On packaging you will always find, for each component, the material code that is an alphanumeric code indicating the material the packaging is made of and the disposal instruction where the packaging should be placed. You may also find the packaging type and suggestions for effective separate collection.

In this example, we see that the environmental labelling indicates the correct disposal of each part of the packaging and the polymer codes identifying the plastics used for the bottle, cap and label.
In this case, the three parts are made from three different types of plastic, but, as indicated, they can all be disposed of in the plastic collection.

The paper material code always begins with “PAP”, followed by numbers indicating the type of paper. In the example shown, the packaging must be disposed of in the paper collection.

The labelling reminds us that the cap and bottle are made from different materials. The bottle must therefore be disposed of in the glass collection, and the cap in the metal collection.

What does this labelling tell us? The aerosol can must be disposed of in the metal collection, and the cap in the plastic collection.

Wooden packaging, as indicated on the label, must be disposed of in the wood collection, which means it must always be taken to the recycling centre.

This bag may look like traditional plastic, but it is not: the label states that certified biodegradable and compostable broken bags must be disposed of in the organic collection. If the bag is still usable, use it to collect organic waste.

“ALU 41” indicates aluminium. As stated on the label, this can must be disposed of in the metal collection.

Plastic bottles should be flattened lengthwise and the cap should be screwed back on.

Even if they are made of plastic, objects such as pens, balls, toys, game consoles and sunglasses must not be placed in the plastic collection – only packaging should be disposed of there.

Crystal and ceramic objects such as broken glasses and vases must be placed in the mixed-waste collection. Their melting temperatures are different than glass packaging and they cause damage the recycling system.

If you use a plastic bag to collect paper, do not put the plastic bag in the paper collection: empty it and take the bag home – you can always reuse it.

Where possible, remove adhesive tape from cardboard boxes and dispose of it separately.

It shouldn’t be disposed of in mixed waste or organic waste. Many municipalities offer home collection services too – check whether this is available in your area.

Each part of the packaging should be placed in the collection corresponding to its material. If in doubt, read the environmental labelling on the packaging.

Bioplastic bags are biodegradable and compostable. When they’re broken, they should be disposed of in the organic collection, so they can become compost for the soil.

Don’t use plastic bags or bags made of other materials – they’re not compostable. Always check the environmental labelling on the bags.

Simply empty it of any residue – it doesn’t matter if it’s dirty or greasy. Washing it is a waste of water.