In the space of 40 years, the quantity of waste generated in France has doubled, testifying to the growing impact of our lifestyles on the environment. According to data from the French Environment and Energy Management Agency (Ademe), each French citizen contributes to this problem by producing an average of 573 kg of waste per year. Selective sorting then appears to be a fundamental step towards more sustainable waste management. By separating recyclable materials from non-recyclable waste, selective sorting plays an essential role in reducing our ecological footprint!
What do you risk if you don’t sort correctly?
According to’article R632-1 of the Penal Code, if you do not carry out the selective sorting well, you risk a fine. In the event of non-compliance with selective sorting, you are liable to a fine of 35 eurosconsidered as a 2nd class contravention, which can be increased up to 75 euros. This penalty applies in cases such as the mixing of glass bottles with cardboard packaging. In addition, not respecting the days or times determined by the municipality for the removal of garbage cans can also earn you this traffic ticket. The legislation thus aims to encourage the participation of all in selective sorting and to preserve a sustainable environment.
Is it that selective sorting is OBLIGATORY ?
Yes, in many regions selective sorting is OBLIGATORY because of its importance for the preservation of the environment and the effective management of waste. Governments and local authorities actively encourage selective sorting to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill and encourage recycling. Laws and regulations regarding waste sorting vary from place to place, but in general, citizens are required to sort their waste according to categories of materials, such as plastic, glass, paper and cardboard, and place them in the appropriate sorting containers.
Regarding the sorting of food waste, from January 1, 2024, each household must be equipped with a solution for sorting its biodegradable waste.
How to dispute a fine garbage can ?
If you disagree with the ticket issued to you, you have the opportunity to dispute it in a period of 6 weeks from the date mentioned on the fine. Similarly, if you do not agree with a decision issued by the municipality – provided that you have not been caught red-handed – you have the right to contest this decision by addressing your complaint to the municipal council within a 6 weeks from the date of this decision. This specific date will be indicated in the letter you will receive for this purpose.
What fine for wild deposit ?
According to government websitein case of wild deposit : “If you pay immediately or within 45 days of the statement of offense (or the sending of the notice of offence), the fine is 135 €. If you pay after this 45-day period, the fine is 375 €“. In the event that you do not pay the fixed fine or if you dispute it “the judge of the police court is seized. The judge may decide on a fine of 750 € maximum (or up to €1,500with confiscation of the vehicleif you used it to transport waste)“.
Read also :
⋙ Selective sorting: where to throw what? The rules to avoid making mistakes
⋙ Selective sorting: the most common errors