Germany's waste management sector is vital for sustainable resource recovery and environmental protection. This industry features a mix of large firms, family-owned initiatives, and specialized providers, each offering services ranging from recycling and disposal to street cleaning. With growing concerns about climate change, the focus is shifting towards innovative technologies like waste-to-energy systems and advanced recycling methods. In addition, companies are exploring circular economy approaches to minimize waste. The need for efficient waste management systems continues to rise, as more emphasize sustainability and regulatory compliance becomes increasingly stringent within Europe.


The companies listed here represent a mix of sizes, from large operators like Remondis, employing over 30,000, to family-owned firms like J. Ehgartner. Home to many headquartered in North Rhine-Westphalia, they illustrate Germany's regional focus on waste management. Established from as early as 1919 to those founded more recently, these firms specialize in areas such as recycling, waste disposal, and environmental services, showcasing growth and adaptation in response to increasing sustainability demands.


Continue reading to learn more about Germany’s top waste management companies.


Top 22 Waste Management Companies in Germany


1. Remondis International GmbH

  • Website: remondis.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Neunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
  • Employee distribution: Germany 68%, Turkey 11%, France 11%, Other 10%
  • Founded year: 1934
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: remondis-international-gmbh

Remondis International GmbH, based in Neunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a prominent recycling and waste management service provider. Established in 1934, the company has grown to operate in over 30 countries, serving industrial businesses, local authorities, and consumers. Remondis offers a wide array of services, including waste collection, recycling, and water management, all aimed at promoting sustainable practices. The company is dedicated to conserving resources and protecting the environment through innovative recycling technologies. With a workforce of over 30,000 employees, Remondis manages approximately 30 million tonnes of recyclables annually, handling various materials from paper and plastics to hazardous waste. Their operations also extend to military waste management, showcasing their capability to handle complex waste scenarios. Remondis continues to focus on enhancing its service offerings and sustainability initiatives, positioning itself as a key player in the waste management sector.


2. REMONDIS Gruppe

  • Website: remondis.de
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Germany
  • Employee distribution: Germany 72%, Poland 9%, France 4%, Other 15%
  • Founded year: 1934
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: remondis-gruppe

REMONDIS Gruppe, officially known as REMONDIS SE & Co. KG, is a prominent private company based in Germany, specializing in recycling and water management services. Founded in 1934, REMONDIS has grown to operate over 800 locations across three continents, providing essential waste management solutions to municipalities, industries, and private households. The company focuses on recycling, water supply, and wastewater treatment, emphasizing sustainability and environmental protection. Their flagship facility, the Lippewerk in Lünen, is Europe's largest industrial recycling center, where advanced technologies are employed to recycle various materials. REMONDIS is also involved in innovative projects, such as the recovery of valuable resources from waste and the generation of renewable energy from non-recyclable materials. Their operations contribute significantly to climate protection, with annual savings of approximately 500,000 tons of CO2 emissions. REMONDIS is committed to advancing the circular economy and ensuring that resources are preserved for future generations.


3. Berlin Recycling

  • Website: berlin-recycling.de
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
  • Employee distribution: Germany 100%
  • Founded year: 2000
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • LinkedIn: berlin-recycling

Berlin Recycling, founded in 2000, is a private waste management company based in Berlin, Germany. With a workforce of approximately 501 to 1000 employees, the company specializes in comprehensive waste disposal and recycling services tailored for private households, businesses, and large clients. Their service offerings include container rentals, document destruction, and special waste disposal, all designed with a strong emphasis on sustainable practices. Berlin Recycling is dedicated to ensuring compliance with waste management regulations, which is crucial in today's environmentally conscious market. The company actively promotes recycling initiatives within Berlin, contributing to the city’s sustainability goals. Their operations are structured to facilitate efficient waste handling, making them a significant player in the local waste management industry.


4. Zentek Gruppe

  • Website: zentek.de
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Jena, Thuringia, Germany
  • Employee distribution: Germany 97%, Finland 3%
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: zentek-gmbh-%26-co.-kg

Zentek Gruppe, founded in 1995 and based in Jena, Thuringia, Germany, is a private waste management service provider. The company employs between 201 and 500 people and focuses on recycling and compliance solutions tailored for businesses across various sectors. Their service offerings include commercial waste disposal, electronic waste management, and packaging compliance, ensuring that clients adhere to legal regulations while promoting environmentally responsible waste processing. Zentek is dedicated to achieving a circular economy, aiming to recycle all waste generated by their clients by 2029. They also provide extensive support for extended producer responsibility (EPR) compliance, helping manufacturers navigate complex regulations across Europe. With a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovative waste management solutions, Zentek has built a reputation for reliability and expertise in the industry.


