Circular economy is a regenerative economic model that aims to keep products, materials, and resources in use for as long as possible, minimizing waste and reducing dependence on virgin raw materials through the principles of sharing, reuse, repair, refurbishment, and recycling.
The University of Verona promotes the transition towards a circular development model. By integrating digital technologies, green procurement, and the active involvement of the University community, the University transforms asset management into a virtuous cycle of reuse and regeneration.
Waste Management
The University's waste management strategy is based on waste prevention and on recognizing waste as a valuable resource.
Hazardous Waste
For the management of chemical and healthcare waste, the University has established procurement criteria that reward contractors capable of providing containers made with high percentages of recycled material (up to 79% for healthcare waste).
RiuSolidale
A platform dedicated to the reuse of still-functional IT equipment. Through this initiative, the University donates PCs and monitors to public administrations and non-profit organizations, extending the life cycle of devices while supporting humanitarian projects.
Digitalization
Thanks to the Integrated Plan of Activities and Organization (PIAO), numerous projects have been launched to eliminate paper forms in areas such as human resources, student careers, and research, significantly reducing paper waste.
Reducing Single-Use Plastic
The University has undertaken a determined path towards eliminating single-use plastic across all its campuses.
Water Dispensers
In vending service contracts, the sale of plastic bottles has been eliminated and replaced by mains-connected filtered water dispensers. There are currently 35 dispensers, saving on average more than 10,000 plastic bottles every year.-
Sustainable Vending Machines
Vending machines use exclusively FSC-certified paper cups or 100% biodegradable cups, together with wooden stirrers. -
Circular Furniture
As a tangible symbol of these policies, armchairs made entirely from recycled materials have been installed in the entrance hall of Palazzo Giuliari, conveying key sustainability messages.
Awareness Campaigns
Cultural change is supported by ongoing campaigns involving both students and staff.
"Think Green"
A permanent campaign promoting everyday good practices, such as saving energy, using climate control systems responsibly, and reducing digital waste.
"Take Your University to Heart"
An initiative dedicated to reducing the environmental impact of graduation celebrations by encouraging recycling and the use of sustainable materials instead of plastic.
"Sustainability Insights"
Annual public talks covering topics such as the future of nuclear energy, circular fashion, and water management.-
èVRgreen Week
An annual event dedicated to urban natural capital that uses citizen science methods to engage the public in monitoring local biodiversity.
Sustainable Procurement
The University applies the principles of Green Public Procurement (GPP) to ensure that every purchase respects both the environment and social responsibility.
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Minimum Environmental Criteria (CAM)
All new construction projects (such as Biological Building 3) and extraordinary maintenance works strictly comply with the Minimum Environmental Criteria (CAM), integrating environmentally friendly materials and highly energy-efficient systems. -
Sustainable Food Services
Vending service contracts require that at least 20% of the products offered consist of healthy or sustainable food options. In addition, in collaboration with the Veneto Region, the University contributes to the development of guidelines for green procurement in the food and textile sectors. -
Institutional Partnerships
The University actively participates in the Veneto Region's GPP Technical Working Group, sharing best practices and contributing to the revision of regional Minimum Environmental Criteria.