Poland's Deposit-Refund System Kicks Off: Consumers See Immediate Financial Returns for Recycling

WARSAW, Poland – Poland has officially launched its new nationwide deposit-refund system for plastic bottles and aluminum cans, effective October 1st. The initiative aims to boost recycling rates and encourage public participation in environmental efforts. A recent video circulating online, created by user 'justfuckingtraveling,' offers a practical demonstration of the system's operation at a Lidl supermarket. The video shows the user depositing a substantial collection of bottles and cans into a reverse vending machine. The machine processes each item, displaying the accumulating refund amount. Upon completion, the user received receipts totaling PLN 22.70, which can be redeemed for store credit or cash. Commenting on the new system, the creator stated, "I got 22 złoty 70 groszy. A lot or a little, but multiply it by five, because from October 5th, such a cart will be worth 113 złoty 50 groszy for an hour and a half walk. I think it's a good rate, isn't it?" This highlights the potential financial incentives for consumers to engage with the program. The creator also drew comparisons to Germany's long-standing and successful deposit system, suggesting that Poland's new initiative could achieve similar positive results. Major retailers, including Lidl, Biedronka, Żabka Polska, Kaufland Polska, ALDI Poland, Carrefour Poland, and Polo Market, are expected to participate in the scheme.

Fakt

Brakuje automatów i oznaczeń. Klienci sklepów już odczuwają skutki nowych przep…

Od 1 października 2025 roku obowiązuje w Polsce system kaucyjny, który ma ułatwić recykling opakowań. Już pierwsze dni pokazały jednak, że wdrożenie …