Sanchong Student Group Wins Taishin Youth Volunteer Award for Collecting Over 10,000 Cigarette Butts

Central News Agency (New Taipei) The Taishin Youth Volunteer Elite Award ceremony was held today. The "No-Butt Alliance," a student group from Sanchong High School, was recognized for their initiative in mobilizing friends and family to collect cigarette butts and installing interception nets in storm drains at hotspots like convenience stores and restaurants. They have successfully intercepted over 10,000 cigarette butts, showcasing the creativity and practical spirit of the new generation. New Taipei City Mayor Hou Yu-ih, Youth Affairs Department Director Chiu Chao-mei, and Taishin Youth Foundation Chairman Tsai Ching-hsiang attended the ceremony. The Youth Affairs Department noted that the theme for this year's award is "Be the light," with 3 schools, 1 student group, 21 students, and 1 teacher from New Taipei City receiving awards. Mayor Hou praised the foundation for encouraging over 80,000 youths to engage in volunteer services over the past 26 years. The "No-Butt Alliance" has been organizing monthly cleanups since 2024, developing an app to track hotspots, and introducing the British "cigarette butt voting box" concept to boost public participation. Additionally, He Pin-chieh from the Hwa-Mei International American School received the "National Elite Award" for her work in art therapy for autistic children, while Natsuki Onuma received the "Outstanding Volunteer Award" for her international volunteer work.