News

Sotkon's 30th Anniversary

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 11:18:12 +0100

In 2025, we are marking three decades of innovation in urban waste containerization solutions and continuing to work toward a more efficient and sustainable future.

We are also celebrating these 30 years with a trip down memory lane, creating a video featuring the most important milestones in our history. Join us on this journey!

30 Years of a Visionary Journey

Celebrating 30 years of activity is, for Sotkon, more than marking a symbolic date: it is about honoring a path defined by continuous innovation, global expansion, and a strong commitment to urban sustainability.

Founded on April 5, 1995, by Modesto Balerdi, under the name MBE Sotkon, our company began its journey in Spain, quickly evolving into an international benchmark for urban waste containerization solutions.

In 2008, we established our headquarters in Portugal and joined the NORS Group, marking the beginning of a new phase of growth and internationalization. Since then, we have been a 100% Portuguese company.

This journey has accompanied the transformations of modern societies, where the valorization of waste as a resource and the growing awareness of the finitude of natural resources have made sustainability a cross-cutting priority. We have been an active part of this evolution, which is reflected not only in our commercial activities but also in our vision and mission.

Milestones of Sustained Commercial Growth
Over the course of these three decades, Sotkon has consolidated its position in the waste sector with solid and sustained growth.

In 2008, we reached 10,000 units sold. By 2012, our products were already present in more than 10 countries. Just three years later, in 2015, over 20,000 units had been sold across 20 countries. Today, Sotkon is approaching 40,000 units sold in 23 countries.

Three Decades of Innovation and Technological Leadership

Innovation has been in Sotkon's DNA since its inception!

With its own Research & Development teams since the beginning of its development, and a culture of partnerships with cutting-edge technology centers and institutions, the company maintains a wide range of innovative solutions.

Back in 1995, we created our first underground container system – “Koncept” – installing the first units in Spain, in 1996, and in Portugal, in 1998.

In 2001, we filed our first patent and, in 2005, became pioneers in Portugal with the introduction of fill-level sensors for smart waste management. In 2006, we opened our factory in Entroncamento, significantly increasing production capacity. In the years that followed, we expanded our product portfolio with the launch of the EVOS, QUBUS, and INTEGRA systems (2011–2014), followed by the APTO system in 2015.

In 2014, we once again stood out as pioneers, this time in the integration of smart access control systems, which optimize monitoring and collection efficiency. In 2017, we developed the Sotkis digital platform, which enables an integrated and smart management of the equipment installed, reinforcing the link between technology and sustainability.

Internationalization and innovation have always gone hand in hand! In 2009, the company began its international expansion into countries such as Greece, Croatia, France, Turkey, Brazil, Angola, and Morocco, with the first installations in France in 2010.

In the following years, we continued to grow, reaching new markets. In 2020, Sotkon began its first installations in Georgia and Croatia, and in 2022 it took a decisive step by integrating the Sotkis PAYT system, which promotes sustainable and responsible waste management based on digital technology.

Between 2024 and 2025, our expansion continued, reaching 37,000 installed containers across countries such as Georgia, Italy, Lithuania, India, Scotland, Colombia, Greece, and Ukraine, strengthening our position as industry leaders.

This trajectory of constant innovation and commitment to technology has placed us at the forefront of smart containerization, combining industrial knowledge, technological development, and a strong environmental commitment.

A Celebration Worthy of Three Decades of Success

To mark this milestone, we organized a celebration at the Onyria Quinta da Marinha Hotel, in Cascais, on September 26, 2025!

The event brought together over 90 staff members and business partners in a relaxed atmosphere of friendship and collaboration. The event program included a golf lesson for beginners, followed by a celebratory lunch and moments of interaction that reinforced the bonds built over these 30 years.

We invite you to relive the the most memorable moments of Sotkon's 30th anniversary celebration with us through this very special video!

Vision for the Future: Innovate to Sustain

With a strategy focused on consolidating our presence in current markets and expanding into new geographies, particularly within the European Union, Sotkon remains open to opportunities that may accelerate our growth.

Over the next ten years, Sotkon's mission remains firmly focused on developing innovative and sustainable solutions for waste disposal and collection, promoting more efficient, clean, and conscious cities.

We are preparing to launch a new solution that represents a qualitative leap in urban management: Sotkis P(L)AYT — an acronym for "Pay Less As You Throw." This digital platform, compatible with any type of container from any manufacturer, incorporates the PAYT (Pay As You Throw), RAYT (Reward As You Throw), and SAYT (Save As You Throw) principles, encouraging responsible behavior through gamification and reward systems.

In addition to encouraging sustainable behavior, Sotkis P(L)AYT allows management entities to collect and analyze data with the support of artificial intelligence algorithms, contributing to the definition of more effective public policies to increase recycling rates and reduce waste sent to landfills.

