Waste management on Lake Garda has reached an average of 75% of separate collection, according to data from Arpa 2022, as reported by Legambiente Lombardia. However, four municipalities – Tremosine, Gargnano, Limone, and Tignale – have not yet exceeded the threshold of 65%, due to the vastness and complexity of the territory, which makes separate disposal difficult. Among the most virtuous municipalities are Gardone Riviera with almost 82% and Manerba with 79%. Despite these positive results, there is still much to be done to improve the management of non-separated waste, especially in view of the tourist influx, which brings a significant waste load.
The major challenges include reducing the amount of non-separated waste and better managing the tourist flows that crowd the shores of the lake. According to a note from the Circolo Per il Garda in Sirmione, it is essential to reduce dry residue in order to avoid contamination of the lake waters. Analyses indicate that among the main components of microplastics in the lake are polystyrene, polyethylene, and polypropylene. The Goletta dei Laghi of Legambiente is currently engaged in monitoring the pollution of the waters of Lake Garda, with particular attention to sewage discharges, emphasizing the importance of greater efforts to ensure the environmental sustainability of the region.
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