June 8 is World Oceans Day, and as a country surrounded by sea, is definitely something worth celebrating in Taiwan. First proposed in 1992 and then recognized by the UN in 2008, World Oceans Day is marked by various environmental initiatives, special events and festivals. So, from beach cleaning to the upcycling of plastics, here’s how you can get involved this year in Taiwan.
(Oh, and speaking of cleaning beaches, we attended a beach clean-up last year and it was incredibly rewarding. Saturday June 13 is Taiwan National Clean Up 2020. If you want to get involved at one of the 22 events taking place across the island, click here for more info. Now, back to World Oceans Day…)
Support a project
RE-THINK, founded in 2013, is a non-profit environmental organization that focuses on environmental conservation and promoting environmentally-friendly lifestyles. Check out their Facebook page to see what events they have coming up and how you can get involved.
There is also, of course, the Taiwan branch of Greenpeace, as well as the Taiwan Association for Marine Environmental Education (TAMEE), which focuses on educating people about the ocean and the environment.
Support local
There are many great environmentally friendly businesses to support in Taiwan; many of which are plastic free. Zen Zhou are all about sustainability, whether it’s replacing plastic bags, paper cups, or plastic straws. Their great products include silicone food bags and water bottles, coffee cups, ecofriendly gift boxes and more.
Oolab also make fantastic reusable cups, while New Zealand-based Subs manufactures its recycled-plastic-made flip flops in Taiwan and ships them all around the world (shipping may currently be disrupted due to the COVID-19 pandemic). Also, be sure to check out DA.AI’s eco clothing made from recycled plastic bottles. They notably made the strips worn by the likes of Brazil, Netherlands and Portugal at the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Want to get involved with these initiative and companies on your next visit to Taiwan? Start planning your trip now.
