To promote the environmental concepts of “plastic reduction, low carbon emissions, and clean environment” in night markets, the EPA held an “Eco-chic Party” at Keelung Miaokou Night Market on 9 August 2020. The EPA Minister Tzi-chin Chang, Deputy Mayor of Keelung City Yong-fa Lin, plastic reduction ambassador Sabrina Pai, and environmental social media personality Goldfish Brain all participated and had an eco-friendly night with the citizens of Keelung.

The “Eco-chic Party – Party on, Night Markets of Taiwan!” was an environmental event jointly held by the EPA and Keelung City Government at Ocean Square in Keelung City. The event featured stalls and sensational performances to promote environmental night markets, and it attracted thousands of participants, who were invited to bring their own tableware and shopping bags to shop around the night market together.

Minister Chang indicated that environmental protection is not just about cutting emissions from factories and power plants; it should also be implemented in our daily lives, such as conserving energy by turning off lights when you leave a room. He also pointed out that night markets are not only one of the best tourist attractions in Taiwan, but also hangout spots frequented by citizens. Since the coronavirus pandemic has subsided, people have started going back to their favorite night markets again.

To create a better and more environment-friendly image for night markets when they completely reopen, the EPA has worked with local environmental protection bureaus, night market associations and vendors to establish 22 eco-friendly demonstration night markets. These night markets are located all over Taiwan and were developed based on the theme of “plastic reduction, low carbon emissions, and clean environment.”

To reduce plastic waste, these night markets have switched to using reusable dishware, offering discounts for people who bring their own containers, and sorting garbage into recyclables, food waste, and general waste. To lower carbon emissions, they provide public shuttle services and use energy-efficient LED light bulbs. And in regard to clean environment, concrete measures have been taken, such as installing cooking oil fume-control equipment and oil and water separation equipment, improving wastewater discharge, and maintaining the cleanliness of the general environment in night markets and public restrooms.

Excerpt from Environmental Policy Monthly, 23 (9)