ECOLE: Pilot Project in the Zalog Industrial Zone for Improved Waste Oil Management
The Regional Development Agency of the Ljubljana Urban Region (RRA LUR), as partner of the ECOLE project: Network of Eco-Industrial Parks for Strengthening Smart and Circular Economy in Alpine Regions, is exploring opportunities for closer collaboration between companies in ten industrial zones across seven European countries. The goal is to establish sustainable practices that contribute to a more circular economy and strengthen relationships with the wider community.
For its pilot project, RRA LUR has focused on the Zalog Industrial Park in Ljubljana. In collaboration with key partners, the agency will develop technical and communication frameworks for the systematic collection of used cooking oils in the Zalog neighborhood. Improper disposal of these oils often leads to sewage system blockages and reduces the efficiency of wastewater treatment. However, when properly collected, used cooking oil becomes a valuable sustainable energy source.
Having confirmed a high interest for a managed collection of these oils among the neighbouring community of the Industrial park Zalog, RRA LUR has partnered with companies in the park – the public company, authorized for waste collection and with KOTO, a company specializing in circular waste management, which also processes used cooking oils for biodiesel production. Connecting the two and including the neighbouring community establishes a healthy basis to successful project results.
Establishing a structured collection system for waste oil represents an important step toward improved waste management and the further development of a circular economy. The ECOLE project is co-financed by the European Union through the Interreg Alpine Space program.
For more information about the project follow https://www.alpine-space.eu/project/ecole/