In 2007, Capannori rejected a new incinerator and embraced zero waste. 19 years later, its door-to-door system helped push recycling above 80% and inspire Italy’s movement

Capannori, a town near Lucca in Tuscany, developed a Zero Waste approach after residents opposed a proposed incinerator. Rossano Ercolini and Dr Paul Connett helped build opposition to the project, while later efforts focused on reducing waste and improving collection. Door-to-door collection expanded across the municipality, reaching 82% source separation by 2010, while selected areas using Pay As You Throw reached 90%. The town also promoted composting, reuse, refill systems, bulk shopping and waste prevention. Resident participation remained central through meetings, information campaigns and volunteers. Capannoris experience subsequently became an example of community involvement and policy-driven waste reduction.

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