content": "air quality\n\nAmendment to Management Regulations for Construction Project Air Pollution Control Facilities Preannounced\n\nThe EPA preannounced its amendment of the Management Regulations for Construction Projects Air Pollution Control Facilities. In this amendment “dredging” was added as a category of construction project, and the engineering scale of first degree dredging was clearly specified. The oil composition limits for machinery used in construction projects were revised as well. The EPA points out that the air pollution control fees for construction projects were revised and announced in July 2013, and will become effective on 1 January 2014. The categories of dredging and the classification of the different levels of dredging are all defined in the management regulations, and are amended accordingly to facilitate the levying of air pollution control fees. In addition, the regulations for the oil composition limits for machinery used in construction projects were similarly revised.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "air", "titlename": "Amendment to Management Regulations for Construction Project Air Pollution Control Facilities Preannounced", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-09" }, { "no": "3047", "title": "24-Hour Online Effluent Monitoring of Large Enterprises", "preview": "Water Quality\n\n24-Hour Online Effluent Monitoring of Large Enterprises \n\nStarting from 15 July 2013 the EPA has begun a dual-stage implementation of continuous online monitoring of wastewater quality and volumes for large-scale water pollution sources. The enterprises being targeted are factories permitted to use industrial zone sewer systems for daily effluent discharge volumes of over 2,000 m3, enterprises with daily effluent discharge volumes of over 15,000 m3, and power stations where the effluent does not come into contact with cooling water or those that use seawater for flue gas desulfurization processes in their air pollution prevention facilities. \n\nThe first stage of the implementation of continuous online monitoring will affect industrial parks with a maximum permitted daily discharge volume of 10,000 m3 or industrial parks with wastewater drainage systems that have passed environmental impact assessments. Such industrial parks are required to install automatic wastewater quantity and quality testing and monitoring equipment that can transmit data online to their local environmental protection bureau by 14 July 2014. \n\nThe second stage of the implementation will affect enterprises with a maximum permitted daily discharge volume of 15,000 m3, power stations where the effluent does not come into contact with cooling water or those that use seawater for flue gas desulfurization processes in their air pollution prevention facilities, and industrial park wastewater drainage systems that have daily wastewater discharge volumes between 2,000-10,000 m3. These enterprises will have to install automatic testing and monitoring equipment by 31 December 2014. The required items that must be tested for at the discharge outlet are: volumes of wastewater, water temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, chemical oxygen demand, and suspended solids. CCTV recording equipment must also be installed. The new regulations also state that automatic water volume measuring equipment must be installed at the inlets of industrial wastewater drainage systems and CCTV equipment at designated rainwater outlets in order to improve control over flows of wastewater in industrial parks. \n\nEPA statistics show that at present there are 96 enterprises that have installed automatic online monitoring apparatuses, and when the remainder complete installation (before the end of December 2014) the environmental agencies will be able to keep a close watch in real time over 56.8% of industrial effluent discharge. This will allow them to raise the alarm immediately in the case of abnormal discharges so that emergency response measures can be activated and improvements made. The new regimen will thus have a positive impact upon the conservation of water environments. If these measures prove to be effective with large-scale enterprises, the EPA will consider implementing the same measures in stages for small and medium enterprise pollution sources in order to gain maximum control over discharges of industrial wastewater.", "content": "Water Quality\n\n24-Hour Online Effluent Monitoring of Large Enterprises \n\nStarting from 15 July 2013 the EPA has begun a dual-stage implementation of continuous online monitoring of wastewater quality and volumes for large-scale water pollution sources. The enterprises being targeted are factories permitted to use industrial zone sewer systems for daily effluent discharge volumes of over 2,000 m3, enterprises with daily effluent discharge volumes of over 15,000 m3, and power stations where the effluent does not come into contact with cooling water or those that use seawater for flue gas desulfurization processes in their air pollution prevention facilities. \n\nThe first stage of the implementation of continuous online monitoring will affect industrial parks with a maximum permitted daily discharge volume of 10,000 m3 or industrial parks with wastewater drainage systems that have passed environmental impact assessments. Such industrial parks are required to install automatic wastewater quantity and quality testing and monitoring equipment that can transmit data online to their local environmental protection bureau by 14 July 2014. \n\nThe second stage of the implementation will affect enterprises with a maximum permitted daily discharge volume of 15,000 m3, power stations where the effluent does not come into contact with cooling water or those that use seawater for flue gas desulfurization processes in their air pollution prevention facilities, and industrial park wastewater drainage systems that have daily wastewater discharge volumes between 2,000-10,000 m3. These enterprises will have to install automatic testing and monitoring equipment by 31 December 2014. The required items that must be tested for at the discharge outlet are: volumes of wastewater, water temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, chemical oxygen demand, and suspended solids. CCTV recording equipment must also be installed. The new regulations also state that automatic water volume measuring equipment must be installed at the inlets of industrial wastewater drainage systems and CCTV equipment at designated rainwater outlets in order to improve control over flows of wastewater in industrial parks. \n\nEPA statistics show that at present there are 96 enterprises that have installed automatic online monitoring apparatuses, and when the remainder complete installation (before the end of December 2014) the environmental agencies will be able to keep a close watch in real time over 56.8% of industrial effluent discharge. This will allow them to raise the alarm immediately in the case of abnormal discharges so that emergency response measures can be activated and improvements made. The new regimen will thus have a positive impact upon the conservation of water environments. If these measures prove to be effective with large-scale enterprises, the EPA will consider implementing the same measures in stages for small and medium enterprise pollution sources in order to gain maximum control over discharges of industrial wastewater.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "water", "titlename": "24-Hour Online Effluent Monitoring of Large Enterprises", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-08" }, { "no": "3046", "title": "Promoting Inter-district Cooperation on Refuse Treatment", "preview": "waste management\n\nFeature Article\n\nPromoting Inter-district Cooperation on Refuse Treatment\n\nTo find refuse disposal solutions for remote areas or counties with a major part of land deemed ecologically important the EPA has been actively promoting inter-district cooperation on refuse disposal, and has been assisting in the creation of models for inter-district transfers of refuse for treatment and disposal. With the guidance of the EPA, six city and county governments have so far agreed to participate in the inter-district cooperation scheme. \n\nCurrently there are 24 large-scale municipal waste incinerators operating in Taiwan, collectively incinerating approximately 6.5 million tonnes of household refuse and general industrial waste each year. These facilities are meant to solve waste disposal problems for the refuse generated by citizens every day, as well as to make the best use of each incineration plant’s excess capacity by treating general industrial waste. In 2012, the 24 incinerators generated 3.06 billion kW hours of electricity, showing that incinerators are not only helping to solve the nation’s waste treatment problems but are also