New Avalex pass required to access underground GFT containers starting 30 March
Residents in areas with underground waste systems must use a new Avalex pass to dispose of organic waste from 30 March. This change aims to reduce contamination, ensuring more GFT waste can be recycled into compost or biogas, directly impacting waste separation habits.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Implementation Date | 30 March 2026 |
| Affected Containers | Underground GFT containers in apartment buildings and neighbourhoods |
| Required Access | New Avalex pass (already distributed) |
| Old Pass Status | Automatically blocked |
| Other Waste Containers | Residual waste, paper, PMD, glass, and textiles remain pass-free |
| Free GFT Bucket | 7.5-litre kitchen bin available via Pijnacker-Nootdorp website |
| Effect Study Timeline | Measurements at 6 and 12 months; results to be communicated later |
| Additional Pass Use | Valid for recycling centre access |
Avalex is a waste management organisation responsible for collecting and processing household waste in several Dutch municipalities. This initiative is part of their efforts to improve waste separation and reduce contamination in organic waste streams.
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Underground GFT containers can only be opened with new Avalex pass from 30 March
From 30 March, the GFT containers in apartment buildings and neighbourhoods with underground waste collection systems will be fitted with card readers. Residents will only be able to open the containers using a new Avalex pass, which they have already received.
Why this change?
Research shows that GFT waste is frequently contaminated with residual waste or plastic bags. As a result, more than half of the GFT collected last year could not be processed into compost or biogas. By locking the containers, we aim to reduce this contamination.
How does it work?
- You open the GFT container by holding the new Avalex pass against the display.
- Your old Avalex pass will be automatically blocked and can be discarded.
- The digital Avalex pass cannot be used to open GFT containers.
- Underground containers for residual waste, paper, PMD, glass and textiles will remain accessible without a pass.
Tips for separating GFT
- Use a separate bin in the kitchen for food waste. You can order a free 7.5 litre GFT bucket via www.pijnacker-nootdorp.nl/afval.
- All food waste can go in the GFT container, including bones and cooked food scraps.
- Do not use plastic bags. Use compostable bags with the seedling logo or dispose of GFT loose in the container.
- Unsure? Check www.avalex.nl/gft or use www.afvalscheidingswijzer.nl.
Effect study
We will investigate whether locking the GFT containers leads to less contamination and more properly separated GFT. We will also check whether less GFT ends up in residual waste. Measurements will be taken approximately 6 and 12 months after implementation. The results will be communicated after the study.
Pass also valid for recycling centre
Note: this new Avalex pass can also be used to visit the recycling centre.
Questions?
- About this new collection method: .
- About waste collection in general: www.avalex.nl or the Avalex app.