In 2018 the European Union adopted a series of directives on Closed Circuit Economy that introduced some radical changes to how the resources are managed. The goal was to limit the use of primary raw materials, extending the lifespan of the products and encouraging recycling after their useful lifecycle is finished. The legislative package has also introduced new, elevated levels for municipal waste recycling. The EU member states should recycle at least 55% of their municipal waste by 2025. In Poland, the level of recycling has not surpassed 20% as of 2020 and there is a real danger that we will fall behind our duties mapped out for the years to come. Part of the reason is the fact that our legislators are focused on developing waste disposal facilities instead of recycling facilities to reclaim materials for future use.

We will respond to these issues by legal and merit support for 20 interested communities from across Poland that are opposed to building waste disposal facilities in their towns. We will point and support other solutions that are in accord with the Closed Circuit Economy. What is more, two towns will see a “zero waste” programs introduced – a reduction of the amount of waste at the source, improvement in recycling services, and maximalization of recycling, surpassing the legal requirements. We hope the results of our actions will serve as an inspiration for other Polish towns.