Catalonia waste collection providers face complaints and sanctions over faulty containers

A resident of Sant Cugat reported that a waste container on Manel Farrés street was broken, lacking a pedal or lever, and was dirty, prompting a demand for its replacement. The municipality cited budget constraints for not installing a new reject‑waste container.

In the neighboring region of Segrià, the council opened a sanctioning procedure against Urbaser, the company contracted for waste collection on islands of containers. Municipalities complained that bags piled up for days because collection schedules were not met and that the company used old trucks, causing litter on streets. Some towns threatened to withhold payment until conditions improved. Council president David Masot said a fine is being quantified while the company pledged to address the deficiencies, citing summer schedule adjustments and vehicle breakdowns. Urbaser began the service in April‑May 2023 after a contract award in September 2022.