The project in briefThe approach to waste management as well as the common values of the European Union and the Mediterranean Partner Countries are based on three principles: waste prevention, recycling and re-use, improvement of final disposal and waste monitoring. The success of the strategy is highly dependent on the effective implementation of unified actions at Mediterranean level creating opportunities to exchange best practices, share knowledge and raise awareness on the importance of waste recycling. In addition the move towards long-term environmental sustainability shall also be supported by legislative frameworks enforcing waste recycling.These are the aims of GMI, which represents a pioneer effort of six Mediterranean countries to develop a cross-border incentive based recycling program and communication campaign targeting 200 schools and universities.Specific objectiveTo develop a cross-border, incentive based, recycling system to promote environmentally sustainable practices at a grass root level - mainly schools and universities - using a state of the art technology platform, supported by an awareness and communications program. Expected Results: • High number of young people engaged in recycling activities (approximately 10.000) • Unified recycling program implemented in Mediterranean countries with 200 “Reverse Vending Machines” installed in schools and other educational centers • Large quantity of waste collected (around 20 tons of plastic bottles and cans) • Youth and a broader community sensitized about the importance of recycling • Legislative framework improved for encouraging waste recycling