The RU READY project, co-funded by the Interreg IPA Programme “Greece-North Macedonia 2021-2027”, was showcased at the conference on Innovative Waste Collection Systems , organized by DIADYMA S.A. on February 5, 2026, at the Pontic Cultural Center in Kozani, as part of the European project VERDEinMED (Interreg Euro-MED Programme).
The event brought together representatives from over 55 municipalities across Greece, highlighting the growing need for common standards, coordinated waste management practices, and innovative solutions in a rapidly evolving sector.
Special attention was given to the RU READY project and its contribution to smart, incentive-based recycling and reuse systems.
The National Centre for Research and Technology (CERTH), Project Partner 2 of RU READY, was represented by Dr. Kotoula Kornilia Maria, who presented the concept of Smart Recycling, emphasizing:
- Digital waste collection bins for more efficient collection and monitoring.
- Reward mechanisms and digital incentives to drive positive behavioral change.
- The “Earn As You Throw” system, a key deliverable and one of the core objectives of the RU READY project.
Additionally, the Managing Authority INTERREG 2021–2027 was represented by Ms. Kalliopi Evgenidou, who presented a series of co‑funded waste management projects from the Interreg cross-border Programmes (“Greece – Albania”, “Greece – North Macedonia”, “Greece – Bulgaria”, “Greece – Cyprus” and “Greece – Italy”) for the periods 2014‑2020 and 2021‑2027.
In parallel with the event, a series of podcasts was produced, featuring:
- Manolis Grafakos, Secretary General of Solid Waste Coordination Management, Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources
- Nora Saous, Financial Manager of the CircularGreece Project (LIFE18 IPE/GR/000013)
- Periklis Kafasis, Head of the Procurements, Services and Programs Directorate of DIADYMA S.A.
- Eleftheria Votsari, Communication Officer of the Interreg IPA Programme “Greece–North Macedonia 2021–2027”
The conference served as a valuable platform for dialogue on modern waste management approaches, demonstrating how innovation, digital tools, and cross-border cooperation can accelerate the transition toward a circular economy.
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Source: DIADYMA newsroom