The Chamber of Deputies has approved the bill to establish 18 September as a national day dedicated to highlighting the role of the paper supply chain and the commitment of local communities
On 17 March, a press conference was held at the Chamber of Deputies to present the bill aimed at establishing 18 September as National Paper Recycling Day. The initiative seeks to promote paper recycling, one of the cornerstones of Italy’s circular economy, and to encourage the active participation of citizens, public administrations and businesses.
Those attending the event included Massimo Milani, Secretary of the 8th Environment Commission and sponsor of the bill; Roberto Di Molfetta, General Manager of Comieco; Stefano Ciafani, President of Legambiente; Cinzia Negri, President of Fare Verde; Massimo Medugno, General Manager of the Italian Paper and Graphics Federation; Francesco Sicilia, General Manager of UNIRIMA; and Luca Proietti, Director General for Circular Economy and Remediation at the Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security.
The bill, already approved by the Chamber of Deputies and forwarded to the Senate, represents a further step towards strengthening Italy’s national circular economy policies.
The approval by the Chamber and its transmission to the Senate represent a significant step towards recognising the strategic role that paper recycling plays in our country - commented Massimo Milani - National Paper Recycling Day will provide an opportunity to acknowledge a widespread commitment involving citizens and local communities, while also raising awareness of a material that has long contributed to Italy’s sustainability.
The initiative is also linked to the Network of Paper Cities, established in Assisi on 18 September 2025, which brings together municipalities with a papermaking tradition and a shared commitment to improving collection quality and promoting good environmental practices.
The recycling rate of cellulosic packaging is now consistently above 90%, confirming Italy as one of the most virtuous countries in Europe - explained Roberto Di Molfetta, General Manager of Comieco - On the eve of Global Recycling Day, these results show just how crucial the daily commitment of citizens, retailers, municipalities and businesses in the recycling chain is to the circular transition. National Paper Recycling Day will make it possible to recognise this commitment and strengthen a shared vision by creating an annual landmark event for the whole country.