Three Decades of Trust, A Future of Sustainability

Three decades later, we continue to lead through innovation and commitment to urban sustainability. The celebration of our 30th anniversary is not a point of arrival, but rather a new starting point! We are prepared to face future challenges with the same determination and vision that brought us here, convinced that the best is yet to come.

Sotkon at Pollutec 2025

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 10:58:41 +0100

Sotkon was present at the 2025 edition of Pollutec, held from October 7th to 10th at Lyon Eurexpo, France. This event is a leading international reference in the fields of environmental and ecological transition, bringing together professionals from around the world to share solutions and ideas for a more sustainable future.

Over the four days of the event, we welcomed hundreds of visitors to our stand (Hall H2 – L082), where we presented our latest solutions in underground waste containers, containers for organic waste collection, and our smart waste management systems – all designed to meet the challenges of modern cities and contribute to a more circular economy.

It was a privilege to share knowledge, exchange experiences, and reinforce our commitment to innovation in urban waste management.

We thank everyone who visited us and showed interest in our products!

See you soon – at the next edition of Pollutec!

The Future of Waste Management

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 15:11:12 +0100

The increase in urban waste in Portugal and worldwide challenges environmental sustainability. In 2023, according to data from the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA), more than 5.3 million tons of urban waste were generated in the country, a significant portion of which is still sent to landfills (59%), incineration (21%), and other less sustainable forms of management.

The need to reduce this waste is becoming increasingly urgent!

However, progress in the recycling sector requires not only appropriate policies and infrastructure, but also significant investment in technology and public awareness.

According to official APA data, although the recycling rate has increased over the last two decades, the volume of waste sent to landfills remains high. In 2002, around 3.2 million tons went to landfill (70%); by 2020, this figure had fallen to 2.9 million tons (58%), which is progress, but still below the ideal, and there has even been a reversal to 59% in 2023. Given the European target of reducing total waste to landfill to less than 10% by 2035, these figures are worrying.

However, recycling remains only a small part of the overall waste management process. We therefore sought to explore the potential transformations in recycling in Portugal driven by technology and environmental awareness.

In 2024, Sotkon sponsored a survey conducted by Intercampus with 602 participants, which revealed a population concerned about environmental impact but still facing challenges to recycle. Selective collection and accessibility to recycling containers are some of the obstacles mentioned, indicating that significant change depends on the implementation of new policies.

This survey provides a detailed overview of the attitudes and habits of Portuguese people towards recycling. Around 90% of people surveyed believe in the importance of recycling, but only around 70% said they do it regularly. Among the main challenges mentioned are the lack of recycling containers and the need for incentives (particularly financial ones).

The study also reaches other conclusions that may point to ways forward, particularly in the application of PAYT (Pay As You Throw), SAYT (Save As You Throw), and RAYT (Reward As You Throw) concepts. Most of the people surveyed support a tariff based on the amount of waste deposited and think that recycling would go up if it helped lower that tariff.

We thus realize that the transformation of recycling in Portugal can greatly benefit from technological advances. The application of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and computer vision has the potential to revolutionize the efficiency of waste management.

AI can be integrated into recycling centers to automate waste sorting. With computer vision algorithms, it is possible to identify recyclable materials accurately and quickly, automatically separating plastic, paper, metal, and glass.

IoT, in turn, allows sensors to be installed in containers, which monitor the quantity and quality of waste in real time, enabling more efficient collection and reducing operating costs.

Computer vision technology, a branch of AI, can also be used to identify and classify waste in real time. When integrated into containers, this monitoring system rewards correct disposal habits.

However, technology alone will not be enough if there is no change in citizens' mindsets. According to the Intercampus survey, many still believe that recycling should be the responsibility of companies and governments. Environmental awareness, from early childhood education to information campaigns for adults, plays a crucial role in promoting a more responsible attitude. The introduction of apps to monitor people's own recycling habits can help the population understand their impact, offering rewards in public services for those who recycle more and more often.

PAYT policies, which charge fees based on the volume of non-recyclable waste, can encourage greater participation in recycling. In addition to encouraging citizens to reduce their environmental impact, the PAYT system offers a fair way of charging, where those who produce less waste pay less.

Despite the technological opportunities, the future of recycling in Portugal faces several challenges. The first is the cost of implementing these innovations. The technologies mentioned require considerable investment. In addition, rural and less populated regions may find it more difficult to justify such investments due to lower waste generation, which requires policies that ensure equal access.

Another challenge is the lack of adequate infrastructure. As pointed out in official data, some regions still rely on landfills as their main form of waste management, and selective collection is not fully accessible to all municipalities. This scenario creates a barrier to policies such as PAYT, which require differentiated collection and technologies for monitoring waste volume.

