Many residents already separate their waste very well. To further improve the quality of the separated raw materials in the containers for vegetable, fruit, and garden waste (GFT) and plastic packaging, metal packaging, and beverage cartons (PMD) in low-rise buildings, we will be checking the contents starting July 3, 2023.

Read more: Quality checks on the contents of PMD and GFT containers

• Intro text: Discover in our blog how you can contribute to effective waste separation and why you should, or shouldn't, separate your 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 needs to be processed, because once we throw something in the trash, it's not gone. Various systems have been devised to process all this waste, including pre- and post-separation. There's often confusion about what these terms mean and why one is used in one place and another in another. We'll explain the answer here.  

What is bronze separation? 

By source separation, we mean that you, as a resident, separate your waste at home. This way, many more waste types are separated than with post-separation using a machine. The raw materials you separate at home are highly recyclable. Besides source separation, the terms "home" and "pre-separation" are also used. 

What is post-separation? 

With post-separation, a machine in a factory separates residual waste. This preserves valuable materials that would otherwise have to be incinerated. The machine cannot separate all types of waste. Plastic packaging, metal packaging, and beverage cartons (PMD) in particular can be separated from residual waste during post-separation. Separating organic waste, paper, cardboard, glass packaging, and textiles afterward is not (yet) technically feasible.

What is better: separating at source or post-separating with a machine?

The best method depends on the circumstances and location. Some municipalities opt for source separation, others prefer post-separation, and still others opt for a combination of source and post-separation.
Machine-assisted waste separation is always a supplement to source separation. In low-rise buildings, source separation yields the highest-quality raw materials. It's also the cheapest way to separate waste. In apartment buildings, it's less convenient to separate waste at home. Machine-assisted waste separation is a better option there, allowing valuable raw materials such as plastic packaging, metal packaging, and beverage cartons to be recycled.

Why do municipalities choose a different method for collecting residual waste and PMD from flats, apartments, and upstairs apartments?

Separating waste at home using containers is very successful in low-rise buildings in our region. It produces the highest-quality raw materials. It's also the most cost-effective way to separate waste. In high-rise buildings, collecting PMD in collection containers is much more difficult. This is also a national trend. 

By choosing post-separation of PMD from residual waste in high-rise buildings, we reduce the amount of expensive residual waste we need to incinerate. This allows us to recycle more. That's why post-separation of PMD is the best option for high-rise buildings.

Less residual waste through better separation 

Some people think all the waste will eventually end up in one pile. That's not true. Our collection vehicles collect the same type of raw material each time. However, it's important that the waste is properly separated. Organic waste (vegetable, fruit, and garden waste, and food scraps), for example, should be separated from other types of waste as much as possible. Organic waste is generally wet and dirty, causing it to stick to other waste. This makes residual waste harder to sort during the post-separation process, and plastic is unnecessarily incinerated. By properly separating organic waste at the source, a drier residual waste stream is created, which allows us to achieve better post-separation results. Furthermore, organic waste isn't waste, but entirely raw material for compost or biogas, among other things! It's a shame to throw it in with the residual waste!  

So, if different types of waste are mixed together, it can't be recycled properly and unfortunately, it still has to be disposed of as residual waste and incinerated. This is unfortunate, as it results in the loss of raw materials.

Tips to make waste separation easier

1. Use separate bins for different types of waste, such as paper, organic waste, plastic, metal carton, and residual waste. 

2. Pay close attention to which waste belongs in which container. Are you unsure which bin a product or material belongs in? separation guide helps!  

3. Empty your packaging before throwing it away. This applies, for example, to PMD (plastic, metal cartons), where it's important that the packaging is empty for proper recycling. 

4. If you're supposed to separate PMD, you should put plastic packaging with it and not with your residual waste. This also applies to beverage cartons and metal packaging. 

5. Make sure your waste is properly separated before disposal. This way, we can make the most of our resources and reduce our impact on the environment. 

Waste separation: important for the environment and your wallet 

It's therefore important to separate waste properly. There are two ways to separate waste: source separation and post-separation. With source separation, you already separate different types of waste at home, while post-separation takes place in a factory. Both methods have advantages: post-separation is convenient, but with source separation, the raw materials are of higher quality, making them more recyclable. The most important thing is that we all recognize the importance of waste separation and do our best to do it properly. This way, together, we can contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable world. 

Why is waste imported from Italy?  

Italy lacks sufficient capacity to process residual waste. Following a major fire at Rome's largest waste processing facility in 2022, the new facility is not expected to be operational until 2026. Until then, residual waste needs to go somewhere. The Netherlands has a large incineration capacity due to its high percentage of separate waste collection and recycling (60%). This reduces the amount of residual waste that needs to be incinerated. 

