Hazards Out! Workshop #2

On 15 May 2025, the second Hazards Out Workshop took place online gathering more than 60 experts from the waste management and recycling sector, public and local authorities, consultancy, academia, and other industries, acknowledging the importance of the separate collection of household hazardous waste, mandatory in the EU since January 1st, 2025.

Organised by FEAD, in collaboration with ACR+ and Hazardous Waste Europe, and facilitated by NOWMORE, the event focused on the different collection systems and methods local authorities have put into place to ensure the safe and sustainable collection and treatment of the hazardous waste generated by the households. The workshop is part of the broader Hazards Out initiative to support municipalities and other public authorities, industry operators, and service providers in adapting to the legislative shift through knowledge exchange and capacity-building on HHW management.

The event featured two local case studies from Denmark and Luxembourg. Michael Dino Hansen, representing the municipal waste company responsible for the hazardous waste from the citizens of Odense Municipality, Denmark presented their the red-box curbside system. He shared details on their organisation and logistics, different collection methods including a special system for high residential buildings, and communication efforts towards the citizens. He highlighted the importance of exchange of know-how and collaboration to improve and increase the collection, but also the cost-effectiveness of the system. Jeff Schmit, Head of SDK Akademie in Luxembourg, outlined a nationally coordinated hazardous waste management strategy combining fixed collection points, mobile units, partnerships with retail chains, and citizen training through the SuperDrecksKëscht (SDK) initiative in Luxemburg. He enforced the message that transparency is key to ensure the effective collection and treatment of HHW. Common themes in the two cases were the operational complexity of collecting and handling diverse hazardous fractions, such as paint, solvents, batteries, and gas canisters, and the importance of workforce training and safety protocols, particularly in relation to ADR regulations.

The workshop concluded with an open discussion on the high cost of HHW logistics and treatment, the role of public awareness campaigns in driving participation, and challenges in distinguishing between household and commercial waste streams. Participants also shared views on potential reuse and recycling pathways, particularly for water-based paint and used cooking oil. The Hazards Out project will continue throughout 2025 with further workshops addressing topics such as Extended producer responsibility schemes and specific hazardous products commonly found in the households.

Hazards Out team extends its gratitude to the expert speakers and all participants and will continue to support the implementation and improvement of the separate collection of household hazardous waste for a cleaner and more sustainable Europe!