- Intro text: Find out in our blog how you can contribute to effective waste separation and why you should, or should not, separate waste at home! Learn more about the benefits of source and post-separation and how these methods help us towards a more sustainable future. Together, we can make our region even cleaner.
490 kilos of waste. That's what we throw away. Per person, per year. That's eight billion kilos of waste, per year, in the Netherlands. All this waste has to be processed, because as soon as we throw something in the bin, it has not disappeared. To process all this waste, different systems have been devised, including pre-separation and post-separation. There is often a lack of clarity about what these terms mean and why one is used in one place and another in another. We explain the answer to this to you here.
What is source separation?
By source separation, we mean that you as a resident separate your waste yourself at home. In this way, many more types of waste are separated than with subsequent separation by machine. The raw materials you separate at home can be very well recycled. Besides source separation, the terms home separation and pre-separation are also used.
What is post-separation?
In post-separation, a machine at a plant separates residual waste. This preserves valuable materials that we would otherwise have to incinerate. The machine can by no means separate all types of waste. Especially plastic packaging, metal packaging and drink cartons (pmd) can be separated from residual waste with post-separation. Separating organic waste, paper, cardboard, packaging glass and textiles afterwards is technically not (yet) possible.
Which is better: separation at source or post-separation with a machine?
Which method is best depends on circumstances and location. Some municipalities choose source separation, others prefer post-separation, and still others opt for a combination of source and post-separation.
Post-separation with a machine always complements source separation. In low-rise houses, source separation produces the best quality raw materials. It is also the cheapest way to separate waste. In flats and flats, it is less easy to separate waste at home. There, post-separation with a machine is a better choice to still be able to recycle valuable raw materials such as plastic packaging, metal packaging and drink cartons.
Why do municipalities choose a different way of collecting residual waste and pmd from flats, flats and upper dwellings?
Home separation with containers is very successful at low-rise buildings in our region. It produces the best quality raw materials. It is also the cheapest way to separate waste. For high-rise buildings, collection in collection containers for PMD is a lot more difficult. This is also a national picture.
By opting for post-separation of PMD from residual waste in high-rise buildings, we need to incinerate less residual waste expensively. And so we can recycle more. That is why post-separation of PMD is the best choice for high-rise buildings.
Less residual waste through better separation
Some people think that all the waste ends up back in one pile anyway. This is not true. This is because our collection trucks collect the same type of raw material each time. However, it is important that the waste is properly separated. VGF (vegetable, fruit and garden waste and food leftovers), for example, should be separated from other types of waste as much as possible. VGF waste is generally wet and dirty, sticking to other waste. As a result, residual waste cannot be sorted as well during the post-separation process and plastic is burned unnecessarily. Separating VGF waste properly at the source creates a drier residual waste flow, giving us better results in post-separation. VGF waste is also not waste, but fully raw material for compost or biogas, among other things! So it is a shame to throw it away with residual waste!
Therefore, if different types of waste are mixed together, it cannot be recycled properly and unfortunately still has to go with the residual waste and is incinerated. This is unfortunate because raw materials are lost that way.
Tips to make waste separation easier
- Use separate bins for different types of waste, such as paper, gft, pmd and residual waste.
- Pay close attention to which waste belongs in which container. Not sure which container a product or material belongs in? The separation guide helps!
- Empty your packaging before throwing it away. This applies to pmd, for example, where it is important that the containers are empty to recycle them properly.
- If you are supposed to separate pmd, you should put plastic packaging with the pmd and not with the residual waste. This also applies to drinks cartons and metal packaging.
- Make sure your waste is properly separated before you throw it away. This way, we can make good use of raw materials and reduce the burden on the environment.
Separating waste: important for the environment and your wallet
It is therefore important to separate waste properly. There are two ways to separate waste: source separation and post-separation. In source separation, you already separate different types of waste at home, while in post-separation it is done in a factory. Both ways have advantages: post-separation serves convenience, but with source separation, raw materials are of better quality so they can be better recycled. The important thing is that we are all aware of the importance of waste separation and do our best to do it properly. In this way, together we can contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable world.
Why is waste being imported from Italy?
Italy has insufficient capacity to process residual waste. After a major fire at Rome's largest waste treatment plant in 2022, the new plant is not expected to be operational until 2026. Until then, the residual waste has to go somewhere. The Netherlands has a large incineration capacity because of its high rate of separate collection and recycling (60%) of waste. This leaves less residual waste to be incinerated.
