Berlin
More than a million tons of packaging waste is disposed of in the yellow sack every year. This could now change with the yellow bin.
In 30 years it has developed into a reliable, but also unpopular companion for some. Because the anger about the torn plastic film and scattered dirt from the sacks has never subsided. But now the end of the yellow bags is imminent. Because since 2022 the sacks have been gradually getting through Yellow bins exchanged.
Why are yellow bags being abolished?
The innovation is made possible by the new , which came into force at the beginning of 2019. The municipalities therefore have the option of such a change for lightweight packaging mandatory, although the dual systems are still responsible locally. For these reasons, the sacks are to be replaced by solid bins:
- The foil is closed unstable and often yields under pressure from the contents and when damaged by foraging animals. The yellow bin is intended to prevent public spaces from being polluted by packaging waste.
- By eliminating the bags should in future resources be saved. According to the Association of Municipal Enterprises (VKU), the number of bags to be produced will be reduced with the switch from “disposable” to “reusable” bags.
- The collection of sales packaging becomes more environmentally friendly. Since the sacks do not have to be removed or collected, there are no trips to the recycling center.
What rubbish goes in the yellow bin?
He doesn’t have to make any big changes: Because most households today unwittingly dispose of what the recycling bin should absorb, namely plastic and paper. This includes lightweight packaging such as plastic, aluminum and tinplate as well as composite cartons and beverage packaging.
Does the yellow bin cost anything extra?
The good news is: The Yellow bin is provided free of charge. The dual systems, which coordinate the return of this waste for retailers, continue to be used to finance the disposal of the packaging. Ultimately, when buying a packaged product, the consumer only has to pay for the disposal of the packaging.
Is the exchange mandatory for users?
Most often, this exchange affects residents who live in single or multi-family houses. However, especially in historic old town centres no space for the new waste containers. There is no obligation to use the yellow bin.
However, waste management recommends using the yellow bin, as this saves the costs of disposal with the residual waste. In addition, according to VKU “Fundamentally [alle] Property owners are obliged to tolerate waste containers – including those for the separate collection of recyclable materials – on their properties.” (ew)
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