How to Sort Garbage in China Without Getting Fined

Introduction

Living in China? Then you’ve probably seen the multi-colored bins with labels like “Wet Waste” and “Recyclables”—and maybe you’ve panicked a little. Trash sorting in China can be surprisingly strict, especially in cities like Shanghai, where fines (and neighbors!) can come at you fast. This guide will help you understand what goes where, and how to avoid common mistakes.

1. Why Garbage Sorting Matters in China

In major cities, garbage sorting is a government-mandated program aimed at improving sustainability. Some neighborhoods even have security cameras or designated volunteers watching to make sure you comply. Fines for tossing things in the wrong bin can range from warnings to a few hundred RMB.

2. The Four Main Categories

Most Chinese cities (especially Shanghai) use a four-bin system. Here’s what goes in each:

• Recyclable Waste (可回收物): Paper, plastic bottles, cans, cardboard, glass, clean packaging
• Wet Waste (湿垃圾): Food scraps, vegetables, bones, tea leaves—basically anything organic and compostable
• Hazardous Waste (有害垃圾): Batteries, light bulbs, expired medicine, paint, aerosol cans
• Other Waste (干垃圾): Everything else—dirty tissues, sanitary products, cigarette butts, broken ceramics

3. How to Identify the Bins

Bins are usually color-coded and labeled in both Chinese and English:

• ♻️ Recyclables – Blue
• 🍂 Wet Waste – Brown
• ☠️ Hazardous – Red
• 🗑️ Other Waste – Gray or Black

Signs with diagrams are often posted nearby. When in doubt, locals often use phone apps to scan items and check the category.

4. Apps That Help with Sorting

If you’re unsure where to toss something, try these free apps:

• Garbage Classification Guide (垃圾分类指南): Chinese-only but great if you copy-paste item names or scan items
• Alipay Mini App: Search “garbage sorting” inside Alipay for instant lookup

5. Common Mistakes Foreigners Make

• Throwing food containers in Recyclables (if they’re dirty, they go in Other Waste)
• Putting used tissues or napkins in Wet Waste (wrong—they go in Other Waste)
• Missing the sorting hours—some neighborhoods only allow trash drop-off during specific windows

6. Bonus: What Happens If You Get It Wrong?

Most likely? A local auntie will tell you (loudly) that you’re doing it wrong. In Shanghai, wrong sorting may lead to being filmed, reported, or warned by property management. Repeat offenses can result in small fines. Best to learn the system early.

Conclusion

Trash sorting in China might seem like a hassle at first, but it quickly becomes second nature. Use signs, learn the bin colors, and download a sorting app if needed. Not only will you avoid awkward moments with neighbors—you’ll also be doing your part for the environment. Win-win!