The survey sponsored by Sotkon also reveals a perception that recycling does not bring direct financial benefits to families. Many of those surveyed mention the lack of incentives as a demotivating factor. To increase adherence, it would be interesting to implement benefit programs for those who demonstrably reduce their waste through recycling, something that is already a reality in some European cities.

Countries such as Spain, France, Croatia, Greece, and Georgia use underground containers combined with Sotkon's smart solutions, based on AI and IoT, which has generated positive results and contributed significantly to efficient waste management.

We know that the future of recycling in Portugal depends on a combination of technology, effective policies, and environmental education. The application of emerging technologies can make the recycling process more efficient, but it is essential that these innovations are accessible to the entire population. The PAYT policy and habit monitoring apps offer practical ways to encourage participation, but support policies need to be implemented to ensure adequate infrastructure in all regions.

Environmental awareness must begin in schools and continue throughout adulthood. Recycling needs to be seen as a commitment to the future and an economic benefit for citizens. The transition to a circular economy is one of the most urgent goals, and the active involvement of every citizen is crucial.

In short, the future of recycling in Portugal lies in the hands of a population that, equipped with technology and encouraged by inclusive policies, can build a more sustainable future, a cleaner planet, and a more conscious society.

Recycling should not be seen as an obligation, but rather as an opportunity to make a difference.

Sotkon at the 7th ENLU

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 12:46:35 +0100

Sotkon was present with several exhibition spaces - consolidating its position as a benchmark for innovation in urban waste management systems.

One of Sotkon's highlights was the DRS (Digital Return System), an important tool for increasing recycling rates and significantly improving the quality of selective waste. Also present was equipment such as the O+, ideal for organic waste and cooking oil, the Oily and various intake columns that combine urban design with Sotkis intelligent systems.

This event thus continues to stand out for its ability to present innovative solutions, promote the sharing of knowledge and encourage the improvement of conditions in local communities.

Sotkon is gaining momentum in France

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 11:50:13 +0100

Sotkon Waste Systems' presence in France continues to grow steadily, with the completion of several new projects since the beginning of 2025. With more than 4,000 underground and semi-underground container kits installed across the country, this growth reflects the continued trust of French municipalities in our solutions, as well as our commitment to smart technology, sustainability and operational efficiency.

An illustrative example of technical evolution and growth towards circular economies is the city of Narbonne. Since the first installation in 2011, this city has been consolidating its investment in Sotkon solutions and, in 2024, a further 92 new units of the Koncept system with a capacity of 3m³ and Ikon intake columns were installed, bringing the total to 924 units installed to date in this historic city in the south of France.

A relevant development in this city was the transition from closed to open bottom in the undifferentiated waste containers, which now use a double hook, while the glass containers operate with the Palpeur system, also open bottom. This change represents an improvement in collection efficiency and adaptation to local operational needs.

Another example of expansion is in Aygues-Ouvèze, an inter-municipal community in the province of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. Here, and for 2024 alone, 102 new Koncept system units with a capacity of 3m³ have been installed.

Some of these installations already include Max double drum intake columns with Sotkis Access controls for undifferentiated waste - the ideal solution for implementing PAYT (Pay-As-You-Throw) systems. The other containers use Ikon intake columns with closed bottoms and Palpeur open bottoms, adapting to the type of waste collected.

In the city of Pau, located near the French Pyrenees, Sotkon installed a total of 63 APTO units in 2024, equipped with Diamond intake columns and Sotkis Access controls.

Sotkon's access control systems allow for more innovative and efficient waste disposal management, by associating each deposit with an identified user. This technology encourages correct separation at source and the reduction of undifferentiated waste destined for landfill.

Sotkon has also implemented its solutions in several other French locations, strengthening its presence throughout the territory. Communities such as Montpellier, Tour d'Aygues, Apt, Saint Jean de Monts, Notre-Dame de Monts, Saint-Père-en-Retz, Dune du Pilat and Île d'Oléron already have dozens or hundreds of systems installed, whether for large projects or adapted to specific contexts such as tourist areas or sensitive urban spaces. These include the Koncept, Apto and O+ systems.

We are continuing our growth in 2025 by participating in various projects and adapting our solutions to different urban realities. Sotkon has thus been considered a strategic partner for French cities committed to modernizing waste management, helping to increase recycling rates, reduce environmental impact and boost the circular economy.

ISWA

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 10:36:19 +0100

The International Solid Waste Association is one of the most respected global organizations in the waste management sector.

This membership reinforces our commitment to innovation and sustainability, with ISWA being a vital platform for knowledge exchange and global collaboration, allowing us to contribute to shaping the future of the waste sector worldwide.

We believe that, together, we can build cleaner and more efficient cities for future generations!

Digital Return System

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 10:16:17 Z

The “Digital Return System”, by Sotkon-Waste Systems, offers municipalities an important tool for increasing recycling rates and significantly improving the quality of selective waste.

