Recycling and waste management in Monaco: bins, collection and rules

Waste management in Monaco

Monaco takes waste management and environmental sustainability seriously. The Principality has an efficient collection system, clear recycling guidelines and some innovative infrastructure including underground pneumatic collection in certain areas.

As a resident, understanding the sorting rules and collection schedules will help you contribute to Monaco's environmental goals.

Sorting your waste

Monaco uses a colour-coded bin system for waste separation:

Yellow bins: packaging

• Plastic bottles, containers and packaging
• Metal cans and tins
• Cartons and Tetra Paks
• Empty and rinsed before disposal

Blue bins: paper and cardboard

• Newspapers, magazines and flyers
• Cardboard boxes (flattened)
• Office paper, envelopes
• No soiled paper or food-contaminated cardboard

Green bins: glass

• Glass bottles and jars
• Remove lids and caps
• No broken crockery, mirrors or window glass

General waste (grey/black bins)

• Non-recyclable household waste
• Food waste and scraps
• Hygiene products, nappies
• Collected daily

Collection schedule

General waste is collected every day, typically in the evening or overnight. Recycling bins are emptied on a regular schedule, usually several times per week. Exact schedules may vary by neighbourhood; check with your building manager or the SMA.

In apartment buildings, waste rooms with sorted bins are usually provided in the basement or ground floor.

Pneumatic underground collection

Parts of Monaco feature a pneumatic waste collection system, particularly in Fontvieille and some newer developments. Waste deposited into street-level inlets is transported through underground pipes using air pressure to a central processing facility. This system reduces the need for collection trucks, minimises noise and keeps streets cleaner.

Special waste

Certain items require specific disposal:

• Bulky items (furniture, mattresses): contact SMA to arrange a free collection appointment; do not leave items on the pavement
• Electronic waste (WEEE): take to dedicated collection points or arrange pickup
• Batteries: deposit in collection boxes found in supermarkets and public buildings
• Medicines: return unused medications to pharmacies
• Textiles and clothing: deposit in dedicated collection containers
• Cooking oil: collect in a container and bring to a drop-off point

Tips for residents

• Building rules: your building's syndic may have specific waste disposal rules; check during move-in
• No waste on pavements: leaving bags outside bins is not permitted and may result in a fine
• Composting: Monaco is gradually expanding composting options; check for community composting sites
• Reduction: Monaco encourages waste reduction; bring reusable bags shopping and choose minimal packaging