Lisbon is grappling with a growing waste crisis as garbage collectors continue their citywide strike, leaving streets piled high with uncollected trash during the bustling holiday season.
The strike, organized by the Municipal Workers Union of Lisbon (STML) and the Local Administration Workers Union (STAL), has seen widespread participation, with union estimates reporting 80% involvement on Thursday.
The action stems from union demands for improved working conditions and accusations that city authorities have failed to address longstanding issues.
Residents have taken to social media to criticize Mayor Carlos Moedas for mismanaging the situation. In response, the mayor’s office acknowledged the severity of the problem.
To alleviate the crisis, the city council installed 57 additional bins for organic and recyclable waste throughout Lisbon. However, council representative Pedro Moutinho emphasized that these measures are temporary and urged residents to minimize unnecessary trash disposal.
Unions have announced further strikes, including a full stoppage on December 26–27, an overtime ban between Christmas and New Year’s, and additional actions from January 1–2.
