city overview

nestled between the mediterranean sea and the collserola mountain range, barcelona stands as a beacon of cultural richness, architectural marvels, and a burgeoning hub for sustainability and innovation. this catalonian capital is not only famed for its gothic quarters, surreal modernist landmarks by antoni gaudí, and vibrant street life but also for its commitment to environmental stewardship and the pursuit of a circular economy. barcelona is forging ahead with ambitious zero waste goals, championing product repair, and encouraging its residents to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle.

fun facts

- barcelona is home to europe's largest roof-top urban garden, showcasing the city's dedication to green spaces and local food production.

- the city has initiated a pioneering "superblocks" project, reimagining urban mobility and reclaiming streets for people and nature, reducing pollution, and promoting a cleaner environment.

- it hosts an annual "festival of repair," a unique event that brings together artisans, technicians, and the community to repair, share knowledge, and celebrate sustainability.

- barcelona boasts a comprehensive network of recycling facilities and innovative waste management systems, aiming for zero waste by implementing reduction, reuse, and recycling strategies comprehensively.

- the city is a pioneer in adopting the circular economy principles, with numerous startups and initiatives focusing on upcycling and repurposing materials, significantly reducing the environmental impact.

- barcelona's public transport system is among the most eco-friendly in europe, with a fleet of electric buses, hybrid taxis, and extensive bike-sharing programs, making green travel convenient and accessible.

- it has set ambitious targets for renewable energy, aiming to significantly reduce its carbon footprint and transition to 100% renewable sources by 2050.

through these endeavors, barcelona is not just a city with a vision for a sustainable future but a living laboratory for zero waste policies, circular economy models, and a testament to what urban environments can achieve in the fight against climate change.

sustainability snapshot

barcelona, a city renowned for its vibrant culture and architectural marvels, is also paving the way toward a more sustainable future. the city’s commitment to zero waste is embodied in its comprehensive waste management strategies, aiming at reducing waste generation and promoting a circular economy.

notable achievements:

- barcelona has implemented a robust selective collection system that encourages residents to sort waste into distinct categories for recycling and composting.

- the city has enacted measures to curb the use of single-use plastics and is actively promoting reusable alternatives.

- local organizations have partnered with the city to launch repair cafés and workshops, empowering citizens to extend the life of their products.

ongoing projects:

- the "green points network" (punts verds) initiative facilitates recycling by offering numerous drop-off points for household waste that requires special treatment.

- barcelona is investing in innovative urban composting projects, turning organic waste into valuable resources right in the heart of the city.

- the "circular economy strategy 2030" outlines the city's plan to transform its economic model by designing out waste and keeping products and materials in use.

future goals:

- to achieve a 50% waste reduction by 2030, in line with the european union’s targets.

- expansion of the city’s repair and reuse sectors, creating a stronger market for second-hand goods.

- further integration of circular economy principles into local businesses and municipal operations.

waste statistics:

- barcelona generates approximately 1.36 million tons of waste annually.

- the recycling rate in the city has been steadily increasing, with figures around 35-40%, signaling progress but also highlighting areas for improvement.

- organic waste collection has seen a significant boost, with the introduction of brown bins across the city.

engage with barcelona's zero waste journey by participating in local initiatives, staying informed about waste sorting regulations, and supporting the repair and second-hand markets. every resident has an active role to play in shaping a sustainable, waste-wise city.