Special waste
Certain types of rubbish are not to be disposed of with normal waste. To find out how to dispose of such waste, contact:
- local authorities
- the disposal company (people in Germany who deal with rubbish)
- your landlord or building caretaker
- neighbours and friends who know what to do
Bulky waste:
Bulky waste is repaired and used again or burnt to generate energy. Bulky waste refers to rubbish that is too big for bins or skips (e.g. beds, suitcases, cupboards, bicycles). Important: you are not allowed to simply discard bulky waste somewhere or burn it. This is a criminal offence.
Electrical scrap:
Electric devices contain valuable materials, but also hazardous materials. Old or broken electric devices are repaired and sold as used devices or salvaged, so that the valuable materials they contain can be used in other products. Electrical scrap refers to products which have a power cord or a battery (e.g. blender, television set, mobile phone, washing machine, hair dryer).
Old clothing:
Second-hand clothing is either used again or turned into blankets and cloths. In order to do so, the old clothing needs to be clean and packaged (in a bag). Old clothing includes used clothes, shoes, blankets and bed linen. They are collected in special bins for old clothing.
Hazardous materials:
Toxic and hazardous waste is collected separately from other types of waste in order to protect humans – in particular children – as well as animals and plants. Hazardous materials can be found, for example, in batteries, energy-saving lamps and chemicals (e.g. glue, paint, solvents). Hazardous materials can be recognised by the warning labels and symbols on the packaging.
Garden waste
You can use garden waste to produce compost or energy. Garden waste includes weeds, lawn cuttings, leaves, shrubs and small branches. Garden waste does not include roots, soil and kitchen waste.