This can cause a serious problem with the mandatory redemption system

By: Trademagazin Date: 2024. 02. 06. 12:05

The new redemption system came into effect in Hungary in January, which is expected to make drinks available in stores more expensive. The aim of the system is to reduce the environmental burden caused by the increased amount of waste and to move towards a circular economic model. Full enforcement is expected in the spring, after manufacturers were given a grace period until the end of March to use only recyclable materials.

Csaba Markó, the professional director of the Association of Environmental Service Providers and Manufacturers, spoke to Pénzcentrum in detail about how the new system will work. The primary goal is to prevent single-use beverage packaging from becoming waste, as well as to ensure their collection and the return of their material. The aim of the measure is to ensure that beverage packaging is not treated as waste, but is used for as long as possible in its original function or material.

One of the pitfalls of the new system is that it covers almost the entire range, except for laminated boxes and milk-containing beverage packaging. This can be a problem, especially in the case of spirits packaging, where uniquely designed and formulated bottles are used. According to the expert, the manufacturers will not change the packaging solely due to environmental protection considerations, and they will continue to maintain the selective collection system for packaging that does not enter the system.