Portuguese regional glass recycling initiatives

Various regional initiatives in Portugal have been launched to increase glass recycling rates, specifically targeting the hospitality, catering, and café sectors.

In the Alentejo region, Resialentejo introduced the ‘Vidro em Jogo’ campaign across eight municipalities. This program aims for a 10% increase in glass recycling through door-to-door collection involving approximately 400 establishments. Funded by Sociedade Ponto Verde through the Rede Recicla program, the initiative includes incentive-based prizes via weekly numbered scratch cards and a school competition involving social media video content.

In Trofa, TrofAmbiente launched the ‘Rota do Vidro da Trofa’ campaign, seeking a 20% increase in glass collection and separation within the HORECA sector. Co-financed by Sociedade Ponto Verde under the Rede Recicla+ Program, the project implements an assisted tipping system using large containers with automated turning mechanisms at strategic locations to reduce manual labor.

Expanding these efforts, the intermunicipal concessionaire ERSUC launched the ‘Vidro a Vidro Fazemos o Impossível’ project, which runs until December 15, 2026. Targeting 17 municipalities—including Coimbra, Aveiro, Águeda, and Figueira da Foz—the initiative aims to support 2,923 clients through training, diagnostic support, and informative materials. Supported by the Rede Recicla+ Program, ERSUC is installing specialized glass bins with assisted tipping systems and providing free 32 or 120-liter containers. Participating businesses may also earn a specific seal to display to customers to highlight their commitment to the circular economy.