If Italy cannot incinerate the residual waste, it has to be landfilled, which is the most harmful to the environment. Landfills create methane, a greenhouse gas 28 times stronger than CO2.
It is therefore very important to separate and recycle waste and raw materials properly. By reducing residual waste and reusing and recycling more, we need to use fewer natural resources. What is burned once cannot be reused. If residual waste remains after separation, it must be incinerated. The cost of this will rise in the coming years, due to processing costs and taxes, for instance. Less residual waste is therefore good for both the environment and your wallet.
Test your knowledge with the Waste Separation Quiz
Wondering what kind of waste separator you are? Take the quiz and find out what you already know about waste separation. At the end of the quiz, you will receive tailored advice to increase your knowledge. So what are you waiting for? Let's work together for a cleaner and more sustainable future!
- Intro text: By recycling waste, you contribute to a clean environment for current and future generations. Separating waste can be tricky, so in this blog we give tips and explanations on how to easily determine which bin a product belongs in.
You are standing in front of the bin. With Styrofoam in one hand, and an empty lighter in the other. You open the residual waste bin. And then, then come the questions. Is this right? Shouldn't this go with plastic? Or should it go to the recycling centre? As you stare at the different bins, you don't remember. Why can't it be easier? It can. And we explain how.
When you recycle waste, you help create a clean and beautiful environment, for yourself and future generations. But separating waste can be challenging. That is why in this blog we explain how to find out which bin a particular product goes in, and give useful tips on how to separate waste a lot easier.
An organised system
In the Netherlands, we distinguish between different types of waste, some of which you may already use or be familiar with on a daily basis. These include plastic packaging, metal packaging and drink cartons (pmd), vegetable, fruit, garden and food waste (VGF), glass, residual waste, paper and cardboard. Other raw materials can be brought to the environmental street. You can dispose of bulky household waste, small chemical waste, white and brown goods, batteries, paint and textiles.
Unfortunately, there are also exceptions and catch-alls among the waste rules. For example, chewing gum cannot go with the VGF waste, while many people think so, and a large piece of polystyrene foam has to be taken to the waste disposal site while a small piece can go with the residual waste. But how do you know what goes where?
Which bin should what go in? Use the Waardlanden app!
Know which bin your waste belongs in? With the handy Waardlanden app you always have the separation guide to hand. Download the Waardlanden app on your smartphone. This way you will always have all information on waste and raw materials to hand. You will also find your personal waste calendar in the app. And you can quickly and easily submit reports or make a bulky waste appointment. With the Waardlanden app, you have everything at hand. Extremely handy!
Test your knowledge with the Waste Separation Quiz
Wondering what kind of waste separator you are? Take the quiz and find out what you already know about waste separation. At the end of the quiz, you will receive tailored advice to increase your knowledge. So what are you waiting for? Let's work together for a cleaner and more sustainable future!
- Intro text: Find out how to separate waste even better! Learn useful tips and tricks to make a difference in our region. From smart recycling suggestions to creative reuse ideas. Read it now in our blog and let's build a cleaner and more sustainable environment for all of us together!
Since the industrial revolution in 1750, humans became increasingly distant from nature. The production of goods grew immensely, as did the economy. But where more is produced, more waste is also created. A waste stream of paper, plastic, Styrofoam, food scraps, electronics, iron and so on. This is not only around people, but also around animals and plants. By separating our waste better, together we contribute to a better environment and a cleaner living environment. We explain why waste separation is so important and what you can do about it yourself at home.
Why separate waste?
Waste is a big problem. We are all producing more and more waste and this has a negative impact on the environment. It takes a lot of energy and raw materials to process waste. While others can still put your (old) stuff to good use. Or perhaps there are reusable materials among them that can be recycled. By separating waste and recycling old items, you will find that you have much less residual waste at home. This saves raw materials and energy. So less residual waste is good for the environment and for our wallets.
Separating our waste incorrectly also causes additional air pollution. Burning waste also releases a lot of CO2. This is bad for the environment and the climate. Animals also suffer because of waste in nature. They eat it and get sick. Or they get caught in it. By separating our waste properly, we can reduce these negative consequences.
Separating waste and raw materials: a breeze!
