BDO System
a practical guide for businesses
BDO System: electronic recordkeeping and control of waste management
a comprehensive overview for entrepreneurs
In an era of increasing environmental awareness and pressure for sustainable development, responsible waste management is not only a legal obligation but a necessity. This is where the BDO System comes into play – a modern, digital tool that streamlines and organizes the waste management process in Poland. Launched on January 24, 2018, by the Ministry of Climate, the system has revolutionized how waste flows are monitored, reported and controlled in the country.
What is the
BDO Database?
BDO – the product and packaging database and waste management register is a nationwide electronic system designed to collect and manage data related to waste management, including the registration of entities introducing products and packaging to the market and waste management operators. Its purpose is to control waste flows and ensure compliance with environmental protection regulations.
The register was introduced under the Waste Act of December 14, 2012 and is mandatory for many entrepreneurs.
The electronic BDO register is available at: https://bdo.mos.gov.pl
What does the BDO register mean for entrepreneurs?
The BDO register is a mandatory record for businesses whose operations may generate waste or involve products requiring special oversight, such as packaging, batteries and electronics.
Who is required to register
in BDO?
BDO registration is mandatory for entrepreneurs who:
-
introduce into the market:
• products in packaging,
• electrical and electronic equipment,
• batteries, accumulators, lubricating oils, vehicles, etc. - generate waste (other than municipal waste) and maintain waste records (e.g. Waste Transfer Note [KPO] and Waste Record Sheet [KEO]);
- transport, collect or process waste.
Case Study
A company imports small household appliances from the EU and China. It sells online via its own website and through e-commerce platforms.
This means the company introduces into the Polish market:
- packaged products - mandatory BDO registration and packaging recordkeeping
- electrical and electronic equipment - mandatory BDO registration and equipment recordkeeping
- batteries - if any device contains batteries - mandatory BDO registration and battery recordkeeping
Registration in the electronic BDO system is a formal confirmation that the company operates in accordance with environmental protection regulations and provides a legal foundation for maintaining mandatory waste documentation.
Unsure if your business requires BDO registration?
Contact our organization: kontakt@e-wasterecycling.pl– a quick audit will clear up any doubts.
BDO registration number
- why is it important for your business?
The BDO number is a unique identifier assigned to companies and institutions registered in the database (Products, Packaging and Waste Management Database). It confirms your compliance with waste management legal requirements.
What is the role of the BDO number?
- Identification - clearly identifies your company in the BDO system.
- Legal compliance - confirms you operate in accordance with the Waste Act.
- Record-keeping - essential for issuing Waste Transfer Notes, invoices, contracts and reports
With a BDO number, you avoid penalties and run your business safely and responsibly.
How to obtain a BDO number?
Step by step
Register Online
submit your application electronically at the official BDO website.
Verify your identity
A trusted profile or e-ID is required.
Pay the registration fee
payment goes to the Marshal’s Office of your region.
Receive your BDO number
after your application is verified, you will be issued a unique BDO identifier.
Where should the BDO number be displayed?
The BDO number must appear on documents related to waste management, such as:
- Invoices and receipts - mandatory for sales covered by the register
- Commercial contracts - both civil and B2B
- Waste Transfer Notes (KPO) - essential for legal transportation
- Transport and warehouse documentation - if it concerns waste
- Company website - required for e-commerce selling electronics, batteries or chemicals
Need help registering? We’ll guide you through the process - step by step!
Anna Baściuk
Head of Customer Service
Monika Polak
Environmental Protection Coordinator
Penalties for non-compliance with the BDO system – what to watch out for?
Non-compliance with waste management regulations can result in severe penalties – from PLN 100 up to PLN 1 million, and in extreme cases, even custodial arrest.
Most common reasons for penalties:
- Failure to register in the BDO system
- Incorrect waste recordkeeping
- Failure to submit reports on time
How to avoid penalties?
Key obligations:
- Register in BDO if your business is subject to this obligation.
- Maintain accurate records - all waste must be properly recorded in the system
- Submit reports on time - in accordance with the official schedule
- Include your BDO number on relevant documents - invoices, KPOs (Waste Transfer Notes), contracts.
BDO fees from 2025
- how much and when to pay?
As of 2025, fees related to the BDO have changed:
Registration fee:
• PLN 200 – for micro-enterprises
• PLN 800 – for all other businesses
Annual fee – applies from the following year onward and must be paid by the end of February
Where to pay the fee?
Payments should be made by bank transfer to the Marshal Office’s account appropriate for your province. Account numbers are available on the official websites of the regional authorities.
Need support with proper waste recordkeeping? Want to avoid errors and penalties?
In a time of growing environmental requirements and increasingly strict regulations, the BDO System has become an essential tool for every entrepreneur involved in waste management.
It’s not just a legal obligation – it’s also part of building the image of a responsible company that cares for the environment and avoids the risk of costly penalties.
Contact us
today!
Our experts will carry out a free audit for you, assist with registration and guide you through all the obligations related to the BDO system. Stay compliant and gain peace of mind knowing your business is on the safe side!
- kontakt@e-wasterecycling.pl
- 571 504 228
E-Waste Recycling S.A.
ul. Twarda 18
(Spektrum Tower)
00-105 Warsaw
