The BDO annual report – the deadline for its submission is getting closer

The BDO (Database on Products, Packaging, and Waste Management) Register is a comprehensive system introduced in Poland. It ensures that businesses comply with waste management and environmental protection laws. It also serves as a tool for monitoring the flow of products, packaging, and waste, thus helping authorities enforce strict regulations aimed at sustainable practices. All entities that produce waste, introduce packaging or packaged goods into the Polish market must sign in to BDO Register. The same goes for when they engage in waste management activities.

Who needs to register to complete BDO annual report?

Foreign business entities that meet specific criteria must register in the BDO. This includes:

• Companies introducing packaged products. If your business places products in packaging on the Polish market, whether it is food, cosmetics, or electronic goods, you must register.
• Waste producers or handlers. If your company generates or manages waste in Poland, even if temporarily, registration is mandatory.
• Retailers offering plastic bags. Foreign retailers providing plastic bags in their Polish operations must also comply.
• E-commerce companies shipping to Poland: Online businesses shipping packaged goods directly to Polish consumers must also adhere to these regulations.

Foreign companies without a local branch in Poland may face additional complexities, as they are still required to register in the BDO.

Ask yourself this: Are you ready to handle the company profile in BDO all on your own? Do you have a PESEL number or a Trusted Profile? And how’s your Polish—better than just conversational? If you answered “no” to any of these questions, it’s time for you to appoint an authorized representative to handle the formalities for you.

When it comes to managing waste in BDO, there’s no room for errors. Mistakes can lead to hefty fines—and nobody wants that!

BDO annual report deadline

Every year, by March 15th, registered entities must submit a detailed report summarizing their activities from the previous year. This includes information on the amount of waste generated, packaging introduced, and waste management practices.

What else is required?

Once registered in the BDO, businesses must fulfill several ongoing obligations:

1. They must maintain accurate records of waste generation and disposal. These documents must be available for inspection by environmental authorities.
2. Entities introducing plastic bags or non-ecological packaging need to pay recycling fee every quarter. The amount of the fee is based on the overall amount of said bags used during the quarter.
3. Businesses that put more than 1 tonne of packaging on the market are usually required to work with licensed waste management companies to handle it properly. But if they generate less than 1 tonne in a year, they might qualify for an exemption.
4. Some industries are required to inform consumers about proper disposal methods for their products or packaging.

No registration or BDO annual report – what then?

Failing to meet BDO obligations can have serious repercussions. Just to name the few:

• Operating a business without the required registration will result in administrative fine ranging from 5,000 PLN to 1,000,000 PLN.
• Managing waste in a way that doesn’t align with the information in the registry will result in penalty of arrest or a fine.
• Failing to submit a registration application, update registration details, or request removal from the registry, or submitting false information will result in penalty of arrest or a fine.
• Failing to deliver waste to the proper recipient or destination specified by the client who ordered waste transport services will result in administrative fine ranging from 1,000 PLN to 100,000 PLN.
• Not including the registration number on documents related to activities covered by the BDO Register will result in administrative fine ranging from 5,000 PLN to 1,000,000 PLN.
• Failure to submit the report on time can result in penalties up to 5000 PLN.

Why is it worth staying compliant with BDO obligations?

BDO compliance is not just about avoiding penalties. It demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Businesses that proactively comply with BDO regulations can enhance their reputation, improve stakeholder trust, and contribute to Poland’s efforts in reducing waste and promoting recycling.

Foreign entities operating in Poland need to take their BDO obligations seriously. From registering in the database to submitting annual reports and adhering to waste management regulations, compliance is key to avoiding legal issues and ensuring smooth operations. As environmental regulations continue to tighten, staying aligned with BDO requirements isn’t just a necessity—it’s a smart business move and a competitive advantage.

If your company needs assistance with BDO registration or meeting annual reporting obligations, Waste Transport Solutions is here to help. Get in touch with us today, and we’ll guide you through the process to ensure full compliance and peace of mind.