Glass waste collection - how to prepare the waste to avoid problems?
Responsible management of glass waste is the duty of every company concerned with the environment and compliance with legal regulations. In Poland, more than 1.3 million tonnes of this type of waste are generated every year, most of which comes from the food and construction industries. Glass waste can be a valuable secondary raw material if we prepare it properly and send it for recycling. In this way, we limit CO2 emissions and reduce the consumption of natural resources.
Need help arranging glass or other waste collection?
Types of glass waste and their classification
Glass waste falls into several main categories:
- Packaging glass (bottles, jars) - represents approximately 70% of glass waste in Poland.
- Technical glass (e.g. laboratory glass, car glass) - more difficult to recycle due to chemical composition.
- Flat glass (window glazing) - requires special processing methods.
- Construction glass - represents approximately 10-15% of glass waste
Construction glass is difficult to process because it must first be cleaned of admixtures that interfere with the recycling process. Sometimes it has to be mechanically processed and sorted into fractions, which makes the whole process longer and more expensive.
How to prepare glass for collection - step by step
- Segregation of glass by type - separate packaging glass from technical and construction glass. This is crucial so that the recycler can select the right process.
- Removal of contaminants - Carefully remove any food, metal, film or plaster residue. Contaminated glass may be rejected by the recycling plant.
- Safe packaging - use big-bags, crates or containers to prevent glass from breaking and spreading fragments.
- Labelling of waste - Containers should be marked with a waste code and information on the type of glass to facilitate control during transport.
- Storage prior to transport - glass should be stored in a dry and protected place so that it does not pose a risk to people and the environment.
Collection of glass waste - necessary powers, documents, obligations
| Participant in the operation | Role and tasks | Necessary documents and authorisations |
|---|---|---|
| Waste producer | Waste classification, issuing of KPOs, selection of carrier and recycler | Entry in BDO, KPO, documentation confirming legality of activities |
| Carrier | Transport of waste in accordance with regulations | Registration in BDO Section VII, transport licence |
| Recycler | Receipt of waste and its treatment | Waste processing permit, entry in BDO |
10 rules for preparing glass for collection - don't forget these
Support for companies to collect glass waste - how can we help?
Ekologistyka24 has been supporting companies in proper waste management for more than a decade. In order to meet our customers' expectations, we have decided to expand our services to also include assistance with waste management. We help:
- Select legitimate and reliable carriers and recyclers.
- Verify documentation such as KPOs, BDO entries and licences.
- Prepare documents and plan reception in a manner that complies with the regulations.
Do you produce all sorts of waste, but don't know what or how to make sure it is processed legally? Apply to us. We will find the most favourable solution for you.
This is what is most often asked by companies wishing to donate glass waste
BDO
Yes, if your company generates waste, including glass waste, it should be listed on the BDO Register. Depending on the mass of waste produced at your facility, you may be eligible for registration under Division XII or you will be registered ex officio under Division XI. It all depends on whether the annual mass of waste produced exceeds 1 tonne (for hazardous waste) or 5 tonnes (for non-hazardous waste).
It all depends on its condition. In general, however, construction glass often requires additional treatment.
You can do this via the BDO Registry page. On the home page in the top right-hand corner, select 'GO TO BDO SYSTEM' and on the new screen, select the 'SUBSIDIARY REGISTER' section from the menu on the left. You can locate the company you are interested in by name and based on the department in which it should register. For transport companies, this will be Section VII.
It all depends on the guidelines of the recycling company concerned. If possible, the waste in question should be cleaned. Residues of other materials can make effective recycling difficult or impossible.
Yes, if the scope of your business changes, e.g. the types of waste you manage, you need to make changes. This will make it easier for you to keep records in BDO.
TRANSPORT
Apply to us. Send a message to dispo@ekologistyka24.pl and describe what you expect. You can also write to us via form, found on our website.
Rather not. Even if the recycler agrees to accept your waste free of charge, there is still the cost of transport if you rely on an external haulier.
It all depends on how you have arranged with the recycler. Most often, waste is placed in bins, big-bags or containers, which are provided by the collector.
Yes, but only to companies specialising in processing this type of glass.
