# European household waste management guidelines

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/european-household-waste-management-guidelines
> Updated: 2026-10-13T20:00:00.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

Waste management guidelines in Belgium and the Netherlands have been clarified to improve recycling efficiency through better household sorting.

In Belgium, empty metal aerosol cans from cosmetics may be placed in PMD (Plastic, Metal, and Drink cartons) bags, though cans containing hazardous substances like pesticides must be treated as small hazardous waste. In the Netherlands, the municipality of Zoeterwoude is implementing stickers on PBD containers to visually remind residents of recycling rules and reduce contamination. 

General guidance notes that while packaging does not require cleaning, it must be empty. Additionally, envelopes with plastic windows can be recycled with paper, but greasy or heavily soiled paper and drink cartons should be excluded from the paper stream.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-13: Waste management guidelines clarify recycling rules for households

Waste management guidelines clarify recycling rules for PMD, PBD, and paper, noting that empty cosmetic aerosols and plastic-window envelopes are acceptable, while hazardous chemicals and greasy paper are not.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/waste-management-guidelines-clarify-recycling-rules-for-households

### 2026-09-20: Proper disposal methods for old CDs and plastic cases

Guidance is provided on the environmentally friendly disposal of CDs and their plastic cases, noting that discs should be recycled at specialized centers while cases may go in residual waste.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/proper-disposal-methods-for-old-cds-and-plastic-cases

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Cite as: European household waste management guidelines. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/european-household-waste-management-guidelines