Slowly and surely the end of throwing away PET bottles is coming! Get ready for a change! From January 2026, backing up will bring an interesting bonus.
From January 1, 2026, a new system will enter into force in the Czech Republic, and the way in which we have handled not only plastic bottles but also beverage cans will fundamentally change. This step is part of an effort to increase the rate of recycling and reduce the amount of waste in nature. A deposit system is being introduced that will allow you to get money for each returnable package. How exactly will it work?
The Czechs are preparing to back up PET bottles. So far it looks like there are two possible solutions. Which ones are they? Watch an interesting YouTube video on the FocusOn channel:
Source: Youtube
Guiding principle
When buying a drink in a plastic bottle or can, you pay an additional small deposit, as you know with some drinks in glass. You get it back when you return the empty packaging to the return packaging machine or at the store’s checkout.
Why backup
The goal is to significantly increase the amount of recycled plastics and aluminum, which will save natural resources and reduce the production of additional plastic. Backing up should reduce the amount of waste in nature, especially in rivers, forests and other public spaces. This should be an incentive for consumers not to throw returnable packaging into mixed waste, but to return it to circulation.
What will be backed up
These will be disposable plastic bottles from soft drinks and alcoholic drinks up to 15% alcohol. Specifically, this will apply to, for example, mineral waters, juices and beer. It will also be disposable aluminum cans, for example from energy drinks, sodas and beer.
Where it will be possible to return the packaging
You will be able to hand in returnable packaging at returnable packaging machines located in shops, gas stations and other public places. Some stores will also offer the option to return packaging at checkout.
What will be the amount of the deposit
The amount of the deposit has not yet been definitively determined, but it is assumed that it will be uniform for all types of deposited packaging and will be in the order of several crowns.
What if you lose your deposit receipt?
You will be able to return plastic and tin packaging without a receipt and get back the deposit you paid. The system will work based on the barcodes that will be displayed on them.
In what condition will the packaging have to be
In order for merchants to accept the backup packaging, it will have to be returned including the label, not deformed and not stepped on, but the packaging will not need to be washed. The use of existing automatic machines for glass bottles is also being considered.
The goal is sustainability
Backing up is an important step towards a more sustainable future. By introducing a deposit system, the Czech Republic will join a number of other European countries that already successfully use this system. Thanks to backups, we can significantly contribute to the protection of the environment and at the same time save valuable resources.
Resources: www.ceskestavby.cz, www.mzp.cz, www.novinky.cz
