Behavioral science inspires new waste management approaches

The first partner meeting of the BEHAVE project took place on 17–18 June 2025 in Novo mesto, Slovenia. Six partner organisations from Slovenia, Belgium, Croatia, Italy, and Norway shared good practices in waste management, participated in training on behavioural change, and visited the future site of Urban Park Loka—a zero-waste public space.

BEHAVE focuses on improving waste management in high-traffic public areas like parks, tourist sites, and events, where waste is often poorly sorted. The four-year project uses behavioural science to identify patterns and develop strategies for sustainable change.

Highlights included presentations from:

• Brussels Environment (Belgium): Behavioural approaches to biowaste sorting and public cleanliness.

• ATA Rifiuti (Italy): Awareness campaigns and the KAYT (Know-As-You-Throw) approach.

• RA DUNEA (Croatia): Waste challenges in tourist destinations.

• Iris Salten (Norway): PAYT (Pay-As-You-Throw) solutions for seasonal tourism.

• Municipality of Novo mesto (Slovenia): Local recycling innovations and the Circular Innovation Centre.

The core of the meeting was a training and workshop on behavioural assessment and change, led by Fred Dorsimont from Behaven. Participants learned how to apply behavioural science to local waste strategies by identifying barriers and creating real-world solutions. 

The entire meeting was coordinated by ACR+. ACR+ aims to promote sustainable resource management and provides its partners with access to best practices, tools, and expertise to support the implementation of cutting-edge waste management and resource recovery strategies — both within their territories and beyond.