city overview

nestled at the foot of mount etna, catania stands as a beacon of resilience and innovation. this vibrant sicilian city seamlessly blends its rich historical tapestry with a forward-thinking approach to sustainability and urban living. renowned for its baroque architecture, bustling markets, and spirited inhabitants, catania is pioneering the path toward a zero-waste future, demonstrating a profound commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement.

fun facts

- catania is home to the largest volcano in europe, mount etna, providing a unique natural backdrop to the city's efforts in promoting environmental awareness.

- the city boasts one of italy's most dynamic street markets, "la fiera di catania," where locals champion the ethos of reduce, reuse, and recycle.

- catania's historic center is a unesco world heritage site, blending ancient wonders with modern sustainability practices.

- the city is a hub for circular economy initiatives, hosting numerous workshops on product repair and upcycling, encouraging citizens to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle.

- catania's universities and research institutions are at the forefront of developing innovative waste reduction technologies, fostering a culture of knowledge-sharing and community involvement.

- the municipality has implemented comprehensive waste management strategies, including widespread recycling programs and incentives for zero waste businesses.

- catania celebrates an annual "zero waste week," featuring events, seminars, and activities aimed at educating and engaging the public in sustainable practices.

by intertwining its historical heritage with ambitious zero waste goals, catania stands as a model for cities worldwide, proving that tradition and innovation can coexist to create a more sustainable and inclusive urban environment.

sustainability snapshot

a beacon of circular living in the heart of the mediterranean

nestled at the foot of mount etna, catania's commitment to a sustainable future shines as brightly as the sicilian sun. this bustling urban landscape, rich with baroque architecture and vibrant street life, is making strides in embracing zero waste and circular economy principles.

achievements and objectives:

- catania has implemented comprehensive recycling programs, separating organic waste from recyclables and non-recyclables, which has significantly decreased landfill contributions.

- the city has seen the rise of community-led repair workshops, known as "repair cafés," where citizens can bring damaged goods for restoration, fostering a culture of repair and reuse.

- a circular economy incubator has been established to support startups focused on sustainable product design and waste reduction, showcasing catania's investment in green entrepreneurship.

ongoing projects:

- the municipality is expanding its urban composting facilities, aiming to convert more of its organic waste into valuable compost for local agriculture, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.

- catania is in the process of rolling out a city-wide educational campaign to inform residents about the benefits of a zero waste lifestyle, including workshops on sustainable living and waste reduction tactics.

- the city is investing in local markets promoting zero waste shopping, encouraging consumers to buy unpackaged goods and use their own containers.

future goals:

- catania aims to achieve a 50% reduction in waste sent to landfills by 2030, in line with ambitious regional and national environmental targets.

- plans are in place to develop a robust circular economy strategy that integrates with the city's tourism sector, promoting sustainable practices among businesses and visitors alike.

- the city is looking to expand its network of repair and share facilities, making it easier for citizens to access services that extend the life of products.

waste statistics:

- catania generates approximately 450 kg of waste per inhabitant per year, highlighting the urgency for waste reduction initiatives.

- through concerted recycling efforts, the city has achieved a recycling rate of around 30%, with a strategic goal to surpass 65% in the coming decade.

- the introduction of organic waste collection has diverted thousands of tons of waste from landfills, turning it into a resource for the fertile soils of the surrounding regions.

catania's journey toward a zero waste future is an inspiring example of how urban environments can pivot towards sustainability. with each step, the city is proving that preserving the beauty of its historic streets is not just about aesthetics; it's about embracing a lifestyle that honors the environment and heritage for generations to come. join us in this transformative movement, where every citizen's actions contribute to a cleaner, greener catania.