Lisbon councilor warns Volta system exposes extreme poverty

During a Lisbon Municipal Assembly meeting, Maria Luísa Aldim, the councilor for people experiencing homelessness, stated that the Volta packaging refund system has exposed extreme poverty in the city. She argued that the availability of ‘easy money’ through the system may compromise the effectiveness of social workers, as personalized support is required to address individual vulnerabilities rather than just providing financial incentives.

The discussion followed comments from PAN deputy António Morgado Valente, who noted that Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas has called for the cancellation of the Volta system. Valente suggested the system has created a ‘social drama’ and highlighted that the presence of the system merely makes the existing, chronic issue of homelessness and poverty more visible.

Aldim responded by emphasizing that the municipality is not attempting to hide vulnerable populations. She stated that current municipal protocols and proposals aim to provide appropriate responses and foster autonomy for those in need.