Avfallsforskrifter

Avfallsforskrifter are national regulations that govern waste management. In the Nordic region the term is most closely associated with Norway's Forskrift om avfall and with corresponding Swedish and Danish provisions. These regulations set the legal framework for the generation, collection, sorting, storage, transport, treatment and disposal of waste, aiming to protect human health and the environment while supporting resource efficiency and circular economy goals. They implement or transpose EU/EEA waste directives into national law.

Core elements typically include waste classification and codes (such as the European Waste Catalogue), definitions of hazardous waste, and rules for responsibilities across actors: producers and distributors to minimize waste and arrange take-back or recycling; waste holders who must segregate and securely store waste; and waste operators who require permits and comply with technical standards. Transport rules require proper documentation and, for cross-border shipments, compliance with waste shipment regulations. Facilities such as landfills, incinerators, and recycling plants are often subject to licensing or registration and regular inspections. Records, reporting duties, and incident notification are common obligations.

Distinct streams such as hazardous waste, healthcare waste, electrical and electronic equipment, batteries, and packaging may have additional requirements. The regulations also emphasize the waste hierarchy: prevention first, followed by reuse, recycling, energy recovery, and disposal as a last resort.

Enforcement is carried out by environmental authorities, with possible penalties including fines, sanctions, or permit revocation for non-compliance. As part of broader environmental law, avfallsforskrifter interact with national pollution control acts and EU/EEA directives to shape national waste policy and practice.