Portugal is set to introduce a nationwide Bottle and Can Deposit-Return System (DRS) on Friday, April 10, covering 2.1 billion single-use beverage containers, including plastic bottles and metal cans up to three litres, with a 10-cent refundable deposit issued as a voucher.
Environmental group Quercus welcomed the “long-overdue scheme” but called for glass to be included, citing examples from Germany, Denmark, Finland, and Croatia.
The bottles and cans, marked clearly with the ‘Volta’ (Return) symbol, will start costing 10 cents more – which will be refunded via special machines and ‘kiosks’ when they are returned.
Around 2,500 machines are being sited outside hypermarkets and supermarkets, while 48 kiosks will be established to receive bottles and cans from cafés/bars and similar.
The environmental association stressed that the DRS should complement, not replace, existing recycling systems such as recycling bins and door-to-door collection, which “continue to play a fundamental role.”.
Quercus also stated that it hopes this system will be “the definitive push” to help the country meet its national packaging recycling targets.
Quercus praised the participation of small businesses and the hospitality sector but questioned the system’s readiness for high-consumption events, such as festivals or sporting events. The group also urged digital alternatives to paper vouchers, such as app-based balance tracking.
Highlighting sustainability, Quercus warned the DRS must not undermine efforts to promote reusable containers and tap water use.
“Prevention remains the most effective strategy for reducing waste,” the association said.
