Keräyslaji

Keräyslaji is a Finnish term that translates to "collection item" or "collected item." It broadly refers to any object or material that is gathered or collected, often with a specific purpose in mind. This can encompass a wide range of items, from everyday objects to specialized materials, and the act of collection can be for various reasons.

In practical terms, keräyslaji is frequently used in the context of waste management and recycling. Here, it signifies materials that are separated from general waste for the purpose of reuse or reprocessing. Examples include paper, cardboard, glass, metal, and plastic packaging, all of which are designated as keräyslaji for recycling facilities. The term emphasizes that these items are not to be discarded as ordinary trash but are instead intended for a separate collection stream.

Beyond waste management, keräyslaji can also be applied to other forms of collecting. For instance, in philately, stamps are considered keräyslaji. Similarly, in numismatics, coins are collected items. The concept extends to any item that is intentionally gathered, whether it be for a hobby, for scientific study, or for industrial purposes. The defining characteristic is the deliberate act of gathering and often organizing these items.