On 1 January 2026, Sweden’s municipalities took on a new and clearly defined role in the transition towards more sustainable public environments. From this date, all public spaces larger than 2,000 square metres – such as parks, squares and event areas – must provide source separation for paper, plastic, glass and metal, supported by clear, standardised national labelling. The purpose of this requirement is to make correct sorting easier exactly where waste is generated, while strengthening Sweden’s commitment to halving littering from single‑use plastic packaging by 2030.

What applies in practice?

What municipalities must now ensure is:

- that source separation is provided for the four main fractions: paper, plastic, glass and metal.
- that all containers are clearly labelled according to the national standard.
- that the systems are placed in a way that makes them intuitive and natural for visitors to use.

Success depends not only on complying with the new regulations, but on creating places that guide people without requiring extra thought. This calls for well‑designed stations, durable materials and solutions that withstand Nordic conditions all year round.

Clear and standardised symbols

At Smekab Citylife, we use Avfall Sverige’s standardised signage system, featuring clear, highly recognisable symbols that reduce uncertainty and increase proper sorting.
Our systems are also designed to accommodate standardised sorting containers, which simplifies emptying and daily operations while ensuring a cohesive and user‑friendly setup.

TACK – the optimal sorting container

Our TACK sorting solution is designed to fit standardised waste‑sorting containers, making both handling and emptying smooth and efficient, as it builds on routines already used in many municipalities. At the same time, we know that needs vary between locations. When required, we can adapt fractions, colours and graphics to fit the environment. The goal is always the same: to create sorting stations that work — and that are actually used.

Learn more about TACK >

In‑house production and long experience – a partner you can rely on

With in‑house production in Önnestad, Skåne and many years of close collaboration with municipalities, architects and contractors, we at Smekab Citylife have learned what it takes for public environments to function — both day‑to‑day and in the long term. That experience shapes everything we develop: solutions that are robust, durable and grounded in real‑world needs.
Our task is to support you with knowledge and experience as the new requirements are translated into practical, functioning solutions. That is why we work closely with those who plan and manage the sorting stations of the future.

What applies in practice?

Clear and standardised symbols

TACK – the optimal sorting container

In‑house production and long experience – a partner you can rely on

Would you like to explore what a sustainable and well‑functioning solution could look like for your municipality? Get in touch — we’re here to help.

The new Swedish requirements for sorting points – what you need to know