NEW TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Environmental Protection Department of the New Taipei City Government announced on Wednesday (Dec. 27) ongoing efforts to address oil pollution on the north coast.
Since Dec. 4, citizens reported crude oil contamination in coastal areas like Gongliao and Ruifang, possibly related to unidentified crude oil pollution observed on the coast of Green Island in Taitung. The Department swiftly implemented cleanup operations; however, recent sporadic incidents due to ocean currents necessitate continued efforts.
Upon pollution reports, the Department activated its response mechanism, collaborating with local fishery associations, the Inspection Office, and the Coast Guard Administration's Coastal Patrol Squad. Teams transported necessary resources, including oil-absorbent cotton pads and ropes, to polluted sites.
Non-governmental units, including local business owners near the coasts and volunteer groups like the Azure Alliance in Taiwan, actively participated in preventing the spread of oil pollution. In total, cleanup efforts involved 58 response team members, 32 coastal patrol personnel, and numerous volunteers.