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 “Stegi Pontiakou Politismou” 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:
• Mr. Manolis Grafakos, Secretary General of Solid Waste Coordination Management, Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources
• Ms. Nora Saous, Financial Manager of the Circular Greece Project
• Mr. Periklis Kafasis, Head of the Procurements, Services and Programs Directorate of DIADYMA S.A.
• Ms. 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.
For more information on the RU READY project, visit: https://greece-northmacedonia.eu/project/ru-ready/
