Proper waste sorting improves the separate collection and, consequently, the recycling of packaging
The ‘Waste Separation Works’ initiative raises awareness while encouraging consumers to participate.
Consumers in Germany have been sorting their waste for more than 30 years. According to a study by the Öko-Institut, the dual systems reduce greenhouse gas emissions by around 1.95 million tonnes per year through the collection, sorting and recycling of used packaging.
Joint campaign by the dual systems
The Packaging Act has made household waste separation a legal obligation in Germany. Even so, around 30% of the waste thrown into yellow bins or yellow bags is disposed of incorrectly and makes sorting and recycling of these contained raw materials more difficult. The dual systems have joined forces to change this with their ‘Waste Separation Works’ initiative. The Interzero Recycling Alliance is also very active here and fully committed to this common cause.
Better waste separation = more recycling
Together, we are raising public awareness among end consumers, helping them understand the reasons for separation before collection and encouraging them to take part. Typically, people need to grasp the key role they play in successful packaging recycling before they really make an effort. The aim is to reduce miss-sorting, improve the quality of household collections and increase the quantity of packaging thrown into yellow bags or yellow bins.
“Waste separation works” relies on a wide range of coordinated communication measures and partnerships across the packaging value chain: in supermarkets, in everyday life and at the point of disposal. In this way, the dual systems fulfil their information obligations and, together with consumers, support the separate collection, sorting and recycling of packaging.
Proper separation – perfectly easy!
Our nationwide public awareness campaign helps consumers to hone their waste separation skills. Short, pithy phrases keep the most important things in mind: “Packaging that isn’t glass or paper – in the yellow bin for sorting later” or “Off with the lid – both in the yellow bag”.
On our website at www.mülltrennung-wirkt.de, we provide engaging guides to separating lightweight packaging, glass and paper, with plenty of background information besides. Last but not least, we also use social media and TV/radio spots to reach and inform consumers.
The early bird… Environmental education in schools
Environmental education is a key part of the ‘Waste Separation Works’ initiative. Our tailor-made educational packages offer schools an easy and fun way to introduce their pupils to the big ideas behind waste and recycling. Our primary schools starter package includes a factsheet for teachers as well as an engaging set of worksheets and quizzes about correct waste separation.
New educational offer for preschools: The "TRENN-BÄR" teaches proper waste separation
With the TRENN-BÄR Box, "Mülltrennung wirkt" is expanding its educational offer for preschools. The box contains a hand puppet with which the TRENN-BÄR can be brought to life by the educational staff, as well as child-friendly working materials for a ten-day curriculum that teaches proper waste separation through playful activities and exciting stories.
As an ideal companion for children to discover the world of waste separation in a playful and enthusiastic way, the TRENN-BÄR will also appear in full size at events - in the form of the bear costume. The costume can be rented via the website of "Mülltrennung wirkt". The TRENN-BÄR, as a cheerful comic character, is present on the initiative's website.
Become an initiative partner
Proper waste sorting facilitates the separate collection and recycling of suitable recyclable materials. Take responsibility and sign your company up as a partner to the ‘Waste Separation Works’ initiative!
Dual system with added value
Interzero Recycling Alliance: The entry ticket for the entire raw materials loop