jätehuoltolaissa

The Jätehuoltolaki, or Waste Management Act, is the primary legislation governing waste management in Finland. Its purpose is to promote a circular economy, prevent waste generation, and ensure that waste is managed in an environmentally sound and safe manner. The Act applies to all waste, including household waste, industrial waste, and hazardous waste.

Key principles of the Jätehuoltolaki include the waste hierarchy, which prioritizes prevention, reuse, recycling, and energy recovery over disposal. It also establishes the producer responsibility principle, meaning that producers are responsible for the collection and management of their products at the end of their life cycle. This is particularly relevant for products such as electronics, batteries, and packaging.

The Act outlines the responsibilities of municipalities, businesses, and individuals in waste management. Municipalities are responsible for organizing waste collection and treatment services for households and certain other waste streams. Businesses have obligations related to waste management in their operations and producer responsibility. Individuals are expected to sort their waste correctly and utilize the available collection systems.

Enforcement of the Jätehuoltolaki is overseen by the Finnish Environment Institute (SYKE) and regional environmental authorities. The Act is periodically reviewed and updated to align with evolving EU directives and national environmental goals, such as increasing recycling rates and reducing landfilling. It aims to create a framework for sustainable waste management practices across the country.