Major lapses in recycling noted in letter to ministry

The Hellenic Solid Waste Management Association (EESDA) has noted serious gaps and problems in recycling in Greece. 

In a letter to the Environment Ministry, it said, “There are long-standing difficulties in the timely and effective implementation of legislation, as well as the operation of the competent authorities and bodies.” 

At the core of the criticism is the Hellenic Recycling Organization (EOAN), which is dramatically understaffed at a time when it has taken on particularly important responsibilities. 

It also added that non-compliance with the legislation has increased (sale of banned single-use plastics) while also bemoaning that penalties and fines are almost zero. 

EESDA proposes to change the legal form of EOAN so that it can increase its staff. At the same time, it said EOAN should be stripped of its responsibilities, which should be taken over by other Environment Ministry bodies.