Environmental laws

This review does not include all Swedish environmental laws and regulations, but rather summarize a few that might be relevant for new Uppsala residents.

Waste from your home

Waste is lawfully seen as a resource in Sweden. Less than 1 percent of all waste is placed in landfills.

Every household (=everyone) is legally responsible for separating waste. This includes food waste, glass, metal, paper, plastic, magazines and municipal waste.

Every household (=everyone) is also legally responsible for depositing the waste at available collection points (recycling centrals, recycling stations, either an unstaffed or one in connection to your home).

The municipality is legally responsible to care for all waste from its households. Important to note is that it's the house owner (the landlord) that is legally obligated to provide bins for household and food waste.

"Responsibility of the producer" is a concept where producers of a product is responsible to provide ability to recycle the product. This includes the following: Any packaging of a product, batteries, tires, cars, electronic waste, pharmaceuticals, magazines or printed paper.

Littering

It's illegal to litter in Sweden. This includes littering on purpose and by negligence (being careless or thoughtless). If caught, you can get penalties or up to a year in prison. Small amounts on the street can get you a fine of 800 kr. Litter includes all types of waste, like cigarette buds, gum or tissues.

Allemansrätten

When in nature you must follow "Allemansrätten" (the right of public access). This means you can enjoy Swedish nature quite freely, as long as you keep the conduct of do not disturb or destroy.

Always leave the area you visited as untouched as possible and NEVER leave any trash behind.

Learn more on Naturvårdsverket's website (in english) External link.