The BDO register brings together entities that deal with the introduction of packaging and waste management. Who is obliged to register? You will read about this and many other issues related to the BDO register below. We invite you to read!
What is the BDO register?
The BDO is a register of entities involved in the introduction of products and packaging and waste management. The abbreviation BDO stands for the Polish name: Baza Danych Odpadowych. This can be directly translated as the waste database. Its purpose is to collect information on:
- types of packaging placed on the market,
- products in these packages,
- The waste generated from them.
The register also enables monitoring of waste recycling levels. Moreover, it supports entrepreneurs in the implementation of their formal obligations. For example, keeping records or submitting reports.
Who keeps the BDO register?
The BDO register is managed by the Minister responsible for climate and environment. Its purpose is to:
- collect
- process
- store
- secure
data and information collected in the BDO register. The register is maintained in an IT system. It is defined by the Act of 17 February 2005, on the computerization of entities carrying out public tasks.
Who must be listed in the BDO register?
The range of entities subject to entry in the BDO register is governed by the Waste Act of 14 December 2012. The obligation applies to:
- Entrepreneurs introducing packaging or products in packaging to the market
- Entities involved in intra-community acquisition or export of packaging or products in packaging,
- Manufacturers of packaging or products in packaging,
- Companies introducing vehicles, electrical and electronic equipment, batteries, accumulators, tyres, oils, or grease to the market
Since 1 January 2020, companies registered in BDO must maintain electronic reporting and waste records. You can check who is subject to registration in the BDO register using a form on the BDO website.
Who is automatically registered in the BDO register?
The Marshal of the Voivodeship enters some business into the BDO Register ex officio. This concerns entrepreneurs who have obtained:
- integrated permit,
- waste generation permit,
- waste collection permit or waste processing permit,
- a decision approving a waste management program for extractive waste or a permit for operating a facility for the disposal of extractive waste,
- a concession for underground storage of waste under the Geological and Mining Law.
After making an entry, the Marshal creates an individual account of the entity in BDO. He assigns it an individual registration number. The entity is then notified of the number and account activation electronically.
Who is not subject to registration in BDO?
The following entities are not subject to entry in the BDO register:
- natural persons and organizational units that are not entrepreneurs and use waste for their own needs,
- entities owning land where municipal sewage sludge is used for:
- Cultivating plants intended for compost production,
- Cultivating plants not intended for consumption or feed production,
- entities conducting non-professional activities in collecting packaging waste and used consumer items like medicines and their packaging,
- people transporting waste that they have generated,
- Farmers producing waste and operating on less than 75 hectares of land.
BDO registration process – key steps
Here are the most important information on how to apply for entry in the BDO register:
| How to apply? | – Only electronically via the BDO System. You can log in using the Trusted Profile, e-ID or other authentication method. – Select the “Applications” tab, then “New application” and “New registration application”. Fill in the application following the system instructions |
| What documents are necessary? | – A copy of the proof of payment of the registration fee, if applicable – Additional documents depending on the type of activity. For example a copy of the agreement with the organization for the recovery of electrical and electronic equipment, the agreement with manufacturers of audio/video equipment/household appliances, information confirming participation in the eco-management and audit scheme |
| What is the deadline for applying? | – Registration must be completed before starting activities subject to registration. |
| What is the fee for an application to the BDO register? | – Pay the registration fee to the bank account of the relevant Marshal’s Office, in the amount of: 100 PLN – for micro-entrepreneurs, 300 PLN – for other entrepreneurs, – The fee paid with the application should be renewed every year. |
| What is the application’s processing time? | – The Marshal of the Voivodeship has 30 days from the submission of a correct and complete application to complete the registration |
| Can the Marshal of the Voivodeship refuse registration? | – Yes, if: – The registration fee is not paid in the required amount – The financial security is not paid in the required amount. This applies to entrepreneurs introducing equipment – the share capital is not paid in the required amount. This applies to recovery organizations or organizations for the recovery of electrical and electronic equipment. |
| How can you appeal against the decision of the Marshal of the Voivodeship? | – You can appeal the decision to the local government appeals board. The appeal must be submitted through the regional governor within 14 days from the date of receiving the rejection. |
What are the consequences of not registering in the BDO?
Sanctions for not complying with BDO registration, record-keeping, and reporting requirements include:
| Fine or imprisonment | – from 100 PLN to over 1 million PLN (in the case of a fine) penalties may be imposed for: – failure to submit an application for entry in the BDO Register – failure to submit an application for change of entry – failure to submit an application for removal from the register – submission of an application inconsistent with the facts – violation of reporting and registration obligations |
| Administrative penalty | – from 5000 PLN to 1 million PLN – imposed by the Regional Inspector of Environmental Protection for: – conducting business without the required entry in the BDO Register – not including the registration number on documents prepared in connection with the conducted activity. The number is assigned by the Marshal during registration in BDO. This penalty applies to companies that are subject to the registration fee. |
BDO register – what do you need to know about it? Summary
The BDO register is essential for companies in waste management to operate legally and protect the environment. Complying with the registration process and obligations can protect you from penalties. Moreover, it can also contribute to building a positive image for your company.
If you are interested in the subject of the BDO register and want to learn more, contact our experts!
FAQ – Questions and answers
What is the BDO Register?
It is a system that collects data on the production, collection, transport, and processing of waste. Its purpose is to monitor waste management and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
Who needs to register with BDO?
The obligation to register with BDO applies to companies that produce waste, collect or transport it, as well as place products on the market. It’s worth checking if your business falls into these categories. This will help to avoid legal consequences.
What are the consequences of not registering with BDO?
Failure to register with BDO may lead to financial penalties. It also causes problems with the legality of the business. Additionally, companies risk losing their reputation and customers’ trust.
How does the BDO registration process work?
The BDO registration process involves several steps:
preparing the necessary documents,
filling out the registration form,
and submitting the application.
Once your company is registered, you need to regularly update your data and report on your waste.
What should I do after registering with BDO?
After registering with BDO, regularly update data and submit waste reports. It is important to stay up to date with regulations and deadlines to avoid problems.
What are examples of companies that have benefited from BDO registration?
Companies that have registered in BDO often see improvements in waste management. It also increases their operational efficiency. Examples include recycling companies that gained access to new markets through registration.
Where can I find more information about the BDO register?
You can find more information about the BDO Register on government websites. It’s also helpful to follow blogs and portals dedicated to environmental protection. This will help you stay up-to-date with current regulations and practices.