Deposit on Bottles and Cans: Supermarkets Earn with Every Return

Since the introduction of the single-use deposit system on January 1, 2025, consumers in Austria receive 25 cents back for each returned plastic bottle or aluminum can. The deposit is automatically added at the time of purchase – the refund is given upon return at supermarkets or other collection points. Less known is that the return points themselves also earn from each returned package.

Compensation for Return Points

The organization responsible for the system is "Recycling Deposit Austria." The institution pays a so-called "handling fee" – a flat-rate compensation – to return points. This is intended to cover the logistical and personnel expenses associated with the return and storage of the deposit-bearing containers. The amount varies depending on the type of material and method of return.

Machines Bring More Money

When returned via machines, retailers receive about 3.99 cents for a plastic bottle and 3.72 cents for a metal can. If returned manually, it is 2.88 cents (plastic) and 2.61 cents (metal). The values are based on a calculation model developed in 2022 with the involvement of an international expert from BOKU Vienna and later recognized by all parties involved.

Regular Review Planned

According to "Recycling Deposit Austria," this compensation is regularly reviewed. An independent evaluation by an auditor is planned for 2025 to adjust the model to current costs. This adjustment is to occur at least once a year.

Criticism of the System Grows

Despite the environmental policy objectives, the system does not receive approval everywhere. Some consumers, especially in border regions, resort to beverages from neighboring countries. At the same time, it is evident that many Austrians use the option to donate their deposit – a sign of growing environmental and social responsibility.

Questions and Answers about the Single-Use Deposit in Austria

What items are subject to a single-use deposit in Austria?
Since January 1, 2025, the deposit applies to single-use plastic bottles and aluminum cans with a filling volume of 0.1 to 3 liters. Reusable packaging and glass bottles are excluded.

How much is the deposit in Austria?
The deposit amount is uniformly 25 cents per single-use beverage packaging. This amount is added at the time of purchase and refunded upon return.

Why do supermarkets receive money for returned bottles?
The so-called "handling fee" serves as compensation for the effort involved in taking back and storing the packaging. It is paid out by the central organization "Recycling Deposit Austria."

What is the compensation for return points?
For returns via machine, retailers receive 3.99 cents for plastic bottles and 3.72 cents for cans. For manual returns, it is 2.88 and 2.61 cents, respectively.

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.