When exploring the streets of Taiwan, one cannot help but notice the impressive cleanliness that characterizes the country. However, amidst the neatness, there’s a obvious absence of public trash cans. In this article, we delve into the intriguing question of why public trash cans are scarce in Taiwan and where one can find them.
Why Aren’t There Any Trash Cans in Taiwan?
The scarcity of public trash cans in Taiwan can be traced back to a government initiative aimed at reducing waste and promoting recycling. To achieve this, the government implemented a policy requiring residents to use prepaid bags for their household waste, which must be purchased. However, in an attempt to avoid the expense of these bags, some individuals began disposing of their waste in public trash cans.
In response, the government made the decision to remove many public trash cans to discourage this behavior. The consequence is a scarcity of visible public trash cans on the streets.
Where Can I Find Trash Cans in Taiwan?
Trash cans are actually everywhere; you simply have to know where to look. However, due to the above mentioned reasons, these trash cans are strategically placed in areas with surveillance cameras or high foot traffic to dissuade people from using them for household waste disposal. It’s important to note that throwing household trash in public bins can result in fines.
Here is a list of places where you can find trash cans in Taiwan:
- Metro Stations
- Convenience Stores
- Department Stores
- Public Parks
- Temples
- Night Markets (during opening hours)
For example, it is generally acceptable to enter a convenience store to dispose of small amounts of trash without making a purchase. However, attempting to discard a full bag of trash may be met with refusal from the store staff. In locations with heightened security, such as metro stations, disposing of household waste in public trash cans can lead to fines.
The scarcity of public trash cans in Taiwan is a deliberate measure by the government to encourage responsible waste disposal and recycling. While finding a public trash can may seem challenging, they are strategically located in areas with surveillance to deter misuse. Visitors should be mindful of disposal rules!
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