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Electronic tracking and management of industrial waste in Taiwan

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Abstract

This study discusses an online reporting system used for waste flow tracking (auditing) and investigation of violations. In contrast to systems used in other countries, this system requires waste generators and transporters, as well as the treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDFs) to file online reports on the movement of industrial waste within 24 h of being shipped, received, or completely treated. This system also provides online analytical processing for reporters to analyze all their data, thereby encouraging self-management of waste. Currently there are 25,861 generators, 4,963 transporters, and 865 TSDFs in Taiwan that are required to file online reports. Approximately 80 % of all waste generated in Taiwan is reported using this system. More than 7,000 vehicles are equipped with a global positioning system (GPS) for waste tracking, among which over 2,000 transport hazardous waste. Disposal vehicles transmit their locations to the Control Center every 30 s. Database quality has been enhanced through auditing and inspection for more than 12 years since this system was established. It serves as a “single portal” for industrial waste management and facilitates informed decision making for resource exchange and material flow among various industries to achieve resource and environmental sustainability.

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Acknowledgments

The authors appreciate the assistance of the Taiwan Environmental Protection Administration and the project task forces for their administrative and technical support in establishment, operation and maintenance of the Industrial Waste Control Report System.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Environmental Protection Administration, Executive Yuan, 83, Sect. 1, Chung-Hwa Rd, Taipei, 10042, Taiwan

    Harvey Houng

  2. General Education Center, St. John’s University, 499 Tam King Road, Sect. 4, New Taipei, 25135, Taiwan

    Yao Wen Cheng

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  1. Harvey Houng
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  2. Yao Wen Cheng
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Correspondence to Yao Wen Cheng.

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Houng, H., Cheng, Y.W. Electronic tracking and management of industrial waste in Taiwan. J Mater Cycles Waste Manag 15, 146–153 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10163-012-0104-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10163-012-0104-7

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