New waste plan: Blue container will disappear from Vorarlberg in 2025

New waste plan: Blue container will disappear from Vorarlberg in 2025

With the new year approaching, waste disposal in Bludenz is undergoing a fundamental change. On January 1, 2025, the “blue bin”, which was previously intended for the collection of metal packaging, will be removed from the collection points. Instead, citizens will have to dispose of both plastic and metal packaging in the yellow bag in the future.

This change comes as part of a new environmental approach that introduces the joint collection of plastic and metal packaging across Austria. The aim of this measure is to reduce the amount of waste and at the same time increase the recycling rate. Despite the introduction of a one-way deposit for beverage packaging from 2025, those responsible expect that the new regulation will lead to an increase in the quantities collected to ensure proper disposal.

Details about the new waste disposal system

The obligation to collect plastic and metal packaging together will come into force in most federal states, including Vorarlberg, on January 1, 2025. It is important to note that certain items, including scrap metal, pans and other metal items, may not be disposed of in the yellow bag. Rather, these must be taken to a waste material collection center (ASZ). A welcome side effect will be the introduction of a 25 cent deposit on disposable beverage bottles and cans, which is intended to increase the incentive to return them to points of sale.

The collection will continue to include plastic packaging, including yogurt pots and beverage cartons. New additions include various metal packaging, such as cans and bottle caps. This change has already been introduced in some federal states in 2023 and shows the government's efforts to protect the environment and offer citizens more sustainable disposal options.

For anyone who needs more information, the website Umweltv.at and the local waste app are available. The municipalities also offer support and information about the new collection times and collect suggestions for improving the system. These changes are part of a larger strategy to improve waste management and promote recycling in the region and beyond. If you are looking for details about the exact disposal times, you can also contact your municipality.

Overall, this adjustment aims to increase the recycling rate in Bludenz and sustainably relieve the burden on the environment. With a clear focus on better recycling practices, authorities are ensuring that Bludenz is on the right path towards more responsible waste management. The coming months should be an opportunity for citizens to familiarize themselves with the new regulations and actively contribute to improving them.