The deposit system was launched on October 1, 2025. Customers purchasing drinks in packages marked with the deposit system logo pay an additional deposit added to the product price. Stores with an area exceeding 200 square meters have a statutory obligation to accept such packaging. The fee is refunded when the packaging is returned to a collection point or vending machine, and a purchase receipt is not required. As noted by the Local Government Portal, there was a problem with the vending machines.
Each machine, regardless of the operator, accepts packages marked with an appropriate symbol. However, a problem arises when customers try to return bottles or cans without a deposit stamp. In such cases, the machine rejects the packaging. Some customers, out of lack of knowledge or frustration, decide to leave the bottle next to the device, which leads to chaos.
The issue of liability for abandoned packaging is complex. If the vending machine is located in the store, the problem falls on the retail chain. However, if a collection point has been set up in the commune, the obligation to manage waste rests with the local government.
Deposit system 2025 – lack of cooperation with municipalities
The packaging can go either to the deposit system or to a container within the municipal system. In the latter case, the customer loses the deposit previously paid.
The Act limits the ability of municipalities to participate in the operation of the deposit system. Apart from Selective Municipal Waste Collection Points (PSZOK), local governments cannot actively participate in the system, e.g. by placing machines in public buildings.
However, they may conclude agreements with system operators for the collection of packaging at PSZOKs. However, the limited number of points of contact between the municipal system and the deposit system creates potential misunderstandings.
One of the reasons for the problem with abandoned packaging is the current limited availability of products in packaging marked with a deposit stamp. As their numbers increase, the situation should improve and the problem of abandoned bottles and cans may disappear over time.
Source: Local Government Portal
