Learning how to properly manage waste is essential to reducing environmental impact and promoting a circular economy. Proper waste separation allows for reuse and recycling, reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills and incinerators.
On this page, you will find a list of the main types of waste generated in Spain and how they should be classified. Each category has its own specific management process, and it is important to know which container each waste type belongs to in order to facilitate recycling.
The term "waste fraction" is used to refer to the different groups into which waste is divided according to its composition and treatment process. For example, the organic waste fraction includes food scraps and biodegradable waste, while the light packaging fraction consists of plastics, cans, and cartons. Understanding these fractions helps to better separate waste and maximize recyclable resources.
Food scraps and other biodegradable waste.
Plastic, metal, and carton packaging.
Newspapers, magazines, boxes, and cardboard packaging.
Bottles and glass jars.
Non-recyclable or non-specifically classified waste.
Pets that have passed away.
Household appliances and electronic devices no longer in use.
Low-consumption lighting and fluorescent tubes.
Debris from construction, renovation, and demolition work.
Metal waste and other ferrous materials.
Agricultural and gardening chemicals.
Expired medicines and their proper disposal.
Furniture, mattresses, and large household items.
Used lubricating oil.
Used cooking oil.
Used batteries and accumulators.
Used tyres.
Pruned branches, leaves, and other green waste.
Old X-rays and medical imaging films.
Unwanted clothes, shoes, and fabrics.
Printer toner and ink cartridges.
Domestic waste containing hazardous substances (e.g., paints, solvents).
Cars and motorcycles no longer in use.
Needles, syringes, and other single-use medical waste.
If you are unsure how to recycle a waste item, use our search tool.
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