Management of empty pesticide containers: The case of Edessa Municipality, Greece

Empty pesticide containers (EPCs) constitute a special waste stream of solid waste in rural areas. The aim of this case study is the assessment of the EPC municipal management system in Greece. The first stage of the WMS-DSC framework was chosen as the assessment method. In the case of the Municipality of Edessa, Greece, the coverage percentage of collection points, was estimated at 75.1%. The collection rate was estimated at 85.0%. Increasing the number of collection points and adopting pay-back mechanisms, would have a positive effect on collected quantities. The EPCs collection stations could operate within the municipal green points or near to the sprayer water- filling points, adhering strictly to specific, environmentally friendly specifications. A return receipt to growers, only after the return of cleaned EPCs would be useful as proof of compliance with the law and facilitate the official control procedures, preventing illegal practices. Educational programs for pupils in schools and awareness campaigns would significantly boost municipal collection efforts, yielding great environmental benefits. The study’s results can also be valuable for planning and developing other approved management systems.