5. GreenCycle

  • Website: greencycle.de
  • Ownership type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Neckarsulm, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
  • Employee distribution: Germany 93%, South Africa 3%, Egypt 3%
  • Latest funding: $50.0M, January 2023
  • Founded year: 2009
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: greencycle-gmbh

GreenCycle is an environmental services company based in Neckarsulm, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, founded in 2009. The company specializes in waste management and recycling, providing comprehensive solutions that transform waste into valuable resources. GreenCycle operates primarily within the Schwarz Group, which includes major retailers like Lidl and Kaufland. Their services include waste collection, recycling management, and consulting aimed at enhancing sustainability and minimizing environmental impact. The company is committed to creating efficient and closed-loop material cycles, believing that waste is merely a resource in the wrong place. With a workforce of approximately 87 employees, GreenCycle is actively involved in analyzing waste streams and developing innovative solutions to maximize resource recovery. In January 2023, they secured €50 million in funding, reflecting their growth and commitment to advancing their operations in the waste management industry.


6. Abfallwirtschaftsbetriebe Köln GmbH (AWB Köln)


Abfallwirtschaftsbetriebe Köln GmbH (AWB Köln) is a private waste management company based in Mülheim, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. Founded in 2002, AWB Köln has established itself as a key player in the waste management sector, primarily serving the city of Cologne. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, including waste disposal, recycling, and street cleaning, catering to the needs of residents, businesses, and various organizations. AWB Köln emphasizes environmental sustainability and effective waste management practices, actively engaging in initiatives to promote waste reduction and proper waste separation. Their operations are supported by a dedicated workforce, and they maintain a strong presence in the local community, contributing to the cleanliness and sustainability of the urban environment.


7. Becker Umweltdienste GmbH


Becker Umweltdienste GmbH, based in Chemnitz, Saxony, Germany, is a family-owned company that specializes in waste management and recycling services. Founded in 1990, the company has established itself as a reliable partner for waste disposal, recycling, and logistics. They serve a wide array of clients, including households, businesses, and municipalities, helping them manage waste in an efficient and sustainable manner. With a workforce of around 501 to 1000 employees, Becker Umweltdienste operates multiple facilities across Germany, ensuring that they can meet the diverse needs of their clients. The company prides itself on its innovative approaches to waste management, including the development of customized waste disposal concepts and a strong focus on recycling practices. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their operations, which aim to convert waste into secondary raw materials and energy. Becker Umweltdienste GmbH is recognized as one of the significant players in the German waste management sector, contributing to the industry's evolution and adherence to environmental standards.


8. Nehlsen AG

  • Website: nehlsen.com
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Bremen, Bremen, Germany
  • Employee distribution: Germany 95%, Angola 5%
  • Founded year: 1923
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: nehlsen-ag

Nehlsen AG, based in Bremen, Germany, is a family-owned company that has been active in the waste management and recycling industry since its founding in 1923. With a workforce of approximately 3,000 employees across 40 subsidiaries, Nehlsen AG provides a comprehensive suite of services, including waste disposal, recycling, industrial cleaning, and logistics. The company serves a broad clientele, including private households, businesses, and public institutions, emphasizing sustainable waste management practices. Nehlsen AG operates in around 70 locations across Europe and Africa, with a significant presence in Germany and a smaller footprint in Angola. The company is dedicated to environmental protection and community involvement, actively contributing to social, ecological, and sports initiatives. Their innovative waste disposal concepts and recycling methods reflect a commitment to climate and environmental protection, positioning them as a responsible player in the waste management industry.


9. Dorr GmbH & Co. KG

  • Website: dorr.de
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Kempten, Bavaria, Germany
  • Employee distribution: Germany 100%
  • Founded year: 1945
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: dorr-gmbh-co-kg

Dorr GmbH & Co. KG, based in Kempten, Bavaria, is a family-owned waste management company that has been operational since 1945. The company specializes in providing a wide range of waste disposal and recycling services tailored to municipalities, businesses, and private households. Dorr is committed to environmentally responsible waste management practices, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations. Their services include the collection and recycling of various waste types, as well as consulting to help clients navigate complex waste management laws. With a workforce of around 400 employees, Dorr has grown to become one of the prominent mid-sized waste management specialists in southern Germany. Their operations extend beyond traditional waste disposal, incorporating innovative solutions in canal service and specialized waste treatment, such as hazardous waste management and metal recycling. Dorr's focus on sustainability and resource conservation positions them as a key player in the evolving waste management industry.