providing a safe, steady and reliable alternative energy source. \n\nOver 50% of the land in Nantou County, Hualien County and Hsinchu County is mountainous and designated as important watersheds and ecologically sensitive areas. The construction of incinerators in these jurisdictions runs up against the practical difficulties of procuring land and citizen protests. Other factors requiring consideration include the goal of shortening transport routes and the requirement that each incinerator must maintain a constant operating rate and be able to treat waste on a long-term basis. After evaluating these factors, it was decided that the construction of large-scale incinerators in Nantou, Hualien and Hsinchu counties could be suspended. The former practice of landfill was discontinued in 2007 except on outlying islands and remote areas, a step that had a great impact on counties or municipalities that do not have an incineration plant. In anticipation of repercussions, by the end of 2006 the EPA began promoting inter-district cooperation on refuse treatment to contract waste treatment between jurisdictions. This measure provided assistance to these three counties in order to ensure that waste generated within their jurisdictions could be transferred to other counties or municipalities that already have incineration plants. \n\nThe three outlying islands of Kinmen, Penghu and Lianjiang began to sequentially enter similar inter-district cooperation schemes in 2008. The EPA provided assistance to ensure that waste generated on remote islands and island counties would be transported to the main island of Taiwan for incineration. \n\nIn order to overcome bottlenecks in district refuse treatment and ensure a steady supply of waste for incineration plants through inter-district cooperation, the central government has developed a standard operating procedure for contracting inter-district cooperation on refuse treatment. The central government serves as a witness to the signing of agreements between local governments to ensure finalization of the contracts. Executive resources are thus shared and fully utilized to broaden the services of environmental protection facilities over a wider region of residents, resulting in a win-win situation in terms of energy and resources. Methods for providing assistance have been developed in the Guidelines Concerning Subsidies for Inter-district Refuse Treatment Cooperation.\n\nAs for the three counties – Nantou, Hualien and Hsinchu – that receive assistance for the incineration of refuse, each county government receives an EPA subsidy of NT$180 per tonne of refuse. This subsidy goes toward carrying out the following tasks to achieve inter-district cooperation on refuse treatment:\n\n1. Reducing or cancelling basic water, electricity, and health insurance fees for citizens directly affected by the inter-district cooperation on refuse treatment scheme\n\n2. Training of citizens to participate in refuse inspection as it enters incineration plants\n\n3. Compensating those who help inspect refuse as it enters incineration plants and providing rewards to those who discover materials that should not enter incineration plants\n\n4. Planning and carrying out strategies to reduce refuse at the source\n\n5. Planning and implementing refuse sorting; reuse and recycling of resources and food waste; and installation, operation and maintenance of necessary equipment and facilities\n\n6. Planning and implementing collection of refuse treatment fees based on volume\n\n7. Organizing and mobilizing environmental volunteers \n\n8. Education and training of environmental volunteers\n\n9. General waste clearance and treatment equipment including items for keeping the streets clean\n\n10. Developing environmental industries and giving preferential treatment to residents directly affected by related activities\n\nFrom 2005 to the end of 2012, the EPA implemented inter-district cooperation on refuse treatment including assistance with developing contracts, transfer of refuse to incineration plants and promotion of related environmental industries. This has led to the following concrete results:\n\n1. In July 2005, the EPA actively coordinated with Hualien and Yilan counties on a mutually beneficial inter-district cooperation scheme – the nation’s first finalized contract in inter-district cooperation on refuse treatment between two counties. This kicked off a 20-year long-term inter-district cooperation, and is regarded as a milestone for the administrative agreement mechanism. Since then, similar contracts have been successively put into effect between Taichung City and Nantou County, as well as Chiayi County and Nantou County.\n\n2. From 2006 to 2012, the EPA helped solve problems resulting from the 152,000 tonnes of household refuse that needed to be transferred from Nantou, Hualien, Hsinchu, Penghu, Kinmen and Lianjiang counties to nearby counties for treatment at incineration plants (refuse volumes shown in chart).\n\n3. From 2006 to 2012, the EPA provided subsidies to ten jurisdictions – Yilan County, Hsinchu City, Miaoli County, Taichung City, Changhua County, Chiayi County, Chiayi City, Tainan City, Kaohsiung City and Pingtung County – to carry out 73 projects in the ten categories mentioned above. The two largest of these categories, accounting for 42.4% of all subsidization, were task: 5) Planning and implementing refuse sorting; reuse and recycling of resources and food waste; and installation, operation and maintenance of necessary equipment and facilities, and task 10) Developing environmental industries and giving preferential treatment to residents directly affected by related activities\n\nNow that there is an annual increase in recycling rates and less pressure on refuse disposal and treatment systems, the focus of incineration plant operation and management has turned to reducing pollution emissions and raising energy efficiency. In the effort to fight global warming through energy conservation and carbon reduction, the EPA will continue to promote inter-district cooperation on refuse treatment while also focusing on ways to recover the heat generated from refuse incineration, as has become the practice of northern European nations using district heating and cooling systems. Further steps include integrating anaerobic digestion of organic wastes, and developing torrefaction and pyrolysis technology and equipment so as to gradually transform incineration plants into local bioenergy centers. These changes will ensure that waste can be utilized to its fullest potential as a resource – indeed this is the direction that next-generation waste treatment needs to take.", "content": "waste management\n\nFeature Article\n\nPromoting Inter-district Cooperation on Refuse Treatment\n\nTo find refuse disposal solutions for remote areas or counties with a major part of land deemed ecologically important the EPA has been actively promoting inter-district cooperation on refuse disposal, and has been assisting in the creation of models for inter-district transfers of refuse for treatment and disposal. With the guidance of the EPA, six city and county governments have so far agreed to participate in the inter-district cooperation scheme. \n\nCurrently there are 24 large-scale municipal waste incinerators operating in Taiwan, collectively incinerating approximately 6.5 million tonnes of household refuse and general industrial waste each year. These facilities are meant to solve waste disposal problems for the refuse generated by citizens every day, as well as to make the best use of each incineration plant’s excess capacity by treating general industrial waste. In 2012, the 24 incinerators generated 3.06 billion kW hours of electricity, showing that incinerators are not only helping to solve the nation’s waste treatment problems but are also providing a safe, steady and reliable alternative energy source. \n\nOver 50% of the land in Nantou County, Hualien County and Hsinchu County is mountainous and designated as important watersheds and ecologically sensitive areas. The construction of incinerators in these jurisdictions runs up against the practical difficulties of procuring land and citizen protests. Other factors requiring consideration include the goal of shortening transport routes and the requirement that each incinerator must maintain a constant operating rate and be able to treat waste on a long-term basis. After evaluating these factors, it was decided that the construction of large-scale incinerators in Nantou, Hualien and Hsinchu counties could be suspended. The former practice of landfill was discontinued in 2007 except on outlying islands and remote areas, a step that had a great impact on counties or municipalities that do not have an incineration plant. In anticipation of repercussions, by the end of 2006 the EPA began promoting inter-district cooperation on refuse treatment to