The initiative, targeting over 10,000 households, is based on the analysis of collection data and sociodemographic variables to identify priority action areas. These areas include the neighborhoods of Beniopa, Roís de Corella, the Plaça El·líptica district, Grau, and the surroundings of the UPV, where the presence of a floating population, such as students, offers opportunities to increase recycling rates.
“"The use of new technologies allows for direct, centralized, and proximity-based action, which is key to improving results, as without citizen collaboration it is impossible to advance towards a cleaner and more sustainable city."
The strategy unfolds in three phases. First, containerization has been improved with the installation of six new glass containers in the identified areas. Second, a team of environmental educators is conducting a door-to-door information campaign, visiting over 10,100 homes to deliver informative letters and explain the benefits of recycling. Additionally, informative materials will be placed in residential communities, and bags will be distributed to facilitate waste separation at home. Finally, actions are planned at high-traffic points in the city, such as squares and access points to educational centers, where educators will directly inform citizens about the importance of glass recycling.
“"This strategy combines the knowledge provided by data with proximity to the citizen, which allows us to identify where to act and how to do it more effectively."
Glass is a 100% recyclable material that can be reused indefinitely without losing its properties, making it a perfect example of a circular economy. In Spain, currently 7 out of 10 glass containers are recycled. Recycling just 10 glass containers can save energy equivalent to a smartphone's consumption for one year and avoid emissions similar to those generated by a car traveling 15 kilometers.
Both Ecovidrio and the Gandia City Council have emphasized the importance of institutional and technical collaboration to advance in improving selective collection, highlighting Ecovidrio's almost 30 years of experience in data analysis and its relationship with local administrations to design more effective campaigns.
