These could be errors in the new deposit return system

By: Trademagazin Date: 2023. 11. 21. 11:10

The introduction of the deposit return system in Hungary, which will come into effect on January 1 of next year, brings serious environmental benefits, but also raises potential problems. The Humus Association explains that although the system protects the environment from a huge amount of garbage and encourages recycling, it can make retailers and the MOHU (Waste Management Operative Program) not interested in the use of multi-way packaging materials, which can make refilling impossible in the long term. The Humus Association makes professional recommendations for refining the regulation.

After long preparations, the Hungarian government decided to introduce the redemption fee system, which will be valid from January 1, 2024. According to the system, HUF 50 will be charged for single-use beverage packaging with a capacity of 0.1–3 liters (PET bottle, aluminum can, glass bottle, except for packaging of milk and milk-based beverage products), which can be exchanged in the automatic machines located.

The new system encourages refilling and recycling, but the Humus Association says it has a number of drawbacks. The redemption system does not support the production and distribution of reusable packaging materials, as it does not oblige retailers to install machines capable of redeeming refillable bottles. In addition, the system does not include a handling fee for refillable bottles, which can create a hostile environment for retailers, making refilling impossible in the long term.

The solutions proposed by the Humus Association include making the importation and first placing of reusable glass bottles free of EPR fees, as well as making it mandatory for retailers to install machines capable of redeeming refillable bottles. The organization emphasizes that regulatory steps are needed to preserve the functionality of voluntary redemption systems in the long term.