This solution is enabled by innovative technology that individually identifies each disposal (glass, plastic and metal).

The DRS recognizes all types of packaging material in real time, through acoustic technologies combined with Artificial Intelligence algorithms. The option of a barcode reader linked with AI characterization allows the double verification of packaging.

The DRS system is also easy to install and integrate - all types of Sotkon containers can be fitted with this technology to boost the recycling rates of the community in which they are located.

The future of recycling

HOW DOES IT WORK?

To connect to the DRS equipment, citizens only need a mobile device to connect via Bluetooth or an RFID card.

Once connected, the users deposit their glass bottles, plastic packages and metal cans. The DRS system recognizes all types of packaging materials.

After this process, the user receives the incentive that their city wants to give.

The incentives to be awarded are decided by each municipality and can be, for example, “points”. These points can then be converted into various benefits for each citizen - discounts on waste tariffs, public transport, use of municipal facilities or incentives to participate in city events.

Sotkis Digital Platform

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 15:30:53 +0100

It is an integrated management system that collects and processes information on the various processes involved in waste disposal and/or collection.

This platform allows you to manage your portfolio of Sotkon underground containers online, where the various waste management modules optimize the efficiency of the resources allocated, increase the profitability of the operation, boost recycling rates and improve the quality of the waste collected.

You can access it at www.sotkis.com or via the Sotkis app.

Through the modules on the SOTKIS platform, the entity responsible for the operation can easily access various functionalities:

Application of PAYT tariffs;
Information on the filling level of containers;
More efficient planning of collection routes;
Access to deposit frequencies and types of waste deposited;
Verification of locations and installation history;
Implementation of reward systems for correct waste disposal;
Management of information on preventive and/or corrective maintenance operations;
Real-time reporting of any irregularities in the equipment.

Find out more about the benefits Sotkis can bring to your city: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AIIBzSaD_JE

Sotkon at the Salon des Maires

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 15:28:50 +0100

Sotkon-Waste Systems will be at the Salon des Maires et des Collectivités Locales from November 19th to 21st at the Expo Porte de Versailles in France.

The Salon des Maires et des Collectivités Locales is an event dedicated to communities and local authorities, where public entities, private companies and NGOs work together to address several challenges and problems.

In 2024, this event is dedicated to “acceleration”! This is a very up-to-date inspiration given the emergence of recycling goals and the urgency in adopting circular economies. In this important event, and as it is a place for meeting, debating and sharing ideas, we expect to see solutions adapted to local communities, both in terms of individual and collective needs.

Find out more about the event at https://www.salondesmaires.com/en/

Sotkon at the 6th ENLU

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 16:15:17 +0100

Organized by the Urban Cleaning Association, the National Urban Cleaning Meeting will take place between September 25th and 27th at the Vidamar Resort Hotel Congress Centre in Funchal - Madeira.

Join us at this event with a major impact on Portugal's waste sector!

Registration is free - find out more at: https://www.associacaolimpezaurbana.org/6-enlu

Sotcare: We protect your city's waste equipment

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 11:01:12 +0100

Aware of the operational difficulties faced by many municipalities, producing waste disposal equipment with fewer maintenance requirements is fundamental for Sotkon. However, frequent use of any equipment causes deterioration, making preventive and corrective maintenance essential!

We therefore created SOTCARE with the aim of making waste management more efficient, adapting maintenance programs to the needs of each city, through complete proposals or with different levels of detail.

Services:

Monitoring of interventions via the Sotkis platform with access to reports and dashboards;

Assessment of the general condition of the equipment;

Replacement of parts and components;

Washing and degreasing;

Lubrication of hinges and shock absorbers;

Checking and treating oxidation spots;

Polishing application;

Renewal of signage.

Advantages:

Creation of a more efficient management of costs and allocated resources;

Real-time reporting of irregularities and repair requests;

Guaranteeing the quality, durability and safety of the equipment;

Reduction of replacement costs and new investments;

Greater profitability of the collection activity;

Improving the image of the urban space.

SOTCARE is already considered a valuable asset in many municipalities!

Highlights of Sotkon at the IFAT 2024

Wed, 22 May 2024 15:55:14 +0100

The world's leading trade fair for environmental technologies - IFAT - was held in Munich from May 13th to 17th and once again left all visitors and exhibitors impressed with its surprising innovations, focus on sustainability and schedule of events and conferences.

In a space of 300.000 square meters, with more than 3.000 exhibitors and visitors from more than 150 countries, this fair remains a leading event in the environmental sector!

We owe this interest to our products on display: the underground waste disposal systems, the O+ intake column, various intelligent systems’ modules, among other Sotkon solutions.

