Union for more efficient management
The municipalities of Igualada, Vilanova del Camí and Santa Margarida de Montbui have started an ambitious project to pool the garbage collection service, with the aim of improving efficiency in waste management.
A gradual process
The mayors have recognized that this change will not happen immediately, so a ‘bridge contract’ will be established which is expected to last two to three years. The mayor of Igualada, Marc Castells, has highlighted the importance of the current moment, given that the current collection contracts are about to expire.
Sustainable future and adaptation to European regulations
With more than 60,000 inhabitants between the three centres, the union of municipalities seeks not only greater strength when negotiating, but also to adapt to the directives of the European Union on waste management.
Current state of waste collection
Current collection rates are worrying: Igualada at 45%, Vilanova del Camí at 42%, and Santa Margarida de Montbui at 35%. Castells has expressed its dismay at these figures, which do not meet the new environmental requirements.
Model of containers and special collection
Currently, the three municipalities operate with an open container model, complemented by a door-to-door collection service for large producers, as is the case in Igualada.
A historic step towards collaboration
The signing of the protocol of intentions was a significant moment, where the mayors reflected on the joint effort made during the pandemic, which strengthened their capacity for collaborative work.
Financial challenge and future regulations
Castells recalled that the garbage collection service is the most expensive for the town councils, with costs ranging from 5 million euros in Igualada, 1.2 million in Vilanova del Camí and nearly 1 million in Santa Margaret of Montbui. In addition, he has warned that Europe will impose a significant change in the way these costs are passed on to citizens.
Future perspectives
With the desire to create synergies and improve access to subsidies, the mayors are convinced that this collaboration will allow them to face the challenges of waste management in a more effective and sustainable way.