Given that cigarette filters are non-biodegradable, the more than 9 billion cigarette butts discarded annually in Taiwan pose a severe environmental threat. Discarded butts leave behind tobacco, filters, and paper packaging. The filters are made of cellulose acetate, a persistent synthetic plastic that does not biodegrade after disposal. Furthermore, the residual tobacco contains harmful chemicals; when these are released into soil, waterways, and the ocean, toxic substances leach from the butts, ultimately causing devastating harm to the marine ecosystem.
Since June 2024, the Ministry of Environment has promoted the "National No Cigarette Butts on the Ground Program," advancing this goal through six major strategies: "changing culture," "source reduction," "inspection and enforcement," "environmental cleanup," "public-private partnerships," and "strengthened research." The initiative envisions the public and private sectors working together to proactively maintain a clean environment.
In response to this policy and to intercept cigarette butts at the final line of coastal defense, the Keelung Branch partnered with Hao Wan Company to survey cigarette-butt hotspots within the Port of Keelung. Twenty high-density locations on the east and west sides of the Inner Harbor were prioritized for a pilot program. This involved installing filter collection boxes made from recycled marine debris, alongside awareness posters. During Q4 2025, a three-month statistical analysis of collection volumes and hotspot performance was conducted, with parking lot/warehouse entrances and wharf-side seating areas yielding the most substantial results. Additionally, on November 10, 2025, Keelung Port staff and operators were mobilized for a "Filter Action Plan" awareness campaign and a port-and-street cleanup event.
Environmental protection is not merely a slogan, but a commitment to sustained action. Changing habits starts with small steps. Let us bring the spirit of "recycle every filter, leave no butt behind" into our daily lives—whether at the waterfront, on the street, or in our hearts. By awakening reflection on marine sustainability and paying tribute to the ocean, we can collaboratively create a clean, beautiful, and sustainable cityscape for the Port of Keelung.
