The Deposit-Return System (DRS) was launched: 7 billion packages recovered annually from nature

RetuRO announces the official launch of the Deposit-Return System (DRS) in Romania, the country’s largest national circular economy project at the moment. Starting from November 30th, 2023, Romanians will pay a deposit of 0.50 RON for each drink purchased in glass, plastic, or metal packaging, ranging from 0.1 to 3 liters. These packages will be marked with the „Packaging with Guarantee” logo, indicating their eligibility for the system. Guarantee recovery will only be possible for these properly labeled packages.

The products that are part of the DRS will gradually reach store shelves, over a period of several months after the launch of the system on November 30, depending on the stock of products in non-DRS packaging existing in the market. Therefore, RetuRO recommends all Romanians not to stockpile packaging before the launch of the DRS. These will not be accepted at the return points, as they are not marked with the logo that certifies that they are guaranteed. Non-DRS packaging can still be returned through the classic selective collection method, used until now for the recovery of all types of packaging, at traditional collection points.

At the same time, it is essential to mention that non-DRS packages currently in stock with producers or retailers can be sold until June 30, 2024. After this date, all products eligible for DRS must be appropriately marked with the logo and specific barcode.

The package return process

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RetuRO supports retailers for the quick and efficient management of the manual collection of DRS packaging

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To ensure the efficiency of the return process, RetuRO recommends that packages must be returned intact, undamaged, and un-deformed. Containers should be emptied, the label should be visible and intact, which is crucial for identification, featuring the DRS symbol and a specific barcode.

The packages can be returned at any return point provided by retailers, where customers will receive their deposit back without needing to present a fiscal receipt, even if the product was not purchased from that location.

There are two ways to collect the DRS packages:

The benefits of the Deposit-Return System

The Deposit-Return System is a national project aimed at recovering approximately 7 billion packages from the market each year, which will be reused as high-quality raw materials. This positively impacts the environment, and contributing to the ambitious recycling goals set by the European Union for its member states. Implementing this system will help Romania meet these goals.

Furthermore, the implementation of DRS will significantly impact the recycling behavior of the Romanians. This system not only improves waste management but also motivates citizens to become active participants in protecting the environment.

The establishment and operation of DRS involve developing an extensive network of returning points and facilities for counting and sorting waste. These infrastructures will create new job opportunities in managing beverage packaging waste, thus stimulating economic growth at local and national levels.

Hora Reciclării. Three steps for a cleaner country

RetuRO has launched the “Hora Reciclării” campaign, encouraging all Romanians to learn three simple steps towards a cleaner and greener Romania:

The national campaign aims to announce the implementation of the Deposit-Return System, invite Romanians to adopt new recycling measures, and educate the public about their role and importance in ensuring a cleaner and greener environment.

RetuRO is committed to ensuring the success of this system and actively contributes to creating a cleaner and healthier environment for all Romanians.