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Disposing of things properly in Berlin

Short version. The full guide is available in German; source numbers [n] refer to the list below.

Disposing of things properly in Berlin. This page cites the official source; it is not legal advice. Acceptance rules, quantities and fees are set by the Berliner Stadtreinigung (BSR). According to the BSR, hazardous waste belongs “neither in household waste nor in the sewage system” [1]. Paints, varnishes, household batteries and other hazardous substances are accepted at six BSR recycling centres with a hazardous-waste point; from Berlin private households the BSR accepts “up to 20 kilograms per substance and day” free of charge (retrieved 03.10.2026) [1]. Energy-saving and LED lamps and fluorescent tubes must be handed in unbroken at a BSR recycling centre; ordinary light bulbs go in household waste [2]. Remove batteries from devices where possible and tape the poles [2]. According to the German Environment Agency, larger electrical retailers must take back small old devices with edges up to 25 centimetres free of charge [3]. Next step: check collection points and opening hours on the BSR page: https://www.bsr.de/schadstoffe

Go to the list: Give away and dispose

Sources

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