Portugal launches national deposit return scheme for drink containers

Portugal has introduced a national deposit return scheme (DRS) for single-use beverage containers, marking a significant step in the country’s recycling and circular economy efforts. With the launch, Portugal becomes the 19th European nation to implement a deposit-based system for drink container collection and the first larger market in Southern Europe to adopt the approach.

The scheme, branded volta and operated by SDR Portugal, applies to PET plastic bottles as well as aluminium and steel beverage cans with a capacity of up to three litres. Under the system, consumers pay a €0.10 deposit when purchasing eligible drinks and receive the amount back once the empty container is returned through approved collection points.

Retail outlets with a floor space of more than 400 square metres are required to accept containers included in the scheme. Stores can choose to collect returns either manually or through automated systems.

Reverse vending technology for the scheme is being supplied by TOMRA Collection, which is providing equipment designed to enable consumers to return bottles and cans at designated locations. The company has more than five decades of experience in deposit return systems and reports that its global network of reverse vending machines processes billions of beverage containers each year.

Portugal’s DRS is a transformative step toward a cleaner environment and a more circular economy. By making it easy for citizens to return drink containers for recycling, we are reducing waste, improving material recovery, and accelerating the transition to a truly circular system.

Paulo BorgesManaging Director at TOMRA Collection Portugal.

The introduction of the scheme is expected to increase collection rates for drink containers in Portugal and improve the quality of materials recovered for recycling. It is also intended to support the country’s progress towards national and European Union recycling targets while helping reduce litter and demand for virgin materials.

Circular economy solutions for drink containers are moving from policy ambition to operational reality. Portugal is ready to serve as a lighthouse model for the region, demonstrating leadership, ambition and determination to deliver high-performing collection and recycling rates at scale, while significantly reducing terrestrial and marine litter.

Thomas MorgensternVice President Public Affairs – Head of Europe and Central Asia.

The launch places Portugal among a growing number of European countries adopting deposit return systems as part of wider efforts to strengthen circular packaging and recycling infrastructure.

This article was originally published by TOMRA.