Hungary's deposit return scheme enters new era with end of transition period; only properly marked drink containers available for purchase, aiming to recycle over 90% by 2029

Hungary started its environmental transformation with the launch of its deposit return system (DRS) on 1 January 2024. On 1 July, Hungary entered the next phase for its DRS, with the end of its six-month transition period, during which time drink producers could place on the market beverage packaging both with and without deposit markings. From 1 July, only properly marked and registered drink containers can be available for consumer purchase, so now the DRS is fully in place and prepared to take on the challenge of enhancing Hungary’s environmental efforts.

The introduction of the DRS is a significant step forward in Hungary’s waste management strategy. Historically, Hungary faced challenges with low recycling rates and pervasive littering. According to the Ministry of Innovation and Technology, less than 30% of plastic beverage containers were recycled in 2022. With the new DRS, Hungary aims to recycle over 90% of its plastic beverage containers by 2029, reflecting a commitment to a circular economy and reducing waste, and on track with the targets set out by the European Union (EU)  Single-Use Plastics Directive.

TOMRA Collection Hungary has been pivotal in setting up the DRS infrastructure. With extensive experience from similar projects in Slovakia, Lithuania and other countries, TOMRA Collection has tailored its technology and expertise to meet Hungary’s unique requirements.