Local initiatives launched in Catalonia regions

In the Garrigues region, the municipality of Albagés has opted for an alternative waste management model instead of the door-to-door system adopted by neighboring towns. The town utilizes smart container islands equipped with sensors and artificial intelligence to monitor waste levels and improve traceability. Mayor Víctor Masip Romero reported that this system has maintained a recycling rate of 70.6%, exceeding European directives, while reducing waste management costs to approximately 23,000 euros, compared to the potential 35,000 euros required for a door-to-door model.

In the Baix Ebre region, the Baix Ebre County Council has introduced the ‘Obrador Compartit’ (Shared Workshop) located in Ebreterra, Deltebre. Managed through Baix Ebre Innova, this facility provides professional kitchen infrastructure, including industrial ovens, vacuum packaging, and refrigeration equipment, to support the agri-food sector. The service aims to lower entry barriers for entrepreneurs and small producers by allowing them to access professional equipment for a fee of 29 euros per hour, facilitating the transformation and commercialization of food products.