Portugal evaluates waste management proposal for Algarve region

The Portuguese Environment and Energy Minister, Maria da Graça Carvalho, has confirmed that a new study by the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA) will evaluate a proposal from the environmental association ZERO regarding waste management in the Algarve.

ZERO proposes installing two Mechanical and Biological Treatment (TMB) units upstream from the existing Algar landfills in Loulé and Portimão. The association claims these units could divert approximately 70% of undifferentiated waste from landfills and mitigate environmental issues like odors caused by organic waste.

According to ZERO, the TMB solution is faster and more cost-effective than incineration. The association estimates TMB installation could take up to three years with an investment of under 150 million euros, whereas incineration could take at least seven years and cost upwards of 300 million euros. Currently, 85% of the 400,000 tons of urban waste processed annually by Algar goes directly to landfills, which are nearing capacity.