city overview

nestled in the heart of italy, rome stands as a testament to the convergence of ancient history and modern sustainability efforts. known globally for its breathtaking historical sites, rome is also paving the way for urban sustainability and embracing zero waste ambitions. as a city steeped in history, rome faces unique challenges in integrating zero waste principles within its ancient infrastructure, yet it's committed to transforming its narrative from a historical spectacle to a beacon of urban sustainability.

fun facts

- rome is home to the famous colosseum, an ancient amphitheater that has become a symbol of innovative architectural reuse over centuries.

- the city introduced an initiative allowing residents and tourists to exchange plastic bottles for public transportation credits, promoting recycling and reducing plastic waste.

- rome boasts several community repair workshops, known as "centri per il riuso", encouraging the repair and reuse of goods to extend their lifespan and reduce waste.

- the eternal city is pioneering in urban agriculture projects, converting unused urban spaces into productive green areas, supporting local food production and reducing food miles.

- rome's farmers markets are a testament to its commitment to the zero-mile diet, offering locally sourced and seasonal produce to reduce carbon footprint and support local economies.

- the city has implemented strict regulations on commercial activities to reduce single-use plastics in favor of biodegradable and compostable alternatives.

- rome's car-sharing and bike-sharing programs are part of its broader mobility strategy, aiming to reduce traffic congestion, lower pollution levels, and encourage sustainable urban transportation.

embracing its rich history while forging a sustainable future, rome exemplifies how ancient cities can lead in the global transition towards zero waste and circular economy principles.

sustainability snapshot

accomplishments and objectives:

zero waste achievements:

- rome has implemented comprehensive waste separation and recycling programs, which include organic waste collection for composting, contributing to a significant reduction in waste sent to landfills.

- the city has invested in educational campaigns to encourage citizens to reduce waste and increase recycling rates.

- initiatives such as "rome re-use" have been launched, promoting the culture of reusing and repurposing items to extend their life cycle and reduce waste.

circular economy efforts:

- rome has fostered partnerships with local businesses to develop circular economy models, such as the adoption of refill stations for cleaning products and the use of returnable packaging.

- the city supports urban agriculture projects that recycle organic waste into nutrients for community gardens, enhancing local food systems and reducing food miles.

- rome has encouraged the development of sharing economy platforms, enabling residents to share tools, vehicles, and other resources to minimize the need for new products.

repair initiatives:

- the municipality has sponsored repair cafes and workshops where citizens can learn how to fix various items, from electronics to textiles, thus promoting a culture of repair and maintenance.

- rome has established a network of "repair stations" offering services for bicycles, small appliances, and electronics, aiming to normalize the repair of everyday items.

- subsidies and incentives have been provided to local businesses that offer repair services, encouraging the growth of the repair sector within the city's economy.

future goals:

- rome aims to further decrease the percentage of waste sent to incineration and landfills by enhancing recycling programs and introducing more stringent regulations on waste production by businesses.

- the city plans to launch a zero-waste certification for businesses that successfully implement waste reduction and circular economy practices.

- rome is working on expanding its network of repair facilities and integrating repair education into the school curriculum to foster a generational shift towards sustainability.