Circular economy habits could cut Portuguese household costs

Smart Waste Portugal says everyday circular economy practices, such as meal planning, repairing goods, buying second-hand or sharing rarely-used items, could save Portuguese households hundreds of euros a year. Food waste is highlighted as a key area: Portugal wasted over 1.8 million tonnes of food in 2024, mostly from households, with estimates suggesting around 350 euros per person annually in wasted food. The association also cites EU figures showing consumers lose 12 billion euros yearly by replacing rather than repairing goods. It argues businesses must offer more durable, repairable products, while public policy should make reuse and second-hand purchasing more accessible.