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Waste responsibility with a system: Your advantage through external expertise

Companies are increasingly confronted with complex waste management regulations – from the Waste Management Act (AWG) to waste disposal records and documentation requirements. At the same time, the demands for environmentally sound and economically viable waste management are increasing.

Interzero assumes this responsibility for you – with an experienced external waste management officer who always contributes to compliance with legal requirements and analyses, optimises and actively supports your internal processes.

Who is this relevant for?

• A waste management officer is legally required for all companies with more than 100 employees (Section 11 of the Waste Management Act).
• In addition, ordering is also recommended for companies that…
• Want to optimise processes and costs in waste management
• Seek legal certainty when dealing with authorities and regulations
• want to approach the topic of circular economy strategically and in a structured manner

This is what you get with the “Waste Management Officer Basic” package:

Monitoring obligation : Checking compliance with all relevant waste legislation (e.g. AWG, EAG-VO) as well as existing official notices and internal processes.

Duty to provide information : Documentation of identified deficiencies and written information to management.
Coordination : Support in the implementation of legal requirements – particularly based on the waste management concept (AWK).
Duty to provide advice : Ongoing advice to company management on all waste management issues, including material flow analysis, waste classification and procurement.
Obligation to present : Annual update of the AWK and overview of costs and revenues from waste materials.
Optional : Creation of a new waste management concept if one does not yet exist or if fundamental changes are pending.

Book your free initial consultation now

Get in touch with us without obligation to find out whether and how an external waste management manager makes sense for your company. We will analyze your current situation and create a customized quote based on your requirements.

Today is Earth Overshoot Day 2025. For us at Interzero, this day represents what inspires us like no other. This year, thanks to our circular solutions, we are once again postponing the EOD. We’re not achieving this alone, but together with our customers and partners – because: “Climate protection is a team sport.” But for an even greater impact, more is needed: better framework conditions for the circular economy and the close cooperation of politics, business, and society – a true team for resource conservation.

July 24, 2025, marks Earth Overshoot Day , the day on which humanity worldwide has consumed all the natural resources the earth can regenerate within a year. This year, we’ll reach this date earlier again. In 2025, the EOD was pushed forward by eight days. However, calculations by the Global Footprint Network based on the resources SAVED study by Fraunhofer UMSICHT demonstrate that the levers of the circular economy are taking effect: Together with customers and partners, Interzero is postponing Earth Overshoot Day by 10 minutes and 28 seconds – worldwide.

Although humanity is living beyond its means ecologically as of the end of July, Interzero impressively demonstrates that a functioning circular economy can have a positive impact on resource conservation and climate protection. Every recycled packaging, every refurbished electronic device, and every properly disposed battery reduces the demand for primary resources and are important steps toward our vision of a world without waste.

Mathis Wackernagel: “In recent years, we have refined our estimates of the extent to which Interzero’s products and services reduce global ecological overshoot. Our latest calculations confirm that the company, together with its customers, was able to postpone Earth Overshoot Day by a few minutes. This means that Interzero is truly circular: the larger its activities, the lower the global overshoot.”

Plastics as a key resource

At Interzero, a particularly significant lever for postponing Earth Overshoot Day lies in the area of plastics. Over 50 percent of the primary raw materials saved come from the recycling of plastic packaging, especially from the lightweight packaging (LVP) segment. As part of the dual system, the return and recycling of LVP contributes significantly to resource conservation – not only in terms of quantity, but also through the particularly high savings potential.

Improved and uniform rules of the game

But the potential is far from exhausted. In addition to individual consumer decisions and better waste separation, what is needed, first and foremost, is structurally improved framework conditions and targeted innovation support to effectively leverage the circular economy. There are numerous starting points: the expansion of separate collection, the early introduction of new EPR systems, the consistent implementation of sustainable public procurement, and the prioritization of recyclable packaging. A deposit return system for rechargeable batteries and batteries can also contribute to increasing safety in the industry. A clear political framework is needed that promotes technological innovations and secures investments in the circular economy.