10. LOGEX SYSTEM GmbH

  • Website: logex.de
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Ingolstadt, Bavaria, Germany
  • Employee distribution: Germany 100%
  • Founded year: 1993
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: logex-system-gmbh-%26-co-kg

LOGEX SYSTEM GmbH, based in Ingolstadt, Bavaria, Germany, is a family-owned waste management company founded in 1993. With a workforce of approximately 61 employees, LOGEX provides customized waste disposal and recycling solutions tailored to the needs of various industries, including retail, healthcare, and construction. The company emphasizes compliance with environmental regulations and promotes sustainability through efficient waste management practices. LOGEX is recognized as an Entsorgungsfachbetrieb, which signifies its expertise and reliability in waste management. The company has developed a network of partners and offers services that include recycling and marketing of waste materials. Their commitment to quality is reflected in their ISO 9001:2015 certification, ensuring that they maintain high standards in their operations. LOGEX also engages in initiatives aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability, demonstrating their proactive approach to environmental stewardship.


11. Entsorgungsbetriebe Essen GmbH


Entsorgungsbetriebe Essen GmbH, founded in 1998, is a private waste management company based in Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. With a workforce of around 39 employees, the company specializes in comprehensive waste collection, recycling, and environmental services tailored for both residents and businesses in the region. Their operations include bulky waste collection, street cleaning, and the management of recycling facilities. EBE is dedicated to sustainable waste disposal practices, actively promoting waste reduction and recycling initiatives within the community. They also provide educational resources to help citizens understand proper waste management. The company operates under a framework that prioritizes environmental stewardship, making it a key player in the local waste management sector.


12. PreZero Deutschland

  • Website: prezero.de
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Porta Westfalica, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
  • Employee distribution: Germany 92%, Poland 3%, Sweden 2%, Other 3%
  • Founded year: 2018
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: prezero

PreZero Deutschland, based in Porta Westfalica, North Rhine-Westphalia, is an environmental services company that specializes in waste management and recycling. Established in 2018, the company has grown to employ over 500 individuals, primarily in Germany, with a small presence in Poland and Sweden. PreZero offers a broad spectrum of services, including waste disposal, recycling of materials such as aluminum, glass, and plastics, energy generation, and sustainability consulting. Their clientele ranges from businesses and municipalities to private individuals, all seeking effective waste management solutions that comply with environmental regulations. The company is also involved in innovative projects, such as testing hydrogen fuel cell vehicles for waste collection, showcasing their commitment to sustainable practices. PreZero's mission is to reduce non-recyclable waste and promote a circular economy, making them a significant player in the waste management industry.


13. Lobbe

  • Website: lobbe.de
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Iserlohn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
  • Employee distribution: Germany 100%
  • Founded year: 1992
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: lobbe-entsorgung-gmbh

Lobbe Holding GmbH & Co KG, founded in 1992 and based in Iserlohn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a family-owned enterprise specializing in waste management and environmental services. The company offers a wide array of services, including waste disposal, industrial services, and remediation. Their clientele spans businesses, municipalities, and private households, all of whom rely on Lobbe for efficient and compliant waste management solutions. Lobbe is dedicated to sustainability, emphasizing the importance of a circular economy in their operations. They actively engage in recycling and the recovery of valuable resources from waste, ensuring that non-recyclable materials are utilized for energy generation. With a workforce of over 1,000 employees, Lobbe is well-positioned to address the complexities of modern waste management, making them a significant player in the industry.


14. Schönmackers

  • Website: schoenmackers.de
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Kempen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
  • Employee distribution: Germany 100%
  • Founded year: 1956
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: schoenmackers

Schönmackers is a private waste management company based in Kempen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. Founded in 1956, the company has established itself as a key player in the waste management sector, providing a range of services that include waste collection, recycling, and consultation. Schönmackers serves both private individuals and businesses, offering tailored solutions that ensure compliance with waste management regulations. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their operational practices, which promote recycling and responsible waste disposal. The company operates numerous waste collection points and recycling facilities, making it accessible for over a million residents in the region. Schönmackers also emphasizes customer service, providing various online tools and resources to assist clients in managing their waste effectively. With a workforce of 1001-5000 employees, Schönmackers is well-equipped to handle the complexities of waste management in a modern context.


