To improve air quality and address odors from asphalt mixing operations, the Ministry of Environment (opens in a new window) amended Article 7 of the regulations governing air pollution control facilities for fugitive particulate matter from stationary sources and launched a nationwide asphalt industry inspection program. The program concluded on August 7, 2026. Inspections by the Environmental Management Administration's northern, central and southern regional centers and local governments found that 123 of Taiwan's 127 operating asphalt plants had adopted enclosed operations or installed local gas collection systems, achieving an overall improvement rate of 96.8%. A total of 125 inspection visits resulted in 14 citations and fines totaling NT$995,000 for noncompliant operations, demonstrating the government's commitment to protecting air quality.
The Environmental Management Administration (EMA) (opens in a new window) explained that Article 7 requires asphalt mixing facilities to install local gas collection systems with a collection efficiency of at least 60%, or to use enclosed loading and unloading operations. The requirement took effect on July 6, 2026. The inspection results showed that 96.8% of plants had completed gas collection improvements. Some went beyond the regulatory requirements by enclosing unloading operations or adding curtain barriers to improve collection efficiency and prevent emissions from affecting nearby air quality. The EMA commended the great majority of operators for fulfilling their environmental responsibilities and upgrading pollution control equipment.
During the program, the EMA's three regional centers conducted 125 inspection visits, issued 14 citations and imposed NT$995,000 in fines. Violations of the Air Pollution Control Act and the Waste Disposal Act included failing to install required collection facilities, failing to collect air pollutants effectively, operating contrary to permit conditions, failing to maintain pollution control equipment in proper working order, and failing to report waste generation and storage as required. The EMA urged operators to maintain equipment every day so that it can effectively prevent fugitive emissions.
To address odors associated with reclaimed asphalt concrete aggregate, the EMA reminded operators to operate their secondary combustion units, or exhaust gas incinerators, properly and preheat them to above 650 degrees Celsius before production. Production areas, discharge areas and storage tanks should also have stronger enclosed collection or local gas collection facilities to prevent releases of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and odors.
The EMA emphasized that the small number of plants that have not completed the required improvements or installations face fines ranging from NT$100,000 to NT$20 million. Serious violations may also lead to suspension of operations or business activities, or revocation of operating permits. The EMA will continue to use tools such as infrared thermal imaging cameras and air quality sensors for targeted monitoring and enforcement, ensuring that road construction and the circular economy advance without sacrificing the environment and helping create cleaner, more pleasant surroundings.