If Italy can't incinerate its residual waste, it must be landfilled, which is the most harmful to the environment. Landfills produce methane, a greenhouse gas 28 times more potent than CO2. 

It is therefore crucial to properly separate and recycle waste and raw materials. By reducing residual waste and increasing reuse and recycling, we can use fewer natural resources. Once incinerated, waste cannot be reused. If any residual waste remains after separation, it must be incinerated. The costs of this will rise in the coming years due to factors such as processing costs and taxes. Reducing residual waste is therefore good for both the environment and your wallet.

Test your knowledge with the Waste Separation Quiz 

Curious about what kind of waste separator you are? Start quiz And discover what you already know about waste separation. At the end of the quiz, you'll receive personalized advice to expand your knowledge. So what are you waiting for? Let's work together towards 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 difficult, so in this blog post, we offer tips and explanations on how to easily determine which bin a product belongs in.

You're standing in front of the trash can. With Styrofoam in one hand and an empty lighter in the other. You open the residual waste bin. And then, the questions arise. Is this right? Shouldn't this be put in the plastic bin? Or should it go to the recycling center? As you stare at the various bins, you're at a loss. Why can't it be easier? It can be. And we'll explain how. 

By recycling your waste, you contribute to a clean and beautiful environment for yourself and future generations. But separating waste can be quite a challenge. That's why, in this blog post, we'll explain how to determine which bin a particular product belongs in, and provide helpful tips on how to make separating waste much easier.  

An organized 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. For example, we separate plastic packaging, metal packaging, and beverage cartons (PMD), vegetable, fruit, and garden waste, and food waste (GFT), glass, residual waste, paper, and cardboard. Other raw materials can be taken to the recycling center. You can dispose of bulky household waste, small chemical waste (SCW), white and brown goods, batteries, paint, and textiles there.  

Unfortunately, the waste regulations also include exceptions and pitfalls. For example, chewing gum doesn't go in the organic waste bin, even though many people think it does. A large piece of polystyrene must be taken to the recycling center, while a small piece can go in the residual waste. But how do you know what goes where?

Which bin goes where? Use the Waardlanden app! 

Want to know which bin your waste belongs in? Use the handy Waardlanden app Always have your waste separation guide at hand? Download the Waardlanden app on your smartphone. This way, you'll always have all the information about waste and raw materials at your fingertips. You'll also find your personal waste calendar in the app. And you can quickly and easily submit reports or schedule a bulk waste appointment. With the Waardlanden app, you have everything at your fingertips. Super convenient! 

Test your knowledge with the Waste Separation Quiz 

Curious about what kind of waste separator you are? Start quiz And discover what you already know about waste separation. At the end of the quiz, you'll receive personalized advice to expand your knowledge. So what are you waiting for? Let's work together towards a cleaner and more sustainable future! 

• Intro text: Discover how to separate your waste even better! Learn handy 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 everyone!

Since the Industrial Revolution in 1750, humanity has become increasingly disconnected from nature. Goods production grew immensely, as did the economy. But where more is produced, more waste is also created. A waste stream of paper, plastic, polystyrene, food scraps, electronics, iron, and so on. This waste not only reaches people but also animals and plants. By separating our waste more effectively, we all contribute to a better environment and a cleaner living environment. We explain why separating waste is so important and what you can do at home. 

Why separate waste? 

Waste is a major problem. We're all producing more and more waste, which has negative consequences for the environment. Processing waste requires a lot of energy and resources, while others could still use your (old) items. Or perhaps they contain reusable materials that can be recycled. By separating waste and recycling old items, you'll notice that you have much less residual waste at home. This way, we save resources and energy. Less residual waste is therefore good for the environment and our wallets.  

Incorrectly separating our waste 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 from waste in nature. They eat it and become ill from it. Or they get entangled in it. By separating our waste properly, we can limit these negative consequences. 

Separating waste and raw materials: easy! 

Anyway, we all know that separating waste isn't usually anyone's favorite chore. So make it easy on yourself with the following tips: 

1. For example, place a separate bin for food scraps and cardboard next to your trash can. Don't have room for multiple trash cans in your home? You're not alone. There are now many space-saving solutions on the market. For example, a duo waste bin, called the Vriflex. 
2. Make sure your waste bins are in the right places. For example, place a paper bin next to your desk. 
3. Make it visible. For example, put stickers on the trash bins that indicate what belongs in them. 

