TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of Environment (環境部) has announced a groundbreaking initiative to combat illegal waste disposal using advanced technology, according to an announcement on Thursday (Jan. 8). The Executive Yuan (行政院) approved a plan to roll out the remote digital management and intelligent decision-making of waste flows across Taiwan on Dec. 29, 2025. This will allocate NT$2.35 billion over four years to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies in constructing a "smart fence" against illegal dumping.
Officials from the Ministry of Environment explained that traditional waste inspection relies heavily on manpower or public reports, making it challenging to monitor remote or expansive areas continuously. The new plan aims to address this limitation by employing technology for real-time alerts and monitoring. In the first year, the ministry will allocate NT$500 million to establish 500 IoT monitoring facilities. These facilities will utilize multimodal AI analysis modules to conduct big data analysis, detecting abnormal waste disposal activities and providing immediate warnings.
This technological advancement aims to enhance the efficiency of waste management and pollution control. The plan emphasizes creating a central and local joint defense mechanism and fostering inter-ministerial cooperation. By strengthening collaboration with local governments and police agencies, the ministry seeks to ensure real-time information sharing, thereby improving pollution monitoring effectiveness and creating a robust network for environmental protection.
Also, the Ministry of Environment plans to deepen the "prosecutor-police-environmental alliance" mechanism. By providing AI-analyzed crime hotspots and data evidence to judicial and police units, the ministry aims to leave no room for illegal groups to operate. The ministry also underscored the need to review and improve relevant regulations in compliance with the Executive Yuan's directives. They are contemplating enhancing the criminal responsibilities and penalties for environmental crimes, aiming to bolster the intensity of technological law enforcement.