The Municipality of Veria participates in the European Week for Waste Reduction 2025 with the action “Action ON – Pollution OFF”, aiming to promote responsible management of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) and encourage sustainable practices among citizens and schools.

The action invites schools and citizens to collect unused or broken electrical and electronic devices for recycling, preventing valuable materials from being discarded as waste. After collecting their devices, participants can leave them at designated collection points organized by the Municipality, ensuring safe and proper disposal. These collection activities are complemented by awareness and educational campaigns that highlight the importance of waste prevention, reuse, and circular practices. Visits will be organized to schools across all primary and secondary education levels that express interest, providing interactive presentations and discussions on responsible environmental behavior, recycling, and the principles of the circular economy.

In synergy with the Municipality, the Public Central Library of Veria implements the educational program “A Bunch of Things”, designed for kindergartens and 1st grade primary school students. Through the story of two magpies, Meg and Ash, who collect various items to build their nest, children explore concepts of reuse, recycling, and sustainability with humor and creativity. The program includes storytelling, creative activities, art projects, and discussions, helping children understand how everyday objects can be repurposed and introducing them to the principles of the circular economy. This program emphasizes practical, hands-on learning, encouraging children to see environmental care as both a personal responsibility and a community contribution.

Appliances Recycling S.A., a Collective System for the Alternative Management of WEEE approved by the Hellenic Recycling Organization (HRA), also collaborates with the Municipality, providing additional recycling bins for small appliances, light bulbs, toner, and ink cartridges, ensuring that collected devices are safely processed and recycled.

Through the combined efforts of the Municipality, the Public Central Library, and Appliances Recycling S.A., this action creates a comprehensive, multi-level approach to waste reduction, combining practical recycling opportunities with educational outreach. By actively involving citizens, students, and schools, the initiative empowers environmental awareness, community engagement, and sustainable habits, moving Veria towards a more circular and sustainable city.

Every device collected and every student engaged contributes to the message that Reuse is ON and Waste is OFF, demonstrating that small, coordinated actions can lead to significant environmental impact.