Czechs could sort 71% of their waste that is currently being disposed of in normal waste bins, according to research by JRK and the Institute of Circular Economy conducted in 2021 and 2022. The study revealed that the most common type of waste that is not correctly sorted is biowaste, especially kitchen waste, followed by plastic, paper, and textiles. Biowaste accounted for over a third of the unsorted waste, with one-quarter being kitchen waste and another 11% being garden waste. The report indicates that if the waste had been correctly sorted by municipalities or households, it would not have to be sent to landfill.

The study highlights the example of Opava in the Moravian-Silesian Region, where the residents of housing estates were taught to sort biowaste from kitchens. Last year, the households received special containers to store this waste, and larger containers were installed at the housing estates where people could dispose of their waste. In the first five months, 31 tonnes were collected, and similar projects have been launched in Prague, Teplice, Pribor, Klasterec nad Ohri, Vyskov, Ivancice, and Slavkov.

The study also revealed a problem with other types of waste. Although people have to walk an average of 89 steps to waste bins collecting plastic, paper, or glass, municipal refuse still includes 8% plastic material, over 6% paper, 5% textile, and 5% glass.

Proper waste sorting is crucial to reducing environmental pollution and the amount of waste sent to landfills. Landfills are a significant source of methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. By sorting waste, recyclable materials can be recovered and reused, reducing the demand for raw materials and the energy needed to extract them. This, in turn, reduces carbon emissions and saves resources.

In conclusion, the research by JRK and the Institute of Circular Economy highlights the need for greater awareness and education on proper waste sorting and management. It is essential that municipalities and households take steps to ensure that waste is correctly sorted, especially biowaste, to reduce the amount sent to landfills and promote a circular economy.

Article by Prague Forum