contract waste treatment between jurisdictions. This measure provided assistance to these three counties in order to ensure that waste generated within their jurisdictions could be transferred to other counties or municipalities that already have incineration plants. \n\nThe three outlying islands of Kinmen, Penghu and Lianjiang began to sequentially enter similar inter-district cooperation schemes in 2008. The EPA provided assistance to ensure that waste generated on remote islands and island counties would be transported to the main island of Taiwan for incineration. \n\nIn order to overcome bottlenecks in district refuse treatment and ensure a steady supply of waste for incineration plants through inter-district cooperation, the central government has developed a standard operating procedure for contracting inter-district cooperation on refuse treatment. The central government serves as a witness to the signing of agreements between local governments to ensure finalization of the contracts. Executive resources are thus shared and fully utilized to broaden the services of environmental protection facilities over a wider region of residents, resulting in a win-win situation in terms of energy and resources. Methods for providing assistance have been developed in the Guidelines Concerning Subsidies for Inter-district Refuse Treatment Cooperation.\n\nAs for the three counties – Nantou, Hualien and Hsinchu – that receive assistance for the incineration of refuse, each county government receives an EPA subsidy of NT$180 per tonne of refuse. This subsidy goes toward carrying out the following tasks to achieve inter-district cooperation on refuse treatment:\n\n1. Reducing or cancelling basic water, electricity, and health insurance fees for citizens directly affected by the inter-district cooperation on refuse treatment scheme\n\n2. Training of citizens to participate in refuse inspection as it enters incineration plants\n\n3. Compensating those who help inspect refuse as it enters incineration plants and providing rewards to those who discover materials that should not enter incineration plants\n\n4. Planning and carrying out strategies to reduce refuse at the source\n\n5. Planning and implementing refuse sorting; reuse and recycling of resources and food waste; and installation, operation and maintenance of necessary equipment and facilities\n\n6. Planning and implementing collection of refuse treatment fees based on volume\n\n7. Organizing and mobilizing environmental volunteers \n\n8. Education and training of environmental volunteers\n\n9. General waste clearance and treatment equipment including items for keeping the streets clean\n\n10. Developing environmental industries and giving preferential treatment to residents directly affected by related activities\n\nFrom 2005 to the end of 2012, the EPA implemented inter-district cooperation on refuse treatment including assistance with developing contracts, transfer of refuse to incineration plants and promotion of related environmental industries. This has led to the following concrete results:\n\n1. In July 2005, the EPA actively coordinated with Hualien and Yilan counties on a mutually beneficial inter-district cooperation scheme – the nation’s first finalized contract in inter-district cooperation on refuse treatment between two counties. This kicked off a 20-year long-term inter-district cooperation, and is regarded as a milestone for the administrative agreement mechanism. Since then, similar contracts have been successively put into effect between Taichung City and Nantou County, as well as Chiayi County and Nantou County.\n\n2. From 2006 to 2012, the EPA helped solve problems resulting from the 152,000 tonnes of household refuse that needed to be transferred from Nantou, Hualien, Hsinchu, Penghu, Kinmen and Lianjiang counties to nearby counties for treatment at incineration plants (refuse volumes shown in chart).\n\n3. From 2006 to 2012, the EPA provided subsidies to ten jurisdictions – Yilan County, Hsinchu City, Miaoli County, Taichung City, Changhua County, Chiayi County, Chiayi City, Tainan City, Kaohsiung City and Pingtung County – to carry out 73 projects in the ten categories mentioned above. The two largest of these categories, accounting for 42.4% of all subsidization, were task: 5) Planning and implementing refuse sorting; reuse and recycling of resources and food waste; and installation, operation and maintenance of necessary equipment and facilities, and task 10) Developing environmental industries and giving preferential treatment to residents directly affected by related activities\n\nNow that there is an annual increase in recycling rates and less pressure on refuse disposal and treatment systems, the focus of incineration plant operation and management has turned to reducing pollution emissions and raising energy efficiency. In the effort to fight global warming through energy conservation and carbon reduction, the EPA will continue to promote inter-district cooperation on refuse treatment while also focusing on ways to recover the heat generated from refuse incineration, as has become the practice of northern European nations using district heating and cooling systems. Further steps include integrating anaerobic digestion of organic wastes, and developing torrefaction and pyrolysis technology and equipment so as to gradually transform incineration plants into local bioenergy centers. These changes will ensure that waste can be utilized to its fullest potential as a resource – indeed this is the direction that next-generation waste treatment needs to take.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Promoting Inter-district Cooperation on Refuse Treatment", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-08" }, { "no": "3045", "title": "Draft of Resource Reuse and Recycling Act Sent to Legislative Yuan for Review", "preview": "Waste Management\n\nDraft of Resource Reuse and Recycling Act Sent to Legislative Yuan for Review\n\nAfter a careful study of the principles of sustainable materials management (SMM) and a recycling-based society the government has decided to combine the Waste Disposal Act and the Resource Recycling Act into one piece of legislation – the Resource Reuse and Recycling Act. Following the 25 July 2013 session of the Executive Yuan, Premier Jiang Yi-huah announced that a draft of the act had been approved and was being sent to the Legislative Yuan for review. \n\nThe Waste Disposal Act has been in effect since 1974 and basically covers the end treatment of waste, with only limited concern for recycling and reuse. The Resource Recycling Act was promulgated in 2002 in order to strengthen Taiwan’s recycling and reuse regimen, and although it is still being enforced its regulations are in need of updating. As having both of these acts written into law at the same time creates problems of legal concurrence it would be preferable for them to be combined. The EPA has been holding consultations and discussions on combining these two acts since 2004. \n\nIn order to put sustainable, cyclical use of resources, energy saving, and carbon reduction policies into practice – thus reducing the consumption of resources and the corresponding burden upon the environment – the Resource Reuse and Recycling Act incorporates the 5R principles:\n\n1) Reduction: Reduction at source, such as reducing the amounts of raw materials that manufacturing operations consume, and also reduction of the waste created at the consumer end of a product’s lifecycle\n\n2) Reuse: Reusing resources whenever possible before disposing of them \n\n3) Recycling: Seeing waste as a recyclable resource \n\n4) Energy Recovery: Waste that cannot be recycled should be used as fuel whenever possible\n\n5) Land Reclamation: Waste that cannot be recycled or reused using any of the above methods should be treated until it is stable and harmless and then used in land reclamation projects\n\nEnshrining the 5R mechanisms into law will bring the ultimate goal of zero waste through total recycling closer to becoming a reality. The draft of the Resource Reuse and Recycling Act has a total of nine chapters and 116 articles, and in comparison to the current regulations has the following additional regulations: \n\n1. The act gives the central competent authority the authority to determine what is defined as waste resources.\n\n2. Waste resources should first continue to be used if possible; if not, then they should be reused, recycled, or disposed of properly, in that order.\n\n3. The central competent authority should consult with the central industry competent authority on policy formulation and program planning. For development plans for commercial port areas or coastal industrial parks, harmless, stable, non-inflammable waste resources must be reused in the construction of new infrastructure or for land reclamation and artificial islands wherever possible. \n\n4. The central competent authority should consult with the central industry competent authority on formulating guidelines for eco-friendly design.