Pushing Towards Zero-Waste Supply Chains and Enhancing Plastic Litter Prevention
We are excited to announce the three winning organizations of Open Call 2 of the REMEDIES program, aimed at pushing towards the development of zero-waste supply chains and enhancing the prevention of plastic litter: Kerkennah Municipality (Tunisia), Mersin Metropolitan Municipality (Turkey), and DOO Komunalne djelatnosti Ulcinj (Montenegro).
1. Kerkennah Municipality – Tunisia
Project Name: No More Plastic in Kerkennah
Duration: 8 months
Description: The project aims at reducing plastic waste by implementing three key initiatives. First, rainwater collected in school and public place tanks will be treated with desalination and reverse osmosis to provide safe drinking water, minimizing the use of PET bottles. Second, customized kraft paper bags will replace single-use plastic bags, with a focus on local manufacturing and home delivery options to raise awareness and reduce plastic consumption. Lastly, workshops will teach residents palm leaf weaving for creating sustainable shopping bags, blending traditional craftsmanship with eco-friendly practices. These efforts collectively promote environmental preservation and sustainable living.
2. Mersin Metropolitan Municipality – Turkey
Project Name: Unite for Plastic-Free Coasts! (Up-FreeCoasts)
Duration: 8 months
Description: Mersin Metropolitan Municipality aims to create a plastic-conscious community along the Mediterranean coast. The “Up-FreeCoasts” project will implement a zero-waste approach with closed-loop plastic recycling. Actions include installing a smart reverse vending machine in a municipal cafe, setting up water fountains along the coastal line, and training 1200 youngsters about plastic recycling and composting techniques at the MERCAN Environment and Climate Science Center. Additionally, cleanup activities will be conducted in various coastal and lakeside areas in Mersin.
3. DOO Komunalne djelatnosti Ulcinj – Montenegro
Project Name: Marine Awareness, Recycling, and Innovation through Community Engagement and Solutions – MARICES
Duration: 8 months
Description: The MARICES Project aims to prevent marine litter by targeting the pervasive issue of discarded fishing nets in the Adratic coast of Montenegro. With a focus on innovation, community engagement, sustainability, and support in legislative reform, MARICES aims to create a significant and lasting impact on environmental sustainability. Central to the MARICES Project is its innovative approach. The project will support a recycling model for used fishing nets, preventing illegal dumping and ensuring proper recycling. This technological innovation will streamline waste management processes, making them more efficient and effective. The MARICES Project is not just about preventing marine litter; it’s about transforming how communities interact with their environment and waste.
We commend all the winning organizations for their dedication to addressing plastic pollution and advancing the goals of the REMEDIES program. Their innovative projects exemplify the spirit of collaboration and environmental stewardship, offering hope for a cleaner, healthier Mediterranean ecosystem.
For more information about the REMEDIES program and future REMEDIES activities and opportunities to engage with us, please visit here.
Together, let’s continue our journey towards a sustainable and plastic-free future for the Mediterranean and beyond.
