Malmo

1. Categories of Waste

In Malmö, waste is categorized to ensure efficient recycling and disposal. The main categories include:

a. Household Waste (Restavfall)

• Non-recyclable waste that cannot be sorted into other categories.
• Examples: Dirty packaging, hygiene products, and other non-recyclable items.

b. Food Waste (Matavfall)

• Organic waste that can be composted.
• Examples: Food scraps, coffee grounds, and tea bags.
• Food waste is collected separately in special brown paper bags provided by the municipality.

c. Packaging Waste

• Plastic Packaging: Bottles, containers, and plastic bags.
• Metal Packaging: Cans, aluminum foil, and metal lids.
• Paper Packaging: Cardboard boxes, milk cartons, and paper bags.
• Glass Packaging: Clear and colored glass bottles and jars.

d. Paper Waste

• Newspapers, magazines, and office paper.

e. Hazardous Waste (Farligt Avfall)

• Items that are harmful to the environment or health.
• Examples: Batteries, electronics, light bulbs, paint, and chemicals.

f. Bulky Waste (Grovsopor)

• Large items that do not fit in regular bins.
• Examples: Furniture, mattresses, and large appliances.

g. Garden Waste (Trädgårdsavfall)

• Leaves, branches, grass clippings, and other yard waste.

h. Electronic Waste (Elavfall)

• Broken or old electronics, such as computers, phones, and TVs.

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2. Associated Costs

Recycling and waste services in Malmö are funded through municipal taxes, so there are no direct fees for most residential waste disposal. However, there are some specific costs to be aware of:

• Household Waste Collection: Included in your municipal tax.
• Food Waste Bags: Provided free of charge by the municipality.
• Bulky Waste Disposal: Free for residents at designated recycling centers.
• Hazardous Waste Disposal: Free for residents at recycling centers or through mobile collection services.
• Garden Waste Collection: Free if you bring it to a recycling center. If you want curbside collection, you may need to subscribe to a service for an additional fee (approximately 500–1,000 SEK per year, depending on the size of the bin and frequency of collection).
• Commercial Waste: Businesses must arrange their own waste disposal services, which are subject to fees based on the type and volume of waste.

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3. Procedures for Recycling and Waste Disposal

Malmö has a well-structured system for waste disposal and recycling. Here’s how it works:

a. At Home

• Residents are provided with separate bins for household waste and food waste.
• Food waste must be placed in the special brown paper bags provided by the municipality.
• Recyclable packaging (plastic, metal, paper, and glass) should be sorted and taken to nearby recycling stations (Återvinningsstationer).

b. Recycling Stations (Återvinningsstationer)

• Located throughout the city, these stations are for packaging waste and paper.
• Residents are responsible for bringing their sorted recyclables to these stations.
• Use the FTI (Förpacknings- och Tidningsinsamlingen) website or app to find the nearest station.

c. Recycling Centers (Återvinningscentraler)

• Larger facilities for disposing of bulky waste, hazardous waste, garden waste, and electronic waste.
• Main centers in Malmö:
  • Bunkeflo Återvinningscentral
  • Norra Hamnen Återvinningscentral
  • Klagshamn Återvinningscentral
• Open to residents free of charge. Bring your ID or proof of residence to access these facilities.

d. Mobile Hazardous Waste Collection

• The municipality operates a mobile collection service for hazardous waste.
• Check the Malmö Stad website for schedules and locations.

e. Garden Waste Collection

• You can subscribe to a curbside collection service or bring garden waste to a recycling center.

f. Deposit-Return System (Pant)

• Sweden has a deposit-return system for beverage containers (plastic bottles and aluminum cans).
• Return these items to Pant machines at grocery stores to receive a refund (1–2 SEK per container).

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4. Local Site-Specific Considerations

• Sorting is Mandatory: Malmö residents are required by law to sort their waste. Failure to do so may result in fines or additional fees.
• Language Support: Information about waste sorting and recycling is available in multiple languages on the Malmö Stad website.
• Sustainability Focus: Malmö encourages residents to reduce waste by reusing items and donating usable goods to second-hand stores or charities.
• Smart Bins: Some areas in Malmö have underground waste collection systems with smart bins that notify the municipality when they are full.
• Recycling Apps: Use apps like "FTI" or "Sopguiden" to find recycling stations and get guidance on sorting waste.
• Seasonal Waste: During holidays, such as Christmas, special collection services may be available for items like Christmas trees.

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5. Tips for New Residents

• Register for Services: If you live in a house, ensure you are registered for waste collection services through Malmö Stad.
• Learn the System: Familiarize yourself with the waste sorting guide provided by the municipality.
• Use Recycling Centers: Take advantage of the free recycling centers for bulky and hazardous waste.
• Participate in the Pant System: Save your beverage containers and return them for refunds.
• Stay Updated: Check the Malmö Stad website or download their app for updates on waste collection schedules and services.

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By following these guidelines, you can easily navigate Malmö’s recycling and waste management system while contributing to the city’s sustainability goals. For more information, visit the official Malmö Stad website: www.malmo.se.