15. OTTO DÖRNER Gruppe

  • Website: doerner.de
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
  • Employee distribution: Germany 100%
  • Founded year: 1932
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: ottodoernergruppe

OTTO DÖRNER Gruppe, based in Hamburg, Germany, is a family-owned waste management company founded in 1932. The firm specializes in a wide array of services, including waste disposal, recycling, and cleaning services, aimed at municipalities, businesses, and private individuals. With a commitment to environmentally responsible practices, OTTO DÖRNER operates multiple facilities throughout Northern Germany, ensuring efficient waste management solutions. The company also engages in the sale of construction materials, such as sand and gravel, and offers specialized cleaning services. Their focus on innovation and sustainability is evident in their operations, which are designed to meet the evolving needs of their clients while adhering to environmental standards.


16. J. Ehgartner GmbH

  • Website: ehgartner.de
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Geretsried, Bavaria, Germany
  • Employee distribution: Germany 100%
  • Founded year: 1960
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: ehgartner-gmbh

J. Ehgartner GmbH, based in Geretsried, Bavaria, Germany, is a family-owned waste management company founded in 1960. With a workforce of approximately 21 employees, the company has established itself as a reliable provider of waste management services in the region. J. Ehgartner GmbH specializes in the collection, disposal, and recycling of various waste types, including hazardous materials, and offers tailored solutions to meet the needs of municipalities, businesses, and private individuals. Their services include container services, commercial waste disposal, document destruction, and recycling, among others. The company is committed to environmental protection and compliance with relevant regulations, ensuring that waste is managed responsibly and efficiently. J. Ehgartner GmbH has a strong focus on promoting a sustainable circular economy, actively working to reduce waste and enhance resource recovery. Their operational footprint covers several districts in Bavaria, making them a key player in the local waste management sector.


17. AVG Köln mbH

  • Website: avgkoeln.de
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Neunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
  • Employee distribution: Germany 100%
  • Founded year: 1992
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: avg-k%c3%b6ln-mbh

AVG Köln mbH, established in 1992, is a private waste management company based in Neunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. With a workforce of approximately 201-500 employees, the company specializes in providing comprehensive waste disposal and recycling services. It caters to both municipalities and businesses, helping them manage waste in a sustainable and efficient manner. AVG Köln operates modern facilities designed for thermal and material recovery of waste, playing a vital role in environmental protection and resource conservation. The company is actively involved in promoting a circular economy, transforming waste into valuable resources and energy. Their operations not only contribute to local waste management efforts but also support broader environmental goals, making them a key player in the waste management industry.


18. AWA Entsorgung GmbH

  • Website: awa-gmbh.de
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Eschweiler, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
  • Employee distribution: Germany 100%
  • Founded year: 1991
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: awa-entsorgung-gmbh

AWA Entsorgung GmbH, based in Eschweiler, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a private waste management company that has been operational since 1991. The firm specializes in comprehensive waste disposal and recycling services, catering to both residential and commercial clients in the Aachen and Düren areas. AWA is dedicated to environmental protection and sustainability, offering a range of services that include hazardous waste collection, biowaste composting, and waste consulting. The company operates several waste management facilities, ensuring that they meet high environmental and safety standards. AWA's commitment to community involvement is reflected in their educational initiatives and partnerships aimed at promoting responsible waste disposal practices. With a workforce of around 38 employees, AWA continues to play a significant role in managing waste effectively and sustainably in their region.


19. WRZ Hörger GmbH & Co. KG

  • Website: wrz-hoerger.de
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Sontheim, Bavaria, Germany
  • Employee distribution: Germany 100%
  • Founded year: 1970
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: wrz-h%c3%b6rger

WRZ Hörger GmbH & Co. KG, based in Sontheim, Bavaria, has been a recognized name in waste management since its inception in 1970. The company provides a comprehensive range of services, including waste collection, recycling, street cleaning, and document destruction. They cater to municipalities, businesses, and private individuals, ensuring that waste disposal is handled efficiently and in accordance with environmental standards. With a workforce of 201-500 employees, WRZ Hörger emphasizes quality and innovation in its operations. The company has expanded its capabilities over the years, establishing modern logistics systems and sorting facilities to enhance waste recovery processes. Their commitment to customer service is evident in their tailored solutions and quick response times, making them a trusted partner in the waste management industry.


