Waste and recycling rules: what you need to know

Switzerland is renowned for its meticulous waste management practices, and Geneva is no exception. Whether you’re new to the city or aiming to refine your recycling habits, here’s a comprehensive guide to managing your household waste and recyclables in Geneva.

Geneva’s unique approach to waste management

Unlike all other Swiss cantons, Geneva does not require residents to use taxed garbage bags (sacs taxés). Instead, waste collection is financed through municipal taxes, eliminating the need for residents to purchase specific garbage bags. This approach is part of Geneva’s commitment to making recycling more accessible and encouraging environmentally friendly waste disposal practices.

Mandatory waste sorting and potential fines

As of 2022, Geneva has implemented a law mandating the sorting of waste for all residents and businesses. This legislation aims to reduce incinerable waste by 25% within three years. Failure to comply with sorting regulations can result in fines, with individuals facing penalties of CHF 200 and companies up to CHF 400.

Recycling in Geneva: what goes where

Recyclables should never be placed in regular garbage bags. Instead, residents are expected to bring sorted items to local écopoints (recycling stations), which are conveniently located near residential areas and public spaces. Here’s a breakdown of recyclable materials:

• PET bottles: Only bottles with the PET logo (e.g., mineral water bottles). Rinse and flatten before disposal.
• Glass: Sort by color if bins are marked (clear, green, brown). Do not include ceramics, mirrors, or window glass.
• Aluminum and tin: Includes soda cans, food tins, and foil. Rinse and flatten if possible.
• Paper and cardboard: Must be clean and dry. Remove plastic, tape, or food residue. Flatten cardboard boxes.
• Batteries: Return to shops or use the red battery bins often found at supermarkets.
• Clothes and textiles: Drop clean clothing and paired shoes into the textile donation bins provided around the city.

Some écopoints also accept:

• Cooking oil: Pour into sealed plastic bottles and dispose of with kitchen garbage, with a maximum of 1 liter per garbage bag.
• Light bulbs and small electronics: At select locations or stores.

You can use this website to find recycling points, using your zip code.

Bulky waste and special items

Bulky items like furniture, mattresses, and large electronics should not be left on the street. You have two options:

• Bring them to a déchetterie (waste collection center).
• Book a pick-up with the city if available in your neighborhood. If you live in the City of Geneva, you can use this website, if you live in another municipality (commune) of the Canton of Geneva, please contact the municipal office of your commune of residence.

Hazardous waste like paint, solvents, or medication must be disposed of separately. Most pharmacies accept expired medicines.

Useful tips

• Always check signs at recycling stations, they’re usually available in French with helpful icons.
• Cardboard must be folded and placed inside or beside the container, not left loose.
• Avoid overfilling bins or leaving bags on the ground.
• Try to reduce waste by composting, reusing, and buying in bulk when possible.

Sorting correctly helps keep your neighborhood clean and contributes to Geneva’s sustainability goals. It becomes second nature quickly, and your efforts really do make a difference.