Smart Laundry Detergent Refill Stations – Environmental Protection Bureau
To actively promote a zero-waste policy and reduce waste production, the Environmental Protection Bureau is encouraging a shift in consumer habits by reducing plastic at the source. In collaboration with private enterprises, the bureau is promoting the installation of smart laundry detergent refill stations.
Currently, there are approximately 329 smart refill stations installed across Taiwan, including 36 in Kaohsiung. During the exhibition, citizens who bring their own empty bottles can receive 500cc of laundry detergent per day (limited to 500 portions per day for 3 days). A refill station will be set up at the event to offer a plastic-free experience, allowing participants to experience the convenience of reducing plastic waste.
These refill stations are equipped with cloud-based IoT services, enabling users to easily locate nearby machines, track purchase frequency, and receive real-time data on plastic and carbon reduction. Additionally, the system calculates and records each user’s personal carbon reduction contribution.
Advantages of Smart Refill Stations
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Largest storage capacity on the market – Each unit can store up to 200 liters of laundry detergent, meeting public demand.
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Multiple payment options – In addition to cash, the system supports LINE Pay and other mobile payment methods, making purchases more convenient.
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Patented technology – The customized flow control system allows users to purchase an appropriate amount of detergent for just NT$5.
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User-friendly design – The adjustable dispensing nozzle makes it easier for users to collect detergent in their own containers.
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Quality assurance – A UV sterilization system is installed at the detergent outlet to ensure product hygiene and safety.
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Plastic-free bulk sales – Consumers can bring their own empty bottles and purchase detergent at NT$40 per liter, which is equivalent to the market price of NT$119 per liter for bottled detergent.
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Eco-labeled laundry detergent – The detergent used is certified with Eco Label No. 22999, ensuring its environmental friendliness.
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Carbon reduction benefits – Based on an average monthly sales volume of 600 liters per unit, each machine helps reduce 7,200 plastic bottles annually. With 36 units in Kaohsiung, the city reduces 259,200 plastic bottles per year, saving 36.3 metric tons of plastic and cutting carbon emissions by 80,196 kg CO₂e annually. (Note: Each 1-liter HDPE bottle is calculated at 0.14 kg, with the Environmental Ministry’s carbon footprint coefficient for HDPE at 2.21 kg CO₂e per kg.)