Rome Earns ‘Plastic Free City’ Award for the First Time
Rome has officially been designated a ‘Plastic Free City,’ an award recognizing its significant commitment to combating plastic pollution and promoting sustainable practices. This marks the first time the Italian capital has received this honor, placing it among over 100 other Italian municipalities dedicated to environmental protection.
The award is granted by Plastic Free Onlus, a non-profit volunteer association founded in 2019. In 2025 alone, the association mobilized over 53,000 volunteers across Italy for environmental clean-up initiatives, including beaches, parks, and public areas, and promoted awareness campaigns in schools. Plastic Free Onlus collaborates with local and national entities, including municipal administrations and institutions, to advance concrete policies and actions against plastic pollution.
Key Initiatives and Collaborations
The recognition underscores Rome’s efforts in several key areas:
- Combating environmental incivility: Measures to reduce littering and illegal dumping.
- Promoting virtuous initiatives: Encouraging eco-friendly practices among residents and businesses.
- Managing urban waste: Improving waste collection and recycling systems.
- Collaboration with Plastic Free Onlus: A strong partnership that has led to numerous successful environmental projects.
Sabrina Alfonsi, the Councilor for Environment and Waste Cycle, expressed great satisfaction with the award. “This award demonstrates Rome’s commitment to these issues and the unity between the Administration and Plastic Free, whom I thank,” she stated. “This synergy has already manifested on many occasions: I think of the days dedicated to environmental care organized by Roma Capitale, such as the annual ‘Roma Cura Roma’ event, but also the initiatives planned within the protocol signed with Ama and Plastic Free for the improvement of urban decorum.”
Community Engagement for a Sustainable Future
Alfonsi further emphasized the importance of citizen participation: “We have chosen to accompany political actions with a participatory path that involves active citizenship for the protection of the territory, and this recognition encourages us to continue working to make Rome an even more sustainable city.” This approach highlights the city’s dedication to engaging its residents in creating a cleaner and greener environment.
How You Can Contribute
The success of Rome’s ‘Plastic Free City’ initiative relies on the continued support and participation of its citizens. Here are ways you can help:
- Reduce single-use plastics: Opt for reusable bags, water bottles, and containers.
- Participate in clean-up events: Join local clean-up drives organized by Plastic Free Onlus or the municipality.
- Proper waste disposal: Ensure you separate and dispose of your waste correctly, utilizing recycling facilities.
- Report illegal dumping: Inform authorities about any instances of environmental incivility.
- Spread awareness: Educate friends and family about the importance of reducing plastic pollution.
For more information on upcoming clean-up events and how to get involved, visit the official Plastic Free Onlus website or the Roma Capitale environmental initiatives page.
Further Reading and Resources
- Official Plastic Free Onlus Website: www.plasticfreeonlus.it
- Roma Capitale Environmental Initiatives: www.comune.roma.it/web/it/dipartimento-tutela-ambientale.page
- AMA (Azienda Municipale Ambiente) for waste management: www.amaroma.it
By working together, Rome can continue to build on this achievement and foster a truly sustainable future for all its residents and future generations.
Source: https://roma.corriere.it/notizie/cronaca/26_gennaio_15/plastic-free-roma-tra-le-cento-citta-premiate-per-l-impegno-contro-l-abbandono-della-plastica-6e38ca2d-d847-420a-ac53-42d64cd98xlk.shtml
