Chiayi City launches plastic‑reduction program with incentives and prize draws

Chiayi City’s Environmental Protection Bureau has rolled out a campaign urging residents to carry three reusable items – shopping bags, cups and utensils – to cut single‑use plastic waste. From now until 13 November, shoppers who bring their own bags or containers to Dong Public Retail Market, Republic Market or Yonghe Market can photograph five proof shots and exchange them for 500 ml of eco‑friendly laundry detergent.

A parallel “self‑bring foodware easy‑buy” scheme runs until 30 September, offering up to NT$20 off at participating stores for customers who use their own cups or food containers. Participants who complete a survey are entered to win prizes such as a MacBook, tablet, Bluetooth earphones or a Nintendo Switch. The bureau also notes existing regulations that require chain beverage outlets to give at least NT$5 discount to patrons using personal cups. The initiative aims to embed reusable habits in daily life and reduce plastic waste in Chiayi City.