affaldsklasse

Affaldsklasse is a term used in Danish waste management to describe a category or class of waste based on its origin, composition and hazard potential. The classification helps determine appropriate handling, storage, transport and treatment, as well as reporting and compliance with regulations. It is used by waste producers, collectors, treatment facilities and authorities to ensure waste is managed safely and environmentally soundly.

How affaldsklasse is determined varies by system but generally considers the waste’s origin (for example household, industrial, or construction waste), its physical and chemical properties, and any hazard it may pose to health or the environment. Hazardous properties may require special containment, separate handling streams and specific disposal or recovery pathways. In many cases a waste is assigned to a class when it is registered or when a waste transfer document is prepared. The assigned class influences the choice of disposal or recycling route and any packaging or labeling requirements.

Regulatory context: The concept is embedded in national waste legislation and in EU frameworks for waste management. In Denmark and other member states, national waste catalogs or lists provide the formal basis for affaldsklasse assignments, while internationally the European Waste Catalogue (EWC) codes are used to harmonize waste identification for cross-border shipments.

Practical notes: Affaldsklasse can be revised if new information emerges about the waste. Mixed wastes may be classified differently depending on the dominant hazard or recoverability. For consumers, correct sorting at source facilitates proper affaldsklasse designation and safer handling, recycling, or disposal. Examples of waste classes include hazardous waste, inert waste, recyclable materials and non-hazardous general waste.