Monaco continues its push for sustainability, with recycling initiatives and regulations aimed at reducing waste and phasing out single-use plastics by 2030.
Global Recycling Day, observed annually on 18 March, reflects the importance of recycling and sustainable resource management. Established in 2018 by the Global Recycling Foundation, the day raises awareness about the role of recycling in conserving natural resources, reducing landfill waste, and lowering carbon emissions in the fight against climate change.
Monaco’s recycling initiatives
Monaco has long prioritised waste reduction and recycling, with local authorities implementing a range of measures under the ‘Reduce, Reuse, Recycle’ framework. These efforts are designed to limit waste production at public events, encourage reuse, and improve recycling infrastructure across the Principality.
To minimise single-use waste, the Mairie de Monaco has replaced disposable cups with Ecocups at the Christmas Village, while the ‘La Petite Boîte’ initiative allows restaurant customers to take home unfinished meals, helping to cut down on food waste. Events such as the Cavagnëtu picnic have also adopted returnable bottles instead of single-use alternatives.
Reuse initiatives are also in place. The Mùnegu Repair Café offers free repairs for small appliances several times a year, while a plant donation programme allows residents to rehome unwanted greenery.
Meanwhile, shared libraries under the ‘Làscia e Piya!’ initiative—located at Parc Princesse Antoinette and the Marché de la Condamine—encourage book exchanges rather than disposal.
Monaco has also strengthened its recycling infrastructure with selective sorting stations across communal sites, cigarette butt collection points, and a shared composting system at Parc Princesse Antoinette, which transforms organic waste into fertiliser for public gardens.
Regulatory measures supporting waste reduction
Beyond these municipal initiatives, Monaco’s government has introduced strict regulations to phase out single-use plastic waste by 2030. Since 2023, restaurants and cafés have been required to serve meals on reusable dishes for on-site dining, and sales receipts are no longer printed by default.
Additional regulations have targeted takeaway waste. Employers with cafeterias must provide reusable dishware, consumers have the right to use their own containers, and disposable cutlery can no longer be offered for free. The government has also launched MaConsigne, a returns system for takeaway containers aimed at further reducing disposable packaging.
These measures form part of Monaco’s broader waste prevention and management strategy, reinforcing long-term efforts to promote sustainable consumption habits. Global Recycling Day serves as a timely reminder of the importance of these initiatives, demonstrating Monaco’s continued commitment to reducing waste and improving recycling practices.
Watch Monaco Life’s reel highlighting Monaco’s recycling initiatives below:
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Photo source: Mairie de Monaco Facebook