Waste management has become increasingly critical for environmental sustainability, prompting governments to implement innovative measures to reduce, sort, and manage waste effectively.
René Beerda explores the latest legislative changes and recent waste management initiatives in Belgium and the Netherlands, highlighting how Avendra International can support you in managing your waste effectively.
Belgium
Waste sorting law:
Belgium has taken a significant step towards reducing food waste by implementing a mandatory waste sorting law, as outlined in the government’s plan. Since January 1, 2024, all companies in the country are now required to separate food waste from other waste streams. This initiative follows a broader goal to reduce food waste by 50% by 2023.
Companies that do not separate their waste streams will receive penalties from January 2025.
Netherlands
Deposits on plastic bottles and cans:
To curb the yearly disposal of 150 million cans, the Netherlands implemented a deposit system for plastic bottles and cans. The deposit is €0.15 for bottles and €0.25 for cans, encouraging consumers to return them to assigned collection points or reverse vending machines. This initiative aims to cut littered cans and bottles by 70-90%.
Mandatory marking on products containing plastic:
Tobacco items, drinking cups, food packaging, textiles, bags, wrappers, balloons, and wet wipes must now bear mandatory markings. The markings include a logo and text indicating the presence of plastic and the environmental harm if not properly disposed of. This measure aims to boost awareness and promote responsible disposal. The markings also guide consumers on correct disposal methods.
Extended producer responsibility:
Producers are now actively involved in funding waste collection, participating in litter cleanup efforts, and raising consumer awareness. This aims to enhance a circular and sustainable economy. Producers pay fees for each kilogram of plastic packaging, financing collection and recycling. They must also join a collective organisation, like the Plastic Soup Foundation, to coordinate litter prevention. Producers communicate with consumers about the environmental impact of plastic waste and the advantages of reducing, reusing, and recycling it.
Ban on free disposable plastic items ‘on-the-go’:
On July 1, 2023, a ban on the complimentary provision of disposable plastic cups and food packaging for ‘on-the-go’ was enforced. This ban was followed by a complete ban on these items in direct-use locations like cafes, restaurants, and stadiums from January 1, 2024. Businesses must now offer reusable or biodegradable alternatives.
Modification of waste flow:
The categorisation of waste flow, previously identified as PBD (plastic, cans, and drink cartons), has been altered to PD (plastic and drink cartons). This adjustment is a response to cans now having a deposit, aligning with efforts to cut plastic waste. The change simplifies sorting for consumers and collectors, focusing on separating plastic and drink cartons. PD waste is transported to specialised recycling plants, enhancing the quality and quantity of recycled plastic by reducing contamination and leakage.
Our solution
Avendra International with Renewi, a leading waste-to-product company operating primarily in Europe, particularly the Benelux region. Rather than simply disposing of waste, Renewi focuses on extracting value through recycling, reusing, and resource recovery.
Renewi provides Avendra International members with:
Custom container solutions for efficient waste sorting
A diverse range of containers for various waste streams—paper, plastic, glass, metal, wood, and organic waste
Online tools and customer service for easy container management
Dedicated to a cleaner environment, Renewi diverts waste from landfills, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and preserves natural resources. Over 65% of the waste they receive is recycled into valuable products or energy, including glass bottles, paper, compost, biogas, and fertilisers. Additionally, Renewi supports local communities and initiatives promoting environmental awareness and sustainability.
We are here to help
To learn more about Avendra International’s solutions to manage your waste, or if you’d like to receive advice to navigate the latest legislation changes, get in touch at hello_Europe@avendra.com
