Punctual rate - Pay-as-you-throw system in six italian municipalities
About this good practice
The implementation of Pay-As-You-Throw (PAYT) systems is a powerful strategy for promoting environmentally responsible waste management behaviors. PAYT is recognized in both European and national frameworks as a key tool for optimizing recycling, preventing waste, and ensuring fairness through the "polluter pays" principle. This system links fees directly to the amount of waste generated by each user, incentivizing waste reduction and increased recycling. Essentially, PAYT divides the cost of waste management services based on the waste each user produces, ensuring a fairer cost distribution. A key technological enabler of PAYT is RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology, which allows for tracking waste containers using electronic tags or transponders. These devices store and communicate data to readers, ensuring accurate waste measurement and billing.The PAYT implementation process involves several stages, including preparing and verifying user databases, selecting and installing hardware and software, and associating users with designated containers. Clear communication with users is essential for compliance. Once operational, waste readings begin, followed by the application of tariff mechanisms and a simulation period with mock billing, followed by recalibration if needed.
This structured approach ensures smooth operation, encouraging communities to take greater responsibility for waste, boosting recycling rates, and reducing waste generation.
Expert opinion
Resources needed
The punctual tariff system requires RFID transponders on waste containers, a dedicated team for installation, equipment to read RFID tags during collection, and administrative systems to process data to ensure tracking of waste volumes and fair tariff application, promoting responsible disposal.
Evidence of success
The introduction of TARI.P in 2022 across six municipalities led to a 15.29% reduction in unsorted waste (-1,022,620 kg) and a 15.26% drop in per capita waste. The most significant decline occurred in 2022 (-15.35%), proving the PAYT system's effectiveness. Despite a slight increase in 2024 (+2.08%), the overall trend shows improved waste management, increased recycling, and optimized collection through RFID tracking, promoting long-term sustainability.
Potential for learning or transfer
The PAYT (Pay-As-You-Throw) system holds significant potential in transforming waste management practices in several key ways. Environmentally, it motivates people to recycle more and reduce waste, which leads to less waste in landfills and a more efficient use of resources. From an economic perspective, PAYT can lower disposal costs for municipalities while generating additional revenue from recyclable materials. Socially, it makes the payment system fairer by tying fees directly to the amount of waste each household or business generates, promoting equity. It also raises public awareness and encourages a shared responsibility for waste management, creating a stronger connection between people and the impact of their actions. Moreover, the system helps to identify and tackle illegal dumping. Overall, PAYT fosters a more sustainable, transparent waste management system, and its success can be adapted and applied to other regions seeking to improve their own waste management.
Further information
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