\n\n5. Procurement for government agencies, public schools, and state-run enterprises should give priority to eco-friendly products.\n\n6. In order to expand the disposal responsibilities of responsible enterprises, in addition to the current fee paying mechanism they will henceforth be required to implement self-regulation. \n\n7. Regulations have been added covering industrial waste disposal and joint liability for proper disposal.\n\n8. Reuse management responsibilities that are currently divided among ministries will be integrated into a set of recovered resource management regulations to be formulated by the central competent authority. \n\n9. The central competent authority has been authorized to designate and announce legal waste disposal operators and facilities, and to levy the industrial waste disposal and facility remediation fee that will go into the Industrial Waste Clearance and Disposal Fund.\n\n10. Final waste disposal facilities that have ceased operations should continue operating pollution prevention equipment at the site and conduct regular monitoring. \n\n11. For accidental violations of a minor nature, demerit points will be recorded and warnings issued; continuous violations will result in administrative penalties. \n\n12. If illicit profits gained from violating the regulations exceed the maximum designated fines, then the fines can be increased after due consideration of the scope of the profits, not limited by the maximums set down in law", "content": "Waste Management\n\nDraft of Resource Reuse and Recycling Act Sent to Legislative Yuan for Review\n\nAfter a careful study of the principles of sustainable materials management (SMM) and a recycling-based society the government has decided to combine the Waste Disposal Act and the Resource Recycling Act into one piece of legislation – the Resource Reuse and Recycling Act. Following the 25 July 2013 session of the Executive Yuan, Premier Jiang Yi-huah announced that a draft of the act had been approved and was being sent to the Legislative Yuan for review. \n\nThe Waste Disposal Act has been in effect since 1974 and basically covers the end treatment of waste, with only limited concern for recycling and reuse. The Resource Recycling Act was promulgated in 2002 in order to strengthen Taiwan’s recycling and reuse regimen, and although it is still being enforced its regulations are in need of updating. As having both of these acts written into law at the same time creates problems of legal concurrence it would be preferable for them to be combined. The EPA has been holding consultations and discussions on combining these two acts since 2004. \n\nIn order to put sustainable, cyclical use of resources, energy saving, and carbon reduction policies into practice – thus reducing the consumption of resources and the corresponding burden upon the environment – the Resource Reuse and Recycling Act incorporates the 5R principles:\n\n1) Reduction: Reduction at source, such as reducing the amounts of raw materials that manufacturing operations consume, and also reduction of the waste created at the consumer end of a product’s lifecycle\n\n2) Reuse: Reusing resources whenever possible before disposing of them \n\n3) Recycling: Seeing waste as a recyclable resource \n\n4) Energy Recovery: Waste that cannot be recycled should be used as fuel whenever possible\n\n5) Land Reclamation: Waste that cannot be recycled or reused using any of the above methods should be treated until it is stable and harmless and then used in land reclamation projects\n\nEnshrining the 5R mechanisms into law will bring the ultimate goal of zero waste through total recycling closer to becoming a reality. The draft of the Resource Reuse and Recycling Act has a total of nine chapters and 116 articles, and in comparison to the current regulations has the following additional regulations: \n\n1. The act gives the central competent authority the authority to determine what is defined as waste resources.\n\n2. Waste resources should first continue to be used if possible; if not, then they should be reused, recycled, or disposed of properly, in that order.\n\n3. The central competent authority should consult with the central industry competent authority on policy formulation and program planning. For development plans for commercial port areas or coastal industrial parks, harmless, stable, non-inflammable waste resources must be reused in the construction of new infrastructure or for land reclamation and artificial islands wherever possible. \n\n4. The central competent authority should consult with the central industry competent authority on formulating guidelines for eco-friendly design.\n\n5. Procurement for government agencies, public schools, and state-run enterprises should give priority to eco-friendly products.\n\n6. In order to expand the disposal responsibilities of responsible enterprises, in addition to the current fee paying mechanism they will henceforth be required to implement self-regulation. \n\n7. Regulations have been added covering industrial waste disposal and joint liability for proper disposal.\n\n8. Reuse management responsibilities that are currently divided among ministries will be integrated into a set of recovered resource management regulations to be formulated by the central competent authority. \n\n9. The central competent authority has been authorized to designate and announce legal waste disposal operators and facilities, and to levy the industrial waste disposal and facility remediation fee that will go into the Industrial Waste Clearance and Disposal Fund.\n\n10. Final waste disposal facilities that have ceased operations should continue operating pollution prevention equipment at the site and conduct regular monitoring. \n\n11. For accidental violations of a minor nature, demerit points will be recorded and warnings issued; continuous violations will result in administrative penalties. \n\n12. If illicit profits gained from violating the regulations exceed the maximum designated fines, then the fines can be increased after due consideration of the scope of the profits, not limited by the maximums set down in law", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "waste", "titlename": "Draft of Resource Reuse and Recycling Act Sent to Legislative Yuan for Review", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-08" }, { "no": "3044", "title": "Tighter Drinking Water Standards Considered", "preview": "Toxic Substance\n\nTighter Drinking Water Standards Considered\n\nThe EPA is taking steps to extend its environmental labeling system to the service industry. In addition to the amendments of the Green Mark specification standards announced for the “Hotel Industry” in August 2012 the EPA newly announced the environmental labeling standards for the travel service industry, restaurant industry, cleaning services industry, car rental industry, and car washing industry in May 2013. \n\nIn order to strengthen control over drinking water quality and facilitate improvements, the EPA has preannounced revisions to Article 3 of the Drinking Water Quality Standards. Standards have been added for nine toxic substances: haloacetic acids (HAAs), seven volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and aluminum. The standards for dioxins have also been tightened in the revision draft. \n\nThe EPA has been continually assessing possible health risks caused by unlisted substances in drinking water and has also expanded its examination of overseas water quality standards and regulations. Data from the WHO, the USA, Canada, Germany, the UK, Japan, and Australia have been referred to in making an overall assessment of the current situation in Taiwan, and for conducting evaluations of overseas water treatment techniques\/testing methods and the feasibility of using them in Taiwan. Based on the principles of risk prevention, the EPA has thus proposed to make nine additions to the control standards: HAAs (a by-product of disinfection); seven VOCs (dichloromethane, 1,2-dichlorobenzene, toluene, xylenes, cis-1,2-dichloroethylene, trans-1,2-dichloroethylene, tetrachloroethylene); and aluminum, which is known to affect potability and flavor. The standards for one of the most common POPs – dioxins – have also been revised. The main points of the revisions are as follows: \n\n1) Control standards for HAAs are planned to be set at 0.080 mg\/L and will take effect from 1 July 2014. After taking into account the optimization of disinfection parameters achievable through adjustments to water purification plant procedures, it was decided to raise the standard to 0.060 mg\/L from 1 July 2015. \n\n2) Control standards for seven VOCs have also been formulated. The control standard for dichloromethane are planned