Work

Innovative Strategies of Sustainable Waste Management in Recreational Activities for a Clean and Safe Environment in Turkey, Lithuania, and Morocco

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Forested areas are defined as wooded regions characterized by dense vegetation, largely preserved natural ecosystem features, and availability for recreational use. These areas play a critical role in maintaining ecological balance and are increasingly utilized as preferred sites for various outdoor activities. However, the growing intensity of recreational activities in such sensitive ecosystems contributes to increased waste generation and poses significant threats to environmental sustainability. The objective of this study is to calculate the carbon footprint resulting from waste produced during recreational activities in forested areas of Lithuania, Turkey, and Morocco, and to identify innovative waste management strategies aimed at achieving clean and safe forest ecosystems. This study includes a comparison of Turkey, Lithuania, and Morocco. Quantitative data and carbon footprint calculations were conducted, while quantitative methods were also employed through semi-structured interviews with experts. Firstly, carbon footprint calculations were carried out based on the types and amounts of waste generated by participants. Subsequently, semi-structured interviews were conducted with experts and participants from all three countries to identify issues related to waste management and innovative waste management strategies. The carbon footprint resulting from waste generation was estimated to be 1517.26 kg in Turkey, 613.25 kg in Lithuania, and 735.68 kg in Morocco. Experts from Turkey, Lithuania, and Morocco have proposed innovative solutions for improving waste management systems in their respective countries. In Turkey, the predominant view emphasizes the need for increased use of digital tools, stricter enforcement measures, a rise in the number of personnel and waste bins, as well as the expansion of volunteer-based initiatives. In Lithuania, priority is given to educational and awareness-raising activities, updates to legal regulations, the placement of recycling bins, the development of infrastructure, and the promotion of environmentally friendly projects. In Morocco, it is highlighted that there is a need for stronger enforcement mechanisms, updated legal frameworks, increased staffing, more frequent waste collection, and the implementation of educational programs.

Source: Forests

DOI: 10.3390/f16060997

Authors: Dalia Perkumienė, Ahmet Atalay, Larbi Safaa, Mindaugas Škėma, Marius Aleinikovas

Institutions: Vytautas Magnus University, Ardahan University, Kauno kolegija Higher Education Institution, Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry

Language: English

Topic: Municipal Solid Waste Management

Subfield: Waste Management and Disposal

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Life on land, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137