Dubiop’s transformative circular journey reaches its end, marking the end of Science For Change Citizen Science interventions in HOOP project

At Science for Change we have carried out citizen science activities in all HOOP cities to co-design an optimal selective collection of the organic fraction of urban solid waste and, in turn, raise awareness among citizens.

Biowaste separation challenges identified by the HOOP Trainers App users

Regarding the quantitative results obtained from the HOOP Trainers App across all the Lighthouses, the waste items causing the most uncertainty among participants vary from one territory to another. However, some recurring items include diapers, ceramics, and greasy pizza boxes. The primary motivations for implementing separate waste collections were to reduce the environmental impact of waste and contribute to the transformation of waste into bioproducts. Regrading the main obstacles encountered, they all shared global links to logistical challenges , a lack of information, and distrust issues.

Improvement proposals based on the HOOP Trainers’ outcomes emerged during the Biowaste Club Meetings

During the co-creation sessions designed and conducted by the HOOP partner Science for Change participants emphasized the importance of waste separation at home, suggesting measures like installing compost bins in accessible locations and incorporating strategic bins in public spaces. Recommendations also included providing suitable labelled waste bins for families, recycling bins in flat buildings and incorporating separate collection spaces in new home designs. Practical measures for accessible waste separation also included creating clear disposal guidelines.

Creative strategies for sustainable waste management were also identified, such as creating urban gardens with composting facilities and introducing a rewarding system for responsible waste disposal. Education and awareness-raising were key themes, with suggestions for improved labelling, packaging materials information, and recycling awareness for all age groups. Influencer’s engagement and social media content were proposed to promote recycling participation.

What’s next?

Following the initial Citizen Science interventions, the HOOP Trainers App has been adapted to the HOOP Lighthouses Greater Porto and Kuopio to suit their requirements and both cities are evaluating how to use the App.

All the results can be found at thr Academia Virtual de HOOP and in this deliverable “D6.4 Outcome reports of the codesigned Citizen Science Interventions”.