city overview

nestled on the sun-kissed shores of mallorca, palma stands as a vibrant testament to the blend of ancient charm and modern sustainability. this bustling mediterranean hub is not just the island's capital but also a beacon of eco-conscious living, where the cobalt waves meet a skyline dotted with gothic architecture. in palma, every narrow street and bustling plaza tells a story of a community deeply committed to harmonizing their rich cultural heritage with innovative zero waste principles.

fun facts

- palma is home to the stunning la seu cathedral, a gothic marvel that took almost 400 years to complete, symbolizing the city's dedication to preserving history while embracing the future.

- the city has implemented a comprehensive bicycle-sharing program, encouraging residents and visitors alike to opt for greener, pedal-powered transportation.

- palma boasts a unique initiative where local artisans and shops promote the repair and reuse of goods, from clothing to electronics, fostering a thriving circular economy.

- the annual "palma green days" festival highlights sustainability through workshops, eco-friendly markets, and public art installations, making environmental education accessible and engaging.

- in an effort to reduce plastic waste, many of palma's cafes, bars, and restaurants have pledged to eliminate single-use plastics, offering biodegradable alternatives instead.

- palma's urban gardens are not only green oases but also community-centric spaces where city dwellers can learn about composting, organic gardening, and local biodiversity.

- the city has set ambitious zero waste goals, with policies aimed at significantly reducing landfill waste by enhancing recycling programs and incentivizing waste reduction at the source.

sustainability snapshot

city's zero waste achievements:

- palma has implemented comprehensive recycling programs, achieving a recycling rate of 30% and aiming for 50% by 2025.

- the city has banned single-use plastics in municipal facilities and major events, significantly reducing plastic waste.

- several zero waste shops have been established, offering bulk buying options and reducing packaging waste.

- palma has introduced a city-wide composting program to manage organic waste, diverting it from landfills and reducing methane emissions.

circular economy strategies:

- the municipality has incentivized local businesses to adopt circular economy principles, such as designing for longevity and facilitating product reuse and repair.

- a circular economy incubator has been launched to support startups focused on waste reduction and resource recovery.

- palma has invested in a resource recovery facility that refurbishes and repurposes electronics and appliances, keeping them in use longer.

repair initiatives:

- repair cafes have been established throughout palma, offering free repair services for electronics, clothing, and household items to extend their lifespan.

- the city has introduced a "right to repair" ordinance, requiring manufacturers to make repair manuals and parts available to consumers and independent repair shops.

- palma has developed a repair directory, connecting residents with local repair services and encouraging the repair economy.

future goals:

- palma aims to become a zero-waste city by 2030, with strategies to further reduce waste generation and increase diversion from landfills.

- expansion of the urban composting program to include all multi-family dwellings.

- launch of an awareness campaign promoting the adoption of zero waste lifestyles, including workshops on diy repairs and upcycling.

waste statistics:

- current waste generation per capita: 1.2 kg/day

- waste diverted from landfills: 45%

- average recycling rate: 30%

- number of zero waste-certified businesses: 15

- percentage of waste reduced through repair initiatives: estimated 5% reduction annually

engagement activities:

- monthly zero waste challenge: residents are encouraged to reduce waste and share their experiences on social media.

- annual sustainable living festival: showcasing local sustainable businesses, repair workshops, and zero waste lifestyle solutions.

- school programs: educating the next generation on the importance of waste reduction, recycling, and the circular economy.

the city of palma is dedicated to leading by example in sustainability and is committed to engaging its citizens in creating a healthier, waste-free future.