Knowledge Center
How does the deposit system work?
The deposit system is a simple mechanism that helps recover raw materials and reduce waste. It works like this:
· You pay a small deposit when you purchase a beverage
· You get it back when you return the empty container to a collection point
Why is the system being introduced?
What does this mean in practice?
· Less waste in forests, parks, and cities
· Improved recovery and recycling of raw materials
· Real material and energy savings
Producer Obligations
· 77% collection rate from 2025
·90% collection rate from 2029
· Minimum 25% recyclate in PET bottles from 2025
· Minimum 30% from 2030
How does it work?
You buy a beverage in a deposit-refundable container
· PLN 0.50 per bottle (PET) up to 3 liters
· PLN 0.50 per can (up to 1 liter)
· PLN 1 per reusable glass bottle (up to 1.5 liters)
You return the container:
· You drop it off at a collection point (manual or automatic collection)
· The container must be empty, undamaged, and labeled
You get your deposit back
· You receive a refund or a discount on purchases at that store
What's next?
· The PET containers and cans are recycled
· The glass bottles are washed and refilled
Our Goals for the Deposit Refund System
Environmental Protection
The deposit-refund system dramatically reduces the littering of beverage packaging in public spaces. Financial incentives effectively eliminate the problem of illegal dumping and abandoned bottles in forests and parks.
Maximum Recycling Efficiency
We strive to achieve a 95-98% recovery rate – several times higher than standard separate collection. Returned packaging is not mixed with other waste, significantly increasing the value of secondary raw materials.
Support for Local Governments
Separating beverage packaging from the municipal waste system reduces waste management costs in municipalities and facilitates the achievement of European recycling targets.
Changing Consumer Habits
We are introducing a model of responsible consumption in which packaging return becomes an integral part of the purchasing process, shaping pro-environmental attitudes in society.
Circular Economy
Thanks to the deposit, aluminum, PET, and glass are recycled back into the production of new packaging instead of ending up in landfills. In this way, we are building a sustainable economy where raw materials circulate.