Important for the environment 

Separating waste is important for the environment and the future of our planet. By separating waste more effectively, we can reuse raw materials and reduce the negative impact of waste on the environment. The tips above make separating waste easier. Get the whole family involved and make it a challenge. Together we can contribute to a better world. Good luck with separating waste! 

Test your knowledge with the Waste Separation Quiz 

Curious about what kind of waste separator you are? Start quiz And discover what you already know about waste separation. At the end of the quiz, you'll receive personalized advice to expand your knowledge. So what are you waiting for? Let's work together towards a cleaner and more sustainable future! 

To encourage and facilitate the separation of vegetable, fruit, garden, and food waste (organic waste), residents of high-rise buildings can now request a free organic waste bin. The organic waste bin is a handy tool for collecting organic waste in your kitchen. Afterward, you simply take it to the organic waste container, preventing odors in your home.

Do not use (bio)plastic bags

Don't put organic waste in plastic bags, as this will prevent composting. Bags made from bioplastic also don't belong in the organic waste bin, as they take too long to decompose and compost. Bioplastic is plastic made from plant waste instead of petroleum or gas. Only special, compostable organic waste bags with the Seedling Logo or OK Compost Logo and paper bags are allowed in the organic waste bin, as they are a useful tool for separating organic waste. Want to know more? Then go to the Milieu Centraal website. 

Request a free organic waste kitchen bin

Do you live in a high-rise building? Then you can order up to X free organic waste bins using this form. You'll also receive a roll of 20 biodegradable bags for the bin.

Note:

• You can only order a GFT kitchen bucket if you live in a high-rise building in the municipalities of Gorinchem, Hardinxveld-Giessendam, Molenlanden or Vijfheerenlanden
• One free kitchen bucket can be requested per address

• Intro text: Are you already one of the many people who properly separates their waste? If so, thank you! We can still take a significant step: towards less waste. There are many effective and enjoyable ways, which often save you money too.

Are you already one of the many people who properly separate their waste? If so, thank you! And we can take another great step: towards less waste. There are many good and enjoyable ways, which often also save you money. For example, buying and cooking food smarter, so you use everything. Fortunately, repairing things (or having them repaired) is becoming more common again. And buying and selling used items is a trend.

You too can save waste

With the Waste Reduction Tool from Milieucentraal, you'll gain insight into how you can reduce waste. Complete the questions and indicate what you already know and are doing to reduce waste. At the end of the test, you'll receive personalized tips for reducing waste and saving money.

You can complete the questions completely anonymously in just a few minutes. The multiple-choice answer options include a variety of helpful initiatives. The test will immediately give you good ideas for reducing your own waste. You'll receive even more helpful tips at the end of the test.

> Start the Waste Reduction for your tailor-made advice

Questions and tips

We hope you discover many new, fun, and valuable ideas. Do you have any questions or tips of your own to share? Email our environmental coaches Ingrid and Nelleke, they will be happy to help you.

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• Intro text: Download our handy app. This way, you'll always have all your waste information at your fingertips. You'll know exactly when your container needs to be out and where each type of waste is allowed.

With the Waardlanden app, you have all your waste information at your fingertips. View your personal waste calendar, easily submit a notification or request, and receive important messages and reminders. This way, you always know what to expect and won't miss a collection.

What can you do with the app?

• View your personal waste calendar with collection days
• Receive important messages, for example about changes in collection routes or catch-up days.
• Get a reminder when you can put a container on the curb
• Submit a request or report quickly and easily, for example in the case of a full collection container or dumped waste
• Separate waste more easily with the waste separation guide

• Find container locations near you

How to set reminders

Open the app and go to "Settings." Turn on "Push Notifications" and "Waste Reminders."

You'll then automatically receive a notification when you can put a container out or when something changes. Very convenient!

Download the Waardlanden app for Android or iOS

Don't have our app yet? Download it for free for Android or iOS below.

• Intro text: Are you planning a renovation or remodeling project and do you own a house or shed built before 1994? Be extra vigilant. Asbestos may be present. Find out how to handle asbestos safely.

• Intro text: After a cozy Easter weekend, there's often plenty left over: a boiled egg, a slice of stollen, salad, or some bread. Don't throw it away; repurpose it. Give Easter leftovers a second life!

Easter is often about being together and eating together. A generous breakfast table, boiled eggs, baked rolls, a festive loaf, salad, dips, and maybe even a slice of cake. Delicious, of course! But after the weekend, there are often some leftovers. And that's perfectly fine – if you know what to do with them.

