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Look for the label! Environment minister says toilet paper can be safely flushed without causing clogs

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To implement the "flush toilet paper" policy and promote proper restroom habits, Minister of Environment Peng Chi-ming and Deputy Minister Shen Chih-hsiu visited stores on Feb. 11 to inspect the labeling of commercially available toilet paper. Peng said that most toilet paper packaging on the market now clearly displays icons or text indicating "flushable" or "dispersible in water." When purchasing, the public need only look for the label to safely flush an appropriate amount of toilet paper down the toilet. This not only effectively reduces toilet odors and environmental pollution but is also a key step in improving the quality of public restrooms.

Addressing public concerns about pipe blockages, the Ministry of Environment (MOENV) set up a "Heart Stage for Environmental Protection" at its main entrance, using a cutaway toilet and transparent pipes for a practical demonstration. Peng said the toilet's internal water trap (S-trap) has a diameter of about 2 inches, while the sewer pipe behind it is 4 inches wide. Combined with the easily dispersible nature of toilet paper, this means that as long as it is used in moderation, it will pass through smoothly under normal flushing conditions without causing blockages. Peng also emphasized that, aside from toilet paper or flushable wipes labeled as safe to flush, items such as facial tissues, wet wipes, sanitary pads, diapers, and food waste must never be thrown into the toilet, as they can cause severe clogging.

The MOENV emphasized that promoting toilet paper flushing is an important sign of Taiwan's alignment with international living standards and efforts to improve environmental hygiene. To help the public better understand how it works, the "Heart Stage for Environmental Protection — A New Era of Toileting" exhibition will continue through the end of March. Visitors are welcome to observe the toilet structure in person to dispel concerns that toilet paper causes blockages. The MOENV hopes that, through on-site inspections and public outreach, flushing toilet paper will become a daily habit for all citizens, helping create a clean and high-quality restroom culture.

Figure 1: Toilet paper is meant to be flushed
Figure 1: Toilet paper is meant to be flushed
Figure 2: Examples of labels for flushable toilet paper
Figure 2: Examples of labels for flushable toilet paper
Source: 
Ministry of Environment
Published: 
2026-02-15
Updated: 
2026-04-02