We would also like to highlight our “Future of Recycling” area as the focal point, thanks to our new Sotkis DRS equipment - a digital tool for achieving higher recycling rates and a significant improvement in the quality of selective waste.

We also take this opportunity to thank everyone who contributed to an excellent week of networking and to many relevant and inspiring conversations!

Visit us at IFAT 2024!

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 10:06:14 +0100

IFAT is the world's leading trade fair for environmental technologies - Water, Sewage, Waste and Raw Materials Management. In 2024, this event will take place between May 13 and 17 in Munich.

IFAT is renowned for its high number of international exhibitors and visitors, having, in 2022, occupied a space of 260,000 square meters and obtained a total of 2,984 exhibitors from 59 countries and 119,000 visitors from 155 countries.

With an innovative character, this event is divided between the exhibition halls and the conferences program, covering topics such as digitalization and recycling, and bringing together different representatives of the environmental industry, such as companies, municipal representatives, scientists, and suppliers.

We couldn't miss it!

Keeping the same location as in 2022, we invite everyone to visit us in our stand 353/552 located in hall A5!

Join us for a stimulating conversation about the waste sector and to discover all of our products and services, which range from underground containers to intelligent systems that can optimize your waste management.

We'll also be presenting some new developments that we believe represent the future of recycling!

Will we see you there? Find out how to get entry passes here.

Interview with Iuliia Markhel - Environmental activism in a time of war

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 10:23:37 Z

We highlight the inspiring interview with Ukrainian environmental and social activist Iuliia Markhel, founder of the organization LET'S DO IT UKRAINE, who was present at the event to speak about urban clean-up actions in wartime:

Sotkon - Tell us more about “Let's do it Ukraine”. When did it start?

Iuliia Markhel - It's been a long trip. We started in 2015 with our “eco movement." It's the biggest environmental movement in Ukraine now, and after nine years, we've activated 3.5 million Ukrainian people. We have many information campaigns, uniting people to do cleanups and work with municipalities, the government, the media, superstars, and civilians. And we work with "eco-culture."

Sotkon – What is “eco -culture”?

Iuliia Markhel - Yes, eco -culture and recycle culture. When we started, we understood that it was just the first point that we could do together. And after that, of course, I opened a new movement fully geared towards recycling, where we understood how 5 million schoolchildren could be involved. They are like our ambassadors, because if you work with schoolchildren in the school, and they are preparing some exercises at home (recycling at home and collecting secondary raw materials), when their family asks them, "What are you doing?” they just tell them it’s about exercises from school!

And when they do this for 6 months or one year, then their families start understanding how we can recycle.

Sotkon - It’s very interesting that you talk about the eco-culture as the kind of culture that we must engage in the future. But how difficult and different is it to foster this Eco -Culture in a country that is living in peace (like Portugal) and the eco-culture right now in Ukraine, a country at war?

Iuliia Markhel - You live for today, and you do what you can today. But now it is different because we have big security protocols. Officially, like a leader of an NGO, I can't invite and unite people in one place because it's dangerous. I can do some events, but security protocols must be followed. And that’s what's changed since the war started. When you have an air-strike alarm, you must go. You stop everything and go underground. And this is what we do.

And we understand when, for example, Russia destroyed our Kakhovka Hidroeletric Power Plant…

Sotkon - Please tell us more about the consequences of that disaster. It happened this year, right?

Iuliia Markhel – Yes, it was in June 2023 and when it happened in the first week I travelled a lot in this region, Kherson, to look around because we did our humanitarian mission Let’s Do It, Ukraine SOS and brought help to civilians who lost everything.

But it was an Eco-Catastrophe! It is about 200 km of water stream all travelling to the Black Sea carrying all this garbage, these toxic metals, everything from landfills, from oil stations, from factory plants, from everything now travelling to the world ocean via Black Sea.

With serious consequences to our flora and fauna, yes of course they destroyed this ecosystem. And we need 50 -70 years to rebuild everything, restart everything. We must understand, these toxic metals from Kakhovka HPP killed our flora and fauna.

It impacted about 63.000 hectares of forest in three regions, it is like 3 times the size of your forest in Portugal! And we must understand, we can’t stop because it also impacted about 60.000 buildings where people lived in those regions.

And when they are back to their houses, then the water may be running, but they need help because they need pest controls and other options to live normally. They can’t live normally anymore and as an activist our eco-mission is in all the regions. We must field scientists and set up laboratories working to supply drinking water to the population.

Sotkon – What can be done now to recover some of the damage?

Iuliia Markhel – We have arsenic, we have zinc, we have cadmium and many other toxic metals in the water being used by civilians and it is very dangerous for the human body. All these toxic metals will go in our body and then never go out! Yes, and it’s very dangerous and now it’s in the world ocean – so these war crimes really killed our ecosystem, and it is one of the biggest environmental problems now to all countries in Europe and in the world.