to be set at 0.005 mg\/L; for 1,2-dichlorobenzene at 0.6 mg\/L; for toluene at 1 mg\/L; for xylenes at 10 mg\/L; for cis-1,2-dichloroethylene at 0.07 mg\/L; for trans-1,2-dichloroethylene at 0.1 mg\/L; and for tetrachloroethylene at 0.005 mg\/L. These standards are planned to take effect from 1 July 2014. \n\n3) The newly-added control standard for aluminum is planned to be set at 0.2 mg\/L. Since some drinking water providers have yet to complete the necessary upgrades to their hardware and software, enforcement of the new standard is planned to take effect on 1 July 2015. Considering the demand on water supply and Taiwan’s subtropical climate and hydrology, whenever turbidity exceeds 200 NTU during typhoons the aluminum control standards will not be applicable. \n\n4) The current control standard for dioxins of 12 picograms WHO toxic equivalent per liter will be tightened to 3 picograms WHO toxic equivalent per liter, and are planned to be enforced from 1 July 2014.", "content": "Toxic Substance\n\nTighter Drinking Water Standards Considered\n\nThe EPA is taking steps to extend its environmental labeling system to the service industry. In addition to the amendments of the Green Mark specification standards announced for the “Hotel Industry” in August 2012 the EPA newly announced the environmental labeling standards for the travel service industry, restaurant industry, cleaning services industry, car rental industry, and car washing industry in May 2013. \n\nIn order to strengthen control over drinking water quality and facilitate improvements, the EPA has preannounced revisions to Article 3 of the Drinking Water Quality Standards. Standards have been added for nine toxic substances: haloacetic acids (HAAs), seven volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and aluminum. The standards for dioxins have also been tightened in the revision draft. \n\nThe EPA has been continually assessing possible health risks caused by unlisted substances in drinking water and has also expanded its examination of overseas water quality standards and regulations. Data from the WHO, the USA, Canada, Germany, the UK, Japan, and Australia have been referred to in making an overall assessment of the current situation in Taiwan, and for conducting evaluations of overseas water treatment techniques\/testing methods and the feasibility of using them in Taiwan. Based on the principles of risk prevention, the EPA has thus proposed to make nine additions to the control standards: HAAs (a by-product of disinfection); seven VOCs (dichloromethane, 1,2-dichlorobenzene, toluene, xylenes, cis-1,2-dichloroethylene, trans-1,2-dichloroethylene, tetrachloroethylene); and aluminum, which is known to affect potability and flavor. The standards for one of the most common POPs – dioxins – have also been revised. The main points of the revisions are as follows: \n\n1) Control standards for HAAs are planned to be set at 0.080 mg\/L and will take effect from 1 July 2014. After taking into account the optimization of disinfection parameters achievable through adjustments to water purification plant procedures, it was decided to raise the standard to 0.060 mg\/L from 1 July 2015. \n\n2) Control standards for seven VOCs have also been formulated. The control standard for dichloromethane are planned to be set at 0.005 mg\/L; for 1,2-dichlorobenzene at 0.6 mg\/L; for toluene at 1 mg\/L; for xylenes at 10 mg\/L; for cis-1,2-dichloroethylene at 0.07 mg\/L; for trans-1,2-dichloroethylene at 0.1 mg\/L; and for tetrachloroethylene at 0.005 mg\/L. These standards are planned to take effect from 1 July 2014. \n\n3) The newly-added control standard for aluminum is planned to be set at 0.2 mg\/L. Since some drinking water providers have yet to complete the necessary upgrades to their hardware and software, enforcement of the new standard is planned to take effect on 1 July 2015. Considering the demand on water supply and Taiwan’s subtropical climate and hydrology, whenever turbidity exceeds 200 NTU during typhoons the aluminum control standards will not be applicable. \n\n4) The current control standard for dioxins of 12 picograms WHO toxic equivalent per liter will be tightened to 3 picograms WHO toxic equivalent per liter, and are planned to be enforced from 1 July 2014.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Toxic Substance", "titlename": "Tighter Drinking Water Standards Considered", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-08" }, { "no": "3043", "title": "Minister Shen Inspects Remediation Site and Low-carbon Tourism in Hualien", "preview": "Soil and Groundwater\n\nMinister Shen Inspects Remediation Site and Low-carbon Tourism in Hualien\n\nMinister Stephen Shu-hung Shen made a trip to Hualien on 3 August to inspect the implementation of some green remediation projects and to learn about how the contaminated sites were being improved through the induction of green remediation projects. In addition by visiting low-carbon shops and exchanging thoughts with locals, he was able to appreciate the development of green industry in Hualien.\n\nEver since the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act was promulgated and implemented in 2000, the EPA has been active in discovering sites of mass contamination. In addition to pro-actively establishing the Technical Reference Guide to expedite the remediation of contaminated sites, the EPA has, in keeping with international trends, introduced the concept of green and sustainable remediation. In fact, the central government selected the Beipu Oil Terminal as the model site for promoting green and sustainability oriented remediation. In doing so, environmental footprints and the economic and social aspects of Beipu were all taken into consideration. The overall remediation thinking encompasses the benefits of pollution removal, energy saving and carbon reduction, hydraulic control and landscaping. \n\nOn the following day, Minister Shen paid a personal visit to Liyu Lake. In an attempt to understand how well Hualien County has been promoting green industry and low-carbon tourism, he toured low-carbon stores and talked to local residents. In addition, the EPA held a seminar and exchanged views with local elected representatives on the problems confronting the engineering and management policy of green, sustainability oriented remediation. Only when the EPA acquires a comprehensive understanding of local needs can we expect that in the future, soil and groundwater pollution remediation will stride forward based on local environmental quality, regional economic development, and social expectations.", "content": "Soil and Groundwater\n\nMinister Shen Inspects Remediation Site and Low-carbon Tourism in Hualien\n\nMinister Stephen Shu-hung Shen made a trip to Hualien on 3 August to inspect the implementation of some green remediation projects and to learn about how the contaminated sites were being improved through the induction of green remediation projects. In addition by visiting low-carbon shops and exchanging thoughts with locals, he was able to appreciate the development of green industry in Hualien.\n\nEver since the Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation Act was promulgated and implemented in 2000, the EPA has been active in discovering sites of mass contamination. In addition to pro-actively establishing the Technical Reference Guide to expedite the remediation of contaminated sites, the EPA has, in keeping with international trends, introduced the concept of green and sustainable remediation. In fact, the central government selected the Beipu Oil Terminal as the model site for promoting green and sustainability oriented remediation. In doing so, environmental footprints and the economic and social aspects of Beipu were all taken into consideration. The overall remediation thinking encompasses the benefits of pollution removal, energy saving and carbon reduction, hydraulic control and landscaping. \n\nOn the following day, Minister Shen paid a personal visit to Liyu Lake. In an attempt to understand how well Hualien County has been promoting green industry and low-carbon tourism, he toured low-carbon stores and talked to local residents. In addition, the EPA held a seminar and exchanged views with local elected representatives on the problems confronting the engineering and management policy of green, sustainability oriented remediation. Only when the EPA acquires a comprehensive understanding of local needs can we expect that in the future, soil and groundwater pollution remediation will stride forward based on local environmental quality, regional economic development, and social expectations.