If you live in Malta as an international student, you should know how the country's waste system works. Since April 14, 2023, waste separation is mandatory in Malta for all users in households, businesses and organizations. This law came into force thanks to the Maltese government's efforts to build a sustainable future and better quality of life for its citizens.
Waste separation optimizes the use of landfills, 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.
Each citizen will be responsible for separating their waste into three categories:
Recyclable materialsThe 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 leftovers, fruit or egg shells, bones, among others.
Mixed waste: The days tuesday and saturday will be the collection of 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. On the first and third Friday of each month glass waste will be collected. Remember that these must be clean and dry.
Clean points
The government has designated the so-called "Puntos Limpios" for citizens to deposit hazardous waste such as:
- Lubricating oils
- Solvents
- Batteries
- Light bulbs
- Chemical products, including their containers
- Sharp objects
These sites allow the community to dispose of a variety of large household waste, household hazardous waste and materials suitable for recycling. Only vehicles are allowed to enter the Puntos Limpios. 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 exchange for this you receive tickets to use in supermarkets.
This is an initiative that presents a circular economy system that stimulates the return of disposable beverage containers by consumers, which are then collected and sorted by BCRS Malta for sale as recyclable material. You can consult your nearest point here
Medications
If you are going to dispose of expired medicines, you should leave them at an authorized pharmacy so that they can be properly treated.
Waste Serv trucks
Throughout 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, thanks to the fact that 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 want to become one of our Boom students, take the first step here.
