Velika Gorica on the Path to “Zero Waste” Certification

At today’s press conference in Velika Gorica, participants included the Mayor of Velika Gorica, along with representatives from VG Čistoća and Zelena akcija—the national coordinator of the Zero Waste Europe network, which awards this certification.

The “Zero Waste” certificate recognises best practices in waste management across the EU. In Croatia, it has so far been awarded only to municipalities on the island of Krk, the city of Prelog, and several municipalities in Međimurje County. Velika Gorica is set to become the largest Croatian city to join this group of exemplary European waste management models, serving as a leading example for other major cities in the country.

In recent years, Velika Gorica has made significant progress in improving its waste management system. Initiatives include the opening of a new recycling yard, enhancements to separate waste collection, and the introduction of fairer waste collection fee structures. These steps have made waste disposal easier for residents and have also reduced the volume of waste being landfilled.

The logical next step is to adopt new, ambitious goals and join the international “Zero Waste” strategy, which encourages the implementation of numerous effective measures in line with the public interest, environmental protection, and waste management hierarchy priorities.

VG Čistoća and Zelena akcija have prepared a “Zero Waste Declaration”—a resolution for implementing a strategy aimed at maximising waste reduction and increasing reuse, recycling, and composting. The resolution sets out ambitious five-year targets: achieving a 65% rate of separately collected waste and reducing mixed waste from 137 kg to 100 kg per capita. Additionally, the municipal company will ensure that specific reuse and waste prevention models are implemented in Velika Gorica.

VG Čistoća and Zelena akcija will continue their cooperation through the Waste Management Council, which will develop recommendations for further advancement of the city’s sustainable waste management system. By carrying out these recommendations and meeting the outlined targets, Velika Gorica will meet the criteria for full certification in the near future. The certification will stand as a significant recognition for all residents who contribute to preserving the city’s high quality of life through their ongoing efforts.