At the 12th International Conference on Environmental Management, Engineering, Planning and Economics (CEMEPE), co-organized by the UNESCO Chair on Green Innovation and Circular Economy of NTUA, in collaboration with AUTH, the University of Thessaly, and Democritus University of Thrace, Professor Aravossis delivered a keynote address on “The Role of Regulation in Advancing Solid Waste Management.”

In his presentation, he explored international regulatory practices in the field of solid waste management, identifying two key approaches that tend to lead to successful outcomes: the traditional Command and Control policies (legislative enforcement and compliance mechanisms), and Market-Based Incentives, which promote behavioral change through economic signals.

Examples include the “Pay-as-you-Throw” model, landfill and incineration taxes, and deposit-refund systems — all aiming to reduce waste generation.

He also highlighted the important role of the national Regulatory Authority for Waste, Energy and Water (RAAEY) in designing effective frameworks to support these economic instruments, contributing to fair and sustainable waste management progress in Greece.