Strategy development in the framework of waste management.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Policy Studies
• Sustainable Development

Background:

• The Treaty of Rome (1957) emphasized environmental protection and legislative harmonization to prevent trade barriers.
• There is a growing need for strategic waste management to meet 2050 environmental targets and enhance quality of life.
• Current waste management practices require enhancement to reduce environmental impact and promote a circular economy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a holistic methodology for developing, implementing, monitoring, and improving waste management strategies.
• To support policymakers, consultants, and academics in creating effective household and food waste prevention plans.
• To facilitate the transition towards a resource-efficient, green, and competitive low-carbon economy in line with the European Green Deal.

Main Methods:

• A holistic approach to strategy development and implementation in waste management.
• Integration of environmental management systems (e.g., ISO 14001, EMAS).
• Focus on waste reduction activities: prevention, reuse, and recycling.

Main Results:

• A proposed methodology for strategic waste management at local and central levels.
• Guidance on developing strategies for household and food waste, including plastics and recyclables.
• Framework for measuring societal impact alongside environmental benefits.

Conclusions:

• Strategic waste management is essential for environmental protection and achieving long-term sustainability goals.
• The proposed methodology offers a practical tool for diverse stakeholders in waste management.
• Adoption of these strategies contributes to the EU's green and competitive low-carbon economy objectives.