Turn leftovers into a party

There's no need to throw things away, because you can often turn them into something surprisingly delicious. Don't just throw leftovers away. With a few leftovers, you can easily make a new lunch for yourself or the whole family the next day. Arrange them attractively on a plate and you have a mini tasting menu. Think of a boiled egg, a slice of stollen, some leftover salad, some fruit, or half a croissant. Delicious, and you'll avoid waste.

This is what you can still do with leftovers

Boiled eggs:

• Boiled eggs will keep for up to a week in the refrigerator.
• Make it a simple egg salad (with a little yogurt or mayo, mustard and chives)
• Cut into wedges and add to a green salad or nasi
• Use them in a salad or wrap.

Brood:

• Make grilled cheese sandwiches or French toast from old white bread
• Cut the baguette into slices, sprinkle with oil and make crostini in the oven
• Spread with tomato sauce, cheese and vegetables for quick mini pizzas
• Stale croissants? Cut them into pieces and make a sweet bread pudding with milk, egg, and raisins.
• Even baked rolls can be made crispy again with a little water and a few minutes in the oven.

Easter loaf about:

• Slice these and freeze them so you can enjoy them later.
• Make French toast with stollen – festive and surprisingly delicious
• Use in a trifle with yoghurt and red fruit

Cheese, cold cuts or spreads:

• Make a 'leftover toast': top slices of bread with leftover cheese, tomato or cold cuts, grill briefly in the oven
• Mix leftover herb cream cheese or hummus with pasta as a sauce
• Make puff pastry snacks with leftovers: ideal for freezing for later

Vegetables and fruits:

• Make a soup from leftover carrots, leeks or bell peppers
• Mix fruit in a smoothie or bake small muffins with pieces of apple or pear
• Use leftover vegetables in a savory pie or omelette

Dates or dried fruit:

• Fill dates with cream cheese or peanut butter and a little cinnamon – perfect snack
• Chop dates finely and mix with couscous or a salad with goat cheese
• Add to banana bread, couscous, muffins or energy bars

Small effort, big difference

By consciously handling leftovers, you prevent waste and enjoy twice as much. So, check what you have before you throw anything away. This way, you'll truly make the most of the holidays – even afterward.

For more tips, visit waardlanden.nl/tips

• Intro text: Soil, sand, and garden soil may seem like natural materials, but they don't belong in organic waste and can't be recycled. They disrupt the composting process and can render an entire batch of organic waste unusable. This article explains what is and isn't allowed, and how to safely dispose of larger quantities.

Planning on gardening or cleaning a sandbox? Don't throw soil, sand, and garden soil in the organic waste bin, and don't take them to the recycling center either. It might seem logical, since they're natural materials, but they disrupt the composting process. As a result, an entire load of organic waste can be rejected and no longer processed into compost or green gas. Your own container might also be left behind on collection day, as contaminated organic waste can't be emptied. Therefore, it's important to dispose of these materials correctly. 

What is allowed in the organic waste container?

Small quantities only:

• soil from a flower pot
• a little bit of soil when weeding
• a little soil from transplanting a shrub.

You can often reuse clean sand in your own garden, for example, to fill a hole or loosen the soil. This prevents waste and allows you to reuse materials efficiently.

What is not allowed in the organic waste container and not allowed at the recycling center?

Larger quantities. Consider:

• the contents of a sandbox
• soil from a garden project or renovation
• bucket or wheelbarrow full of sand, soil or garden soil

Why not?

Unfortunately, we cannot accept larger quantities of soil or sand. This is due to the so-called clean soil declaration: we are only allowed to process soil if we are certain it is clean. Without such a declaration, these materials cannot be disposed of at our recycling centers. They also do not belong in residual waste. This way, we protect the soil together and prevent pollution.

How do you dispose of larger quantities properly?

Do you have more sand or soil, such as the contents of a sandbox or from a garden renovation? Then there are two options:

• Are you having a landscaper do your landscaping? Ask them to remove the soil and materials.
• Are you doing it yourself? Then take it to a specialized company, such as Korevaar, Weverwijk, and Kok Lexmond, or another earthmoving company in your area. Or have it collected. They collect larger quantities of soil and sand, inspect it, and prepare it for reuse. This way, we keep the soil clean and prevent pollution together.

Together through the seasons

Whether you're moving plants in the spring, replacing sand in the summer, or tidying the garden in the fall and winter, by properly separating materials, we work together towards a cleaner and greener world. This way, we contribute to a clean region and a waste-free future for ourselves and future generations. Together and for each other.

For more tips, visit waardlanden.nl/tips