The Hague

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Waste Management

Sections

Waste Management in The Hague

1. Waste Categories

In The Hague, waste is categorized into several types, each with specific disposal methods:

  • Residual Waste (Restafval): General waste that cannot be recycled or composted.
  • Recyclables (PMD - Plastic, Metal, and Drink Cartons): Includes plastic packaging, metal cans, and drink cartons.
  • Organic Waste (GFT - Groente, Fruit, en Tuinafval): Comprises kitchen scraps, garden waste, and other organic materials.
  • Paper and Cardboard (Papier): Includes newspapers, magazines, and cardboard packaging.
  • Hazardous Waste (Chemisch Afval): Items like batteries, paint, and chemicals that require special handling.
  • Electronic Waste (E-waste): Old electronics such as computers, televisions, and appliances.

2. Associated Costs and Taxes

  • Waste Collection Tax (Afvalstoffenheffing): Residents pay an annual waste collection tax, which varies based on the size of the household and the type of waste collection service. As of 2023, the average cost is approximately €300 per household per year.
  • Special Waste Disposal Fees: Certain items, like bulky waste or hazardous waste, may incur additional fees if not disposed of during designated collection events.

3. Collection Schedules

  • Residual Waste: Collected every two weeks.
  • Recyclables (PMD): Collected every two weeks, alternating with residual waste.
  • Organic Waste (GFT): Collected weekly.
  • Paper and Cardboard: Collected once a month.
  • Bulky Waste: Residents can schedule a collection through the municipality, typically available a few times a year.

Note: Collection days may vary by neighborhood, so it’s advisable to check the local municipality website or contact the gemeente (municipality) for specific schedules.

4. Disposal Procedures for Specific Items

  • Electronics (E-waste):

    • Can be disposed of at designated recycling points or during special collection events.
    • Retailers often offer take-back programs for old electronics when purchasing new items.

  • Hazardous Waste:

    • Must be taken to special collection points or events organized by the municipality.
    • Check the municipality’s website for locations and times.

  • Bulky Waste:

    • Residents can request a bulky waste collection through the municipality’s website or customer service.
    • Alternatively, residents can bring items to designated drop-off locations.

5. Local Site Considerations and Rules

  • Recycling Points: The Hague has several recycling points (milieustraten) where residents can drop off recyclables, hazardous waste, and bulky items. Locations can be found on the municipality’s website.
  • Waste Separation: It is mandatory to separate waste into the designated categories. Failure to do so may result in fines.
  • Waste Bags: Residents are provided with specific bags for residual waste and organic waste. These bags can be obtained from local stores or the municipality.
  • Community Initiatives: The Hague promotes sustainability through various community initiatives, including workshops on waste reduction and recycling.

6. Useful Contacts and Resources

  • Municipality of The Hague (Gemeente Den Haag): Official Website
  • Waste Collection Information: Check the municipality’s website for detailed schedules and guidelines.
  • Customer Service: For questions, residents can contact the gemeente at 14 070 (within the Netherlands).

Conclusion

Understanding waste management in The Hague is essential for residents and visitors to ensure compliance with local regulations and contribute to sustainability efforts. By following the guidelines for waste separation and disposal, you can help maintain a clean and environmentally friendly city.