Upcoming Trade Shows in Austria for Environment & Waste

Austria has made incredible strides in its environment and waste management industry that’s been a model for the rest of Europe since last century. Where the country shines are in its meticulous and detail-oriented recycling scheme and robust legislation. The Austrian Abfallwirtschaftsgesetz (Waste Management Act) encapsulates the nation's principles, that place sustainability, protection of human health and the environment, and conservation of natural resources at the top. Central to Austria’s waste management strategy is waste prevention, a top priority designed to slow down waste accumulation and mitigate its harmful effects. This approach preserves groundwater, conserves energy and raw materials, and actively contributes to climate protection. Measures such as using reusable packaging instead of single-use options, opting for repair or rental services over new purchases, and passing on unused goods are encouraged to minimize waste generation. When waste is unavoidable, it is meticulously sorted and directed towards re-use preparation or recycling. Most materials, including glass, plastics, metals, waste paper, and organic waste, can be recycled or processed, reducing their environmental footprint. The Deponieverordnung (Landfill Ordinance) mandates that residual waste undergoes thermal or mechanical biological treatment before it reaches landfill sites. This process ensures that only non-hazardous waste is landfilled, which prevents chemical reactions that could contaminate air, soil, or water. Austria’s Federal Waste Management Plan, updated every six years, serves as the national waste prevention program. This comprehensive plan encompasses around 90 measures focusing on areas such as construction waste, food waste, re-use, and prevention in various sectors. Newly added focus areas include plastics, packaging, and textiles, addressing the issue of clothing being used for increasingly shorter periods. Sustainable changes in production and consumption are essential. Extending the lifetime of products through repair is a key factor in reducing environmental impacts.