Waste sorting for businesses: the OVAM guidelines explained

What does the OVAM regulation say

The Public Flemish Waste Management Company (OVAM) is the agency that monitors the proper collection, processing, and reporting of waste in Flanders. Companies, contractors, and port companies are legally required to sort their business waste and have it processed by an accredited collector.

Those who do not comply with these obligations risk fines and, in serious cases, the revocation of environmental permits. It is therefore crucial that every company that produces waste is aware of the applicable regulations.

Which waste streams need to be separated

Flemish environmental legislation stipulates that the following waste streams must be offered separately:

• Paper and cardboard: separate collection mandatory for all companies
• PMD (plastic bottles, metal packaging, and drink cartons): mandatory for office environments and production sites
• Glass: offer separately via glass bins or specific containers
• Organic waste or vegetable, fruit, and garden waste: separate collection for food companies
• Construction and demolition waste: mandatory separation of rubble, wood, metals, and hazardous waste
• Metals: ferrous and non-ferrous metals must be offered separately
• Hazardous substances: including asbestos, oil, paint, and solvents
• Electric and electronic waste (WEEE): separate collection through recognized channels

Sorting obligation for construction and demolition sites

Special rules apply on construction and demolition sites. From a certain amount of construction and demolition waste, a selective demolition inventory is mandatory. This document provides an overview of all present materials and the way in which they will be removed and processed.

Wima Recycling has all the necessary permits for the collection, transportation, and processing of construction and demolition waste. We also take care of all the OVAM documentation so that you are always in compliance with the inspection services.

What is a recognized collector

In order to be allowed to collect and transport waste in Flanders, a company needs an OVAM registration as a recognized collector, waste trader, or broker. Wima Recycling has the full OVAM registration for the collection and transport of waste.

This means that every transport of waste is accompanied by the correct accompanying documents. This way, as a client, you are never liable for problems with processing or documentation.

How Wima Recycling helps your company

Wima Recycling offers a complete hassle-free service for the waste management of industrial companies, contractors, and port companies:

• Delivery of containers in the right sizes for each type of waste
• Correct labeling and documentation in accordance with OVAM regulations
• Periodic collection and replacement of containers on your schedule
• Certified processing of all waste streams at recognized processing facilities
• Periodic reporting and certificates for your environmental permit
• Advice on drafting a waste management plan for your site