Poland’s Deposit Return Scheme Launching October 2025
by Harriet Simms at 09:04 in Circular Economy, Emerging, Packaging, Environmental
Poland's long-anticipated Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) is set to go live on October 1st, 2025. This milestone follows the enactment of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Management Act in July 2023, which originally aimed for implementation in January 2025. The scheme marks a significant step towards aligning Poland with the EU's sustainability goals and circular economy objectives.
Unlike many other European models, Poland's DRS will operate under a decentralised system - meaning there will be multiple system operators rather than a single centralised Deposit Management Organisation. Producers will therefore have the option to work with various operators or establish their own entities to fulfil their obligations.
What Will the System Look Like?
The Polish DRS is designed to enhance both the recycling and reuse of beverage packaging in line with the EU Single-Use Plastics Directive (2019/904). It will cover certain types of beverage packaging placed on the market, with return points available in retail locations and across other designated entities.
Obligated producers will be all entities placing in scope products on the Polish market and will be required to:
Register with a system operator - the Polish government have appointed several authorised System Operators including: Krajowy System Kaucyjny Zwrotka S.A., OK Operator Kaucyjny S.A. and Reselekt S.A.
Ensure packaging is correctly labelled to indicate participation in the scheme.
Facilitate the return and recovery of empty containers.
Meet mandated collection targets in line with the EU.
What Packaging is Covered?
Packaging within the scope of the DRS includes:
PET bottles up to 3 litres (with plastic caps/lids attached).
Metal cans up to 1 litre.
Reusable glass bottles up to 1.5 litres.
Multi-material beverage packaging, such as milk or juice cartons are not covered by the Polish deposit system.
How Will It Work?
Poland's DRS will function as a take-back system, where consumers can return eligible empty packaging at participating return points without the need for a receipt. Upon purchasing a beverage within the scope of the DRS, consumers will pay a deposit which will be refunded upon returning the empty container.
The deposit values are as follows:
PLN 0.50 for PET bottles up to 3 litres and metal cans up to 1 litre.
PLN 1.00 for reusable glass bottles up to 1.5 litres.
How does Poland's system compare to others?
Poland's upcoming DRS reflects a broader global shift toward sustainable waste management. Several other countries have already introduced similar programs with varying timelines and results:
UK: The UK is set to launch its DRS on the 1st of October 2027 and have set ambitious return rate targets including 80% for 2029 and 90% for 2030.
Germany: Germany operate a decentralised DRS and globally have one of the most successful DRS, achieving a return rate of 98%.
Ireland: Launched its DRS in February 2024 and in its first year collected and recycled over 980 million bottles and cans.
Need Support?
With the launch date fast approaching, producers should begin preparing for registration, labelling changes and system coordination. Early engagement will be key to ensuring compliance and avoiding potential disruptions when the scheme goes live. If you are a producer or stakeholder looking to understand how Poland's upcoming DRS will impact your operations, get in touch with us today to learn more about your obligations and how to stay compliant.
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