The WISE-WASTE (BSB00825) project, part of the Interreg NEXT Black Sea Basin 2021-2027 programme, is a dynamic transnational initiative aimed at reducing pollution in urban, rural, and coastal areas across the Black Sea Basin.
By integrating smart technologies and circular economy principles, the project seeks to make waste management more efficient, sustainable, and environmentally friendly.
The WISE-WASTE project is implemented over a period of 24 months, developing intervention activities across four different countries: Greece, Turkey, Bulgaria, and Georgia. The project establishes a strategic transnational cooperation to ensure the exchange of know-how and the implementation of innovative waste management solutions.
Aims and Objectives
Building on the success of the ZeroWasteBSB initiative, WISE-WASTE focuses on:
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Pollution Reduction: Limiting solid waste that ends up in rivers and the sea.
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Smart Management: Pilot testing cutting-edge technologies (fill-level sensors, smart bins) to optimize waste collection.
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Digital Innovation: Developing the joint WiseWaste App to inform and engage citizens.
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Empowerment & Education: Cultivating environmental awareness among local stakeholders and the youth.
The Partnership
The project is implemented by a strategic partnership of five organizations:
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Kirklareli Special Provincial Administration (Turkey) – Lead Partner
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Municipality of Kirklareli (Turkey)
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ANTIGONE – Information and Documentation Centre on Racism, Ecology, Peace and Non-Violence (Greece)
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Nesebar Municipality (Bulgaria)
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Imereti Scientists’ Union “Spectri” (Georgia)
The Role of ANTIGONE
ANTIGONE (Partner 3) leads the education and awareness-raising actions, focusing on the region of Central Macedonia:
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Educational Tools: Developing a specialized guide for educators and conducting “Training of Trainers” (ToT) seminars.
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School Activities: Organizing experiential workshops for students to encourage sustainable habits.
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Promotion of Digital Tools: Supporting the WiseWaste App, which features interactive games like “The Path of Waste” and a map of “Waste-Free Points.”
Innovative Pilot Actions
The project moves beyond theory to implement tangible solutions, such as:
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Smart Bins: Installation of bins equipped with solar panels and sensors that provide real-time data on waste levels.
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Reverse Vending Machines: Placing machines in schools where students can recycle plastic bottles in exchange for rewards (e.g., stationery).
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Coastal Cleaning: Expanding waste management services to unregulated or remote beaches to protect marine life.
Co-funded by the European Union.
