The 9th edition of the European Week for Waste Reduction (EWWR) is sweeping across Europe. The past few days have seen over 13 000 events pull in crowds of volunteers to reduce waste, reuse products and recycle materials.
Launched as a LIFE project in 2009, the EWWR has been raising awareness about waste prevention for almost a decade. Its objective is to change public consumption patterns and waste habits, so as to bring about a thriftier, more sustainable society.
At present, the average European throws out half a tonne of waste each year. In addition to the cost of producing and disposing of these resources, their lifecycle from factories to landfills imposes unsustainable strains on the environment.
The theme of EWWR this year is “Reuse & Repair: Give it a new life!” – a topic that resonates fondly with a growing community of Fab Lab enthusiasts and patrons of repair cafés. By taking apart broken consumer products and giving them a new lease of life, these tinkerers are helping to stimulate a wiser, circular economy.
This shift from the throw-away attitude of modern markets involves a deeper appreciation for the resources used to manufacture consumer products. At present, the long-term value of raw materials and the cost of their externalities are not factored into shop prices. It will take a change in public mind-set to fill in the gap until regulations catch up.
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Photo:EWWR
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The change need not be a difficult one. For nine years now, the EWWR has helped organise events that have brought people together to have fun whilst learning to act in an environmentally responsible way. Events this week ranged from scrap dinners in Cyprus and school visits in Poland. An action in Portugal set out to reduce waste by repairing old furniture and donating it to families in need. The interactive nature of activities lends them a strong community spirit. EWWR itself has deep European roots. Attracting millions of followers in previous year, it is the largest gathering of its kind in the EU. The event offers an international stage for good ideas, bridging local enthusiasm with global aspirations. |
This year, EWWR is encouraging participants to join efforts across national borders. Initiatives have notably gotten school children exchanging tips on reducing waste and protecting the environment across Spain, the UK and other EU countries.
Another highlight of EWWR is its accessibility. The EWWR secretariat stresses that companies, local government and individuals are all welcome to take part. As waste is of public concern, it makes sense to invite everyone to bring their ideas on how they can contribute to reducing it.
The EWWR coordinates this movement and helps where it can. The project’s website notably shares ideas on using and repairing products that might otherwise be thrown away. It also provides tips on how to avoid habits that lead to waste in the first place. Getting people involved helps them think more clearly about the issue, and ultimately favours sound policy and sustainable behaviour in the future.
Source: © European Union, 1995-2017