TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Dapeng Bay National Scenic Area Administration has teamed up with Haiyong Studio to launch a program that rewards visitors for picking up cigarette butts on the island of Xiaoliuqiu off Taiwan’s southern coast.
CNA reported Tuesday that the initiative promotes responsible tourism by turning a simple cleanup task into something visitors can do naturally during their trips. Officials said the idea builds on earlier beach cleanups but shifts the focus to cigarette butts, a form of litter that is often missed.
“Cigarette butts are commonly found near drains and flower beds and can be washed into the ocean by rain or strong winds,” the administration said, per UDN. It added that the plastic fibers in filters do not break down and can pollute the environment for long periods.
Haiyong Studio said the activity encourages parents and children to join in together and learn about the lasting harm caused by cigarette butts, per Yahoo News. It added that the visible cleanup effort may also prompt smokers to think twice before littering.
Officials said visitors can pick up cleanup tools at three locations and exchange a full bottle of cigarette butts for a postcard featuring sea turtle conservation tips. They added that travelers can also complete other eco-friendly tasks, collect stamps, and trade them for small prizes.





