Overview

• The Bioabfallverordnung limits plastics in organic waste to 1% of total weight and all foreign matter to 3%, effective nationwide from May 1, 2025.
• Waste operators have the right to refuse collection of bins exceeding contamination thresholds, with uncollected bins requiring re-sorting by households.
• Fines of up to €2,500 may be imposed for severe or repeated violations, with enforcement varying by municipality.
• Inspection methods now include visual checks and advanced technologies like sensors and AI to detect contaminants in waste bins.
• Debates continue over compostable plastic bags, with industry groups praising the rules as a step toward reducing microplastics and improving compost quality.