Are bin colours the same everywhere?

No. Colours can differ between countries, cities, operators and even buildings. Use the label and official local instructions.

What if the container colour and label disagree?

Follow the printed label and current official service instruction rather than colour alone.

No. Collection schedules can vary by address and should be checked with the local service.

Local sorting guide

Use the colour, printed label and scope together. The guide below does not replace address-specific collection schedules.

Verified 2026-08-093 local streams

Quick sorting reference

Dublin, Ireland

Green

Clean paper, cardboard, cans and accepted plastic packagingCommon authorised operator three-bin system; check operator label

Brown

Accepted organic wasteCommon authorised operator three-bin system; check operator label

Black / grey

Non-recyclable household wasteCommon authorised operator three-bin system; check operator label

Always read the label on the actual container. Colours are not globally standardised.

Confirm that the guide applies to your municipality, neighbourhood or operator.
Read the label on the container and check the accepted product format.
Keep batteries, electronics, chemicals and other special waste out of ordinary household streams.