- Department:Hazard Control Division
With the Lunar New Year approaching and households beginning their year-end spring cleaning, the Ministry of Environment (MOENV) reminds the public that maintaining a clean and well-managed home environment should be the first priority. Proper cleaning and environmental management can effectively prevent the breeding of pests like mosquitoes, flies, cockroaches, and rodents. If household insecticides or other pesticides are needed, it is imperative to select products that have been approved and registered by the Ministry of Environment and use them properly and safely, thereby safeguarding family health and welcoming the New Year with peace of mind.
The Ministry of Environment noted that maintaining a well-managed living environment is the fundamental approach to controlling household pests. The public is encouraged to practice proper waste sorting and prompt disposal, keep kitchens and drainage outlets clean and dry, and minimize the accumulation of clutter in the home. When pests are discovered, environmental cleaning and non-chemical control methods should be adopted first. Household pesticides should be used only as a supplementary measure when pest problems become more serious. If necessary, licensed pest control operators may also be engaged for assistance.
When purchasing and using household pesticides, the Ministry urges the public to follow the “Four Essentials” principles for safe agent use to ensure both safety and effectiveness:
- Target Correctly: Identify the specific pest and select the appropriate household pesticides.
- Verify Legality: Look for an official Ministry of Environment permit number on the packaging, such as “Huan-Bu/Shu-Wei-Zhi-Zi” or “Huan-Bu/Shu-Wei-Shu-Zi.”
- Check Expiration: Check the manufacturing date and expiration date, and avoid using expired or deteriorated products.
- Read the Label: Follow the instructions on the product label for proper use, ensure adequate ventilation, and take appropriate personal protective measures.
The Ministry also reminded the public that many people travel abroad during the Lunar New Year holiday. If a small quantity of household pesticides is brought back from overseas, it may only be used for personal purposes. Such products must not be advertised or sold online to avoid violating the law and incurring penalties.
In addition, the Ministry once again calls on the public to observe the “Three Don’ts” principles when purchasing or advertising/selling household pesticides online. Violators may face fines between NT$60,000 and NT$300,000. Please stay informed and follow these guidelines:
- Do not advertise without authorization: Individuals or businesses without the required household pesticides permit or license may not advertise or sell such products on websites or social media platforms.
- Do not purchase indiscriminately: Do not buy household pesticides of unknown origin or those lacking an approval number issued by the Ministry of Environment.
- Do not recommend: Do not advertise or recommend household pesticides on social media that claim insecticidal or pest-repellent effectiveness.
To help the public identify legally registered household pesticides, the Ministry of Environment has established an online inquiry system Environmental Agent Permit and Pest Control Industry License (https://mdc.moenv.gov.tw/PublicInfo), which provides real-time access to information on registered household pesticides and licensed pest control operators. The public is encouraged to make full use of this resource.
The Ministry emphasized that effective environmental maintenance naturally reduces the need for household pesticides. During the Lunar New Year period, it is important to start with daily cleaning routines and use household pesticides properly when necessary, balancing pest control effectiveness with safe use, and working together to create a clean, safe, and healthy home environment while welcoming the New Year.
