Consultation has been sought on various matters by the Commission:
In the district of Helmstedt, Germany, a ban on disposing used textiles through the residual waste (restmüll) has been enforced. This move is part of waste separation policies aimed at improving recycling rates and promoting environmental sustainability.
The ban includes various items such as bedding items like duvets and comforters, pillows, mattress protectors, and similar textiles. However, clothing should not be disposed of in the container if it is heavily soiled or contaminated.
Textiles considered heavily soiled or contaminated generally include those that are dirty beyond practical reuse, soaked with oils, chemicals, or other contaminants, items with mold, mildew, or biological contamination, and clothing or fabrics contaminated by hazardous substances or medical waste. These cannot be recycled or donated and typically must be disposed of in the residual waste if no special hazardous waste disposal option exists.
Used clothing containers provided by non-profit and commercial collectors are available in cities and municipalities for comprehensive collection of used textiles. This implementation complies with the European waste framework directive and follows the recommendations of the Association of Municipal Enterprises (VKU).
The separate collection of textile waste has been mandatory in Germany since January 1, 2022, with the aim of establishing a circular economy for textiles, allowing for reuse or recycling. Home textiles such as bed and table linen, washcloths, hand, bath and beach towels, other blankets, curtains with curtains and blinds are included in the definition of 'used textiles'. Additionally, handbags, fabric bags, and backpacks, clothing such as outerwear (including leather and fur), underwear, shoes and footwear, other accessories (belts, hats, caps, scarves, towels, hand gloves), and similar items are considered as 'used textiles'.
Stuffed animals are also considered 'used textiles', and the quality of the textiles thrown in and their careful separation are important for the effectiveness of the collection. The district of Helmstedt recommends disposing of heavily worn, dirty, or contaminated textiles through the residual waste bins.
For further questions regarding 'used textiles', the employees of the Lower Waste Authority can be contacted at telephone number (05351) 1212517 and at the email address [email protected]. The separate collection of textiles in the district of Helmstedt has already been implemented, ensuring reuse as second-hand clothing or high-quality recycling.
In the district of Helmstedt, home-and-garden textiles like bed and table linen, handbags, fabric bags, and backpacks are now included in the separate collection of used textiles, following the directive of the Association of Municipal Enterprises (VKU). However, heavily soiled or contaminated home textiles, such as those beyond practical reuse or contaminated by hazardous substances, should be disposed of through the residual waste bins.
