Selective collection of packaging increased by 6% in the first quarter of 2022 compared to the same period of the previous year, with more than 105 tons of packaging sent for recycling. Among the materials that contributed most to this result, glass stands out, with a 9% increase.
Also noteworthy is the increase in the volume of plastic packaging placed in recycling bins, more than 19 tons, reflecting a 6% growth. Cardboard also increased, with more than 33 tons sent for recycling, representing a 3% increase.
According to Ana Trigo Morais, CEO of Sociedade Ponto Verde (SPV), “ the results at the start of the year are encouraging and reflect Sociedade Ponto Verde's commitment to contributing to the achievement of national recycling targets. This has been a goal assumed by SPV and one for which we have been working with all agents in the sector; however, in order to witness sustained progress in national waste management, prioritizing efficiency and fairness, a review of current financing and regulatory models is necessary .”
Meeting the goals
Alongside these positive results, in order for the country to meet the target of recycling 65% of all packaging placed on the market by 2025, SPV emphasizes the need to adopt measures to improve the urban waste management system, such as reviewing its funding.
This is one of the aspects highlighted by the Court of Auditors (TdC) in a report released last week on urban waste management, with particular emphasis on plastic. The institution states that the financing model for urban waste management systems does not cover the costs of collection and does not sufficiently encourage citizens to adopt good waste prevention and management practices.
