ZERO advocates for expanded waste treatment in Algarve

The environmental association ZERO is advocating for expanded waste treatment in the Algarve instead of investing in incineration. Environmental engineer Rui Berkemeier stated that the association has presented proposals to the Environment Minister to address growing waste management pressures in the region.

ZERO proposes upgrading and expanding the two existing mechanical and biological treatment plants managed by Algar. A key part of their strategy involves separating household waste from commercial waste, specifically from hotels and other economic activities. Berkemeier noted that businesses producing more than 1,100 liters of municipal-type waste daily should have independent management systems, a requirement he claims is not being fully enforced in the region.

The association also emphasized the need for better treatment of organic matter, such as food scraps, before it reaches landfills to mitigate methane emissions, odors, and wastewater issues. ZERO criticized the current Urban Waste Action Plan (PAPERSU) as inadequate, suggesting it would leave approximately 70,000 tonnes of waste untreated.