Ageing population of cities — Implications for circular economy in the Czech Republic

Abstract

Socio-demographic structures of inhabitants of most European towns and cities are facing substantial changes. Populations are ageing, the number of smaller or single person households is increasing and city centers face sinking number of inhabitants. This changes in many cities and regions brings new challenges for implementation of modern smart solutions in many areas including waste management and circular economy. Czech municipalities should currently start preparations for transition to circular economy that can begin with better understanding particular waste streams that are collected at the municipal level. Our research aimed at two separate waste streams (plastic and glass) and how are they affected by socio-demographic characteristics of inhabitants and households. The socio-demographic aspect is important for forecasting of waste generation as well as for planning of various campaigns supporting the implementation and acceptance of circular economy. Our results indicate that it is necessary to analyze different waste streams separately because there are significant differences. While socio-demographic characteristic has nearly no impact on waste glass production, it influences significantly plastic waste production.