Look for the marking on the label
The deposit return system covers only those packaging items that have been properly marked on the label. It is the deposit symbol that indicates that a deposit was added when purchasing the product and that it can later be recovered when the empty packaging is returned.
In practice, this means that before throwing away or returning a bottle or can, it is worth checking the label. If it includes a clear deposit marking together with the deposit amount, the packaging is covered by the system and should be taken to a collection point, not placed in a regular waste container.
Not every packaging item is returnable
Products without the deposit return system marking may still appear on the market. Such packaging is not covered by the deposit return, because no deposit was charged when it was purchased. This applies in particular to products placed on the market before they were fully covered by the deposit return system.
That is why we encourage residents not to rely only on the type of packaging. A plastic bottle, can or glass bottle alone is not enough. The key element is the marking placed on the label.
The deposit is returned after the packaging is handed back
The mechanism of the deposit return system is simple. When buying a drink in marked packaging, we pay a deposit, and after returning the empty packaging at a collection point, we receive the deposit back. The deposit is not a waste fee, but a temporary security for the value of the packaging.
This solution supports the reuse of raw materials and reduces the number of packaging items ending up in the wrong places. For residents, the most important rule is simple: check the label, look for the deposit symbol and return the packaging to the appropriate point.
Conscious return means less waste
The deposit return system works effectively when packaging returns to circulation. Every correctly returned bottle or can is a raw material that can be reused instead of being treated as ordinary waste.
It is worth developing a simple habit: after emptying the packaging, check the marking and set it aside for return. This is a small everyday decision that genuinely supports selective collection, recycling and better waste management.
