800,000 kronor in penalty charges - Bostäder i Borås invests in better waste management and shared responsibility

Incorrectly sorted household waste is a widespread problem that affects landlords across the country, and Bostäder i Borås is no exception. During 2024 the company has had to pay 800,000 kronor in penalty charges for incorrectly sorted waste, but it now hopes to change those figures through a joint effort.

- It is about creating awareness of what correct waste sorting can do for our areas, says Sophia Jonsson, head of marketing and communications at Bostäder i Borås. This challenge is not unique to us - it is a national problem affecting landlords all over the country. But through innovative solutions, and in cooperation with Borås Energi och Miljö and our tenants, we are working to give tenants better conditions for sorting correctly.

Penalty charges are issued when combustible and other waste is thrown in with food waste. That means the food waste cannot be used to produce biogas and instead has to be classed as residual waste, so an important resource is lost. This increases costs for Bostäder i Borås and has a negative impact on the climate. By working with Borås Energi och Miljö and creating better conditions for correct sorting, the housing company hopes to reduce these costs and contribute to more sustainable waste management.

- Good sorting means lower costs for us, a better living environment and less climate impact, says Sophia Jonsson. We all need to help out to get there.

Bostäder i Borås has already taken several steps to make it easier for tenants to sort correctly. New waste containers have been installed, bins have been given clearer labelling, and regular information campaigns are some of the measures already in place. The company has also arranged litter-picking days and bulky waste days to encourage correct waste management.

- We can see that most of our tenants want to do the right thing, says Sophia Jonsson. But sometimes it comes down to not knowing, or to the information not getting through. We could achieve a great deal with 800,000 kronor, she continues. That money could have gone to new playgrounds, better outdoor areas or other improvements in our areas. If we can reduce the penalty charges by sorting correctly, we can use those resources in a way that benefits all tenants.

Incorrect sorting is a national challenge that calls for a joint effort, and Bostäder i Borås looks forward to continuing its work to create sustainable and pleasant areas together with its tenants and Borås Energi och Miljö.