Anyway, we all know that separating waste is not usually anyone's favourite chore. So make it easy on yourself with the following tips:
- For example, put a separate bin for food waste and cardboard next to your bin. Don't have room for multiple bins in your home? You are not the only one. There are now many space-saving solutions on the market. For example, a duo waste bin called Vriflex.
- Make sure your waste bins are in the right places. For example, put a paper bin next to your desk.
- Make it visible. For example, put stickers on the bins showing what belongs in them.
Important for the environment
Separating waste is important for the environment and the future of our planet. By separating waste better, we can reuse raw materials and reduce the negative impact of waste on the environment. The tips above will make separating waste easier. Involve the whole family and make it a challenge. Together, we can contribute to a better world. Good luck with waste separation!
Test your knowledge with the Waste Separation Quiz
Wondering what kind of waste separator you are? Take the quiz and find out what you already know about waste separation. At the end of the quiz, you will receive tailored advice to increase your knowledge. So what are you waiting for? Let's work together for a cleaner and more sustainable future!
- Intro text: Are you already among the large group of people who separate their waste properly? In that case, thanks for that! We can take another great step: towards less waste. There are many good and fun ways, which often also save you money.
Are you already among the large group of people who separate their waste well. In that case, thank you for that! And we can take another great step: towards less waste. There are many good and fun ways, which often also save you money. For example, buying and cooking food smarter, so you use everything. Repairing things is fortunately becoming more normal again. And buying and selling used items is a trend.
You too can save waste
Milieucentraal's Waste Reducer gives you an insight into how to save waste. Complete the questions and indicate what you already know and do about reducing waste. At the end of the test, you will receive personalised tips on how to reduce waste and save money.
You can complete the questions completely anonymously within a few minutes. Between the answer options of the multiple-choice questions, there are all kinds of useful initiatives. So the test immediately gives you good ideas for reducing your own waste. At the end of the test, you will get even more useful tips.
> Launch the Waste Miner for your tailored advice
Questions and tips
We hope you discover many new, fun and valuable ideas. Do you have any questions or a tip of your own to share? Mail our environmental coaches Ingrid and Nelleke, they will be happy to help you.
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Stay informed about the latest developments and receive useful tips on how to separate less waste and even better? Sign up to receive the monthly digital 'Lekker opgeruimd' newsletter.
- Intro text: Download our handy app. This way, you always have all waste information to hand. And you know exactly when your container is due at the road and where what type of waste is allowed.
Very handy! Install our app on your smartphone. This way, you always have all waste information to hand. The app contains your personal waste calendar. You can also set it to notify you when you need to take one of your containers to the road. Then you will never forget this.
All useful functions at a glance
- Your personal waste calendar
- Report such as a full collection container or an illegal dump
- Container location search
- Separate more easily with the handy waste separation guide
- Receiving important messages
Download the Waardlanden app for Android or iOS
- Intro text: Now that summer is here and temperatures are rising, it is time for cosy barbecues and outdoor picnics. Unfortunately, these fun activities can also create a lot of waste. Fortunately, you can avoid this with these simple tips and still enjoy yourself to the full.
It's the middle of summer: time for cosy barbecues and outdoor picnics. Unfortunately, this can also create a lot of waste. Fortunately, you can simply prevent this and still enjoy yourself to the full.
Smart choices for less waste
It all starts with not using disposable plastic and aluminium foil. Instead, choose reusable cutlery, bamboo plates and cups that you can use over and over again. Visit the thrift shop, for example, for nice second-hand crockery. Or consider reusable napkins and beeswax cloths to cover food.
Convenient shopping
Prefer to buy your food in bulk rather than loosely packed products. You can often buy fresh fruit and vegetables without packaging.
Gft: your free green contribution
What to do with food waste? Collect peelings and other organic waste in a special compostable bag or kitchen bin. Use your environmental card to dispose of this free of charge in your neighbourhood's VGF container or in the VGF container at home. This is how you give natural materials a second life.
Sustainable drinking options
A barbecue naturally includes something to drink. Choose refillable water bottles instead of disposable ones. You can make your own soft drinks with a Sodastream, for example. That way, you won't need plastic bottles.
Make a plan
Think in advance about what you will do with leftover food. Can you save them for another time? Also make sure you tidy up all your waste and separate it properly. A small effort with a big difference for the environment.
