Many guests and large amounts of waste require fresh thinking and innovative solutions

The Challenge

Together with local partners, MCH wants to recycle and reuse even more waste

A significantly increased focus on waste sorting — both from authorities and as part of MCH’s sustainability strategy — created the need for a flexible waste solution that could be adapted to both small and large events. Before implementing Bica waste bins, MCH handled guest waste in single bins placed at key points throughout the many halls. The problem was that waste was not sorted correctly, and the bins were not visually appealing — especially not at major interior and design fairs. At the same time, the amount of each waste type varied greatly from event to event, which created major challenges. They needed to rethink the process.

The Solution

The sleek and flexible waste modules can be moved and placed according to the different events

After thorough needs assessment in working groups consisting of project managers, hall managers, and operational staff at MCH, the choice fell on Bica waste sorting solutions due to their design, functionality, and flexibility. The front doors and lids with soft‑close provide the best working conditions for hall staff, as they avoid pinched fingers and can easily replace bags without heavy overhead lifting. Flexibility was achieved thanks to strong magnets that allow multiple bins to be connected, as well as wheels that make the solution mobile. They chose magnetic pictograms in English to accommodate all guests regardless of nationality.

Danish Handball Federation and MCH joined forces in the fight against waste: Put your waste in its place!

In December 2023, the Women’s Handball World Championship was held in Denmark, with many matches played in Jyske Bank Boxen in Herning. The Danish Handball Federation and MCH wanted to highlight waste sorting — especially correct sorting. This resulted in an awareness campaign with the message “Put your waste in its place,” combined with flexible waste solutions with pictograms in English. Sorting focused on cardboard, deposit bottles/cans, soft plastic, residual waste, and food waste, distributed in bins with 65‑ and 95‑liter capacity. Transparent waste bags were used to allow for checking the waste afterwards for potential sorting errors.

MCH works closely with Marius Pedersen, a leading environmental company in the waste and resource industry. On average, the recycling rate for sorted waste at MCH is 40%. During the Women’s Handball World Championship, the recycling rate reached 49%. A result the MCH team is satisfied with — though they are determined to push the number even higher.