Concern about the environment and urgency to reduce the volume of urban waste have led many countries to adopt measures that encourage more responsible consumer practices. Portugal prepares to take a new step in this regard, with a system that aims to directly involve consumers and supermarkets in recycling.
A system to encourage the return of packaging
The initiative aims to promote the return of packaging used, associating this action with a direct reward for citizens. The system is based on a simple logic: who delivers, receives.
This is a successful practice in other European countries that begins to take shape in our territory, according to Radio Renascença.
The implementation is being coordinated by an entity created for this purpose, which has already begun the legal process for the start of the system at national level. The installation of equipment and the adaptation of supermarkets will be essential for this model to work effectively.
Although it is still in the preparation phase, the system structure is designed to be of widespread application, reaching the entire national territory. The entry into operation is scheduled for the beginning of 2026.
Automatic machines at points of sale
The system will work through automatic collection machines, which will be installed at various points of sale, especially supermarkets. About 2,700 machines are planned to be acquired by retailers, who thus assume a central role in this process.
When the consumer deposits a package, the machine will return the corresponding value. The consumer can choose to receive this value in cash. However, many returns are expected to be offset digitally or through valleys and commercial discounts.
This functionality can make room for different loyalty strategies by supermarkets, linking recycling to daily consumption, according to the same source.
Fixed value for each packaging returned
The proposal provides that each packaging returned to be compensated with 10 cents, regardless of the material of which it is done or its size. This uniformity in value aims to simplify the process for the consumer.
Decisions were based on studies on purchase behavior and the economic context of the country. The idea is that the incentive is attractive enough to stimulate participation, but simple in its application.
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Covered packaging and exclusions
The system of single -use beverage packaging, up to 3 liters, made of plastic, aluminum or ferrous metal. The list includes waters, juices, sodas, bottled teas, energy drinks, beer and other mixed alcohol.
On the other hand, packaging with more than 25% dairy ingredients is left out, such as some milk or derivative drinks and the windows, according to the previously mentioned source. The choice of categories was based on technical and logistics criteria. This delimitation aims to cover as many usual consumption packs as possible, without complicating screening or compromising the operation of the recycling system.
Technical and operational justifications
The Ministry of Environment explained that the inclusion of glass would imply specific equipment, which would increase the costs and complexity of the system.
Other questions presented are the necessary space, the risks of breakage, noise and odors. In addition, existing ecopoints allow efficient and economically more viable for glass collection.
The tutelage was based on a technical study that concluded that the inclusion of glass would bring more disadvantages than benefits to the deposit and refund system.
A change with social and environmental impact
Despite limitations, the new system represents a significant change in consumer behavior. By assigning value to packaging, a real encouragement is created to the return and reuse of materials.
According to the entry into force of the system, scheduled for 2026, may mark the beginning of a new collective, more responsible and conscious mindset, around recycling and preserving the environment.
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