Waste can hardly be avoided in every household. Even with a particularly conscious and sustainable lifestyle, there is always something to dispose of. The good news is, much of it can (and should) be recycled. Things such as light bulbs, batteries or PET bottles can be recycled in collection points. There is widespread disagreement about how to collect waste until it is disposed of, so this article will look to provide some clarity on waste disposal and recycling.

The following topics can be found in this article:

  • Reasons behind the importance of recycling.
  • How a waste separation system can help.
  • Useful tips for a generally more sustainable lifestyle.

Everyone benefits from recycling…

At 716 kg per person per year, the Swiss produce a relatively large amount of waste. However, they are also exemplary in their recycling methods. We have every right to be proud of this.

There are many reasons why recycling is so important. For example, burning waste produces toxic propellant gases, which are partly responsible for global warming – recycling reduces this effect. Although it does not reduce the amount of waste, it does ensure that a large proportion of it can be reused. PET, for example, is used for packaging, pipes and textile fibres. Glass, paper and aluminium are also important raw materials for new products. Also, the reuse of a raw material usually requires significantly less energy than the initial production process. Waste separation therefore makes sense, and it is also cheaper since it saves you the cost of the waste bags.

Separating waste systematically

Waste separation methods are diverse and differ with Swiss households. Some use shoe boxes for their batteries and light bulbs, others use bags and some containers. Some take their recycled waste to the cellar or have a bio-bin in front of their home – particularly pragmatic ones who simply use several bins at once. However, the self-made waste bins are often a bit cumbersome to handle. That is why there is an ever-increasing choice of professional waste separation systems. Because we are so convinced of our product, we also provide some good arguments for it.

Waste separation systems are practical

Because the individual products are modularly coordinated, they can be easily stacked on top of each other. This makes waste disposal more efficient because everything is in one place. Many bins, like Albula’s, are also lightweight and have handles. This makes them easy to take with you when you go shopping or to the nearest recycling centre.

Waste separation systems are space-saving

Instead of using several waste bins or bulky cardboard boxes cluttering the kitchen, the modular containers can be easily stacked on top of each other. This vertical arrangement is not only an advantage in small rooms but also helps to organise the household more practically. After all, all waste is now in one place instead of being spread throughout the household.

Waste separation systems are clean

Because the containers of a waste separation system are matched to each other, there are no gaps between where waste residues can fall into. The individual containers are also more hygienic in themselves; they can be put in the dishwasher without any problems.

Waste separation systems look good

Last but not least, a waste separation system simply looks better. Instead of a bulky collection of boxes and bags, this type of recycling provides a tidy and organised look in any kitchen. The individual components can even be labelled with stickers. So recycling is not only very easy – but it is also visually pleasing. So much so that we now produce our containers in six different colours. By the way, to do even more for the environment, we ensure that we pay attention to sustainable production and avoid the use of harmful chemicals in the manufacturing process. Even those who no longer need their Albula waste separation system can still have a clear conscience. The products are all recyclable.

Living more sustainably

Waste separation is good, but waste avoidance is even better! After all, a more conscious lifestyle is good for your wallet and the environment in equal measure. This begins with the question of whether things must really go…often a simple repair service can be used, or friends and acquaintances can be found who are happy to continue using what you were planning to dispose of.

Here are a few tips for avoiding unnecessary waste:

Shopping: Even if you can buy recyclable paper bags at the supermarket, it is best to bring your own. For example, a cloth bag, a rucksack or simply the bag from your last purchase. It is also best to plan your purchases in advance, that way you can avoid disposing of spoiled food later.

Kitchen garbage: With vegetables, in particular, there is often too much waste disposal. Many leftovers can easily be processed into a new dish. There are also numerous recipes for smoothies made from fruit and vegetables – this is a tasty and healthy option.

Textiles: Instead of disposing of textiles straight away, you might find friends or acquaintances who would be interested in them. Second-hand shops, charity shops, and other social institutions also like to accept old (still wearable) clothes.

Paper: The magazine you buy does not have to end up in the paper trash. An exchange of magazines can be organised with acquaintances. This way, copies are not bought more than once…and who knows, you might even discover completely new topics that interest you!

On the road: PET bottles have the disadvantage that they are not all completely recycled. The many mountains of PET bottles can be counteracted with a reusable drinking bottle, which is currently enjoying great popularity. This responsible choice is practical and ethical, and some of the models are real designer pieces that you wouldn’t wish to give away anyway.

Recycling is important for the environment and resources. But it doesn’t have to be an exhausting process. On the contrary, it can be designed in a simple and functional way, whilst looking stylish at the same time. Those who also pay attention to a sustainable lifestyle and generally try to avoid unnecessary waste will not have so much to dispose of in the future. (Even if that would no longer mean a big deal with the lightweight containers from Albula. 😉)