Experimental project for the separate collection of polyethylene goods

Out of over 4,600 tons of plastics waste collected, almost half was found to be polyethylene, approximately 2,300 tons, which represents a small "treasure" made up of a 100% recyclable material that, if properly sorted, can be turned into new products. This is the result of the experimental project carried out between 2022 and 2024 by Ecopolietilene, a consortium of the Ecolight System that supports producers, importers, distributors, and recyclers in the management of polyethylene waste, and STR, a Piedmont-based company that handles urban waste management and treatment in the province of Cuneo. This collaboration was established to monitor and improve the management of polyethylene goods waste in urban areas.

During the three years of the experiment, not only did the ability to separate plastic items from bulky waste increase, but it was also established that nearly half of the plastic waste taken to eco-centres (around 2,300 tons out of a total of 4,600 tons) could be traced to the "family" of polyethylene goods. Pipes, toys (non-electronic), household containers, gardening sheets, and bags were all selected for recycling to create secondary raw materials for use in manufacturing processes.