jätteenhaltijas

Jätteenhaltijas is a Finnish term that translates to "waste holder" or "waste owner." It refers to the individual or entity responsible for waste from the moment it is generated until its final disposal or recovery. This responsibility is legally defined and encompasses a range of duties.

The primary obligation of a jätteenhaltijas is to ensure that waste is handled in an environmentally sound manner. This includes proper sorting, storage, collection, and transportation of the waste. They must also ensure that the waste is treated or disposed of by authorized waste management facilities. The jätteenhaltijas must have a clear understanding of the waste they are producing, including its composition and potential hazards, to facilitate appropriate management.

This concept applies to various entities, from households and businesses to industrial facilities and public institutions. For example, a household is the jätteenhaltijas of its domestic waste, while a factory is responsible for its industrial by-products. In some cases, the responsibility can be transferred to another party, such as a waste management company, through a contractual agreement, but the initial responsibility always lies with the generator.

The principle of jätteenhaltijas is a cornerstone of waste management legislation in Finland, aiming to prevent pollution and promote resource efficiency. It encourages waste reduction at the source and emphasizes the importance of responsible waste handling throughout its lifecycle. Non-compliance with these obligations can result in penalties.