1.6 bln plastic refuse collected six months after introduction of nationwide deposit system
Poland’s nationwide deposit return system collected 1.6 bln eligible packages in its first six months, according to the Ministry of Climate and Environment. The country now has 62,000 return points, including 32,000 smaller shops that joined voluntarily, even though only stores larger than 200 sqm are legally required to participate. Around 85% of returned packages went through reverse vending machines, which are available in 13,000 locations. The system is now preparing for the summer peak by expanding infrastructure in tourist areas, including mobile machines near beaches and outdoor events.
Operators are also developing digital deposit refunds to payment cards or RFID wristbands, while improving logistics, monitoring and mobile counting centers in busy resorts.
