Wild garbage dumps: Overfilled old clothing containers in MV are causing trouble!

Wild garbage dumps: Overfilled old clothing containers in MV are causing trouble!

In Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, complaints about the wild dumping of garbage next to used clothing containers are increasing. This is the result of a dpa survey among several municipalities. In Schwerin in particular, residents have increasingly reported inconveniences since the beginning of the year. There are currently 104 used clothing collection containers there, which are managed by four charitable organizations. The city of Schwerin itself is responsible for disposing of the unusable parts of the collected goods. However, difficulties arise due to the uncertain recycling chain for used textiles. This issue was exacerbated by the insolvency of a recycler and the decline in sales markets in Ukraine, Africa and Asia, which further complicated the situation.

Rostock is also affected with over 200 old clothing containers. Here, citizens' complaints relate to the withdrawal of containers by competing providers. The city has entered into a management agreement with a private used clothing collector who is responsible for emptying the bins. From the beginning of 2025 there will also be a controversial plan to dispose of inferior or damaged old textiles more intensively in the containers. In Neubrandenburg, grievances only occur sporadically, with an estimated five complaints per year. There are around 150 used clothing containers set up in Greifswald, where there are also sporadic complaints about garbage deposits. The disposal of rubbish around the containers is the responsibility of the respective installer.

Nationwide problem

The difficulties with used clothing containers are not limited to Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. A nationwide trend shows that more and more used clothing containers are disappearing, which puts charitable associations in particular in a difficult position. Fifty percent of the German Red Cross (DRK) used clothing containers in cities like Nuremberg were dismantled, and in Wolfsburg all DRK containers were even closed. The Maltese also have uncertainties as to whether their containers can remain there until the end of the year. The main problem here is that used clothing containers have become increasingly unprofitable for collectors.

The falling prices for discarded clothing and the oversupply of used clothes caused by fast fashion contribute to this development. An EU regulation that has been in force since January 2025 also prohibits the disposal of broken clothing in residual waste, provided it is dry and clean. The aim of this regulation is to promote the reuse and recycling of textiles.

Proper disposal options

There are several options for the correct disposal of old clothes. Used clothing containers from collection points such as the DRK or Caritas accept wearable clothing and shoes. Municipal recycling centers also accept clean and dry textiles, even those that are heavily worn. However, damp, heavily soiled or moldy textiles should be disposed of in the residual waste.

However, a misunderstanding of the EU regulation means that damaged old clothes end up in containers that are actually intended for wearable goods. Thomas Ahlmann, chairman of the umbrella organization FairWertung, urgently warns against the dismantling of old clothes and calls for financial support from politicians. People in Germany are increasingly having to dispose of their old clothing at recycling centers and municipal collection points.

The situation surrounding used clothing containers remains tense and requires clear communication and appropriate measures to address the problems. The population is called upon to do their part to ensure proper disposal and to find out about the existing options.

For more information about the challenges of clothing disposal in Germany and specific local conditions, visit South Germans and Ruhr24.