We are used to hearing about Rome for its traffic, ancient monuments, or perfect carbonara. But today, Rome wins an award for its commitment to reducing plastic waste, completely changing the narrative of our city.
You might never have imagined it, but the capital has been officially included among the Italian leaders fighting for a waste-free future. Yes, you read that right: Rome has done it, and with a twist that has surprised even the most skeptical.
A historic milestone: a first for Rome
This is not just any recognition. For the first time ever, Rome has earned the title of “Plastic-Free Municipality. “ The announcement, which came directly from the halls of Montecitorio, has placed our city on an exclusive list of 141virtuous municipalitiesfor 2026.
If you think it was easy, you are very much mistaken.
In 2022 alone, there were just 49 municipalities awarded the title; today, the network has exploded, but the selection criteria have become even stricter. Rome had to demonstrate that it could not only manage the ordinary, but also that it had a long-term vision for future generations.
Along with the capital, Milan, Turin, and Bari also shine this year, but it is Rome’s debut that is causing a stir: a very strong signal for the whole of central and southern Italy.
How do you win the Plastic Free award? The ‘turtles’ that decide the fate
But what exactly did the judges of Plastic Free Onlus look at? It is not enough to put a few new bins around the city. The assessment is based on 20 very strict criteria.
Here is what was analyzed under the magnifying glass:
- Combating littering: the use of camera traps to catch uncivilized people and real financial penalties.
- Reduction of single-use items: how much disposable plastic has been eliminated from public offices and canteens.
- Education: the number of meetings in schools to turn children into the guardians of tomorrow.
- Synergy: real collaboration between the municipality and volunteers in the area.
Each city is assigned a symbolic score represented by turtles (from 1 to 3). And here’s an interesting fact: those who achieve absolute excellence receive the “3 gold turtles. “
The secrets of success: why Rome was awarded
You may be wondering, “But I still see plastic around, how did Rome win?” The award does not celebrate perfection, but a strategic turning point. Sabrina Alfonsi, Councilor for the Environment of Rome Capital, was clear: the credit goes to the unity between the administration and the Plastic Free Onlus association.
There were two fundamental pillars:
- Protocol with AMA: a structured collaboration to improve urban decorum and respond quickly to reports.
- Roma Cura Roma: the annual event that transforms thousands of Romans into ecological operators for a day, taking care of parks, squares, and beaches (such as those in Ostia).
In 2025 alone, this wave of activism mobilized over 53,000 volunteers. It is this “hunger” for beauty among citizens that tipped the scales in favor of the capital.
Commitment to the environment: Romans are the real protagonists
Photo: Vitaly Gariev / Unsplash
The award does not belong only to the halls of politics, but to the Romans themselves . If you have stopped using plastic bottles, if you recycle correctly or if you participate in park clean-up days, this recognition is also yours.
The stated goal is not only to clean up, but to create a culture of respect.
Rome is investing heavily in the involvement of active citizens. “We have chosen to combine political action with a participatory approach, “ explained Alfonsi.
This means that the city needs everyone’s help to retain this title next year. It is not a goal, but a starting point.
Official recognition: when and where the Grand Gala for the Environment
Mark this date on your calendar: March 14, 2026. The official recognition will be awarded during an amazing national ceremony to be held in Rome, in the setting of the Teatro Olimpico.
It will be a moment of celebration for all 141 municipalities, from Abruzzo (the leading region with 24 municipalities awarded) to Sicily.
But for Rome, it will be an opportunity to show the world that the “Eternal City” can also be the cleanest and most sustainable city in Europe.