Spanish towns unveil inclusive recycling projects linking disabled communities and circular economy

The municipality of Fene in Galicia installed the "Banco de la Diversidad," a street bench constructed entirely from recycled plastic bottle caps. The bench was produced through a partnership between the local social association ASPANEPS, the IES de Fene technical school and the town council, involving students from occupational, welding, sheet‑metal and automotive programmes. Officials highlighted the project as a model of social inclusion, practical training and environmental stewardship, and announced plans to replicate the initiative in schools and other municipal spaces.

In the Basque Country, the regional government and Ecoembes presented the outcomes of the "Recicla en tu centro – Accesible" scheme. Conducted in 73 centres for people with intellectual disabilities and autism, the programme reached more than 5,200 users and nearly 1,300 professionals, providing 317 specially‑designed recycling containers and adapted educational materials. The project aims to embed circular‑economy practices in occupational and educational settings, improving recycling rates and promoting inclusive environmental awareness.