A recycling system in Latronico grants citizens reimbursements to spend in local shops.
RECYCLING BENEFITS LOCAL SHOPS
This project, launched in February 2017, consists of the installation of two eco-compactors in the municipal territory that allow citizens to insert packaging of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and aluminium. Every piece of packaging entered has a value corresponding to EUR 0.03 which can be spent in the affiliated shops of Latronico. This project is the first to be built by a Municipality in Basilicata, and one of only a few in Southern Italy.
THE TOWNS' PEOPLE STORM THE STATIONS
The project attracted many citizens who literally stormed the project's returning stations. To demonstrate this, since the opening of the stations on 21 February 2017, over 400,000 packages of plastic and aluminium have been delivered. Multiple outcomes are achieved in the process, including: promoting local shops and establishing a virtuous circle; rewarding compliant citizens with something concrete which creates a lasting impact on their lifestyle; promoting the principle of 'waste as a resource'; and, promoting a more widespread environmental awareness.
a virtuous waSTE CYCLE
The project has changed the perception of the waste cycle, so it is no longer seen as something isolated from the actions of citizens, but as an element that changes in response to the actions of every single citizen. Over the long term, the project will create substantial changes in the psychological approach to separate waste collection and disposal.
