Lisbon launches new citywide reusable cup system “CopoMais”

Lisbon today launched its new city-wide reusable cup system, “CopoMais Lisboa”.

The brand name “CopoMais” indicates that it is more than just a sturdier cup – it’s a part of system that enables circularity and makes reuse convenient, efficient and traceable. It is also a system that gives the user back the deposit paid when buying a beverage in one of the participating bars.

The new system includes a set of dedicated reusable CopoMais Lisboa cups – available in four sizes, automated return machines – where consumers can obtain a refund for the deposit paid on the cups, and a comprehensive cleaning and logistics operation to ensure cups can be used over and over again.

With the first five automated return machines now live in Bairro Alto, and 17 more locations to follow in early 2026, Lisbon becomes one of Europe’s frontrunner capitals to deploy a citywide, digitally enabled reuse system.

CopoMais Lisboa is a joint initiative by the City of Lisbon (CML), the Portuguese Association of Hotels, Restaurants and Similar Establishments (AHRESP), and TOMRA, a global leader in circular resource systems.

The initiative directly supports Portugal’s and the EU’s ambitions under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which requires significant reductions in single-use packaging and an expansion of reuse systems across Europe.

A cleaner city and a circular future

“We are proud to go live with Lisbon’s reusable cup system, as promised when this partnership was announced in January. In Lisbon, we have found a municipality that is prepared to take a frontrunner position among European capitals in implementing policy that enables truly circular systems, as well as a hospitality industry that is stepping up to help make Lisbon better, cleaner and more circular,” said Geir Sæther, Head of TOMRA Reuse, the team in TOMRA designing and developing the CopoMais system.

Each CopoMais cup carries a €0.50 refundable deposit and can be returned at any CopoMais machine. The first five locations are now operational in Bairro Alto, with additional return points to be installed across Bairro Alto, Cais do Sodré, Bica and other central districts during the first quarter of 2026. The system’s integrated digital infrastructure allows users to receive their deposit directly via card or mobile wallet, creating a seamless, cash-free experience.

Hospitality and technology working hand-in-hand

“This project demonstrates the willingness of the hospitality and restaurant sector to work side by side with technological innovation and with local authorities,” said Carlos Moura, President of AHRESP. “It is highly significant to see Lisbon’s bars and restaurants at the forefront, reducing costs for the community and for the planet, while at the same time enhancing customer experience.”

Rui Quadrado, Business Development Manager for TOMRA Reuse, emphasized the system’s environmental and operational impact:

“With CopoMais, we are proud to be introducing – together with our partners – an innovative and effective system for managing the use of reusable cups at scale for Lisbon’s residents and visitors. This system provides attractive incentives for both businesses and consumers, and has the potential to deliver both reduced costs and significant environmental benefits.”

Digital innovation at the heart of reuse

As part of its digital payment integration, the system allows users to recover their deposit via payment terminals powered by major payment providers’ technology.

“We are excited to support CopoMais in making sustainable choices easier for everyone,” said Rui Patraquim, Business Development Director for Mastercard in Portugal. “Our collaboration with TOMRA, powered by our Mastercard Move solutions, demonstrates how innovative payment technology can make sustainable choices more accessible and rewarding. By streamlining the deposit and instant refund process and enabling near real-time deposit returns, we are empowering both businesses and consumers to take meaningful steps toward reducing waste in their daily lives. This partnership helps drive innovation and convenience for Lisbon’s residents and visitors while advancing our commitment to environmental responsibility.”

The CopoMais system accepts all major debit and credit cards, as well as NFC-enabled smartphones and devices.

Lisbon leading the way in Europe

With the launch of CopoMais, Lisbon joins a small group of European cities – including Aarhus, Copenhagen and Berlin – pioneering reuse at scale. The system is expected to eliminate millions of single-use cups annually, reducing both urban littering and CO₂ emissions from disposable packaging production and waste treatment.

Available at progressive Bairro Alto bars

The first five automated return locations are conveniently placed for public access in collaboration with progressive bar owners in Bairro Alto, who will also be selling all drinks in CopoMais cups.

1. Rua Do Diário De Notícias, 3 (Eclipse Bar)

2. Rua da Rosa, 43 (Grog’s Bar)

3. Rua da Atalaia, 75 (É do Brasil Bar)

4. Travessa das Queimadas n.28 (return only)

5. Rua do Diário de Noticias, 132 (El Latino Bar)