waste management
Sustainable living and environmental responsibility are integral to the West Flemish way of life. As you settle in your new home, it is important to understand the local practices for waste management and recycling.
Flanders has a well-organised system for waste collection, recycling, and disposal, designed to minimise environmental impact. Citizens are encouraged to sort their waste carefully. Plastics, compost, general waste, ... are collected on specific days per municipality. In addition, there are local recycling centres where you can drop off larger items or hazardous materials.
Tips & tricks
Learn how you can contribute to the community's effort to reduce waste, conserve resources, and protect the environment.
Curbside waste collection
Curbside waste collection is organised by the municipalities. You need to use customised color-coded waste bags, which can be bought at local supermarkets, DIY shops, et cetera. If you have sorting doubts, check the Fost Plus website.
In general, residual waste is collected every week, whereas paper & cardboard and PMD packaging are collected every two weeks. But make sure to check your city's website for the calendar:
Recycle! app is a collaboration with the intermunicipal waste company. The app for all your waste related questions in Belgium: an overview of all waste collections in your street, all collection points in your neighbourhood and a sorting guide to help you sort your waste correctly.
Thrift shops
You can donate gently used clothing and reusable small furniture, household goods, books et cetera to a thrift shop. Check the Kringwinkel website to find a shop in your neighbourhood.
This is not only a great way to avoid reusable goods ending up on the landfill, but it also promotes social employment. And, who knows, maybe you can find some truly special vintage items at the thrift shop to furnish your new home!
need more information?
Moving to West Flanders
All you need to know about finding and setting up a new home in West Flanders.
