# Algarve waste management infrastructure planning > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/algarve-waste-management-infrastructure-planning > Updated: 2026-08-16T09:24:11.000Z. Sources: 11. Developments: 2. The Portuguese Minister of Environment and Energy, Maria da Graça Carvalho, has announced plans for a new waste energy recovery unit in the Algarve region to address critical landfill capacity issues. The Algarve currently produces 400,000 tons of waste annually, with 85% sent to landfills, a rate significantly higher than the national average of 56%. Existing landfills in Loulé and Portimão are nearing their limits. While efforts are underway to extend current capacity to seven years, the new facility is projected to be operational by 2034 to provide a long-term solution. The project may involve an investment of up to 300 million euros and is expected to utilize European funding. The Portuguese Environment Agency (APA) is scheduled to launch a tender on October 15 to study technical solutions and specific locations for the unit. The initiative will be implemented in coordination with the 16 municipalities of the Algarve, represented by the Intermunicipal Community of the Algarve (AMAL). ## Timeline ### 2026-08-16: Algarve waste management project could see 300 million euro investment The PSD Algarve supports a proposed 300 million euro investment to overhaul waste treatment and recovery in the Algarve region by 2034, aiming to reduce landfill reliance. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/algarve-waste-management-project-could-see-300-million-euro-investment ### 2026-08-08: Algarve waste treatment plant planned to be operational by 2034 Portugal's Environment Minister announced a new waste energy recovery plant for the Algarve, aimed to be operational by 2034 to combat critical landfill capacity shortages. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/algarve-waste-treatment-plant-planned-to-be-operational-by-2034 --- Cite as: Algarve waste management infrastructure planning. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/algarve-waste-management-infrastructure-planning