Focus on waste: new rules for the yellow sack expose!

Focus on waste: new rules for the yellow sack expose!

Dortmund, Deutschland - Correct waste separation is an increasingly important topic in Germany, especially with regard to the current regulations for the yellow sack. Merkur reports that about 35 percent of the waste in the yellow ton is currently false throws. A widespread misunderstanding is that the green dot on packaging is a reliable indication that they can be disposed of in the yellow sack. In fact, this has not been the case since 2009. All manufacturers must now have a dual system.

A false separation of the garbage can not only lead to waste not being taken away, but in some regions even threatens even fines. It is also important to correctly assign the different types of waste to ensure effective recycling.

Current regulations for the yellow sack

The yellow sack or the yellow bin is intended for packaging made of plastic, white sheet, aluminum and composite packaging such as beverage cartons. Empty packaging does not necessarily have to be rinsed, but be spooned. In contrast, heavily soiled packaging belong in the residual waste. Consumer center indicates that service packaging, such as Coffee-to-go cups or take-a-away-boxes, also disposed of in yellow sacks may be.

recycling and the packaging law

The Packaging Act aims to avoid packaging waste and promote recycling. Environmental Authority explains that central instruments are recycling and recycled quotas for packaging subject to system. These regulations are designed to correctly use packaging in private households and comparable seizures.

A study by the Federal Environment Agency for evaluating recycling rates names various progress, but also challenges. In 2021, packaging that is not subject to any system achieved a recycling rate of over 90 percent, while plastic packaging subject to non-system participation recorded a quota of 59.3 percent. These quotas illustrate the potential for improvement in the area of recycling, also for commercial packaging.

Overall, it becomes clear that awareness of proper recycling and waste separation must be reinforced. Therefore, information and education are a prerequisite for the success of the recycling destinations in Germany.