LooP Zone: Five proposals for reducing single-use plastics in Komiža

As part of the Interreg Euro-MED LooP Zoneproject, following the research phase, five pilot activity proposals have been developed aimed at reducing the use of single-use plastic products in the tourism and hospitality sectors.

The proposals were developed as potential solutions that can be adapted to the specificities of the local area and will serve as a starting point for discussions with members of the local LooP Zone project working group in Komiža.

Five proposed pilot activities

1. Tackling SUP Water Bottles

This proposal focuses on reducing the consumption of water in single-use plastic bottles by encouraging the use of reusable bottles and improving access to drinking water.

Possible activities include developing a network of water refill stations, collaborating with hospitality and accommodation providers, informing visitors about available locations, and encouraging the use of reusable bottles during their stay on the island.

2. Reusable Takeaway Cups and/or Containers

This proposal focuses on replacing single-use cups and food and beverage packaging with reusable alternatives.

It envisions the possibility of introducing a system of reusable cups and containers in hospitality establishments, encouraging customers to bring their own packaging, and using reusable cups at public events and other gatherings.

Special attention is given to organizing the collection, washing, and reuse of packaging to ensure such systems are practical and sustainable in the long term.

3. Phasing Out Small Single-Use Plastics

The third proposal relates to reducing the use of small single-use products used daily in hospitality and tourism, such as individual sauce and condiment packets, straws, plastic cutlery, and small hygiene product packaging.

Possible measures include using refillable dispensers, replacing individual packets with more suitable alternatives, and reducing the automatic serving of products that guests do not always need.

4. Reducing Single-Use Plastic Packaging for Soft Drinks

This proposal focuses on reducing the amount of single-use packaging generated during the serving and sale of soft drinks.

Solutions being considered include serving drinks from larger containers and dispensing systems, using returnable packaging, and collaborating with suppliers and distributors to make more sustainable methods of packaging and distributing drinks available.

Special emphasis is placed on hospitality establishments, tourist accommodation, and temporary events.

5. Zero Plastic Beach

The fifth proposal includes a set of interconnected measures aimed at reducing single-use plastics and waste generation at a selected beach.

Possible activities include improving access to drinking water, encouraging the use of reusable products, collaborating with beach bars and service providers, and educating visitors on more responsible habits.

The proposal also includes the possibility of establishing smoke-free zones or designated smoking areas to reduce cigarette butt pollution.

From proposal to local pilot plan

The five proposals presented are not pre-defined packages of measures that must be implemented in their entirety. Their purpose is to offer various solutions that can be adapted to the needs, capabilities, and specific characteristics of an individual area.

The next phase of the project involves selecting three pilot proposals, or combinations of specific activities from different proposals, based on an assessment of their relevance, feasibility, and long-term sustainability.

For the City of Komiža, it will be particularly important to consider tourism seasonality, existing infrastructure, the needs of the local economy, and the organizational and logistical feasibility of implementation.

The proposed activities will be presented and discussed at a meeting of the LooP Zone project's local working group, which will be held on November 2, 2026. The conclusions of the discussion will be used to further develop the local pilot plan.