Middle East War Causes Plastic Bag Panic; Peng Chi-ming Vows Stronger Plastic Reduction

Disruption in petrochemical raw materials due to the Middle East war has raised concerns about plastic bag supplies. The Ministry of Economic Affairs stated that CPC's No. 4 Naphtha Cracker will increase production in April, ensuring sufficient supplies for plastic bags, medical materials, and food packaging. Minister of Environment Peng Chi-ming, attending the 'Circular City' art installation ceremony, addressed media concerns about the balance between increasing production and promoting recycled bags. He explained that while the Economic Ministry aims to prevent public inconvenience, the Ministry of Environment will push for even more aggressive plastic reduction measures. Peng noted that traditional vendors, snack stands, and night markets account for about 60% of plastic bag usage due to local food culture. He emphasized that like in Europe and America, plastic reduction should stem from a genuine internal desire to protect the environment, and Taiwan will work to change this culture.