In Sweden, the deposit on PET and aluminium beverage containers will increase this year, making it even more attractive for consumers to sort materials properly to benefit the climate and environment.
The Swedish DRS company Returpack will increase the deposits on all packaging: from SEK 1 to SEK 2 on aluminium cans and small PET bottles and from SEK 2 to SEK 3 on large PET bottles.
“The Swedish deposit return system has become a world leader thanks to 40 years of close cooperation between Returpack, producers and retailers, and engaged consumers. This makes a significant difference for the environment and climate. By increasing the deposit amount, we will give the system another boost,” says Tomas Kjellker, CEO of Returpack.
In 2023, 2.7 billion packages were deposited and returned to the recycling loop, corresponding to a deposit rate of 88.5 percent. The numbers for 2024 are currently processed and are expected to be even higher. The objective for the Swedish DRS is to remain stable above 90 percent, which brings substantial environmental benefits. In 2023, the DRS in Sweden saved 180,000 tons of carbon dioxide, equivalent to a full year’s emissions from a medium-sized Swedish city. The DRS also saves energy and helps to ensure that virgin raw materials, such as oil and bauxite, remain untouched in the ground.
High confidence in the Swedish DRS
Recycling and more resource-efficient material management are high on the agenda in Europe and Sweden. In recent years, new rules and directives for sorting and recycling have been introduced to increase recycling and reduce waste. Consumer engagement is essential, and Returpack has 40 years of experience building a robust deposit return system with high awareness and strong trust.
Returpack’ s consumer surveys show that there is a high level of trust in the deposit system. Awareness of the positive impact of the deposit system on the environment and climate has long been the strongest driving force for deposits, with up to 85 percent of respondents agreeing. In the latest survey, however, the importance of the deposit amount as a driver has increased.
“The refund is that little added value that makes the deposit return scheme work so well. Now we are turning it up a notch by increasing the deposit amount on all packaging, making it even more attractive for consumers to do the right thing,” says Katarina Lundell, CMO at Returpack.
An extensive process for superior material quality
Increasing the deposit amount is an extensive process. The Swedish deposit system currently includes over 11,000 items whose labels and packaging must be updated by the producers. These packages must then be tested, checked and registered in Returpack’ s system to ensure the material is suitable for recycling into new beverage containers. The deposit machines must also be updated to handle the new deposit amounts. This controlled withdrawal distinguishes the deposit system from other types of recycling. It makes the DRS a circular system, where the material is part of a loop to become new beverage packaging.
New deposit packages will appear on the Swedish market during the second half of 2025.
