Did you know that a single half-full package can render an entire container of plastic, metal (tin) and beverage cartons (PMD) unrecyclable? The packaging then ends up in the incinerator – along with valuable raw materials we actually want to reuse. That's a waste of effort – and a waste of resources. With the national campaign "As long as it's empty!" – from August 25th to September 7th – we're raising awareness about proper packaging disposal.
Only empty packaging belongs to the PMD
Dispose of packaging in the plastic carton (PMD), but only if it's truly empty. Only then can we properly recycle the material and reuse it for new products. Squeeze, scrape, slurp, or empty it – it doesn't matter how you do it, as long as it's empty. This prevents waste and contributes to better waste separation.
Why this campaign?
Many people want to separate their waste properly, but things still go wrong. Research shows that 1 in 3 Dutch people sometimes throw away packaging that isn't empty. And only 55% know that packaging must be completely empty before it can be disposed of as plastic, metal, and recycling (PMD).
There's also confusion about what exactly belongs in PMD. As a result, easily recyclable packaging sometimes ends up in residual waste – and valuable raw materials are still lost.
For example, more than half of people are hesitant about plastic tubs containing items like cream cheese, chip bags with an aluminum lining, and aluminum trays like those used in takeout meals. Many people also think you have to rinse packaging first. This isn't necessary and actually wastes drinking water.
So the will is definitely there. Three-quarters of people want to do it right and say they usually empty their packaging. But with the right knowledge and small steps, we can collectively retain more value and incinerate less waste.
Unsure? Check the label or our PMD list.
It's not always clear what is and isn't allowed in the PMD. Are you unsure? Then check the separation guide or on the packaging label. You'll increasingly find the Waste Guide logo there – a handy tool for disposing of packaging correctly.
Want to know more about the national campaign? Visit www.verpact.nl/verpakkingleeg