How to Manage Waste in Business

Proper Waste Management — A Legal and Environmental Responsibility

Proper waste management is not just about ecological responsibility — it’s also a legal obligation for every company and entrepreneur in Slovakia.

The Slovak Waste Act No. 79/2015 Coll. clearly defines what business owners must comply with, how they must keep records, and which official registers they must use.

Failure to meet these obligations can result in heavy fines and damage to the company’s reputation.

Waste as a Corporate Responsibility

Waste is generated in nearly every business activity — from office operations to manufacturing or e-commerce.

Every entrepreneur is legally required to separate, collect, and ensure disposal or recycling of waste in accordance with the law.

The law makes no distinction between small and large businesses — anyone who produces waste has obligations.

Record-Keeping and Reporting

Every entrepreneur must:

• keep records of waste generation and handling,
• submit regular reports on waste,
• and in some cases, register with the Ministry of Environment of the Slovak Republic (e.g., as a producer of packaging or non-packaging products).

For example, if a company prints its own marketing materials (flyers, brochures, business cards), it is legally considered a producer of non-packaging products — meaning it must sign a contract with a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) and register in the Producer Register.

E-shops and Packaging – A Hidden Obligation

The Waste Act defines a “packaging producer” not as the manufacturer of packaging, but as the entity placing it on the market — for instance, an e-shop that packs products in envelopes, boxes, or bubble wrap.

Such a business must:

• register in the Packaging Producer Register,
• sign a contract with a waste management company (OZV),
• and regularly submit reports on the amount and type of packaging used.

Similarly, a company that imports packaged goods from abroad and sells them in Slovakia is also considered a packaging producer. It must record and ensure proper disposal of these materials through an authorized organization.

Why It Matters

Currently, only around 40% of municipal waste in Slovakia is recycled, with the rest ending up in landfills — far from EU targets.

According to European legislation, by 2030 at least 60% of waste should be recycled, and by 2035 less than 10% should go to landfills.

If Slovakia aims to catch up with countries like Austria or Luxembourg, where only 9% of waste ends up in landfills, businesses must take part — not only because of legal requirements but also as part of their social responsibility.

Practical Steps for Entrepreneurs

1. Map your waste streams – identify what types of waste your business generates.
2. Find a suitable PRO or waste management company to help with contracts, reporting, and compliance.
3. Register in the appropriate official registers (for packaging or non-packaging products).
4. Implement a waste separation system within your company — even office paper and plastics must be handled correctly.
5. Track, weigh, and report your waste generation according to legal requirements.

Conclusion

Waste management is an essential part of doing business in Slovakia.

Proper waste disposal protects the environment, reduces the risk of fines, and contributes to sustainability.

Even small companies can make a big difference when they act responsibly.

If you’re unsure about compliance, it’s best to consult a professional or partner with a waste management organization that can help you set up your system properly and efficiently.

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