Waste Disposal

While it may seem a simple thing, disposing of waste in the Netherlands is quite different from many other countries. There are many types of bins and places to dispose of waste, and they may not be placed where you expect. In addition, if you dispose of rubbish incorrectly, you may have to pay a fine.

In the Netherlands, a significant amount of waste is recycled—approximately 60% of household waste, on average. The following items can often be collected separately for recycling:

• small household items
• garden, fruit, and vegetable scraps
• paper and cardboard
• clothing
• glass
• white goods (like washing machine or refrigerators)
• small chemical waste (including batteries, paint, and pharmaceuticals)
• fats from cooking
• construction waste
• plastics (varies by municipality)

Recycling containers for glass, chemical waste, clothing, and paper/cardboard are found near most supermarkets or in designated village locations. Some supermarkets have battery recycling bins. Items like plastics and cans may be sorted at treatment plants and can go with general household waste if applicable. Municipalities have collection trucks or stations for other waste, with some providing access passes or fees for drop-offs. For specific information, residents should check their municipality’s website (Milieudienst or Reinigingsdienst) and consider using mobile apps (de afvalapp) for waste collection calendars.

Household Waste

General household rubbish is charged annually based on the number of residents or waste volume. Municipalities often provide underground neighborhood containers for garbage disposal. Each household receives a garbage pass (huisvuilpas) for using these containers, which may not be immediately near the residence.

If you do not possess a huisvuilpas, you will have a dark grey container for household waste that is typically collected every two weeks. Be aware that there may be specific regulations regarding waste collection.

Green Waste

Houses that have a garden will receive a green bin designated for garden, fruit, and vegetable (GFT) waste. The municipality’s website will feature a schedule outlining when the bin will be emptied. Typically, it is collected every other week, alternating with the grey bin collection.

Paper Recycling

Not every paper product is suitable for recycling in paper recycling bins. Avoid placing plastic bags with your paper, as these bins are designated for paper items only. In certain municipalities, you may be able to leave your paper on the street for collection on specific days.

These rules may differ by municipality, so it is important to check the rules where you live. Some municipalities will also have a policy to collect (large) waste items from in front of your home. Check with your municipality for details.