Sybilla Merian: “The ideas are there – powerful, effective, and forward-looking. It’s committed people, bold projects, and innovative technologies that are already making the circular economy a true game changer. But to permanently embed the change, more is needed: We must rewrite the rules of the game – boldly, together, and with an eye on a future worth living.”

Earth Overshoot Day makes it clear: We’re living far beyond our means. But we can counteract this – with a team committed to a functioning circular economy.

Let’s #MoveTheDate. With Interzero.

About the calculation:
For its calculations, the Global Footprint Network uses a resource accounting system: the “ecological footprint.” Using this indicator, the non-profit organization compares the current needs of the world’s population (or countries) with the Earth’s capacity to renew the natural resources it consumes. Valid baseline data for Interzero’s contribution to the reduction of carbon footprint is provided, among other sources, by the “resources SAVED by Recycling” study by the Fraunhofer Institute for Environmental, Safety, and Energy Technology UMSICHT. On behalf of Interzero, the scientists determine annually how many greenhouse gases and resources are saved by recycling recyclable materials.

Scattered information, multiple contacts, unnecessary transport, and a lack of overview: In many companies, waste management has evolved over time – but is inefficient. This is precisely where the Interzero Waste Management Platform comes in. It creates centralized transparency, reduces coordination effort, and makes savings potential visible and usable.

A concrete example shows what this looks like in practice:

For one of our major customers with six locations in Austria, we coordinate 332 pickups annually via our platform. In the past, this meant communicating with around 30 contacts, numerous emails, and a lot of coordination. Today, everything is handled centrally, efficiently, and transparently via our digital solution.

And that’s just the beginning: In addition to saving time, companies also save money with the Interzero Waste Management Platform – through more efficient route planning, better material flow analysis, and sound decision-making bases for disposal and recycling concepts.

Future included:

We are continuously working on additional modules – for example, for the integration of sustainability metrics (e.g., CO₂ savings), automated reporting, and AI-based recommendations. This makes the platform an indispensable management tool for modern environmental responsibility.

Learn more about the Interzero Waste Management Platform:

Sustainability is not a passing trend; it has long been a part of corporate reality. More and more companies are adopting circular business models – not just out of conviction, but because it pays off economically. Our new white paper offers in-depth insights into current developments and shows where Europe really stands in terms of the circular economy.

Numbers that encourage rethinking – and become inspiration

Our market study among decision-makers from six European countries shows:

• 60.4% of companies already have a strategy for sustainable development.
• 75% have defined environmental goals – many of which have already been achieved.
• 72.9% rely on more sustainable processes in design and production.

Only 7.8% of the companies surveyed are not currently planning to switch to circular models – a clear signal: the transformation is in full swing.

But how exactly can this transformation be achieved in everyday business operations? What measures can be implemented quickly? And how large are the budgets that companies allocate for sustainable development?

A global problem – with growing pressure to act

The global textile industry faces massive challenges: Over 92 million tons of textile waste are generated annually – yet less than 1% of this is recycled into new textiles. This linear model is neither ecologically nor economically viable.

With Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for textiles, the industry is at a turning point. In the future, companies will be held more accountable – from the design to the end of their products’ lives .

Situation in Austria: The cycle is stalling

There is also an urgent need for action in Austria: More than 220,000 tons of textile waste are generated annually. Only around 26% of this is collected separately , and less than 2% is recycled.

A large portion ends up incinerated or landfilled—a waste of valuable raw materials. Even damaged textiles—with stains or tears—could serve as the basis for new textiles , provided suitable collection, sorting, and recycling structures are in place.

Separate collection of used textiles has been mandatory throughout the EU since January 1, 2025. Regulatory pressure is increasing – and with it, the responsibility for companies.

Regulatory change: EPR & PPWR – more responsibility for companies

The EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR) also entered into force at the beginning of 2025. Together with the EPR, these regulations mark a paradigm shift: companies that place products and packaging on the market will in future be responsible for their entire life cycle .

