In 2025, the Algarve municipality collected 2,574 tonnes of bio-waste, achieving a collection rate of 27%, slightly above the 26% target established for the year.

As reported by Sul Informação, the result means that Lagoa will be entitled to an adjustment of the Waste Management Fee (TGR) paid to ALGAR in 2025, with an estimated reimbursement of €104,000.

Of the total waste collected, 486 tonnes came from food waste, while the remaining 2,088 tonnes consisted of green waste, mainly from garden maintenance.

The municipality believes the improvement is largely due to the growing participation of residents, businesses and local institutions in its separate waste collection programmes.

How does the collection system work?

Food waste collection in Lagoa is organised through the LAGOA VALORIZA+ project, which offers two different collection services.

The first is aimed at larger producers of food waste, including hotels, restaurants, schools and other institutions. The second is designed for households across the municipality, allowing residents to separate their organic waste from general rubbish.

For green waste, residents and gardening companies can use the Espaço Cerca da Lapa Waste Collection Centre in Lagoa, where garden waste can be deposited.

The figures were confirmed through information and calculations provided by the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA), which established that Lagoa had exceeded its annual collection target by one percentage point.

Lagoa Mayor Luís Encarnação said the results show that the efforts made by the council, residents and local businesses are paying off.

He also pointed out that separating waste correctly not only helps the environment but can also save the municipality money, as shown by the €104,000 it is now expected to receive.

He explained that the achievement reflects the work carried out by the council together with residents, businesses and institutions, and shows that the municipality is moving in the right direction when it comes to sustainable waste management.

The mayor also pointed out that separating organic waste correctly has benefits beyond the environment, as demonstrated by the financial reimbursement the municipality is expected to receive.

Lagoa is now encouraging more residents to join LAGOA VALORIZA+, with the aim of increasing the amount of organic waste collected separately and reducing the amount sent to general rubbish disposal.

Residents wishing to join the LAGOA VALORIZA+ project can find more information and sign up through the official website, by emailing biorresiduos@cm-lagoa.pt, or by visiting the Balcão Único or their local parish council.

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