Discussions about waste usually focus on recycling, sorting, or circular economy practices. However, the most crucial aspect is simply avoiding waste.
By creating the Poznań Zero Waste Map, city officials wanted to make this task easier for residents. A list of places was created to help extend the life of many everyday items. The map also makes it easier to share items that are still functional and in good condition. It helps reduce the purchase of yet another gadget that, after being used only once, ends up forgotten in a closet, drawer, or basement for years.
The locations on the map have been divided into five categories:
Second Life of Items
Food Points
Charity Shops and Donation Centres
Repair Services
Rental Services
The "Second Life of Items" category includes a wide range of places where fully functional, good-quality items such as clothes, books, household appliances, or sports equipment can be exchanged. These items can be found at designated drop-off locations in Poznań, where residents can leave unwanted items (known as "gratowiska'), as well as in neighborhood giveboxes. In some locations, using the service may involve a small fee.
The "Food Points" category includes places where meals are provided to people in need, called "jadłodajnie" and places where food can be left or taken free of charge, called "jadłodzielnie". While charity shops and donations centres typically help people in difficult situations, the map features more than just these locations. They also include neighborhood exchange points that are open for all residents to use. Under "Repair Services' the map lists small craft workshops offering services such as shoemaking, leatherworking, tailoring, watch repairs, and electrical or electronic repairs.
The "Rental Services" category includes all kinds of points where, for a fee, you can borrow items such as garden and workshop tools, board and video games, sports equipment, as well as costumes for carnival or wedding dresses.
The Poznań Zero Waste Map is a tool that can continue to grow and be expanded. Any user can submit a new point that fits the zero waste concept. Submissions are accepted via e-mail: eko-edukacja@um.poznan.pl.
