The Separate Collection of Biodegradable Waste: The Case of Poland

Haładyj, Anna (2025) The Separate Collection of Biodegradable Waste: The Case of Poland. AGRÁR- ÉS KÖRNYEZETJOG / JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL LAW, 20 (39). pp. 9-28. ISSN 3058-0447

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Abstract

This article presents the principles of collecting biodegradable kitchen waste, including its storage and processing conditions. In Poland, bio-waste is classified as a selectively collected municipal waste fraction, which includes selectively collected bio-waste from hotels, restaurants and cafes (the HORECA sector). The legislator also classifies green waste generated on individual properties, as well as in cemeteries, parks etc., as bio-waste. In Poland, bio-waste can be composted at source (but only in single-family housing), and is collected according to the rules set out in municipal resolutions, which define the frequency and method of collection (bags/containers) with considerable variation. Municipal resolutions also introduce the possibility of fee reduction for composting at source, as an economic incentive, and penalties as a sanctioning mechanism. The article also presents examples of good practices in this area, including pilot projects. The main challenge for Poland is awareness-raising due to the still insufficient public knowledge on waste segregation, including the separation of bio-waste fractions and their further proper processing in mechanical biological treatment installations and composting ‘at source’.

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