If you live in Malta as an international student, you should know how the country's waste system works. Since 14 April 2023, waste separation is mandatory in Malta for all users in households, businesses and organisations. This law came into force thanks to the Maltese government's efforts to build a sustainable future and a better quality of life for its citizens.
Waste separation optimises landfill use, generates renewable energy and promotes recycling.
How does the waste system work in Malta?
It is important that you follow these guidelines because if you do not separate your waste correctly, or if you put out the wrong bags for collection, you can be fined up to 150 euros.
It will be the responsibility of every citizen to separate their waste into three categories:
Recyclable materials: The day ThursdayThe collection of recyclable plastic, paper, and metal waste will be done. These must be dry and clean.
Organic waste: The days Monday, Wednesday and Friday will be the turn for organic waste, which includes food waste, fruit or egg shells, bones, among others.
Mixed waste: The days Tuesday and Saturday will be the collection for non-usable waste such as snack bags, sanitary waste, used or dirty product residues, among others.
The Sunday there will be no collection service on the island. Glass waste will be collected on the first and third Friday of each month. Remember that these must be clean and dry.
Clean points
The government set up so-called Puntos Limpios for citizens to deposit hazardous waste such as:
- Lubricating oils
- Solvents
- Batteries
- Light bulbs
- Chemicals, including their packaging
- Sharps
These sites allow the community to dispose of a variety of large household waste, household hazardous waste and materials suitable for recycling. You are only allowed to enter the Puntos Limpios by vehicle. Please note that only household waste is accepted at the points.
RVM machines
In Malta, you can find recycling points or machines to deposit single-use plastic and/or glass beverage bottles and in return you receive tickets to use in supermarkets.
This is an initiative that presents a circular economy system that encourages consumers to return disposable beverage containers, which are then collected and sorted by BCRS Malta for sale as recyclable material. You can consult your nearest point of collection here
Medicines
If you are disposing of expired medicines, you should leave them at an authorised pharmacy so that they can be properly treated.
Waste Serv trucks
All over Malta, these trucks are constantly passing by, to facilitate the correct disposal of your waste in a careful and responsible manner, guaranteeing both your safety and that of the environment.
This initiative contributes significantly to the reduction of pollution related to recyclable waste, as the trucks are equipped with separate compartments for each type of waste. In these trucks you will be able to deposit waste such as:
- Clothing
- Used cooking oil
- Batteries
- Aerosols
- Electronic devices
At Boom Studies we care about you, we want your exchange in Malta to be unforgettable, that's why we like to keep you up to date about the social norms on the island. You can read the official information here
If you would like to become one of our Boom students, take the first step here.
