Recycling only works with proper waste separation. However, correct waste separation remains a challenge for many citizens. A recent awareness campaign by the dual systems shows that targeted information and personal approaches can significantly increase the willingness to separate correctly.
More than 500 events across Germany formed the centrepiece of the „Germany Separates.“ campaign, which was initiated by the dual systems. This tour aimed to educate citizens about correct waste separation. With 20 show trucks and eye-catching XXL packaging, cities and towns from Berlin to Kusel in the Palatinate were visited to impart knowledge directly on-site and clear up existing myths.
Cooperation for more recycling
The initiative is the result of broad collaboration between the dual systems, municipal waste advisory services, waste disposal companies, and major retail chains. The partners utilised a variety of channels to reach citizens, including posters, social media, and direct actions in over 13,700 stores.
„With the ‚Germany Separates.‘ campaign, we want to enable more recycling together. The prerequisite for this is correct waste separation. We have pooled our strengths and expertise for this: We want to reach as many people as possible in their everyday lives and motivate them to separate waste correctly.“
Axel Subklew, spokesperson for the „Waste Separation Works“ initiative“
Everyday Enlightenment
On-site expert teams were available to answer questions and provide information on local specifics. The campaign also included visits to kindergartens, schools, and businesses, where tailored materials were provided. Furthermore, local waste management companies offered insights into the operation of sorting facilities.
„The positive feedback from the public shows: people are very willing to separate waste correctly. Sometimes, they simply lack detailed knowledge. We were able to fill these gaps in our many personal conversations,“ said Axel Subklew.
Recycling only works with proper waste separation
The background to the joint awareness campaign is the consistently high contamination rate of around 30 percent in yellow bins and yellow sacks. Incorrectly disposed items, such as used nappies or food leftovers, make the recycling of packaging difficult or impossible.
This study by the Öko-Institut proves how effective proper waste separation is: Around four million tonnes of secondary raw materials are generated annually through packaging recycling. They are an important source of raw materials for the production of new products.
The climate also benefits: The recycling of packaging from the Yellow Bin and Yellow Bag, as well as glass, paper, cardboard, and carton, saves 1.95 million tonnes of CO2 equivalents in Germany each year. However, not all potential is being exploited: If consumers separate their waste even more consistently, the climate relief can increase to 2.55 million tonnes of CO2 equivalents by 2030.
Source: The dual systems
