Everyone knows that imitation is the most honest form of flattery. Some cities follow in the steps of a neighboring metropolis in order to fit in, to avoid bad press. Others however, set a new standard unto which others may follow. These cities are the game changers, the innovators, the ones the world turns to in order to seek the latest trends. Taipei, Taiwan has now become one of those leaders in greener innovations. By the end of this year, Taipei strives to achieve a “zero landfill, total recycling” target, which just so happens to be nearly thirty years ahead of the United Nation’s trash goal. Although many experts think this target is overtly far-fetched, the fact that this city is thinking this far into the future sets exemplary standards for the rest of us. Taipei has been busy while trying to achieve this goal, regardless of its obvious limitations. It has encouraged its private sector to build composting facilities and recycling plants, in addition to requiring its residents to pay for trash collection by the bag. When it comes to the actual practice of picking up the trash in Taipei, nothing could be further from the norm. Garbage trucks blasting Beethoven’s “Fur Elise” and Badarzewska’s “The Maiden’s Prayer” collect the trash, which must be placed in city-approved bags, and the residents themselves are required to toss their bags in the trucks. Taipei also promotes trade in secondhand goods and recently introduced new methods of kitchen-waste disposal. This new pilot program of waste management turns actual food waste into pig feed. The result of these highly innovative greener programs that Taipei is beginning to carry out is a severely lowered volume of trash and waste. It’s not only become a leader in waste-management, Taipei has set a precedent for other cities to strive to fulfill. Will it be another thirty years before we reach a zero landfill benchmark? Only time will tell; however, with cities like Taipei in the forefront, we can rest assured that one second certainly won’t go to waste. Have YOU helped save the world today? For more information, visit: fastcompany.comWant to become a Social Firestarter? “Like” us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @ BrushfireMG