20. Schuler Rohstoff GmbH


Schuler Rohstoff GmbH, founded in 1919, is a family-owned waste management company based in Germany. The firm specializes in comprehensive waste disposal services, catering to a variety of clients including industrial, commercial, and private customers. They focus on environmentally friendly recycling practices and ensure compliance with legal waste management standards. Schuler Rohstoff GmbH operates certified waste disposal services, providing expert advice on waste separation and disposal processes. Their facilities in Deißlingen and Singen are equipped to recover valuable secondary raw materials from waste, contributing to resource conservation and environmental protection. The company has maintained a strong commitment to sustainability and has been actively involved in the waste management industry for over a century.


21. Wittmann Entsorgungswirtschaft GmbH


Wittmann Entsorgungswirtschaft GmbH, established in 1957, is a family-owned waste management company based in Gräfelfing, Germany. The firm specializes in a wide array of services, including waste disposal, recycling, and consulting on waste management laws. With a workforce of approximately 201-500 employees, Wittmann serves a diverse clientele, ranging from private individuals to businesses and organizations. Their operations are concentrated in the Munich area, where they provide tailored waste management solutions that comply with stringent environmental regulations. The company is also involved in the management of special waste, including hazardous materials, and offers services such as mobile data destruction and technical support for waste management systems. Wittmann's commitment to social responsibility and environmental stewardship is evident in their active participation in local initiatives and partnerships, further solidifying their role in the waste management sector.


22. Sutco RecyclingTechnik GmbH & Co. KG


Sutco RecyclingTechnik GmbH & Co. KG, based in Bergisch Gladbach, Germany, has been a significant player in the recycling technology and waste management sector since its inception in 1985. The company designs and implements sorting and processing systems tailored for various waste types, serving both waste management companies and municipalities. With a focus on sustainability, Sutco aims to improve recycling rates through innovative solutions. Over the years, Sutco has expanded its operations internationally, establishing subsidiaries in countries such as Poland, Romania, Sweden, Singapore, and Brazil. This global footprint allows Sutco to address the unique waste management challenges faced by different regions, further solidifying its role in the industry.



Waste Management Insights: Key Companies in Germany


CompanyHeadquarterSizeFoundedOwnership
Remondis International GmbHNeunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany10001+1934Private
REMONDIS GruppeGermany10001+1934Private
Berlin RecyclingBerlin, Berlin, Germany501-10002000Private
Zentek GruppeJena, Thuringia, Germany201-5001995Private
GreenCycleNeckarsulm, Baden-Württemberg, Germany51-2002009Venture Capital
Abfallwirtschaftsbetriebe Köln GmbH (AWB Köln)Mülheim, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany1001-50002002Private
Becker Umweltdienste GmbHChemnitz, Saxony, Germany501-10001990Family Owned
Nehlsen AGBremen, Bremen, Germany1001-50001923Family Owned
Dorr GmbH & Co. KGKempten, Bavaria, Germany201-5001945Family Owned
LOGEX SYSTEM GmbHIngolstadt, Bavaria, Germany51-2001993Family Owned
Entsorgungsbetriebe Essen GmbHEssen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany1001-50001998Private
PreZero DeutschlandPorta Westfalica, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany1001-50002018Private
LobbeIserlohn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany1001-50001992Family Owned
SchönmackersKempen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany1001-50001956Private
OTTO DÖRNER GruppeHamburg, Hamburg, Germany1001-50001932Family Owned
J. Ehgartner GmbHGeretsried, Bavaria, Germany51-2001960Family Owned
AVG Köln mbHNeunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany201-5001992Private
AWA Entsorgung GmbHEschweiler, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany51-2001991Private
WRZ Hörger GmbH & Co. KGSontheim, Bavaria, Germany201-5001970Private
Schuler Rohstoff GmbHGermany51-2001919Family Owned
Wittmann Entsorgungswirtschaft GmbHGermany201-5001957Family Owned
Sutco RecyclingTechnik GmbH & Co. KGBergisch Gladbach, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany201-5001985Private


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