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Soil and Groundwater", "titlename": "Minister Shen Inspects Remediation Site and Low-carbon Tourism in Hualien", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-08" }, { "no": "3042", "title": "Draft Preannounced: Noise Limits to Be Expanded to Cover Wind Turbines and Tightened", "preview": "Noise Control\n\nDraft Preannounced: Noise Limits to Be Expanded to Cover Wind Turbines and Tightened\n\nIn order to foster a peaceful living environment the EPA has announced revisions to the Noise Control Standards. The main amendments to the standards are stricter noise control standard values for construction projects, business premises, and facilities in noise control zones. Noise control standards for wind turbines have also been added, along with the relevant inspection and measurement parameters and other operational regulations. \n\nAs a result of the ever-increasing expectation of citizens for higher environmental quality, numbers of noise-related complaints have remained high in recent years, regularly ranking highest of all categories of public nuisance complaints. However, over 90% of complaints turn out to be cases in which the noise levels are within control limits or cannot be measured by the time the inspectors arrive. Only 8% of all noise complaints result in punitive action, indicating that noise control standards are still somewhat not in line with public perception of noise pollution. In addition, there has been a rapid rise in recent years of repeated complaints about recurring noise problems that are within control limits but are still annoying to the public. This category of complaint is the main reason why the overall annual number of noise complaints is still rising. To adequately address the above problems, it was deemed necessary to revise the noise control values and adjust the regulations to take into greater account the time of day and assessment methods used.\n\nThe main points of the revisions are as follows:\n\n‧ There will be a 3-decibel decrease in maximum permitted low frequency volumes for factories, entertainment venues, retail or wholesale outlets, or construction sites in noise control zone categories 1-3.\n\n‧ There will be a 3-decibel decrease in maximum permitted noise volumes of all frequencies for construction sites in noise control zone categories 1-3.\n\n‧ There will be a 3-decibel decrease in maximum permitted noise volumes of all frequencies for factories, entertainment venues, and retail or wholesale outlets in noise control zone categories 2 and 3.\n\n‧ There will be a 3-decibel decrease in maximum permitted noise volumes for loudspeakers in all noise control zone categories at all times with the exception of those in Category 1 zones during night time hours. \n\nIn order to address the problem of disputes over what locations are suitable for inspectors to choose when measuring noise pollution caused by wind turbines, the EPA has added an incremental measurement method to the regulations to restrict full frequency noise levels from wind turbines and factories, along with the special standards for wind turbines. Amending the noise control values and adjusting the regulations to take time of day and assessment methods more into account should also help to reduce the number of noise complaints received. \n\nThe recent revisions to the noise control standards translate into a 3-decibel decrease in the maximum permitted volumes for noise sources, a large adjustment that will force affected enterprises to make improvements to noise sources and thus be less bothersome to neighboring residents. Special noise control standards applicable to wind turbines have also been added in order to solve disputes over what locations are suitable for measuring turbine noise levels. By introducing differing standards depending on the time of day in different control zones, the EPA predicts that the percentage of inspections resulting in penalties being sanctioned will rise to over 15% and will result in a better living environment and a reduction in the number of repeat complaints. The EPA is continuing to urge all owners or operators of noise pollution sources to make an effort to maintain peace and quiet by conducting regular inspections of their facilities and carrying out improvements or maintenance whenever necessary so that their operations do not disturb neighboring residents.", "content": "Noise Control\n\nDraft Preannounced: Noise Limits to Be Expanded to Cover Wind Turbines and Tightened\n\nIn order to foster a peaceful living environment the EPA has announced revisions to the Noise Control Standards. The main amendments to the standards are stricter noise control standard values for construction projects, business premises, and facilities in noise control zones. Noise control standards for wind turbines have also been added, along with the relevant inspection and measurement parameters and other operational regulations. \n\nAs a result of the ever-increasing expectation of citizens for higher environmental quality, numbers of noise-related complaints have remained high in recent years, regularly ranking highest of all categories of public nuisance complaints. However, over 90% of complaints turn out to be cases in which the noise levels are within control limits or cannot be measured by the time the inspectors arrive. Only 8% of all noise complaints result in punitive action, indicating that noise control standards are still somewhat not in line with public perception of noise pollution. In addition, there has been a rapid rise in recent years of repeated complaints about recurring noise problems that are within control limits but are still annoying to the public. This category of complaint is the main reason why the overall annual number of noise complaints is still rising. To adequately address the above problems, it was deemed necessary to revise the noise control values and adjust the regulations to take into greater account the time of day and assessment methods used.\n\nThe main points of the revisions are as follows:\n\n‧ There will be a 3-decibel decrease in maximum permitted low frequency volumes for factories, entertainment venues, retail or wholesale outlets, or construction sites in noise control zone categories 1-3.\n\n‧ There will be a 3-decibel decrease in maximum permitted noise volumes of all frequencies for construction sites in noise control zone categories 1-3.\n\n‧ There will be a 3-decibel decrease in maximum permitted noise volumes of all frequencies for factories, entertainment venues, and retail or wholesale outlets in noise control zone categories 2 and 3.\n\n‧ There will be a 3-decibel decrease in maximum permitted noise volumes for loudspeakers in all noise control zone categories at all times with the exception of those in Category 1 zones during night time hours. \n\nIn order to address the problem of disputes over what locations are suitable for inspectors to choose when measuring noise pollution caused by wind turbines, the EPA has added an incremental measurement method to the regulations to restrict full frequency noise levels from wind turbines and factories, along with the special standards for wind turbines. Amending the noise control values and adjusting the regulations to take time of day and assessment methods more into account should also help to reduce the number of noise complaints received. \n\nThe recent revisions to the noise control standards translate into a 3-decibel decrease in the maximum permitted volumes for noise sources, a large adjustment that will force affected enterprises to make improvements to noise sources and thus be less bothersome to neighboring residents. Special noise control standards applicable to wind turbines have also been added in order to solve disputes over what locations are suitable for measuring turbine noise levels. By introducing differing standards depending on the time of day in different control zones, the EPA predicts that the percentage of inspections resulting in penalties being sanctioned will rise to over 15% and will result in a better living environment and a reduction in the number of repeat complaints. The EPA is continuing to urge all owners or operators of noise pollution sources to make an effort to maintain peace and quiet by conducting regular inspections of their facilities and carrying out improvements or maintenance whenever necessary so that their operations do not disturb neighboring residents.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Noise Control", "titlename": "Draft Preannounced: Noise Limits to Be Expanded to Cover Wind Turbines and Tightened", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-08" }, { "no": "3041", "title": "Taiwan and US Sign Three Technical Cooperation Agreements", "preview": "International Cooperation\n\nTaiwan and US Sign Three Technical Cooperation Agreements \n\nOn 16 July 2013 officials from the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States as well as the American Institute in Taiwan formally signed three agreements at the AIT Washington Headquarters located in Arlington, Virginia. Signed were: the extension of the Taiwan-US Agreement on Technical Cooperation in Environmental Protection, the implementing agreement #10 for the environmental protection cooperative agreement, and the cooperation agreement in atmospheric monitoring, clean energy, and environmental science. The signing of these three agreements exemplifies how Taiwan-US cooperation on environmental protection and developing clean energy sources benefits both parties.