Together for a clean planet
A waste-free barbecue or picnic takes some planning, but it is definitely worth it. With these simple tips, you will make a positive contribution to a cleaner planet. This is how we enjoy and care for our environment this summer. Ready to make your bbq waste-free? Join us and make your summer outings a sustainable success.
- Intro text: Is your home waste well organised too? With a few smart steps, you can avoid full bins, unpleasant smells and angry neighbours. So you can leave with peace of mind and come home refreshed.
Stuff packed, plants at the neighbours' and ready to go. But is your home waste well organised? With a few smart steps, you can avoid full bins, unpleasant smells and angry neighbours. So you can leave with peace of mind and come home refreshed.
Still cleaning up?
Holiday fun is the perfect time to tidy up at home too. Take items you no longer need to the recycling centre, the Kringloopplein or a charity shop. This way you can start the holidays fresh and sustainable, because disposing before the holidays means less clutter after the holidays.
Do not leave full waste bins behind
Especially in summer, waste left behind can quickly become smelly. Before leaving, empty all bins in the house, especially the kitchen and garden waste bin. Do not put rubbish bags in the hallway or shed either. This will help you avoid smells or pests when you get home.
Use the right bags
Always put waste in the right bag:
pmd and residual waste: transparent bags and tightly sealed.
GFT: special compostable bags with the OK compost logo or the Kiemplant logo
Do not put loose bags next to the container, we will not take them.
Have your container emptied on time
Check the Waardlanden app or at landlords.co.uk When your container will be emptied. Place your container outside before 7.30am on the collection day and remove it from the street the same day to avoid inconvenience. Please note: do not put it out earlier than necessary.
Ask someone to help
Not at home on collection day? Ask a neighbour or acquaintance to take out your container and - just as importantly - to collect it again. A small effort, great convenience.
That way you leave without any worries and come home refreshed. Happy summer!
For more tips, visit waardlanden.nl/tips
- Intro text: Do you have a holiday and will be taking a break soon? Then this is a great time to relax and do something good for the environment. With a few smart choices, you can also reduce your waste while on holiday. Have a nice summer!
Will you be taking a break soon? To a campsite, cottage, hotel or flat? Then this is a great time to relax and do something good for the environment. With a few smart choices, you can also reduce waste at your holiday destination.
Waste travels with you
What many people forget is that their waste often travels with them unconsciously. Disposable wipes, loose packaging, half shampoo bottles and plastic cutlery seem handy, but on holiday they mostly cause hassle. Not only in the bag, but also at the holiday address.
Waste is generated quickly, is difficult to get rid of - especially on busy campsites or in holiday homes without clear separation of waste - and regularly causes overflowing bins. That is why it is smart to think in advance about what you will and will not take with you.
What can you do?
Opt for less clutter on the go. Leave unnecessary packaging at home and think about what you really need.
Going shopping before departure?
Check what you still have in the house first. This way, you avoid wasting food and avoiding overflowing bins on holiday.
Leave unnecessary packaging at home
It saves space in your luggage, and you avoid having to throw something away every time you travel. A refillable bottle, a lunch box, some containers for leftovers: it makes a big difference.
With children on holiday
Going with children? Make waste separation or tidying fun. Give them their own water bottle or invent a scavenger hunt: who will be the first to find a can, a piece of paper and a plastic cap?
This is already a hit in some regions - litter picking as a holiday activity. Good for the neighbourhood as well as raising awareness.
Separating waste on holiday
Many campsites and holiday parks allow you to separate waste. Check this on arrival. Are there no separate bins? Then use a few bags or containers for paper, organic waste and plastic yourself. Throw it away separately en route or take it home with you. Small effort, big difference.
Every little step helps. So: what will you leave at home this summer? Perhaps exactly what you didn't really need on the road anyway.
- Intro text: Did you know that all electrical appliances (with and without batteries), loose batteries and accumulators should always be returned separately? Help out and deliver your electrical waste, batteries and accumulators separately!
Read more: Electrical waste, battery or accumulator? Do it separately!
- Intro text: Summer is here. Time for sunshine, being outside a lot and enjoying nature. During the holiday season, we often pull out all kinds of summer stuff or buy it new. Find out how to reuse, borrow or buy more consciously to make summer just as fun, but much more sustainable!
Read more: Using summer stuff sustainably: tips for reusing, borrowing and buying
