Explore with us the impact of underground waste collection in European Cities

Have you seen our new report, Beneath the Surface: Insights from Six Cities Changing Their Waste Collection?  In it, we examine how six European cities—Antwerp, Porto, Rotterdam, Florence, Hamburg, and Barcelona—are transforming their waste collection systems through underground containers. By analysing the efficiency, urban aesthetics, sorting performance, and economic viability of these initiatives, the report provides valuable insights into how such systems can enhance waste management. While underground containers improve convenience and free up public space, the findings suggest that they are not a standalone solution to increasing sorting performance and must be integrated into a broader strategy combining awareness campaigns and incentivising measures. 

The study highlights both the successes and challenges of underground waste collection, from optimised collection routes and reduced operational costs in Florence to persistent issues such as illegal dumping in some cities. Strategic container placement, public engagement, and smart monitoring technologies are identified as key factors for success. As urban areas continue to grow, this report serves as a resource for policymakers and waste management professionals seeking innovative solutions for cleaner, more efficient cities.  

While the full report is available exclusively to ACR+ members, an executive summary with key takeaways is publicly available. So make sure you connect to the website’s private area to download your copy.