Regional Charter "Zero Plastic Waste in the Mediterranean" in South France region
About this good practice
Every year, millions of tonnes of plastic materials end up in the Mediterranean Sea, making it one of the most polluted seas in the world. The South Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur Region is proposing a "Zero Plastic Waste" commitment charter, which has been led by the Regional Agency for Biodiversity and the Environment (ARBE) since April 2019.
The signatories are committed to 3 axes of action:
- Raise awareness on plastic reduction (commitments from all stakeholders in the territory, organisation of clean-ups)
- Implement a rational use of plastics (zero plastic waste purchasing policy, favour reusable alternatives)
- Manage and recover plastic waste (inventory, optimisation of the plastic waste sorting and collection system, promoting the reuse and repair of used plastic objects)
An action plan template with actions for each axis is provided to participants. Each signatory must vote on a deliberation, transmit an action plan and commit to evaluating and transmitting the results of implementation to the Region and the ARBE. Report cards are produced by the ARBE to highlight the actions carried out by the committed stakeholders.
Numerous tools were also developed by the ARBE to support the territories:
- Guide "Engaging your territory in a zero plastic waste approach" with many tips and examples of actions to implement
- Directory of zero plastic waste suppliers
- Organisation of thematic workshops and training
- Monthly newsletter to inform the participants
Expert opinion
The European Union considers improper plastic waste disposal and marine environment pollution a major issue. It is estimated that more than 150 million tonnes of plastics have accumulated in the world's oceans, while 4.6–12.7 million tonnes (from Jambeck et.al) are added every year. Despite Europe being directly responsible for only a minor fraction of the input, the EU has taken many initiatives in recent years to address the issue. Among these are the Plastics Strategy and the Single Use Plastic Directive, which specifically focuses on fishing gear, bans and regulates single-use products that end up in the oceans, introduces an extended producer responsibility scheme to cover the cost of litter clean-up, etc. The Green Deal’s Circular Economy Action Plan introduces measures related to microplastics, while the Zero Pollution Action Plan operates with targets to improve water quality by reducing waste, marine plastic litter (by 50%) and microplastics released into the environment (by 30%). In keeping with EU efforts, this excellent good practice shows how a regional agency can support local municipalities through trainings, guidelines and connections, and help them reduce plastic pollution and adopt zero waste policies. The example can be a source of valuable guidance on measures taken both locally and regionally for coastal areas.
Resources needed
The regional animation led by the ARBE requires one full time job. This includes the animation of the charter and all the complementary actions related to technical days and the development of tools for the signatories.
Evidence of success
208 organisations involved in the process.
24 action plans have already been evaluated and the main results are:
- 11,500 people reached directly by an action
- 5 local authorities committed to a "zero plastic waste" purchasing policy
- Distribution of alternatives to single-use plastics (5530 water bottles and cups, 7730 reusable bags)
- Elimination of single-use plastics in canteens (more than 5000 consumers targeted)
- Various waste collection (e.g. 32 tonnes of agricultural plastics)
Potential for learning or transfer
ARBE has been in existence for 40 years and has developed a large network of stakeholders who have been asked to participate in this regional initiative. The creation of this charter allows the development of a complete regional dynamic around the reduction of plastic waste (participation of public authorities but also of companies, associations and schools). The high participation prove the willingness of local and regional stakeholders to take concrete steps to reduce plastic waste, each at their own level.
All regions, and in particular coastal regions, which are especially affected by plastic waste, can draw inspiration from this action. This approach also makes it possible to highlight the exemplary actions of the signatories and to inspire the participating territories and stakeholders.
Further information
Website
Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.
ARBE