Sotkon – It’s not just Ukraine’s loss, it’s the world’s loss with this accident and with the consequences of this accident?

Iuliia Markhel – Yes.

Sotkon – Do you think that people under a war scenario, they are more committed to recycling or less committed to recycling because they are afraid, they are insecure?

Iuliia Markhel – So if we have infrastructure, NGOs and the municipality working together to inform why it is important and why we must build this recycling system every day. But we have many territories in Ukraine where we have no roads because they destroyed our roads, they closed our landfills. We can’t clean normally and rebuild normally and fix it normally.

And we have territories where we must wait, for example in occupied territory, there’s a big territory where we don’t know what’s happened after this disaster with Kakhovka HPP. We don’t know what’s happened there because war is going on for two years and we don’t have connection with people there, with the local people.

And that’s why I, like other activists, we are always waiting for when we can go to our occupied territories to, of course, immediately bring help to people and immediately bring some materials and scientists with laboratories to understand what happened and how long we need for rebuilding.

Sotkon – You must be familiar with the pay as you throw mechanism. With a PAYT system the polluter pays for the waste that he or she produces. Do you think that if people need to pay for the waste that they deposit in undifferentiated waste containers, they will recycle more? Do you think that money is a motivation?

Iuliia Markhel – I think that here we have a lot of points. If we’re talking about a country with a sustainable economy and normal life, such as Portugal, maybe PAYT is better, because when you pay for something, you understand why you must do that. And of course, it is about building a recycling system quickly because when you have resources and money, businesses are motivated, municipalities become motivated, and people don’t want to have landfills around them.

Sometimes, we just live, go to work, bring some food, and make children smile, but it is about our body, it is about life, it is about food, it is about water, it is about everything. That’s why business, municipality, NGO, citizens, and media of course must work every day together, every moment. The environmental topic is the priority topic, because if we don’t care about the environment, we don’t need the economy – we will have died by then!

Sotkon- What do you think is the role that technology can perform in convincing people to recycle more? What is your view on new technologies?

Iuliia Markhel – I think new technologies will help us all, they will help to make recycling systems stronger and enable more immediate results. Because we have no time for any long roads ahead of us.

Sotkon - I also would like to ask you what are the best ways are to provide humanitarian aid and support to "Let's Do It Ukraine"? How can Portuguese people contribute?

Iuliia Markhel – We always need food and water, and we understand that we must have these resources in the country because it's about environmental humanitarian aid. It's not about big trucks from Portugal to Ukraine because it would pollute our world further. Yes, it's about resources. And really, we need help with resources, for example, for our monitoring, for programs, and for rebuilding. And our reality, we can’t do it alone because sometimes people have no chance to work normally, and businesses have no chance to be run normally.

I propose that people don't wait for the day when we will have victory, because we don’t have such a long time. We hope for victory day, and we believe in that. But we need help today because now Russians are doing ecocide; they have destroyed our ecosystems, and now we must immediately do something for our environment and to help the people. And I’m so lucky because today I am in Portugal, and I don't need to go immediately underground if the air strike alarm goes off!

Sotkon - Well, thank you for coming to Portugal. Thank you for your efforts in making our planet a little bit better. I hope you enjoy the rest of the day.

Iuliia Markhel - Thank you so much for inviting us!

Find out more about this organization on facebook and instragram.

Highlights of Sotkon at the 5th ENLU

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 09:55:21 Z

The event, which had Cascais as its location and the theme "Urban Cleaning at the service of people and territories", was held at the Estoril Racetrack and featured three days full of exhibitions, conferences, and demonstrations. Between December 12 and 14, the 5th ENLU surpassed the visitor numbers of the last edition, with around 1.050 participants, 30 exhibitors and 40 speakers.

At the 5th ENLU, several important topics related to urban cleaning and the waste sector were discussed, such as pressure from tourism, vandalism and security, technological trends, municipal strategies to reduce waste, the valorization of services and professionals in the urban cleaning, among others.

We must highlight the ability that this event had to demonstrate innovative solutions, sharing of knowledge and the motivation to promote better conditions to local communities.

Sotkon was present with a stand that was the highlight of the event for its innovative nature, as attested by the coverage made by the Smart Cities magazine. At the Sotkon stand visitors could find the most varied resources for waste disposal - from the most efficient underground containers to the most intelligent digital solutions. We must highlight our latest addition to our Sotkis range - Sotkon Intelligent Systems: the new Sotkis DRS equipment was the focus of the greatest curiosity and interest by visitors.

This equipment, presented for the first time on this occasion, is called “Sotkis Digital Return System” and aims to offer municipalities a valuable tool for obtaining higher recycling rates and a significant improvement in the quality of selective waste. Equipped with an innovative technology that identifies each selective deposition packaging (glass, plastic, and metal), Sotkis DRS allows the awarding of incentives to each user, thus motivating the entire population to recycle in a more organized and frequent way.

