Published: November 29 2023
Hungary has introduced a new bottle return system in an effort to increase recycling rates for single-use beverage bottles. The CEO of MOHU MOL Waste Management Zrt. believes that this new system could raise the current collection rate of around 40% to over 90%.
Key Features of the Bottle Return System
The bottle return system aims to provide nationwide coverage and convenient use for consumers. It involves the use of large-scale bottle return machines, as well as manual return options. MOHU is investing approximately HUF 50 billion (EUR 132 million) to set up the return network, including the production and installation of the machines and the operation of the IT system.
Implementation of the System
Between 4,000 and 5,000 return points will be established throughout the country, and an equal number of people will have the option to return bottles manually. Shops with a floor area of more than 400 square meters are required by law to have a bottle return machine. However, MOHU proposes installing machines in shops with a floor area of over 200 square meters as well. Starting from January 1, 2024, most shops with a floor area of 400 or more will have these vending machines.
How the System Works
Only bottles, PET bottles, and aluminium cans with the designated return logo can be placed in the vending machines. Customers who return a bottle with a logo will receive a voucher from the machine, which can be redeemed for cash or donated to charity. In spring, an app will be available for customers to transfer the money directly to their bank account.
Timeline and Preparation Period
From January 1, 2024, the bottle return system will be fully implemented. However, manufacturers have been given until June 2024 to apply the return logo to eligible bottles, PET bottles, and aluminium cans.
Photo: MTI/Hegedüs Róbert
Questions & Answers
What is the new bottle return system in Hungary? The new bottle return system in Hungary is a nationwide initiative aimed at boosting recycling rates. It involves the installation of large-scale bottle return machines in shops with a floor area of more than 400 square meters.
What is the goal of the new bottle return system? The goal of the new bottle return system is to increase the collection rate of single-use glass, plastic, and aluminium beverage bottles from the current level of around 40% to over 90%.
Who is implementing the new bottle return system in Hungary? The new bottle return system is being implemented by MOHU MOL Waste Management Zrt., a company that is investing around HUF 50 billion (EUR 132 million) from its own resources for the production, installation, and operation of the return network.
Where will the bottle return machines be located? Between 4,000 and 5,000 return points will be set up in the country, and shops with a floor area of more than 400 square meters are required to have a bottle return machine. However, MOHU is proposing to install them in shops with a floor area of more than 200 square meters as well.
When will customers be able to find the vending machines in most shops? From January 1, 2024, customers will be able to find the vending machines in most shops with a floor area of 400 or more.
Which bottles can be placed in the bottle return machines? Only some of the bottles, PET bottles, and aluminium cans that bear the logo indicating the return can be placed in the vending machines. Manufacturers have been given until June 2024 to prepare their bottles for the return system.
What can customers get in return for returning a bottle? Customers can receive a voucher from the vending machine for returning a bottle with a logo. This voucher can be redeemed or exchanged for cash. Customers also have the option to donate the money to charity.
When will customers be able to transfer the money directly to their bank account? From the spring, an app will be available that allows customers to transfer the money directly to their bank account for returned bottles.