\n\nThe three agreements were signed by Jacob Chang, Deputy Representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the US, and Barbara Schrage, the Managing Director of AIT. A group from the Taiwan EPA, led by Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen, witnessed the signing. Also present were Jane Nishida, the US EPA's Acting Deputy Assistant Administrator for International & Tribal Affairs; senior consultant Mark Kasman; Dr. Phyllis Yoshida, Department of Energy (DOE) Deputy Assistant Secretary for Asia, Europe and the Americas in the Office of Policy and International Affairs; and Christopher Beede, Director of the Office of Taiwan Coordination at the US Department of State. \n\nThe first bilateral environmental protection cooperation agreement between Taiwan and the US was signed in 1993. Over the last 20 years both sides have cooperated on over 190 tasks. The extension signed on this occasion will last until June 2018 and formally sets into motion the 10th Implementing Agreement for the Taiwan-US Environmental Protection Cooperative Agreement. This agreement will encompass promoting the remediation of polluted sites; adaptation to climate change; prevention, management, and recycling of e-waste; maintaining air quality; raising sustainability; environmental law enforcement and compliance; and environmental education. \n\nThis is also the first time that the Taiwan EPA has signed a cooperation agreement with the US DOE. This will facilitate Taiwan gaining access to required technologies and policies developed by the DOE and its research units that are related to greenhouse gas reduction and building a low-carbon homeland. A number of cooperative projects are already on the drawing board. \n\nThe signing of the three cooperation agreements signifies a closer working partnership between the two nations in the field of environmental protection. The mutually-beneficial cooperation will continue to include personnel training, information exchange, symposiums, and official visits that will focus upon the fields of improving air quality, atmospheric monitoring, sustainable development, remediation of polluted sites, and clean energy.", "content": "International Cooperation\n\nTaiwan and US Sign Three Technical Cooperation Agreements \n\nOn 16 July 2013 officials from the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States as well as the American Institute in Taiwan formally signed three agreements at the AIT Washington Headquarters located in Arlington, Virginia. Signed were: the extension of the Taiwan-US Agreement on Technical Cooperation in Environmental Protection, the implementing agreement #10 for the environmental protection cooperative agreement, and the cooperation agreement in atmospheric monitoring, clean energy, and environmental science. The signing of these three agreements exemplifies how Taiwan-US cooperation on environmental protection and developing clean energy sources benefits both parties.\n\nThe three agreements were signed by Jacob Chang, Deputy Representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the US, and Barbara Schrage, the Managing Director of AIT. A group from the Taiwan EPA, led by Minister Stephen Shu-hung Shen, witnessed the signing. Also present were Jane Nishida, the US EPA's Acting Deputy Assistant Administrator for International & Tribal Affairs; senior consultant Mark Kasman; Dr. Phyllis Yoshida, Department of Energy (DOE) Deputy Assistant Secretary for Asia, Europe and the Americas in the Office of Policy and International Affairs; and Christopher Beede, Director of the Office of Taiwan Coordination at the US Department of State. \n\nThe first bilateral environmental protection cooperation agreement between Taiwan and the US was signed in 1993. Over the last 20 years both sides have cooperated on over 190 tasks. The extension signed on this occasion will last until June 2018 and formally sets into motion the 10th Implementing Agreement for the Taiwan-US Environmental Protection Cooperative Agreement. This agreement will encompass promoting the remediation of polluted sites; adaptation to climate change; prevention, management, and recycling of e-waste; maintaining air quality; raising sustainability; environmental law enforcement and compliance; and environmental education. \n\nThis is also the first time that the Taiwan EPA has signed a cooperation agreement with the US DOE. This will facilitate Taiwan gaining access to required technologies and policies developed by the DOE and its research units that are related to greenhouse gas reduction and building a low-carbon homeland. A number of cooperative projects are already on the drawing board. \n\nThe signing of the three cooperation agreements signifies a closer working partnership between the two nations in the field of environmental protection. The mutually-beneficial cooperation will continue to include personnel training, information exchange, symposiums, and official visits that will focus upon the fields of improving air quality, atmospheric monitoring, sustainable development, remediation of polluted sites, and clean energy.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "International Cooperation", "titlename": "Taiwan and US Sign Three Technical Cooperation Agreements", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-08" }, { "no": "3040", "title": "Central and Kinmen Governments Commit to 3-2-0 Kinmen Low-carbon Island Plan", "preview": "Climate Change\n\nCentral and Kinmen Governments Commit to 3-2-0 Kinmen Low-carbon Island Plan \n\nOn 8 July 2013 the Kinmen Low-carbon Island Task Force – a group with EPA Deputy Minister Tzi-Chin Chang and Kinmen Magistrate Wo-Shi Lee as joint conveners – convened its first committee meeting in Kinmen County. The meeting showed the commitment of the central and local governments toward the Kinmen Low-carbon Island scheme that aims to turn Kinmen into a zero-carbon island by the year 2030. \n\nThe task force committee meeting was the first since the approval of the Development Plan of Kinmen Low-carbon Island by the Executive Yuan. Kinmen was chosen as the location for the meeting to signify the importance that the central government places on building low-carbon infrastructure and a sustainable green economy for the island. The task force is composed of senior personnel and bureau chiefs from central and Kinmen government departments. They are charged with supervising and coordinating the work, as well as evaluating and reporting on progress made. Some of the work will involve interdepartmental cooperation to integrate resources and thus make the carbon reduction efforts more effective. \n\nThe Kinmen low-carbon plan involves maintaining the unique features of the island while developing local government administration, as well as setting targets for energy saving and carbon reduction. The EPA has already worked with the Kinmen County Government to complete overall assessments and planning for construction of the island’s low-carbon infrastructure. The Building Kinmen Low-carbon Island Plan (for 2013-2018) has already been put forward, and involved setting a number of forward-looking and challenging “3-2-0 Low Carbon” targets: Reducing the annual average per capita CO2 emissions for Kinmen residents from 3.79 tonnes in 2009 to 3 tonnes in 2014, to 2 tonnes by 2020, and to be carbon neutral (zero carbon) by the year 2030. The plan was approved by the Executive Yuan on 20 May 2013. \n\nPutting the Kinmen low-carbon plan into action over the next six years will involve the central government, Kinmen County Government and the private sector providing a total expenditure of NT$4.322 billion. This capital will be spent on areas such as manufacturing, transport, buildings, and living environments, with the specific measures laid out in six primary flagship plans. Each phase will have concrete targets for energy savings and carbon reduction, and implementation of the plans will stimulate the development of local green industries, eco-tourism, and other related industries. The EPA estimates that the boost to the local economy will reach NT$821 million annually, which means that the invested capital will be returned in 5.27 years. The total reduction in carbon is expected to reach 600,000 tonnes, and approximately 1,000 employment opportunities will be created. \n\nA statistical survey done by the EPA reveals that in 2013 the central and Kinmen governments spent over NT$431.5 million on Kinmen’s