Waste disposal & recycling in Solothurn
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 Solothurn
In Solothurn, garbage is placed in official grey KEBAG bags that you can purchase in different sizes from supermarkets. These bags are NOT for recyclables, compost or toxic waste.
Different materials (DE) must be separated and disposed of accordingly. The City of Solothurn (DE) provides comprehensive information on collection schedules, garbage categories (DE) and collection points (DE). If you live outside of the city, make sure to consult your local municipality (DE) for possibly different regulations. Garbage collection calendars (DE) list annual collection dates and schedules.
Larger items that cannot be collected from your home need to be brought to recovery areas. In Solothurn, the largest site is KEBAG (DE) in Zuchwil but there are several other recycling sites (DE) in the region. This is also the place to bring materials such as oil, metal or old clothing.
Recycling in Solothurn
The City of Solothurn (DE) explains how and where to dispose of all different types of waste. Glass and aluminium need to be separated and then deposited at local recycling points. Glass items are further separated by colour. Plastic PET bottles can be dropped off at the large containers in front of or inside supermarkets.
Paper and cardboard should be tied into bundles and placed on the street on paper collection days or taken to the nearest paper recycling container.
Texaid is the leading organisation in Switzerland for collecting and recycling used clothes. There are various locations where you can drop off your old clothes and shoes and also a couple of pickup days each year.
