Recycling just got a whole lot easier in France at the start of 2023. All paper, plastic, metal and cardboard objects can now go in the yellow recycling bins found country wide. Previously, there were different restrictions on which types of objects could go in these bins, and objects had to be rinsed clean before-hand. Now, generally all household waste items with a recycle logo can be placed individually, and not in a plastic bag, in the yellow bins.
Going a step further, recycling measures in 2024 will add composting, with all French households expected to compost their food waste. The government plans an information campaign along with providing households the means (special bins or other solutions) to facilitate composting.
Locally in Nice, the Environment House (Maison de l’Environnement) currently runs a voluntary composting initiative. Residents can bring their biodegradable household waste to a collective composting site and, in return, take compost to use as fertiliser for their garden. An inscription is needed to take part in this initiative.
Nationally, Zero Waste France publishes a map of composting and other zero waste solutions throughout France.
Since the “Circular Economy Law” enacted in France in 2022, France is on a path to minimise and re-use waste as much as possible with specific targets and initiatives rolled out over the coming years.