The recycling business for sustainability in Taiwan

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the recycling business in Taiwan as well as its impacts on the collection, environment, economy, and society, providing a good example of setting up an efficient national paradigm.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes an alternative policy of dynamic rate of recycling fee as Taiwan's current recycling system is not beneficial to spurring design for environment (DfE).

Findings

The paper demonstrates that this improvement will indeed result in changes for entrepreneurs and manufacturers toward green design and financial benefits for flourishing the recycling industry.

Originality/value

Regardless of the progressive success for the current system in Taiwan, a flat rate recycling fee scheme possesses limited inspiration to promote the concept of DfE. In addition to existing literature, the proposed dynamic recycling fee policy demonstrates the increased level of DfE engagement.

Citation

Chen, Y.J., Wu, T. and Chen, Y. (2009), "The recycling business for sustainability in Taiwan", European Business Review, Vol. 21 No. 5, pp. 403-417. https://doi.org/10.1108/09555340910986646