LAHORE – The Punjab government has ordered the rollout of colour-coded trash bins across the province as part of a modern waste-management initiative, inspired by systems used in developed countries.
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According to an official directive, coloured bins will be installed in markets, shopping malls, commercial centres, government offices, and educational institutions. The initiative aims to promote eco-friendly practices and reduce waste volume.
In the first phase, approval for implementing the “Smart Waste Management Process” was granted last September, targeting both public and private educational institutions across Punjab. Officials warned that failure to comply could result in legal action under environmental protection laws.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s modern waste-management initiative in Punjab
CM Maryam Nawaz has directed the use of color-coded dustbins just like developed countries for efficient waste collection.
Orders have been issued to place these color-coded bins in markets,… pic.twitter.com/md184ugB8z
— PMLN (@pmln_org) November 29, 2025
Under the new system, yellow bins will be used for paper, packaging materials, and recyclable waste, while green bins are designated for bottles, glass, and discarded laboratory items. Grey bins will hold fruit peels, leftover food, leaves, and rotten vegetables, whereas red bins will be for metal waste and other metallic items. Orange bins are meant for plastic waste to facilitate recycling.
The Punjab Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a formal notification, instructing that different types of waste must be disposed of in their respective bins. Educational institutions may contact the Punjab Waste Management helpline (1139) for assistance in waste collection.
The Local Government and Community Development Department will manage the implementation of the colour-coded bins, while the EPA will oversee compliance. Officials said this initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize waste management in the province and align with sustainable environmental practices.
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The government hopes that the system will encourage citizens, students, and businesses to actively participate in waste segregation and contribute to a cleaner, healthier Punjab.