Today, the last link in the production system, waste production, is often overlooked. The dramatic data on the total production of municipal waste and the percentage of waste segregation prove this. This lack of attention has ensured that a solution to the problem of waste management can no longer be postponed. Tourism, in particular, is an increasingly important sector of the economy, both for induced activities and for the actors employed, and this leads to a significantly higher share of waste production. The Zero Waste approach can contribute to solving this crisis, as it aims to avoid the production of waste itself and to rethink production and consumption methods. _x000D_
This work presents an action-research developed in Friuli Venezia Giulia, focusing on students and aiming at raising awareness on waste management and spreading Zero Waste practises among the young generation. The research activity concerns the coastal resorts of Grado and Lignano Sabbiadoro and the mountain destinations of Sappada and Tarvisio. These are resorts characterised by significant tourist flows and where waste generation peaks seasonally. The project focused on four middle schools (250 students) and four tourism vocational schools (350 students). _x000D_
Non-formal educational methods (theatrical animation workshops, discussion techniques, presenting litter-free objects) were used together with standard procedures (online questionnaire, presentation) to arouse students’ interest, activate different skills (public speaking, working in a group) and increase personal awareness. _x000D_
The initial results of our research show that students have a basic and generally approximate knowledge of waste management. However, they understand the most important aspects of waste production at home and at school and recognise which problems need to be addressed. Finally, they understand and appreciate Zero Waste principles and are willing to take action to change their behaviour for a better common future.
Andrea Guaran, Federico Venturini
University of Udine
ID Abstract: 251