low-carbon infrastructure. For plans approved for implementation in 2014, the central government has already allocated an estimated budget of NT$216.42 million. EPA Deputy Minister Tzi-Chin Chang and Kinmen County Commissioner Wo-Shi Lee have also promised that the central and local government will work closely together to bring in low-carbon technologies and facilities that will facilitate the transformation of Kinmen into an intelligent low-carbon island. They are both completely confident that the 3-2-0 carbon reduction targets can be achieved. \n\nThe Kinmen County Government has been vigorously rolling out a pilot plan for the low-carbon island infrastructure over the last two years and took the rare opportunity provided by the committee meeting to show their central government counterparts the sustainable low-carbon measures that are already in place. These included transportation by electric buses and sightseeing with electric carts that gave the central government personnel a taste of the convenience and eco-friendliness of green transport and low-carbon sightseeing. They were also able to observe clean up work in progress, environmental greening through planting, well-designed and eye-catching eco-friendly scenic spots, and low-carbon recreational bicycle paths. They were also impressed by the traditional Minnan style buildings that have been painstakingly restored – to preserve local cultural heritage and to help to rejuvenate small villages – some of which have been turned into B&Bs. The EPA is keen to point out that the B&B tourist industry is eligible to take part in the EPA’s Green Action Plan that encourages visitors to bring their own toiletries when staying in green hotels, to avoid having sheets and towels changed if possible, and to rent electric scooters or electric-assisted bicycles during their stay in order to minimize their impact upon the environment. \n\nThe EPA emphasized that building the low-carbon infrastructure on Kinmen will take many years of persistent and progressive work, building on technological advances as they appear. Each of the planned measures will need the involvement and cooperation of government, corporations, and the general public. These three powerful forces – central and local government cooperation, green manufacturing and private sector capital investment and participation of citizen groups and individuals – will be applied to the goals of low-carbon energy applications, maximizing energy efficiency, and popularizing low-carbon economic activities. When supported by suitable education policies and promotion in order to change values and lifestyle habits they will enable saving energy and reducing carbon emissions to become an integral part of daily life on Kinmen, making the island a benchmark for Taiwan’s low-carbon vision.", "content": "Climate Change\n\nCentral and Kinmen Governments Commit to 3-2-0 Kinmen Low-carbon Island Plan \n\nOn 8 July 2013 the Kinmen Low-carbon Island Task Force – a group with EPA Deputy Minister Tzi-Chin Chang and Kinmen Magistrate Wo-Shi Lee as joint conveners – convened its first committee meeting in Kinmen County. The meeting showed the commitment of the central and local governments toward the Kinmen Low-carbon Island scheme that aims to turn Kinmen into a zero-carbon island by the year 2030. \n\nThe task force committee meeting was the first since the approval of the Development Plan of Kinmen Low-carbon Island by the Executive Yuan. Kinmen was chosen as the location for the meeting to signify the importance that the central government places on building low-carbon infrastructure and a sustainable green economy for the island. The task force is composed of senior personnel and bureau chiefs from central and Kinmen government departments. They are charged with supervising and coordinating the work, as well as evaluating and reporting on progress made. Some of the work will involve interdepartmental cooperation to integrate resources and thus make the carbon reduction efforts more effective. \n\nThe Kinmen low-carbon plan involves maintaining the unique features of the island while developing local government administration, as well as setting targets for energy saving and carbon reduction. The EPA has already worked with the Kinmen County Government to complete overall assessments and planning for construction of the island’s low-carbon infrastructure. The Building Kinmen Low-carbon Island Plan (for 2013-2018) has already been put forward, and involved setting a number of forward-looking and challenging “3-2-0 Low Carbon” targets: Reducing the annual average per capita CO2 emissions for Kinmen residents from 3.79 tonnes in 2009 to 3 tonnes in 2014, to 2 tonnes by 2020, and to be carbon neutral (zero carbon) by the year 2030. The plan was approved by the Executive Yuan on 20 May 2013. \n\nPutting the Kinmen low-carbon plan into action over the next six years will involve the central government, Kinmen County Government and the private sector providing a total expenditure of NT$4.322 billion. This capital will be spent on areas such as manufacturing, transport, buildings, and living environments, with the specific measures laid out in six primary flagship plans. Each phase will have concrete targets for energy savings and carbon reduction, and implementation of the plans will stimulate the development of local green industries, eco-tourism, and other related industries. The EPA estimates that the boost to the local economy will reach NT$821 million annually, which means that the invested capital will be returned in 5.27 years. The total reduction in carbon is expected to reach 600,000 tonnes, and approximately 1,000 employment opportunities will be created. \n\nA statistical survey done by the EPA reveals that in 2013 the central and Kinmen governments spent over NT$431.5 million on Kinmen’s low-carbon infrastructure. For plans approved for implementation in 2014, the central government has already allocated an estimated budget of NT$216.42 million. EPA Deputy Minister Tzi-Chin Chang and Kinmen County Commissioner Wo-Shi Lee have also promised that the central and local government will work closely together to bring in low-carbon technologies and facilities that will facilitate the transformation of Kinmen into an intelligent low-carbon island. They are both completely confident that the 3-2-0 carbon reduction targets can be achieved. \n\nThe Kinmen County Government has been vigorously rolling out a pilot plan for the low-carbon island infrastructure over the last two years and took the rare opportunity provided by the committee meeting to show their central government counterparts the sustainable low-carbon measures that are already in place. These included transportation by electric buses and sightseeing with electric carts that gave the central government personnel a taste of the convenience and eco-friendliness of green transport and low-carbon sightseeing. They were also able to observe clean up work in progress, environmental greening through planting, well-designed and eye-catching eco-friendly scenic spots, and low-carbon recreational bicycle paths. They were also impressed by the traditional Minnan style buildings that have been painstakingly restored – to preserve local cultural heritage and to help to rejuvenate small villages – some of which have been turned into B&Bs. The EPA is keen to point out that the B&B tourist industry is eligible to take part in the EPA’s Green Action Plan that encourages visitors to bring their own toiletries when staying in green hotels, to avoid having sheets and towels changed if possible, and to rent electric scooters or electric-assisted bicycles during their stay in order to minimize their impact upon the environment. \n\nThe EPA emphasized that building the low-carbon infrastructure on Kinmen will take many years of persistent and progressive work, building on technological advances as they appear. Each of the planned measures will need the involvement and cooperation of government, corporations, and the general public. These three powerful forces – central and local government cooperation, green manufacturing and private sector capital investment and participation of citizen groups and individuals – will be applied to the goals of low-carbon energy applications, maximizing energy efficiency, and popularizing low-carbon economic activities. When supported by suitable education policies and promotion in order to change values and lifestyle habits they will enable saving energy and reducing carbon emissions to become an integral part of daily life on Kinmen, making the island a benchmark for Taiwan’s low-carbon vision.", "date1": null, "date2": null, "volume1": null, "volume2": null, "order1": null, "order2": null, "assortment": "Climate Change", "titlename": "Central and Kinmen Governments Commit to 3-2-0 Kinmen Low-carbon Island Plan", "position": "print\/V16\/V16-08" } ]