What to consider when designing a waste collection point for a housing company?

Designing and constructing a waste collection point for a housing company is an important project that affects both residential comfort and property maintenance costs in the long run. The design of a waste collection point must take into account several factors to ensure its functionality, safety, and environmental friendliness. Below is a compilation of general considerations and instructions for designing a housing company's waste collection point.

1. Legislation and Regulations

The new Waste Act, which came into force on July 19, 2021, sets sorting and recycling requirements for housing companies. Housing companies with more than four apartments must sort at least seven different types of waste, including biowaste, paper, and plastic packaging. It is important to check the current waste management regulations and whether an action permit is required from the municipality.

2. Location and Distances

The location of the waste collection point is crucial. Distances to residential buildings, playgrounds, and access routes must be considered to minimize inconveniences and safety risks. Distances vary between a single waste bin and a waste shed building, and the waste collection vehicle must have unobstructed access to the vicinity of the waste collection point.

3. Waste Space and Bins

The design of the waste space is influenced by the amount of waste, the number of waste types to be sorted, and the emptying frequency of the waste bins. Calculators provided by waste management companies can be used to determine the number and size of waste bins. Waste bins should be easy to use and allow for unobstructed emptying.

You can access the waste calculator here.

4. Safety and Environment

The structures and materials of the waste collection point must consider durability and fire safety. For example, fire-safe materials and structural solutions reduce the risk of fire. In addition, it must be ensured that the area is accessible and safe to use in all weather conditions. VTT's tested Modul fire-safe waste bin enclosure can be placed even next to a wall.

Read more about our fire-safe Moduls

5. User-friendliness and Information

The waste collection point must be clearly marked and guided to make sorting as easy as possible. Information and guidance are key to ensuring residents know how to use the waste collection point correctly. Information and guidance should also cover the location, use, and sorting principles of the waste collection point.

Explore our sorting label options

6. Comparison of Different Solutions

The housing company should consider different options for the implementation of the waste collection point, such as deep collection containers, waste shed buildings, and waste bin enclosures. Each solution has its own advantages and challenges, such as space requirements, costs, accessibility, and adaptability. It is important for the housing company to assess its own waste volume and future needs when choosing the most suitable solution.

We have compiled a comprehensive guide to designing a housing company's waste collection point, which you can download via the link below:

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If you need more information on waste collection point design, please contact our professionals!

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