Bilbao

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Waste Management

Sections

1. Waste Categories in Bilbao

Bilbao follows a color-coded system for waste separation, making it easy for residents and visitors to sort their waste. The main categories are:

  • Yellow Bin (Envases): For light packaging, including plastic containers, cans, and tetra packs (e.g., milk cartons, soda cans, yogurt containers).
  • Blue Bin (Papel y Cartón): For paper and cardboard, such as newspapers, magazines, cardboard boxes, and office paper.
  • Green Bin (Vidrio): For glass bottles and jars. Note: Lids and caps should be removed before disposal.
  • Brown Bin (Orgánico): For organic waste, including food scraps, fruit peels, coffee grounds, and garden waste.
  • Grey Bin (Resto/General Waste): For non-recyclable waste, such as hygiene products, ceramics, and other items that do not fit into the above categories.

Additionally, there are special collection points for hazardous or bulky waste, such as electronics, batteries, and furniture.

2. Recycling Procedures

Bilbao encourages residents and visitors to actively participate in recycling. Here’s how you can do it:

  • Sorting at Source: Waste must be separated at home or at the point of origin into the appropriate categories before disposal.
  • Using Public Recycling Points: Recycling bins are widely available throughout the city, especially in residential areas, parks, and near commercial zones. Each bin is clearly labeled with its purpose.
  • EcoParques (Recycling Centers): For items that cannot be disposed of in regular bins (e.g., electronics, appliances, or hazardous materials), Bilbao has designated recycling centers called "Garbigunes." These centers are free to use for residents and are located in various parts of the city.

3. Collection Schedules

Bilbao operates a regular waste collection system, with schedules varying slightly depending on the neighborhood. Key points include:

  • General Waste (Grey Bin): Collected daily or several times a week, depending on the area.
  • Recyclables (Yellow, Blue, Green, and Brown Bins): Typically collected on specific days of the week. For example:
    • Yellow Bin: Every 2-3 days.
    • Blue Bin: Weekly.
    • Green Bin: Weekly.
    • Brown Bin: Weekly or bi-weekly.
  • Bulky Waste: Collection is available by appointment. Residents can call the municipal service or use the Bilbao City Council's online platform to schedule a pickup.

It’s important to check with your local neighborhood association or the Bilbao City Council for the exact schedule in your area.

4. Associated Costs

  • Residential Waste Management: The cost of waste collection and recycling is included in the municipal taxes (Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles, or IBI) paid by property owners. Renters indirectly contribute through their rent payments.
  • Garbigunes (Recycling Centers): Free for residents to use.
  • Fines for Non-Compliance: Improper disposal of waste or failure to separate recyclables can result in fines ranging from €50 to €3,000, depending on the severity of the violation.

5. Local Considerations and Regulations

  • Cultural Practices: Bilbao residents take pride in maintaining a clean and sustainable city. Visitors are encouraged to respect local practices by properly sorting and disposing of their waste.
  • Plastic Bag Ban: Single-use plastic bags are discouraged, and many stores charge for them. It’s advisable to carry reusable bags when shopping.
  • Cigarette Butts: Cigarette littering is frowned upon. Use designated ashtrays or bins for disposal.
  • Composting: Many residents participate in composting organic waste, either at home or through the municipal brown bin system.
  • Tourist Areas: In high-traffic areas like Casco Viejo (Old Town) or near the Guggenheim Museum, additional bins are provided to manage waste from visitors.

6. How to Get More Information

For detailed information or specific inquiries, you can contact the Bilbao City Council (Ayuntamiento de Bilbao):

  • Website: www.bilbao.eus
  • Phone: 010 (local) or +34 944 010 010 (international)
  • Mobile App: The Bilbao City Council app provides real-time updates on waste collection schedules and recycling points.

7. Tips for Visitors

  • Familiarize yourself with the color-coded bins and use them correctly.
  • If staying in a hotel or rental property, ask the host or staff about the nearest recycling points and collection schedules.
  • Dispose of hazardous waste (e.g., batteries) at designated collection points, often found in supermarkets or electronics stores.

By following these guidelines, you can contribute to Bilbao’s efforts to maintain a clean, sustainable, and environmentally friendly city.