Erilliskerätty

Erilliskerätty is a Finnish term meaning “collected separately.” In waste management, it refers to waste materials that have been sorted and gathered apart from mixed municipal waste, with the goal of recycling or material recovery rather than disposal. This collection is typically organized by municipalities and carried out at households, offices, and recycling centers through labeled containers or designated drop-off points.

Common fractions designated erilliskerätty include paper and cardboard, glass, metal, and plastics intended for recycling, as well as bio-waste (organic waste). Many regions also operate separate streams for electronics, batteries, textiles, and other specialized materials through take-back programs or municipal schemes. The exact fractions and collection methods vary by municipality and country.

The practice supports the circular economy by increasing recycling rates and improving the quality of recyclables. It is promoted by European Union directives and Finnish waste legislation, which encourage source separation as a means to reduce landfill use and environmental impact. Materials collected erilliskerätty often undergo sorting and processing at recycling facilities to maximize recovery.

Practical considerations include the need for clear labeling, resident participation, and proper sorting to avoid contamination, which can reduce recyclability and raise processing costs. Not all materials are accepted everywhere; some fractions are managed by local authorities, while others rely on private programs or retailer take-back schemes.