Corfu faces severe waste management crisis in southern regions

Southern Corfu is facing a severe waste management crisis, with massive amounts of garbage accumulating in areas such as Agios Matthaios, Moraitika, and Argyrades. The refuse has gathered near residential zones, forests, and schools, sparking significant public health concerns and increasing the risk of wildfires.

The situation escalated following a decision by the Court of Audit to annul a contract with a private contractor, deeming it unlawful. Since September 8, the municipal cleaning service has struggled to manage the waste due to limited personnel and equipment. This issue is compounded by the fact that Corfu lacks its own waste management facility, necessitating the transport of trash to locations like Paleia, a process that is currently stalled.

Residents report an infestation of rodents and cockroaches. In some instances, lime has been spread near kindergartens and primary schools to mitigate hygiene issues and pests. Local citizens have used drones to document the scale of the accumulation and are demanding an immediate solution to the growing environmental and health threats.