Fresh analysis demonstrates the performance of deposit return systems
Deposit return systems are reshaping the way beverage containers are collected and recycled across the globe. In the best-performing regions, collection rates regularly exceed 90%, showing just how effective these systems can be.
Drawing on newly compiled data from more than 40 jurisdictions, Reloop has released a new fact sheet that highlights why deposit systems achieve stronger results than other collection methods.
The fact sheet presents the latest return rates by region and provides an overview of the key factors that influence outcomes of deposit systems. It also explores the three factors most strongly associated with high collection rates: deposit level, programme scope, and the convenience of the return network.
Download the fact sheet
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Deposit return systems: Key factors impacting performance
This fact sheet presents the latest collection rates by region and provides an overview of the key factors that influence outcomes from a deposit system.
“The evidence is stronger than ever. Well-implemented deposit return systems not only outperform other collection models but also support governments and industry in meeting their environmental goals.”
Clarissa Morawski
Chief Executive Officer
About ClarissaWorking with governments, industry and not-for-profits, Clarissa brings nearly 30 years of technical, analytical and communications experience in waste reduction policies and operations. In 1998, she started CM Consulting (cmconsultinginc.com), whose published reports have been embraced as essential resources for professionals in industry and the recycling sector.
In 2015, Clarissa moved with her family from Canada to Europe, where she co-founded the Reloop Platform. As CEO, Clarissa works with stakeholders and partners to develop smart, practical and effective policy frameworks and operational recommendations. Clarissa uses science and her no-nonsense communication skills to make the case for ambitious policy.
Supporting fact sheets
To complement this new release, we’ve also created two new five-page companion fact sheets:
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Global snapshot: Deposit return system performance around the world
This companion fact sheet provides a high-level comparison of return rates across major regions.
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From deposit to return: How deposit systems achieve high performance
This companion fact sheet highlights the impact of recent deposit increases and scope expansions in systems around the world.
Global adoption of deposit return systems
Between 2020 and 2024, 10 new deposit systems were introduced, more than in any other five-year period in history. By the end of 2025, more than 396 million people across 60 countries, states and territories will be living in places with a deposit system. Most of this population is in Europe (57%), followed by North America (33%) and Australia (7%).
Since our previous fact sheet in May 2024, new systems have begun operating in Austria (January 2025), Tasmania (May 2025) and Poland (October 2025). By the end of 2027, a further 189 million people are expected to gain access as systems are introduced in Türkiye, Singapore, Portugal, Uruguay and the United Kingdom (UK).
Deposit return systems in Europe
Article 50 of the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulations sets a 90% collection-for-recycling target for beverage cans and plastic bottles up to 3 litres by 1 January 2029. It also requires member states to introduce deposit return systems or equivalent measures to meet these goals.
These requirements recognise deposit return systems as the most effective way to achieve high collection rates and secure high-quality recycled materials.
Our data shows that the best-performing regions consistently reach collection rates of 90% or more. In comparison, municipal kerbside recycling programmes rarely exceed 50% once material losses are taken into account.
European Alliance for Best-in-Class Deposit Return Systems
Reloop has a leading role in a strong new alliance of environmental organisations, experts and the beverage packaging industry. Find out more about the European Alliance for Best-in-Class Deposit Return Systems.
A growing number of deposit return system operators are expanding the range of key performance indicators (KPIs) they report on.
Together, these KPIs offer a more holistic view of the system performance, from environmental impact to operational efficiency.
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