How is waste disposed of correctly?
How you can make a valuable contribution to water protection
Water is a precious commodity. It should be protected from pollution. Unfortunately, a lot of household waste is still disposed of illegally via the toilet or household waste. Some of these substances cannot be removed or reduced in a biological sewage treatment plant and end up in our waters. These include, for example, medicines that are difficult to break down, very fine plastic fibres, exfoliating additives from cosmetic products or aggressive cleaning agents and solvents.
Here are some tips on how you can make a valuable contribution to water protection with simple means:
Medication of all kinds
Leftover or expired medication does not belong in the toilet or down the drain, but should be disposed of with household waste or, if necessary, via the pharmacy. The use of medicines should also be limited to what is absolutely necessary, which is good for your health and the aquatic environment. Ask your pharmacy for advice on whether there are alternative medicines that are more easily biodegradable.
Moist cleaning, baby, spectacle, refreshing and make-up remover wipes
Wet wipes and household tissues with their long plastic fibres clog the pumps in the sewage network. If a pumping station breaks down, the wastewater in the sewerage system may back up into private cellars.
It is essential to dispose of them in the household waste or, better still, do without them altogether.
Colours, solvents, chemicals and harsh cleaning agents
These liquids can form explosive or toxic gases in the sewage system. The contents are only partially or not at all removed in the sewage treatment plant.
Take these liquids to a recycling centre. Use biodegradable cleaning agents when cleaning your household.
Food waste, oil and grease
Food in wastewater attracts rats. Oil and grease clog the sewerage system and pollute the wastewater facilities. Cleaning is very laborious.
Remove grease residues from the pan with a paper towel and dispose of them in the household or organic waste. This is also where food waste belongs. Allow larger amounts of fat, e.g. from the deep-fat fryer, to cool and dispose of in the household waste.