Plastic bags not the issue
I read your article regarding the clampdown on plastic bags and disposable utensils with astonishment ("First phase of plastic bag reduction policy kicks in," July 2, page 1).
Once again, Taiwan's green policy has completely missed the point. With thousands of diesel engines churning out clouds of highly toxic fumes, the government decides to focus on what can only be regarded as a farcical measure, as it can at most ensure that vendors sell plastic bags, rather than give them away for free.
Once again, politics wins the day over the environment. In this world where every "advanced" nation is looking seriously at the environment (even if the US has decided to veto the Kyoto accord), Taiwan's token gesture is nothing less and nothing more than a joke. If the Taipei County Government really wants to do something to help the environment, why not do something that could make a significant difference? There is only one reason -- money. Money is keeping those in power from requiring cleaner diesel engines, less trash on the streets, less pollution around the country.
However, if fines were imposed on all trucks and buses that churned out too much carbon monoxide and exhaust fumes, and not just token fines which make getting caught both affordable and cheaper than actually getting repairing vehicle engines, a great deal of money would be brought into the coffers of the local government and help the environment.
But of course, plastic bags are the real issue facing Taiwan.
Rob Fowler
Taipei
Where's the prevention?
I found that your article ("Offi-cials sound alarm over spread of `date-rape drugs,'" July 5, page 2) lacking in proper preventative advice. The only thing it did was describe the three most commonly used date-rape drugs and what to do after you have or think you have been drugged. Did KMT Legislator Yang
Li-huan (楊麗環) discuss what young women should do to prevent these occurences? If she did, why wasn't it reported in your article?
A similar article appeared a few years ago in a major Canadian newspaper. However unlike the Taipei Times story, the Canadian article did give some advice, which should be heeded by both women and men -- never accept open drinks from anyone and don't leave your drink unattended. This may seem extreme to some but if you want to take responsibility for your safety then this is what you need to do.
Andy Ma
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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