It'll take more of an effort to reduce plastic waste and single use items here Taipei, but if you're willing to put in the extra effort, it is quite possible. Driving isn't suggested, as the awesome public transportation can get you pretty much anywhere in Taipei.
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- Category: Asia
Welcome to the home base of Zero Waste Travel Diary, Taiwan!
We'll try to keep this clear and concise. You probably don't need the gritty details of everyday zero waste life! Although if you're interested, we do share some stuff in Chinese.
Anyway, back to
Walking Score
Getting around by walking and public transportation is a breeze — if you don't mind a few adventures along the way! Sidewalks can sometimes double as scooter parking lots, air quality isn't great from smog, and the roads are often a lively tangle of congested traffic. So while it’s easy to get around, the walking score gets a little knock — it’s not always a walk in the park (literally).
Reusable Cup programs
A nice thing about Taipei are the reusable cup programs! Unfortunately they're still kinda scattered, but it's great seeing big brand implementing them. Starbucks you can choose reusable cups for a deposit, and some McDonalds if you dine-in also provide reusable cups.
Obviously it's not ideal to eat at McDonalds, but the honorable mention is noteworthy since you can choose to BYO container(s) on their kiosk when ordering!
The good thing? Pretty much any coffee / tea shop will be happy to use your mug (just make sure it's the right size)
Food options in Taipei
Taipei’s cuisine is a flavorful mix of traditional Taiwanese dishes and global influences. From savory beef noodle soup and crispy scallion pancakes to the famous bubble tea, the city’s vibrant night markets and street food stalls offer endless delicious discoveries at affordable prices. Local, seasonal, organic is still a novelty in Taiwan's food scene, but spots are popping up here and there!
Tip 1: If you're grocery shopping
Avoid Supermarkets, go for traditional or farmer's markets. Generally supermarkets have everything wrapped in plastic. Opt for traditional markets for produce without the plastic. The downside is generally they aren't organic, and it'll be harder to communicate in English.
You're really trying: Go to "Green Safe" for organic produce that is available without plastic! It's a limited selection, as their leafy greens are usually wrapped up.
Tip 2: Notice before you dine-in
Some smaller places still use disposable tableware even if you dine-in. It kinda sucks, so be on the lookout before you enter.
Night markets
It's 100% possible to bring your own (byo) containers to Taipei's famous night market(s). It will take a bit of communication but generally the stalls will be happy to comply. If you encounter difficulty, make sure to tell them not to give you a bag, as the majority of them are plastic.
Recommended: NingTia Night Market (寧夏夜市）
A lot of vendors have reusable tableware when you dine in here!
