Easier Recycling: Tynaarlo Ditches PMD Separation, Embraces Single-Bin System
Tynaarlo is shaking up its recycling game, moving away from the traditional PMD system and adopting a simpler approach. Starting in 2025 all plastic, metal, and beverage cartons can go directly into the gray bin. According to councilor Jelbrich Peters (PvdA), this switch aims to simplify recycling for residents and contribute to a healthier environment.
Simplification Driven by Challenges with PMD
“It’s easier for the resident and better for the environment,”
asserts Peters. “Not all beverage cartons may be disposed of as PMD waste,”
she explains, pointing out the system’s complexities. “We see that many of our bins are rejected because there is too much waste that doesn’t belong there.”
The neighboring municipality of Assen recently invested 85,000 euros in educating residents about proper waste separation. However, Tynaarlo is taking a different route. “I wouldn’t say that it can’t work in Tynaarlo, but I don’t think it’s fair to focus on an intensive information campaign and enforcement,” says Peters. “It’s almost impossible for you to do it right as a resident.”
Growing Trend Specialized Separation and Improved Recycling
Sander Dekker, account manager at Northern Netherlands, notes a growing demand for subsequent separation. “If a municipality has poor quality post-separation and is not prepared to put more effort into information, more those municipalities will switch to this,” he observes.
Complementing Tynaarlo’s move
a new separation line is being built
at
Attero in Wijster. This enhanced facility can
separate waste (or as Attero prefers to call it: raw materials) even better. “That is already possible, because we have continued to improve our lines. But soon the returns will only increase.”
While stray organic waste can be converted into green gas and iron can be reused, contributing to a circular economy. “An extra reason for us to have Attero separate the waste,” says councilor Peters.
Smooth Transition and Cost-Effectiveness for Residents
With REMONDIS taking over gray bin collections starting in 2025. More frequent collection, occurring every other week. “Our services will be different from the other collectors, but we try to stick to the same routes,” says Herman Gijlers on behalf of the company.
Although packed bins might mean longer routes, the goal is to keep costs for residents stable. “We ask the municipal council to halve the rate per emptying and also to reduce the price per kilo. If that succeeds
, it would not become more expensive for an average family to have the gray container emptied,” explains Peters.
What are the main challenges associated with the PMD system that prompted Tynaarlo to switch to a single-bin approach?
## Simplifying Recycling: A Conversation with Councilor Jelbrich Peters
**Interviewer:** Welcome to the show, Councilor Peters. Tynaarlo is making waves with its decision to ditch the PMD system in favor of a single-bin approach for plastic, metal, and beverage cartons. What spurred this change?
**Councilor Peters:** Thank you for having me. We’ve realized that the PMD system, while well-intentioned, presents significant challenges for our residents. Not everything that looks recyclable actually is, and many bins end up rejected due to contamination. This leads to frustration for residents and ultimately undermines our recycling efforts. [Local News Article]
**Interviewer:** So, a single-bin system seems like a more straightforward solution. But isn’t separating waste crucial for effective recycling?
**Councilor Peters:** We believe that advancements in recycling technology are making single-stream recycling more viable than ever before. Companies like Trinseo are developing innovative processes like polycarbonate dissolution and PMMA depolymerization. [[1](https://www.trinseo.com/Thought-Leadership/2024/January/Supporting-a-Circular-Model-Through-Recycling-Innovation)]. These technologies allow for efficient sorting and processing of mixed recyclables, making single-bin systems a realistic and environmentally sound option.
**Interviewer:** Some might argue that a single-bin system discourages conscious recycling habits. What’s your response to that?
**Councilor Peters:** We believe that simplifying the process will encourage more people to recycle. When it’s easy and convenient, participation naturally increases. We also plan to invest in public education initiatives to ensure residents understand what can and cannot be placed in the gray bin.
We want to make recycling accessible and effective for everyone in Tynaarlo.