In Austria, the EPR currently applies to packaging, waste electrical and electronic equipment, and batteries. However , textiles are also increasingly becoming a focus of legislation . Countries such as France, Sweden, and the Netherlands have already introduced corresponding systems; Austria is working on national implementation .

For affected companies, this means that anyone who places textiles or textile components into circulation will also have to assume financial responsibility in the future.

Future textile cycle: What is necessary – and what is already being created

A functioning textile cycle requires more than separate collection. The challenges are diverse:

• Variety of materials , such as blended fabrics made of cotton and polyester
• Chemical residues and low quality in fast fashion
• High logistical effort in collection and sorting
• Lack of sales markets for high-quality recyclates

The goal: a functioning, circular textile economy that conserves resources, reduces waste and promotes long-lasting products.

Interzero: Clear position & active implementation

“The issue of fast fashion and its negative impact on our planet concerns us all!
— Thomas Glatz, Managing Director of Interzero Austria

Interzero positions itself clearly:

“The transition to a circular textile economy is one of the biggest transformations the industry has ever faced.”

Our self-image:
We are not just consultants – we are implementers.

Your advantage as an Interzero partner

Even if the legal pressure doesn’t yet directly affect all industries, the development is clearly marked . Interzero supports you with concrete solutions to ensure timely and future-proof action:

• Regulatory security through strategic advice and support
• Systemic solutions along the entire take-back and recycling chain
• Sustainable competitiveness through resource-saving circular models

Think about the future together. Act sustainably.

• Let us convince you of our expertise in collection, sorting and recycling .
• Interzero Austria develops individual take-back systems with which you can close your textile cycles .
• Now is the right time to take action. Talk to us – we will accompany you.

Interzero stands for modern compaction technology that not only saves space but also optimizes processes.

Waste and recyclable materials take up valuable space and cause avoidable costs. With a wide range of balers, container presses, and specialized solutions, Interzero offers you the right technology for almost every industry – and we take care of more than just delivery.

Our in-house, manufacturer-certified service team ensures smooth operations from day one: We professionally install your machine, commission it, and train your employees directly on-site – so you can get started safely, efficiently, and in compliance with standards.

You also benefit from our technical expertise during ongoing operation: Regular maintenance and inspections in accordance with the German Machinery Regulations (AMVO) and the respective manufacturer’s specifications extend the service life of your machine and ensure its value retention. With customized maintenance packages, you not only save costs but also time – because we proactively remind you of upcoming service intervals.

Should a problem arise, quick assistance is guaranteed: Our technicians will come directly to you with a wide range of spare parts and resolve many problems on the first visit. In many cases, even a phone call is enough – our experienced service back office will support you via email at orwak-service@interzero.at or by phone with troubleshooting.

You’ll also receive excellent support beyond this: We reliably supply you with consumables such as binding tape and garbage bags. And our in-house service team is available to answer any questions you may have about your machine.

By the way: Upon request, we also take care of maintenance and repairs for machines not purchased through Interzero. Simply contact us – we’ll be happy to see how we can support you. Discover machine service now

Strong impulses and clear positions

In his welcoming speech, Interzero Managing Director Thomas Glatz emphasized: “Every day counts – our goal must be to keep resources in circulation and drastically reduce consumption.”
With a well-founded keynote speech, our packaging engineer Jonathan Scheck provided the foundation for the technical discussion: “The PPWR is part of the European Green Deal and will gradually become the mandatory basis for recyclable, resource-saving packaging solutions throughout the EU. Recyclability, recycled material requirements, single-use bans, and harmonized labeling requirements are among the core elements of the new regulation .”

The topic of eco-fee modulation – i.e. the adjustment of license fees to recyclability – was also a central part of the presentation.

Practical examples and voices from the business world

Participating companies such as Coca-Cola HBC Austria, Adamol, Brantner, Würth, and Austrian Post reported on their own packaging optimization measures and emphasized the need for joint solutions, particularly to support small and medium-sized enterprises. There was agreement that sustainable packaging can only succeed through close cooperation between business, politics, and consumers.