Sotkis DRS only needs a mobile device for connection via Bluetooth. After this connection, the user can immediately deposit their glass bottles and, in the case of plastic packages and metal cans, scan the barcode of the item they want to deposit and place it in the equipment. After this process, the user receives an incentive that the “smart city” where he lives in wants to award!

The incentives to be awarded can be “points” received after each deposit and that can be converted into various benefits for each citizen – discounts on waste tariffs, public transport, use of municipal equipment, incentives for participation in city events, among others.

Sotkis DRS is an innovative solution that allows the increase of the recycling rates and of the quality of selective waste in each city, by rewarding users for the correct disposal of their waste.

Over the 3 days of this event, there was no shortage of opportunities for relevant and important conversations with users, customers, and partners! We would like to thank everyone who contributed to the success of this event, and to all our visitors for their interest, enthusiasm, and support.

Sotkon at the 5th ENLU

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 09:58:44 Z

From December 12th to 14th, the 5th National Urban Cleaning Meeting will be held at the Estoril Circuit and here you will find Sotkon with a showcase of very special products.

This event, organized by the Urban Cleaning Association and hosted by the municipality of Cascais, will not only feature an exhibition of products and services, but also several conferences on the theme of "Urban Cleaning at the service of people and territories".

We couldn't miss it and we look forward to your visit!

You can guarantee a face-to-face meeting by sending an appointment request to marketing@sotkon.com

Highlights of Pollutec 2023

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 10:05:52 +0100

With about 80,000 square meters, more than 20 conference zones and 2,000 solutions on display, representing more than 100 countries, Pollutec had more than 50,000 visitors. There was no shortage of opportunities to exchange insights and hold inspiring discussions with visitors and partners from all over the world.

Sotkon's stand was a popular destination, as visitors could find a wide range of equipments, from underground containers to intelligent solutions that make waste management more efficient.

We also included new products that piqued visitors' curiosity, such as the Sotkis DRS. This system allows users to be rewarded for the depositions of plastic, glass and aluminum packages, resulting in increased recycling rates for municipalities.

Our team would like to take this opportunity to thank all our visitors for their interest and feedback. We hope to see you again soon!

Sotkon wins €1M project in Tbilisi, Georgia

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 11:25:48 +0100

After a first contract in 2020 for the supply of the first 140 units, this new project shows the Georgian capital's commitment to strengthening its underground containers, expanding this concept to new areas of the city. The city of Tbilisi is thus demonstrating yet another sign of confidence and satisfaction in the solutions developed by Sotkon.

The model chosen remained the same as in 2020. The 3m3 capacity "Koncept" system was installed with an "Ikon" intake column, including the optional pedal for opening the lid, which avoids the need to touch the equipment with your hands when using it.

This equipment, installed in the city's most upscale areas, stands out both for its perfect harmony with the surrounding urban area and for the additional efficiency it brings to collection operations.

Sotkon at Pollutec 2023

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 10:57:11 +0100

Located in Lyon, at the Lyon Eurexpo, from October 10th to 13th, this exhibition has been a showcase for innovative solutions and good environmental practices for over 45 years, and so we couldn't miss the opportunity to be there.

We will be presenting the best waste container solutions for your city. At our stand you'll find a wide range of our products, from underground containers to intelligent systems, as well as some new developments!

Join us in Hall H2, Stand C110. We look forward to your visit!

You can also secure a meeting at Pollutec by sending us an appointment request to: marketing@sotkon.com

Official Pollutec fair website

Intake Column O+

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 10:38:50 +0100

As a complement to our underground solutions, the "O+" intake column was designed by Sotkon to collect very specific types of waste and is characterized by its improved collection capacity. Its robust construction, as well as its attractive and minimalist design, make this solution an element with optimal integration in any city, and allows the waste to be hidden, protecting it from excessive heat, avoiding unpleasant odors and preventing contact with animals.

This equipment was designed to accommodate two and four-wheel MGB containers with capacities from 120L to 660L, which can be unloaded through the container elevator (EN 840) onto rear collection trucks. The container installed inside the intake column is easily collected through a front or back door and can be emptied by the collection truck or, alternatively, replaced by another identical container. The installation of the O+ intake column is very simple and is done by bolting the equipment to the ground.

This system can have a dedicated entrance for bottles, a larger lid on top or a simple drum with volumetric limitation.

With a larger lid, the equipment O+ Bio is ideal for accommodating organic waste. With a circular entrance, the equipment O+ Oil has the perfect dimensions to receive used cooking oil bottles.

To optimize its use, the O+ surface containers have several optional extras: double lid, built-in handle, external handle, drum, automatic opening, special key, pedal, shock absorber, customized signage and Sotkis Level & Access.

