Taiwan invests significant funding each year in building waste incineration plants in hopes of addressing the ever-growing garbage problem. However, instead of decreasing, the volume of waste continues to rise year after year. Much of this waste is temporarily stored in “waste holding sites,” awaiting further processing, but it is often not cleared in time. Over prolonged periods, bags of garbage accumulate into towering “mountains of trash,” causing distress to nearby residents and placing a heavy burden on the natural environment.

“Garbage Peaks” Reaching Startling Heights, Severely Affecting Nearby Residents

According to statistics, the average daily waste generated per person in Taiwan is about 1.32 kilograms—higher than that of Japan and South Korea. Despite heavy government investment in incinerators, waste generation continues to grow, repeatedly hitting new highs.

In theory, temporary waste storage sites help centralize waste and improve processing efficiency. However, due to excessive waste volume, many of these sites have grown into massive “garbage peaks,” some reaching heights equivalent to two- to three-story buildings.

In addition, waste that remains untreated for long periods emits strong odors and becomes a breeding ground for flies and pests. The smell often drifts into nearby communities, forcing residents to keep windows shut for extended periods and rely on air purifiers and air conditioning to maintain indoor air quality—leading to increased electricity costs and a significant decline in quality of life.

Environmental groups point out that Taiwan currently has over 100 waste holding sites, with large amounts of garbage continuing to accumulate each year. In some areas, environmental pollution has already emerged. For instance, the Zhudong landfill in Hsinchu County is located upstream of a major water intake along the Touqian River, raising concerns about drinking water safety. Meanwhile, the Xinfeng landfill in the same county has reportedly experienced as many as 86 fires caused by spontaneous combustion over five years, highlighting the safety risks of long-term waste accumulation.

Social and Environmental Issues Caused by Waste Storage Sites

When waste is stored for extended periods, it can lead to multiple social and environmental problems:

1. Environmental Pollution
   Long-term accumulation of waste can produce leachate and foul odors. Without proper containment and treatment systems, it may contaminate soil and groundwater, and even affect nearby rivers and water sources.
2. Health and Sanitation Risks
   Large amounts of garbage attract mosquitoes, flies, and rodents, increasing the risk of disease transmission and negatively impacting public hygiene and health.
3. NIMBY Effect (Not In My Backyard)
   Many residents oppose the construction of waste facilities near their homes. As a result, government plans for waste storage or landfill sites often trigger local protests and social conflicts.
4. Decline in Urban Landscape and Quality of Life
   Accumulated waste not only affects environmental cleanliness but also damages the urban landscape, lowering both residents’ quality of life and the city’s overall image.

Diverse Sources of Waste: Source Reduction as the Key

In fact, waste can generally be divided into two categories: household waste and industrial waste generated during production processes. In recent years, with industrial growth and the expansion of high-tech manufacturing sectors—such as the semiconductor industry—the volume of industrial waste has also increased, placing further strain on the waste management system.

To address the continuous rise in waste, environmental groups emphasize the importance of “source reduction”—minimizing waste from the very beginning. Proper waste sorting, recycling, and food waste collection can significantly reduce overall waste volume and lessen environmental impact.

Everyday Actions That Make a Difference

In fact, small actions in daily life can contribute to waste reduction:

1. Reduce Single-Use Products
   Items such as plastic bags, disposable utensils, and takeaway cups are often discarded after short use, generating large amounts of waste. Switching to reusable bags, utensils, bottles, and cups can significantly cut down waste.
2. Sort Waste Properly
   Proper classification allows recyclable materials—such as paper, plastic, and metal—to be reused. Food waste can also be converted into compost or animal feed, reducing the amount sent to incinerators.
3. Support Eco-Friendly Businesses
   Choosing products with sustainable packaging or minimal packaging encourages companies to adopt more environmentally friendly production practices.
4. Hold the Government Accountable
   Citizens can participate in public discussions, attend hearings, and stay informed on environmental issues to push for more effective waste reduction and resource recycling policies.

(Source: Shasha77)

From Waste Crisis to a Sustainable Future

The issue of waste storage sites reflects the broader pressure on Taiwan’s waste management system. When waste generation continues to rise while processing capacity and policies fail to keep pace, accumulation becomes inevitable.

Solving the waste problem is not solely the government’s responsibility—it requires joint efforts from businesses and the public. From source reduction and improved recycling systems to advancing waste treatment technologies, only through collective action can we reduce environmental impact and move toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.