NEWS: E-Waste Market Study Presents Challenges and Recommendations for Western Greece

The region of Western Greece, situated in the western part of the country, encompasses the regional units of Aetoloacarnania, Achaia, and Ilia. Geographically, it is bordered by the Ionian Sea to the west and functions as a strategic corridor connecting the Peloponnese with mainland Greece. Its location and role render it a significant area both in terms of economic activity and environmental management.

In alignment with national priorities and European Union policy frameworks, Western Greece actively engages in initiatives aimed at modernizing waste collection and management systems. Particular emphasis has been placed on the management of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE). Greek legislation has designated WEEE as a priority waste stream due to its hazardous properties, its rapidly increasing quantities, and the considerable environmental impacts associated with the production and disposal of electrical and electronic devices. Despite this recognition, available data for Western Greece remain limited. Nevertheless, existing indicators suggest that the region reflects the national trend, wherein Greece has consistently lagged behind EU targets for WEEE collection and recovery.

Within the framework of the CIRCLEWASTE project, the Institute AEIPLOUS conducted a comprehensive market assessment. This assessment, which combined desk research with insights gathered from 20 stakeholders, identified a range of systemic weaknesses and operational challenges. Key issues include:

  • Inadequate regulatory enforcement
  • Significant volumes of e-waste bypassing official collection and recycling channels
  • Deficiencies in monitoring and tracking mechanisms
  • Financial and infrastructural limitations

Furthermore, the findings underline the persistent lack of public awareness and the insufficient engagement of citizens in sustainable waste practices.

To effectively address these challenges, the project proposes a set of recommendations designed to:

  • Enhance enforcement
  • Strengthen collection systems
  • Improve financial and infrastructural capacity
  • Foster active participation from both local communities and institutional actors

More information on the study 👉🏼 here

Prepared by PP4 Institute for Innovation & Sustainable Development (AEIPLOUS), August 2025