Waste Separation is now mandatory across the Islands

The Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) has recently issued two legal notices, ushering in a new era of waste management practices. These regulations warrant the separation of waste, presenting a vital step forward in Malta’s environmental preservation efforts.

With the underlying goal of curbing the adverse effects of waste on our environment, the nation is poised to significantly reduce the volume of municipal waste destined for landfills. Since April 14th, 2023, the regulation of mandatory waste separation has become a compelling reality, demanding attention and action from every citizen.

Fines will be issued as of October 2023

Whether you are responsible for a household, business, or a governmental and non-governmental entity, waste separation is now an indisputable legal requirement. Individuals and organisations alike must now adhere to ERA’s rules, and failure to comply can result in significant penalties.

With fines ranging from €25 for households to €75 for businesses, the financial consequences of improper waste disposal are not to be taken lightly. Additionally, repeat offenders are expected to face double the initial fine, escalating from €50 to €150 accordingly.

All localities are being inspected

Officials from the ERA, alongside other relevant entities, are carrying out a wave of inspections across every locality. They are seeking to ensure strict adherence to these regulations during the door-to-door waste collection process, with a particular emphasis on enforcing the correct binning of waste as per the national schedule.

This proactive step aims to leave no room for complacency, ensuring that every household and establishment plays an active role in upholding these standards. In conjunction with these inspections, ERA has also launched an educational campaign to empower individuals with the necessary knowledge needed to secure effective waste separation for a more sustainable future.

So, what goes where?

The grey/green bag is for all packaging waste made out of plastic, paper, cardboard, or metal. However, be sure to rinse out all items before placing them in the bag to prevent unpleasant smells and to enhance the efficiency of the recycling process. Items can range from plastic bottles like water bottles, liquid soap containers, yoghurt containers and plastic packaging to paper bags and cardboard boxes and products, as well as metal products like beverage cans, hair products, and clean aluminium trays. Items such as soiled aluminium foil, soiled food containers, batteries, nappies and wipes should never be disposed in this bag.

The white bag used for the disposal of organic waste is specifically designated for the disposal of both raw and cooked food leftovers. This encompasses a wide range of items, including bones, produce peels, grains, tea bags, ground coffee, food-soiled napkins or newspapers, and even green waste like flowers. However, exercising caution is vital to maintain the integrity of the white bag's contents. It is essential to refrain from disposing of any accompanying food wrappings, baking paper and foil, as well as cigarette ash, dust, wipes, twigs and coffee pods.

The black bag is for other waste that cannot be recycled or decomposed. This includes soiled aluminium foil and food containers, as well as wax paper, toothpicks, coffee capsules and pods. Additionally, broken pyrex or glass items, candy wrappers, used sponges, nappies and other sanitary products, cotton products, home test kits, shaving blades, and numerous other items find their rightful place within the confines of the black bag.

As for glass waste like food jars or water and wine bottles, make sure to remove any caps or lids and rinse them out before binning them and disposing of them separately. Remember: don’t place any broken glass and mirrors, porcelain and ceramics, or any other glass ornaments, cookware, kitchenware, or light bulbs and neon tubes.

How to properly dispose of E-Waste

Proper disposal of devices or their components that feature an electric plug or operate on batteries is of paramount importance. Whether it's an outdated television, a defunct laptop, or a malfunctioning washing machine, these items demand responsible handling and should be brought to one of the Environment and Resources Authority's (ERA) dedicated Civic Amenity Sites.

For smaller items measuring no more than 50cm, ERA's Roadshow Truck presents a convenient solution, travelling to all localities and facilitating the disposal process with utmost convenience.

What about Hazardous Waste?

It is crucial to bear in mind that some household products may pose risks to human health or the environment when disposed of incorrectly. These may include cooking oils, paints, batteries, light bulbs, ink cartridges and toners, pesticides, medicine, and more. Depending on the item, these can either be taken to ERA’s Civic Amenity Site, their Roadshow Truck, or in the case of medicine, to an authorised pharmacy.

By separating and disposing of hazardous waste separately, you are preventing contamination of the environment and minimizing health risks for waste management workers, communities, and ecosystems.

The ultimate benefits of waste separation

Embracing proper waste separation and management practices brings forth a multitude of benefits that extend far beyond immediate compliance. Not only does it pave the way for a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable future, but it also reduces the strain on landfills: promoting recycling and resource recovery, as well as conservation of valuable materials and minimizing the need for extraction.

Proper waste management also safeguards our environment from pollution, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and curtails the depletion of natural resources. By taking responsibility for waste, citizens can actively contribute to the preservation of ecosystems and shift towards more environmentally conscious practices.

Click here to access the Waste Separation Guide

Otherwise visit era.org.mt or wsm.com.mt.