Poles returned 520 million cans and bottles through deposit system so far
Since the launch of the deposit system, Poles have returned 520 mln bottles and cans by the end of March, according to the Ministerstwo Klimatu i Środowiska.
Although the system started in October 2025, it accelerated in early 2026. Returns were made across 52,000 locations, with 78% collected via reverse vending machines (RVMs). The government estimates monthly returns will reach around 500 mln items.
The system is already changing consumer habits and supporting a circular economy. Smaller local stores also play a key role, accounting for nearly half of all return points and improving accessibility nationwide.
