A wide range of services are available for those clearing out Berlin. The cost will vary depending on the size of the property to be cleared and the volume of waste.
East Kreuzberg – Old squat houses and street art mix with third wave coffee shops in this edgy neighborhood. Stay around Kottbusser Tor, Gorlitzer Bahnhof and Schlesisches Tor on the U1 for nightlife and an alternative vibe.
Getting Started
Many reasons call for clearing out Berlin: a messy apartment, homeowners needing to “shovel out” their attic or a cellar that’s become so full it can only be cleared with professional help. Clearing out companies often have reasonable prices, good performance and a comprehensive service at disposal sites that are suitable for the type of waste to be taken away.
One of the best ways to find a suitable provider is by comparing offers. The criterion for pricing is usually the square meter of space to be cleaned. But other criteria, such as the weight of the material to be taken away or whether the garbage is hazardous, also have a bearing on the price.
In Berlin, the company Sandemans New Europe has started a campaign that sees tourists cleaning the city’s parks. It’s an idea that’s gaining traction worldwide, as it allows visitors to experience the city in a different way and give something back at the same time.
Cigarette butts, broken glass and discarded food containers are just some of the trash that’s found on the sidewalks of Berlin’s neighborhoods. The capital, like other cosmopolitan global cities that have residents from all over the world and a focus on being highly tolerant of other people’s lifestyles and ways, also tends to be filthy at times.
Recycling
There are many reasons to practice recycling, and it can be a great way to reduce waste in your community. For example, recycling paper, glass, aluminum cans and plastic reduces the need to use virgin materials that would otherwise be needed to make new products. This helps to reduce air, water and soil pollution.
It also saves energy. The US recycles approximately 30% of its waste every year, which saves 12 billion gallons of gasoline and reduces greenhouse gases equal to taking 25 million cars off the road. Additionally, using recycled materials instead of virgin material also helps to reduce the amount of solid waste that is deposited in landfills.
A recent effort to clean Berlin’s notoriously polluted Flussbad canal, which runs past the city’s landmark museums, is an excellent example of how cities can take steps to protect their citizens’ health and environment through recycling. The project, which was conceived by the design firm realities:united, includes a sandy bottom and plantings that will help to filter the water, making it safe enough for swimming.
Another recycling effort – this time on a much larger scale – was the clearing of the famous Liebig 34 squat in Berlin, which saw police officers in riot gear carry out residents onto firetruck ladders. Some of the residents pumped their fists as they were led away, while others threw bottles and firecrackers at the police.
Getting Rid of Hazardous Waste
The infamously volatile and dangerous trash that earns hazardous waste its name can pose a threat to anything and everyone around it—think syringes, asbestos, medicines, toilet bowl cleaner, gasoline and more. It can be a bit complicated to understand what exactly qualifies as hazardous waste, but if you want a quick overview just think combustible and flammable substances—anything with a flash point under 140 degrees Fahrenheit—and any chemical that has a warning or disposal instruction on its label.
The good news is that the majority of HHW can be recycled, and recycling facilities accept many household items that may not be accepted at a normal landfill or waste incinerator. The key is learning how to reduce your HHW consumption and using less-hazardous alternatives to common products.
If possible, keep your HHW materials in their original containers since it is easier to transport and prevents corrosion of the container. Also, remember that empty hazardous waste containers still have the potential to posses a threat, especially if the chemicals on the inside of the container are exposed or if they are transported in other types of receptacles.
Another option is to donate your HHW materials. For example, your local nursery might be interested in taking your leftover paint or a garage might be willing to take your old motor oil.
Getting Rid of Old Furniture
One of the last things you’ll need to do before handing over the keys to your old flat is dispose of your furniture. This might sound like a daunting task, especially in Berlin, where old furniture can be considered bulky waste and is collected separately. If you’re unsure of what to do, you should contact your local waste management service and inquire about their recycling policies.
Every reasonably sized German town should have at least one Wertstoffhof, a recycling center where you can leave large items of trash (like furniture) for free. You can also bring old appliances, such as fridges and ovens, to this location. However, you’ll need to pay a small fee for other kinds of trash, such as liquids and batteries.
In addition to the public recycling bins that are placed in every court yard, you’ll find many second-hand shops and donation points (Kleiderspende) where you can drop off clothes, electronics, books, etc., that would otherwise be taken to the garbage dump. These places are often run by volunteers and are a great way to give back to your community. Moreover, they help reduce the amount of trash that ends up in landfills and oceans.Entrümpelung Berlin