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Abandoned mattresses littering Greek streets remain a persistent problem as a national recycling system languishes unapproved despite industry efforts.
Seven major mattress companies representing 70% of Greek sales submitted a comprehensive management plan to environmental authorities in late 2023, but approval remains pending. The companies – including Media Strom, Elite Strom, and IKEA – funded the operational plan themselves.
Greece discards approximately 450,000 mattresses annually, weighing 7-8 tons. The 2021 legislation mandated an alternative management system funded by the industry.
A key sticking point involves collection methods. Companies reject collecting old mattresses during new deliveries, citing poor sanitary conditions. “The mattresses are often in very bad hygienic condition,” making simultaneous transport of old and new products problematic, they argue.
Environmental authority director Alexandra Togia said the framework awaits ministerial approval this quarter. “After many corrections and discussions, we’ve reached a reliable and effective framework,” she stated.
Meanwhile, citizens face complex disposal procedures varying widely by municipality.