Interzero: The partner at your side

As a leading provider of circular economy solutions, we provide our customers with comprehensive support in implementing the PPWR: from licensing and material analyses to specific packaging optimization. Our experts work on customized solutions to prepare companies for the upcoming requirements – data-driven, reliable, and Europe-wide.

Would you like to know what the PPWR specifically means for your company?

You can find more information on our detailed page “The EU Packaging Regulation PPWR” or contact us for your personal consultation!

>> Make contact!

In many Austrian companies – whether SMEs or large corporations – waste management has evolved over the years rather than being strategically planned: skips, separation systems, and collection intervals have been adjusted selectively, often out of necessity. The result: high costs, a lack of space, complex coordination – and a constant stream of new emergency solutions. However, a well-thought-out waste management concept can achieve significant savings .

Interzero as a solution partner for your waste management concept

As a holistic environmental services provider, we understand these challenges firsthand. Last year, we developed over 500 customized solutions for our clients and restructured and successfully implemented numerous waste management concepts. Our goal is always the same: less effort, lower costs, and greater efficiency – all without compromising on environmental and waste disposal standards.

Two practical examples:

• Small business in Carinthia : By integrating a small press, annual transport costs were reduced by over €8,000 . The investment paid for itself in the first year. Additionally, valuable storage space was freed up, and coordination costs were significantly reduced due to fewer pickups.
• Large company with multiple locations : For an industrial customer with six locations in Austria, Interzero coordinated 332 collections per year. As a central point (“one face to the customer”) , we relieved the customer’s workload by communicating with 30 contacts, consolidating processes, and significantly reducing coordination effort. The result: noticeable cost savings , less operational complexity, and consistently more efficient waste management.

Our promise:

Whether you’re an SME or a large company, we develop customized concepts for your business. Whether with or without investment, you’ll benefit from tailor-made solutions that save space, money, and time .

Take the first step towards optimizing your waste processes.

The first three companies that contact us will receive a free on-site inspection by our experts – including a potential analysis and concrete implementation suggestions.

Digital. Transparent. Efficient: Our waste management platform.

Do you want to go one step further?

Our new Waste Management Platform digitizes your waste processes – from commissioning to collection to reporting. You benefit from a central contact, a single invoice, complete transparency across your waste streams, and optimized processes that significantly reduce your administrative burden.

With the new EU Battery Regulation, Europe is entering a new era of sustainable product responsibility. Its core is a comprehensive life cycle approach that, for the first time, regulates all phases of battery production – from raw material extraction through production and use to collection, reuse, and recycling.

The regulation not only replaces the previous EU Directive 2006/66/EC, but also raises the requirements to a new level – with concrete obligations, labeling requirements, and reporting obligations. Learn what applies in Austria and what you need to pay attention to here.

The most important changes to the new EU Battery Regulation at a glance:

• New battery categories: In the future, there will be five battery categories. In addition to device, automotive, and industrial batteries, batteries for light transport (LV) and batteries for electric vehicles (EV) will be introduced.
• Holistic life cycle approach : Companies bear responsibility across the entire life cycle – from production to disposal.
• CO2 footprint : Maximum CO₂ footprint values will apply in the future for industrial, LV and electric vehicle batteries.
• Recycled content : From 2031, minimum recycled content will be required for industrial, LV and electric vehicle batteries, e.g., 16% cobalt and 6% lithium.
• Performance standards: From 2027, new minimum requirements for durability, capacity and internal resistance will apply to some battery categories.
• Easy removal and replaceability: From February 18, 2027, portable batteries must be easily removed and replaced by the end user (except in exceptional cases).
• Labeling requirements : From August 18, 2026, batteries must be labeled in detail. From 2027, a QR code with a digital battery passport will follow for larger LV and industrial batteries (> 2 kWh) and electric vehicle batteries.
• Due diligence obligations : From 2025, companies with a turnover of more than €40 million must consider the impacts of the procurement, processing and trade of raw materials required for battery production.

