Stricter sorting requirements are behind the decision to close the recycling centers in Övre Soppero, Svappavaara, Kuttainen and Saivomuotka, according to the municipality’s website.
Six miles one way
At the same time, the recycling centers in Karesuando, Vittangi and Abisko are to be rebuilt. Those who have lost their central office are referred there.
In Katarina Nutti’s case, it is a nearly six-mile one-way trip to the nearest recycling center. You can compare it to the fact that in Gothenburg you would have to travel to Borås to throw away rubbish.
– With a trailer it takes over an hour to Vittangi and to Karesuando it’s the same, says Katarina Nutti to SVT Sápmi.
Mobile central is promised
The decision was taken by Tekniska verken in 2021, and the closure of Övre Soppero has been brought forward due to complaints and reports of littering. Deficiencies in the work environment are also stated as a reason.
On the website, the municipality promises a mobile recycling center for the localities that will be left without. This will start in the autumn, and residents in Övre Soppero will be the first to be tested.
“It does not feel good”
Katarina Nutti thinks that those who live in rural areas are discriminated against.
– Those who live in the central city do not have this extra cost, but otherwise we will share equally. I don’t think it feels good.