Send us an email to learn more: https://sotkon.com/en/sotkon-group-companies/

Simple, Efficient and Certified Products!

Tue, 16 May 2023 16:20:54 +0100

We constantly seek to innovate, adapting our equipment to the needs of our customers, ensuring that our products meet all safety standards and are certified according to the standards set by the European Union. The certification adds a seal of quality to the products we offer and guarantees the highest levels of safety, since the certification process requires a set of tests that go far beyond the normal conditions of use.

Our equipments have passed the most diverse tests of structural resistance and functioning. All SOTKON products passed the tests with absolute success! As part of the certification of Sotkon products, tests according to the new EN 13071:2019 standard, part 1, 2 and 3, were successfully carried out in the first quarter of this year:

One of the exercises carried out involved the testing of a 5m3 capacity polyethylene container, in which it was simulated that the container was filled with a 7Ton load. The container was elevated in the air for 5 minutes, and it resisted and maintained its original integrity.

Another of the tests was aimed at verifying the operation of the safety platform. The platform, which exists inside the concrete bunker, was activated 250 consecutive times, and in the end maintained its perfect operation.

The intake columns are also subjected to the most diverse resistance tests. The third of the tests was with the Ikon intake column. This intake column for underground waste received four consecutive impacts with 50kg without showing any kind of deformation or permanent rupture.

We make sure to follow our products from conception to installation, ensuring their quality and durability, and the satisfaction of our customers!

Mandatory selective collection of organic waste

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 10:55:24 Z

The topic of organic waste has a growing importance, due to its ability to become a problem for human health and the environment. When not properly separated, this waste eventually decomposes, releasing high loads of leachates and methane gas.

However, this waste can be reused and recovered in different ways!

In this sense, beginning in 2024, it will be mandatory that Municipalities and companies that provide waste collection have implemented solutions for the selective collection of organic waste.

Sotkon can help! For underground waste systems we present the Koncept system with a container capacity of 1.2m³.

This system offers several advantages for municipalities and final users.

In addition to protecting the bio-waste from direct sunlight and high temperatures, reducing the time it takes for the waste to decompose, it can also reduce the amount of odors reaching the surface and protect the waste from rodents. In addition, Sotkon containers are fully watertight and suitable for rear collection waste trucks.

In addition, SOTKIS intelligent systems bring even more advantages. By placing access controls on the installed equipment it is possible to get more selective and uncontaminated waste. It is also possible to install a sensor to monitor the filling level of the containers in order to optimize the collection routes.

Learn more about our solution now by sending us an email at marketing@sotkon.com!

Sotcare Program

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 10:42:05 Z

All Sotkon equipment - whether underground, semi-underground or surface waste systems - is produced with high quality materials. However, continued use of any equipment causes its inevitable deterioration. To reverse this trend, we advise to regularly check the general condition of the equipment.

There are many challenges that municipalities must face: the usual operational difficulties, such as staff shortages and an ever-growing list of pending tasks, are often exacerbated by financial constraints.

To address these challenges, SOTKON created SOTCARE to enable the efficient servicing of the Maintenance, Conservation and Technical Assistance to Sotkon equipment according to the needs of each city.

The SOTCARE maintenance program brings many benefits to all cities with Sotkon equipment:

Safety First

Ensuring that equipment is kept in good working condition is equivalent to ensuring that all users and waste collection operators are safe.

Long-lasting Superior Quality

Cleaning and maintenance allow the characteristics and performance of the equipment to be maintained, thus prolonging its useful life, and ensuring that there are no anticipated replacement needs.

Cost Reduction

Scheduled maintenance of equipment enables more efficient cost management, reducing long-term repair costs and minimizing unexpected expenses.

Fail-Safe Operation

The SOTCARE program allows a constant operability of the equipment. Consequently, the number of malfunctions is reduced, and the efficiency of the collection activity is increased.

User Satisfaction

For the equipment to maintain its visual characteristics, it is important to establish a scheduled cleaning program. The aesthetic component is also an essential factor, since it helps make users more receptive to create good hygiene and recycling habits.

The Sotcare program includes several types of services, performed periodically on the different components of the equipment. In general, the SOTCARE program checks the overall condition of the equipment and includes the cleaning of the equipment, with different levels of detail.

As an example, let us look at the services associated with the intake column. Among other tasks, we can find the verification of the lid opening/closing, washing and degreasing, application of gloss polish, replacement of the rubber seal of the lid and verification and treatment of eventual rust points, if any is found.

Sotkon at "Jornadas Técnicas de Medio Ambiente" of ANEPMA!

Fri, 25 Nov 2022 11:40:45 Z

Being held this year in Palma de Mallorca, between November 22 and 24, this event was a very fruitful experience where the future of municipal waste management and sustainability were the top trends.