From 2026 – new reporting obligations under the EU Battery Regulation

The new regulation also brings extensive changes to the Austrian reporting system. Existing categories are being revised and new categories are being introduced. The final version of the reporting categories is currently being coordinated:

• Monthly reporter : from 01/2026
• Quarterly reporter : from Q1/2026
• Annual reporter : Report for the year 2026 Flat rate reporters are also affected – an adjustment of the flat rates is currently being prepared.

Schedule – Here is an overview of the most important deadlines:

• 18.08.2024: Obligation to carry out conformity assessment
• 18.08.2025: Due diligence obligations & EPR mandatory
• 18.08.2026: Labeling requirements come into force
• 18.02.2027: QR code & battery passport mandatory
• 18.08.2027: Minimum standards for battery performance
• 18.08.2028: Declaration of recycled content required
• 18.08.2031: Minimum recycled material quotas mandatory
• 18.08.2036: Increase in recycled content

Which battery categories are affected by the new EU Battery Regulation?

• Portable batteries (under 5 kg, neither for LV, starter or electric vehicle batteries)
• Starter batteries (e.g. for cars)
• Industrial batteries (over 5 kg, not EV or LV)
• NEW: LV batteries (for light electric vehicles under 25 kg)
• NEW: Electric vehicle batteries (> 25 kg for hybrid and electric vehicles)

Our service for your company:

Our expertise lies in the rapid, straightforward, and practical implementation of the new requirements. Batteries must be collected, taken back, and recycled after they are placed on the market. Transfer your obligations for the take-back and recycling of device, vehicle, or industrial batteries in Austria to Interzero Austria – reliably, legally compliant, and efficiently.

Your advantages with us:

• our many years of experience in product responsibility,
• individual support from our experts,
• clear support in converting your reporting systems,
• sound advice on reporting, labeling and take-back obligations.

Our solutions for secure compliance of your batteries:

All details about the commitment and redemption at Interzero can be found here: Battery licensing

Also relevant for Austria:

• National implementation of the EU regulation is no longer necessary – it applies directly .
• Austria is responsible for supplementary regulations, such as the Battery Accompanying Act , which is currently still being coordinated and regulates points regarding the collection and return of used batteries in detail.
• Documentation requirements are increasing significantly – for example through QR codes and battery passports.
• The requirements for collection and recycling are increasing – including stricter documentation requirements .

Would you like to know which specific steps are necessary for your company?
Take advantage of our free webinars or get individual advice.

With around 2,000 employees and annual sales of nearly one billion euros, Interzero operates throughout Europe and supports more than 50,000 customers on their path to greater sustainability. Our strength lies not only in our size, but also in our commitment to creating real added value through networked solutions. In 2023 alone, our activities saved 1.2 million tons of greenhouse gases and 11.1 million tons of primary resources, according to Fraunhofer UMSICHT. As recipients of the 2024 German Sustainability Award, we see it as our mission to deliver sustainable solutions – including in Austria.

Interzero stands for more than packaging licensing

Because here in Germany, too, we stand for more than just packaging licensing: Our services range from customized waste management concepts , efficient machine solutions , and packaging design including recyclability assessments to digital reporting , consulting , and international compliance management . Together with our customers, we develop tailored strategies to optimize environmental performance – measurable, holistic, and economically viable.

Your advantage with Interzero:

Many companies still rely on standalone solutions. This often leads to interface problems, duplicate coordination efforts, and inefficient processes. This is precisely where we come in: Our services integrate seamlessly . You benefit from a central contact, consistent support, and intelligently networked processes – for greater transparency, faster implementation, and lower costs.

It’s worth looking beyond your own horizons:

If you currently only use one of our services, discover the full potential of our integrated offerings now. Whether licensing, operational disposal, reporting, or consulting – with Interzero, you get everything from a single source. This not only reduces complexity but also measurably increases your sustainability performance.

Get to know our entire offering and get your personal company presentation!

👉 Write to us – we look forward to hearing from you!