The Municipality of Lonato del Garda has recently received significant funding of **€466,845.20** as part of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) to enhance urban waste management. This initiative marks a significant step towards greater environmental sustainability and the ecological transition that is necessary in the current context.
## New Facilities and Eco-Islands
With Resolution No. 138 from the Executive Council dated October 15, 2024, an executive project has been approved that includes the establishment of new waste management facilities, the modernization of existing structures, and the introduction of **Eco-Islands**. These collection points are designed to be aesthetically integrated into the environment and to reduce transportation costs through advanced remote reading systems.
The Eco-Islands will feature controlled access stations, smart bins, automatic bag dispensers, and eco-compactors for plastic bottles. In total, **four Eco-Islands** of 4000 liters each will be installed, capable of disposing of four different types of waste: general waste, organic waste (FORSU), paper, and plastic. Additionally, ten smaller Eco-Islands of 1000 liters will be added for recycling purposes.
## Smart Bins and Access Management
Another improvement will come from the installation of **smart bins**, which can compress waste up to seven times its original volume. These bins will be strategically placed in key areas of the city, such as the Cittadella and the historic center.
For the Rassica collection center, an automated barrier is planned to manage user access, ensuring a smooth flow and preventing overcrowding.
## Automatic Dispensers and Incentives for Recycling
To further facilitate recycling, automatic dispensers will be installed within dedicated centers where citizens can purchase specific bags at affordable prices. Additionally, three eco-compactors will be positioned in highly frequented public areas; these devices will offer incentives to citizens through a rewards system linked to the disposal of plastic bottles.
Each time a bottle is inserted into the eco-compactor, a symbolic value in the form of “eco-points” will be awarded, which can be used to obtain water from the associated dispenser.
## Collaboration Between Institutions and Citizens
Mayor Roberto Tardani emphasized the importance of collaboration between institutions and citizens in safeguarding the environment: “Thanks to this funding, we will not only be able to expand the resources available in the area but also engage citizens more actively in virtuous practices.”
The Councilor for Ecology and Environment, Christian Simonetti, added that these measures are part of a broader path towards environmental sustainability already initiated with the introduction of used clothing collection through agreements with local cooperatives.
Italian Version
