New regulations for organic waste in the DACH region

Germany’s organic waste sector is undergoing major transformation. As of May 1, 2025, new amendments to the Bioabfallverordnung (BioAbfV) and Gewerbeabfallverordnung (GewAbfV) have come into effect, tightening regulations around the processing of packaged and unpackaged organic waste.

The changes are far-reaching. From stricter plastic contamination thresholds to mandatory separation protocols, the message from regulators is clear: quality, traceability, and environmental responsibility are no longer optional—they are mandatory.

At Smicon, we believe this is more than a compliance challenge. It’s an opportunity to rethink and future-proof organic waste processing. And our machines are built for exactly that.

What’s changing in the DACH region?

Germany

Under the updated legislation, operators that produce Compost or biogas must now ensure:

• Separate collection / transport of packaged food waste and unpackaged organic waste
• Mandatory depackaging of food waste before treatment
• Plastic contamination control: max. 0.5% total plastics after depackaging
• Stricter acceptance criteria and reporting obligations: Bio-waste may be rejected if contamination exceeds thresholds, this is tested by independent authorities.

These laws aim to reduce microplastics, protect soil quality, and strengthen the circular economy. However, they also place new pressure on operators to modernize equipment and control incoming waste quality. (Source: kompost.de)
 

Austria

Austria is also stepping up its recycling infrastructure to meet EU-mandated packaging recycling quotas. A new federal funding scheme encourages the construction and modernization of sorting plants for plastic packaging, offering:

• Up to 30% of investment costs subsidized
• Maximum of €10 million per plant

This funding is aimed at boosting technical efficiency, increasing sorting capacity, and upgrading equipment. Smicon’s modular and scalable systems are ideally suited for such retrofits or new plant designs, where packaging needs to be separated from organic fractions. (Source: bmluk.gv.at)
 

How Smicon machines help you stay ahead

Smicon’s integrated waste processing systems are designed to meet and exceed these regulatory demands. Whether you operate a biogas facility, composting site, or waste treatment plant, our technologies offer:

Thorough separation of organic material from plastic, metal and cardboard with our SMIMO depackaging machines. An output purity of > 99.5% ensures compliance with quality values and with a capacity range from 8 to 20 tons per hour it’s available for many facilities. Add-ons like our Screw press, Windshifter or Hydrocyclone allow for further reduction of contaminants.
 

Turn-key tailored projects

Smicon doesn’t just supply machines—we deliver complete systems:

• Custom bunkers, platforms, and conveyors
• Mixtanks for substrate homogenization
• Pumps and control systems designed for seamless integration

This plug-and-play approach minimizes installation time and guarantees optimal throughput.

Trusted by DACH processors

Smicon machines are already operational in multiple plants in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, processing supermarket returns, catering residues, municipal waste, and more. Our solutions are designed to grow with your needs: modular and built for long-lasting performance.
 

Want to know how our technology can improve your process?
Our German-speaking specialist is happy to advise you on the best steps. Contact Joep Ehren, International Sales Manager, at +31 (0)485 74 82 66 or sales@smicon.nl