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Deposit system in Poland – guide: What it includes and how it works?
A deposit system is a mechanism for reducing packaging waste and increasing recycling and reuse of packaging. The system is starting in Poland October 1, 2025. The goal is environmental protection, transparent packaging circulation and greater involvement of producers, sellers and consumers.
Introduction
The deposit system in Poland covers selected beverage packaging and operates in the following model: you buy a drink + pay a deposit → return the empty packaging → get the deposit back. The deposit is visible on the product label/marking and added at the checkout, and is returned at collection points (shops, vending machines, dedicated points).
Key assumptions of the system
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Start date | October 1, 2025 |
| Types of packaging covered by the system |
• Plastic bottles (PET and others) up to 3 liters • Metal cans up to 1 liter • Glass bottles reusable up to 1.5 liters |
| Deposit amount |
• Plastic up to 3 l: PLN 0.50 • Cans up to 1 liter: PLN 0.50 • Reusable glass up to 1.5 l: PLN 1.00 |
| Marking | Mandatory deposit system sign + deposit amount information. Unmarked packaging is not subject to a refund. |
| Return/collection points |
• All stores over 200 m² that sell drinks in packages covered by the scheme • Shops under 200 m² if they sell drinks in reusable glass bottles (obligation to accept these bottles) • Deposit machines ("bottle machines") and other collection points – also outside stores • At least one stationary collection point in each commune |
| Purchase and Return Procedure | Deposit added upon purchase; return without receipt at collection points. The packaging should be empty, undamaged and identifiable (label/code). |
| System financing | Producers and importers (system costs), unrefunded deposits and sales of recycled raw materials. |
| Compliance with EU law | Implementation incl. SUP directives (2019/904): separate collection targets of 77% (from 2025) and 90% (from 2029) and requirements for the share of recyclate in plastic packaging. |
Potential benefits of introducing a deposit system
- Significantly reduces packaging waste in the environment and landfills
- Higher levels of separate collection and recycling
- Promoting pro-environmental attitudes and convenient return habits
- A development impulse for the logistics and recycling industries
- Reduction of emissions through reuse and higher share of secondary raw materials
Questions and Answers (FAQ)
How does it work?
A deposit is added to the price of the drink. After returning the empty, appropriately marked packaging to the collection point, you get your deposit back (cash/voucher). Process: purchase → return → deposit payment.
Who will collect the packaging?
Shops over 200 m² (mandatory), smaller shops selling reusable glass (mandatory for these bottles), small voluntary shops, deposit machines and other collection points. Each municipality will provide at least one permanent collection point.
What about milk cartons?
At the start, milk/juice cartons (multi-material packaging) are not covered by the deposit. They should be thrown into the appropriate selective fraction (in accordance with the municipality's rules).
What about glass bottles that already had a deposit?
Existing returnable bottles (e.g. beer bottles) can be returned as usual. Ultimately, manufacturers will adapt their labeling to the new rules to standardize settlements in the system.
How to check if the package is covered by a deposit?
Look for the deposit system designation and deposit amount information on the label/packaging. No sign = no refund possible.
What are the ways to return packaging?
Manual return at the checkout/service point, return at a collection point or at a Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) that scans and accepts the packaging.
Do I need a receipt to get my deposit back?
No, a receipt is not required. You can return the packaging at any point covered by the system.
What if the packaging is crushed or damaged?
The packaging should be empty and identifiable (readable label/code). It may not be accepted if it is severely crushed, cut or has no label.
Is the deposit included in the shelf price?
The store presents the product price and clear information about the deposit. The deposit usually appears as a separate item on the receipt.
What happens if I don't return the packaging?
The deposit is forfeited and goes to fund the system. Returning packaging is a real financial and environmental benefit.
What are the environmental goals of the system?
Reaching the selective collection level of min. 77% (from 2025) and 90% (from 2029) and an increase in the share of recyclate in new plastic packaging.
Do small shops have to participate?
Shops under 200 m² can join voluntarily (except for the mandatory collection of reusable glass bottles if they sell them).
Who controls the operation of the system?
Supervision is exercised by the relevant state authorities (including the Ministry of Environmental Protection). Operators and collection points keep records and settle deposits.
What technologies will be at collection points?
RVM machines that recognize packages by codes and characteristics (scanners, scales), print confirmations or calculate refunds electronically; in smaller stores – manual reception.
Can I return multiple packages at once?
Yes. Collection points and vending machines accept many pieces – often conveniently "per bag".