Recent reports across Taiwan have highlighted a troubling increase in the illegal disposal of waste lubricating oil, leading to serious environmental pollution and posing significant risks to public health. In response, the Department of Environmental Protection (TYDEP) of the Taoyuan City Government is urging businesses requiring waste disposal services to engage only certified service providers with proper waste removal permits. This step is crucial to prevent illegal dumping, which can cause extensive environmental harm.
According to the TYDEP, various industries, including automotive repair shops, factories, and metal product manufacturers, often generate waste lubricating oil as part of their operations. According to the Waste Disposal Act, businesses are mandated to use licensed waste removal companies for the disposal of any waste produced. Non-compliance could result in fines of up to NT$3 million. Moreover, if a waste disposal company is found to have illegally dumped waste, the business that generated the waste could face criminal charges and legal repercussions. TYDEP strongly advises businesses to avoid illegal disposal methods, as the risks and penalties far outweigh any perceived convenience or cost savings.
To ensure compliance, TYDEP encourages businesses to verify the legitimacy of waste disposal companies through the Ministry of Environment's Resource Circulation Administration's “Waste Disposal Service Provider Service Management System. Additionally, the TYDEP calls on the public to report any environmental pollution incidents via the toll-free hotline 0800-066666. Protecting our environment is a shared responsibility, and together, we can contribute to creating a cleaner, healthier homeland.