Evaluating the resource recovery efficiency of garbage removal and disposal in Taiwan

All countries recognize the importance of enhancing circular resource utilization and promoting zero waste in order to achieve a circular economy. This study focuses on 22 counties (cities) in Taiwan and analyses the relationship between changes in resource recovery efficiency and productivity over an 8-year period (2011–2018) using the super efficiency directional distance function and total factor productivity. The results indicate that the average total efficiency of resource recovery in the 22 counties (cities) is 1.3951, with 17 counties (cities) exceeding 1. The average gross productivity of resource recovery is 1.0417, and only four counties have a gross productivity of less than 1. Despite having more administrative resources, municipalities directly under the central government have a slightly lower average total efficiency of resource recovery (1.1464) than non-municipalities (1.4885). To improve efficiency, the government should allocate resources rationally and upgrade technology. The study’s findings can serve as a reference for the 22 counties (cities) in Taiwan and provide guidance for municipal governments worldwide in developing policies related to resource recovery.