EPA says recycling helps Taiwan save millions of dollars

This article was published by the Taiwan Headlines on November 29, 2006. It reports that according to the Environmental Protection Administration, Taiwan recycled 140,000 tons of plastic containers in 2005, or the equivalent of 7 billion 600-ml mineral water bottles. The recycling efforts helped the country save NT$280 million in garbage disposal costs. They also helped creating raw materials with a total production value of NT$3.5 billion per year.

According to officials at the administration's Recycling Fund Management Board, plastic containers can be recycled into various products, depending on the materials from which they are made.

For example, containers made of polyethylene terephthalate can be processed into staple fibers, the material for producing nonwoven fabrics, doll wigs, zips and plastic bags. Meanwhile, containers made of high-density polyethylene can be used to produce garbage cans, toolboxes, bicycle pedals and garbage carts.