A grate block including a block body formed as a cast part with a rear end and a front end that lies opposite the rear end in the conveying direction. The block body includes an upper wall which forms an outer rear bearing surface, running at least in part parallel to a longitudinal axis of the block body, for the waste that is to be treated, wherein the bearing surface defines a substantially horizontal plane. The block body further includes a raised nose arranged in the region of front end, which nose has an outer front bearing surface with a middle part that rises in the manner of a ramp in the conveying direction. The raised nose includes, following the outer front bearing surface, an apex and, after the apex in the conveying direction, a declining end portion with a discharge surface that drops away in a substantially arcuate manner.