Barcelona Zero Waste Observatory: residents and experts shaping city policy

A city advisory body where zero waste is built in public

The Barcelona Zero Waste Observatory is an advisory body created by Barcelona City Council to bring together Zero Waste experts, civil society organisations, and community representatives who drive the zero waste movement in the city. Rezero: the Catalan Zero Waste organisation is one of the founding participants. The Observatory coordinates communication between the City Council and the entities running projects on the ground, giving residents and advocates a direct channel into municipal decision-making.

What the Observatory does

• Brings together 20+ organisations working on waste reduction, reuse, and circular economy in Barcelona
• Serves as the official advisory body to the city on Zero Waste policy and plans
• Facilitates joint projects: from school food surplus management to plastic-free market studies
• Publishes findings and recommendations publicly

How to get involved

• Follow Rezero for Observatory updates and public consultation opportunities
• Attend open events where Observatory members present findings to Barcelona residents
• If you run a Zero Waste initiative in Barcelona, contact Rezero about joining the Observatory network

Why it matters

Cities that embed civil society into policy structures tend to make stronger and longer-lasting zero waste commitments. The Barcelona Observatory is a governance model other European cities are watching closely.

Source & repost

Shared here so you can get inspired or find action already happening near you. Solarpunker does not own or organise it.

• Rezero: rezero.cat
• Report chapter: ZWE State of Zero Waste Municipalities, 5th edition