Penghu County has switched to a new food waste processing system that works faster and cuts the smell for nearby residents — good news for neighbors and local farmers.

• The county's environmental bureau showed off equipment that splits food waste into solids, liquids, and oil, then breaks it down fast using bacteria.
• The old composting method caused bad smells; the new machines are sealed and sprayed with disinfectant to keep odors in.
• Wastewater is kept separate from outside drains so nothing leaks out, and leftover solids are turned into free organic fertilizer for farmers and residents.
• Penghu's waste is unusual because so much of it is seafood, shells, and crab, so people are being told to keep regular trash out of the food waste bin.
• The plant can handle 15 tons a day, which covers the island's daily load.

Outlook: The county plans to plant greenery around the plant next to further improve the area.