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In Catalonia, there are various options for responsibly disposing of tree branches and other pruning waste in accordance with local regulations. These materials, considered green waste, can have a second life if managed properly, whether by recycling, composting, or generating biomass. Here are the main available methods:

1. Deixalleries (Recycling Centers)

Deixalleries are municipal facilities where various types of waste, including pruning residues like branches, leaves, and grass, can be taken. How to Access?

• Check your local council’s website to find the nearest deixalleria.
• Some deixalleries also offer home collection services, which may require an appointment or a fee.
• These materials are often transformed into compost or other useful products, promoting a circular economy.

2. Municipal Green Waste Collection

Many Catalan municipalities provide specific services for collecting green waste, usually as part of their garbage collection services. Key Points to Note:

• There may be designated days for placing pruning waste out for collection.
• You might need to bundle branches or use compostable bags.
• Check the conditions with your local council, as requirements vary between municipalities.

3. Community Composting

More and more municipalities are adopting community composting as a sustainable solution for managing organic and plant waste. These programs turn plant material into compost that can be used as fertilizer for gardens and orchards. How to Participate?

• Contact your local council to find out if there are community composting points in your area.
• Some initiatives provide shredders to reduce the volume of branches before adding them to the composter.

4. Specialized Green Waste Companies

In Catalonia, there are companies and centers that handle large volumes of plant waste. These services are ideal if you have a significant amount of branches or if you work in gardening. Available Options:

• Reach out to companies that turn waste into compost, wood chips for biomass, or other useful materials.
• Some companies offer home collection services.

5. Controlled Burning (in Rural Areas)

In rural areas, burning plant waste may be an option, but it is strictly regulated to prevent fire risks, especially during hot or dry seasons. What to Do?

• Obtain a permit from the Department of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries (DARPA).
• Follow safety regulations: choose a day with little wind, have tools on hand to extinguish the fire, and adhere to the permit’s instructions.

Steps for Properly Managing Tree Branches

1. Identify the Best Option: Depending on the volume and your location, a deixalleria or municipal service may suffice for small amounts. For larger volumes, consider specialized companies.
2. Check Local Regulations: Each municipality has specific rules regarding green waste management.
3. Contribute to Sustainability: If you have space at home, consider shredding branches for composting or using them as garden mulch.

More Information

For more specific details, consult:

• Your local council’s website.
• The Catalan Waste Agency’s page (residus.gencat.cat).
• The Waste Consortium of your county.

Properly managing pruning waste not only helps protect the environment but also contributes to giving a second life to organic materials that can be highly beneficial.  

4/12/2024