Kildesortert

Kildesortert is a Norwegian term used to describe waste or materials that have been separated at the source by the producer—typically a household or business—to keep different types of waste separate before collection. The aim is to create streams of recyclable or recoverable materials that are easier to process in recycling facilities and to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.

Typical source-separated streams include organic waste (matavfall), paper and cardboard, glass, metal packaging, plastics, batteries and electronics (EE-avfall), and hazardous waste. In practice, many municipalities also require separate collection of textiles and small appliances. The exact streams vary regionally and by local guidelines. The term kildesortert is often used in contrast to restavfall, which is waste left after all source-separated streams are removed.

The process begins at the point of generation, with households and businesses sorting waste according to local rules, followed by curbside or drop-off collection. At treatment facilities, the streams are sorted again to remove contaminants and to separate different materials for recycling or energy recovery. Source separation is generally associated with higher recycling rates and better quality recyclables, and it can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the need for virgin materials.

Challenges include ensuring public participation, preventing cross-contamination, and maintaining cost-effectiveness of collection and sorting systems. National and local authorities regulate waste sorting through laws and guidelines designed to promote efficient resource use and environmental protection. The concept also exists in other countries as "source-separated waste" or "sorting at source."