To maintain clean coastlines and enhance the quality of tourism on Taiwan’s outlying islands, the Taitung County Government has collaborated with local businesses and schools in Green Island and Orchid Island (Lanyu) for several years to promote the “Adopt-a-Beach” initiative.
This year, six local organizations joined the program, adopting a total of 3,486.84 meters of coastline. Tourists were also invited to participate in beach cleanups, with 106 people joining the effort and removing 636.6 kilograms of coastal waste. This initiative not only keeps the beaches clean but also fosters responsible waste disposal habits among locals and visitors. By protecting the ocean ecosystem through hands-on actions, everyone can contribute to preserving the beautiful, clear blue seascapes for future generations.
Taitung County Magistrate April Yao highlighted that the cultural and scenic beauty of the islands is an important feature and tourism resource for Taitung. The county government continues to promote quality travel models such as “slow living” and “responsible tourism.” Through the “Adopt-a-Beach” program, the aim is to enhance local businesses’ recognition and participation, collectively working towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goal 14 on “Life Below Water” and Goal 11 on “Sustainable Cities and Communities.”
The Environmental Protection Bureau noted that the annual “Adopt-a-Beach” program allows each participating group to determine their adoption area based on their capacity and conduct regular beach cleanups. This year, participants include Luti Leisure Co., Asahi Hot Spring, and Pengfang Co. from Green Island, as well as Blue Ocean House, Starry Night Hostel, and Yeyou Elementary School from Orchid Island. The Bureau expressed its gratitude to these units for taking concrete action to preserve the pristine environments of these islands, contributing to the sustainability of Green Island and Orchid Island’s ecosystems.
Participants of the “Adopt-a-Beach” initiative, Asahi Hot Springs and Pengfang Co., expressed their honor in contributing to environmental protection by safeguarding the beaches and marine ecosystems. They emphasized that the program is not just about cleaning the beach but also about encouraging everyone to adopt coastal stewardship as a daily habit. They called on visitors to take their trash with them after enjoying the beach, ensuring that the beautiful environment of these islands remains pristine for generations to come.
