Polish authorities have installed red containers at cemeteries to collect hazardous waste—batteries, expired drugs, chemicals—proving a new step in municipal waste segregation ahead of All Souls Day.
Red Containers at Cemeteries
Polish news outlet Fakt reports that red containers have begun appearing on street corners, in supermarkets, and now at cemetery sites to gather dangerous waste.
Why Red Containers on Cemeteries?
Many visitors have replaced traditional wax candles with electric LED candles powered by batteries, creating a lit flame effect. The depleted batteries cannot be mixed with ordinary trash and cannot be taken home, prompting the introduction of dedicated red bins.
Proper Disposal of Waste
The red containers are designated for hazardous waste, including used batteries and accumulators, expired medicines, chemical residues from paints or solvents, energy‑saving bulbs, printer ink and toner, and small electronic devices. Disposal of other items may incur a fine up to 5,000 PLN.
Regular Waste Segregation Rules
Since January 1, 2020, Poland has enforced colour‑coded bin usage: blue for paper, yellow for metals and plastics, green for glass, brown for biodegradable waste, and black for mixed waste.
