Guide to Recycling

All across Elba Island, we use a door-to-door collection system. This means you need to sort your waste into the following categories: Food scraps and organic waste (ORGANIC), Plastic and metal packaging/containers (PLASTIC & METAL), Paper, card, and cardboard packaging (PAPER & CARD), Glass containers (GLASS), Non-recyclable items (GENERAL WASTE).

To make sure everything gets recycled properly, please sort your waste according to the specific instructions and put your bins out based on your local Municipality’s collection calendar. ESA provides every household with a “starter kit” including specific bags and small bins for each waste type—because good recycling starts at home!

A few simple rules:

• Sort your waste by type and follow your local collection schedule.
• Use the provided bags and bins for their intended purpose. You can use similar bags if you run out, as explained in our FAQs.
• Flatten or squash items to save space.
• Most things can be recycled! General Waste should only be a tiny amount. Before tossing something in the general bin, double-check if it can be recycled elsewhere.
• Bulky items or special waste that doesn’t fit in standard bins must be taken to your local Collection Center (Isola Ecologica). This service is mandatory and free of charge.

• Organic Waste
• Plastic packaging and tins/cans
• Paper and Cardboard
• Glass bottles and jars
• General Waste
• Other waste