ERSUC admits waste collection problems on Centre coastline

Waste management company ERSUC has acknowledged persistent problems collecting rubbish in coastal municipalities across Coimbra, Aveiro and Leiria districts, despite an operational reinforcement plan launched in July. The admission follows criticism from the Coimbra Region Intermunicipal Community over recurring failures, including overflowing containers that forced municipalities to step in. ERSUC blamed seasonal summer pressure from higher population and waste volumes, and pointed to measures such as dynamic collection routes, fill-level sensors and a planned 15% increase in recycling points by 2027. It reported 5% and 4% rises in paper/cardboard and plastic/metal recycling respectively over the first seven months of 2026.