Waste disposal & recycling in Schaffhausen
The Swiss are efficient and conscientious about recycling and have a myriad of rules and regulations regarding the issue. Unsurprisingly, Switzerland tops world rankings for environmental action. Adapting to Switzerland's waste and recycling collection system requires time and effort but it is good for your conscience and for your wallet. Recycling collection points for most materials are widely available.
All the information you need about waste and recycling is provided by the Federal Office of the Environment (DE/FR/IT). You can click your canton on the map to find related links. For tips on saving energy and preserving the environment visit Energy-Environment (DE/FR). Read more about Switzerland's thorough rubbish disposal and recycling systems and their benefits on Swiss Recycling (DE/FR/IT).
Useful resources in English:
- Ch.ch provides links to cantonal waste disposal and recycling information.
- The recycling map shows collection points for all types of waste and centre opening times.
Garbage disposal in Schaffhausen
In Schaffhausen it is necessary to purchase official garbage collection bags and stickers for your household waste. These can be purchased in all supermarkets. They are NOT for recyclables, these must be disposed of separately.
Waste materials should be separated and disposed of or recycled accordingly. The Schaffhausen municipal waste department (DE) and Inter-Cantonal Labor (DE) provide comprehensive information regarding collection schedules, garbage categories and collection points. Click your municipal area on the map (DE) to learn about differing local regulations.
Recycling in Schaffhausen
Glass and aluminium need to be separated and then deposited at local recycling points. These are usually located near main tram or bus stops, near post offices or at main shopping areas. Glass items are further separated by colour. Plastic PET bottles can be dropped off at the large containers in front of supermarkets.
Compost can be placed in compostable bags and will be collected on designated days.
Paper and cardboard should be tied into bundles and placed on the street on collection days or taken to the nearest paper recycling container.
Larger items or things that may not be disposed of in regular garbage should be brought to KBA-Hard (DE), Arnold Schmid Recycling AG (DE), Remondis Schweiz AG (DE) or other waste collection facilities in your area.
Clothes and shoes recycling bags are usually collected by charities throughout the year. You will receive dedicated bags in your mailbox with the name of the charity and collection days. Place the bags in front of your house in the evening before planned collection day. These Brockenstube or second hand stores are also a great place to shop for antiques.
