Published: December 19 2023
Hungary has implemented a new bottle return policy starting from January 1st. This policy aims to reduce waste and promote recycling in the country.
Implementation of the Bottle Return Policy
The new bottle return policy includes the installation of 2,000 machines across Hungary where consumers can return their beverage containers. In areas without machines, a manual return system will be used.
Differentiation Between Packages
Under the new policy, beverage containers will be given a new barcode and will be categorized as either single-way or multi-way packages.
Incentives and Donation Options
Consumers who return their bottles can choose to receive money in the form of vouchers or donate it to charity. There are plans to develop a bank transfer system for returning money as well.
Goals of the Bottle Return Policy
The aim of the bottle return policy is to reclaim up to 90 percent of the three billion bottles in circulation each year by 2029. This will greatly improve Hungary's recycling rate and help access good quality industrial raw materials.
Questions & Answers
What is the new bottle return policy in Hungary? From January 1, a new bottle return policy has come into practice in Hungary. It requires metal, plastic, and glass beverage containers put on the market in Hungary to be given a new barcode. There will be two main differentiations between packages: single-way and multi-way.
How does the bottle return system work in Hungary? 2,000 machines have already been installed across the country for bottle returns. In places without a machine, a manual return system will be used. It is important to keep the bottles in undamaged condition for return.
What options are available for receiving the return money? After returning the bottles, the money can be received in the form of vouchers or donated to charity. There are plans to develop a bank transfer system in the future as well.
What is the goal of the new bottle return policy in Hungary? The aim is to reclaim up to 90 percent of the three billion bottles in circulation each year by 2029. This policy is partly due to EU regulations and aims to improve the recycling rate and access good quality industrial raw materials.
