DEPOSIT RETURN SYSTEM
Packaging has value.
Plastic is part of some of the most complex environmental conversations of our time. But many of the ideas surrounding it are shaped by what we A new way of collecting beverage packaging is coming to Greece.
With a Deposit Return System, consumers pay a small deposit when they buy an eligible drink. Return the empty packaging to an official collection point, and the deposit comes back to you.
It is not an additional charge. It is a way of recognising that packaging still has value after use.
Three simple steps.
Buy
Choose a drink in packaging that carries the DRS logo and pay the deposit together with the product price.
Return
Keep the empty packaging intact and return it to an official collection point.
Get your deposit back
Once the eligible container is returned, you receive the value of the deposit back.
WHAT WILL CHANGE IN GREECE
The Greek system will include participating plastic and aluminium beverage containers of up to three litres.
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€0.10 for containers up to 0.5 litres
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€0.15 for containers from 0.5 to 3 litres
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Eligible packaging will carry the DRS logo, barcode and deposit value.
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Consumers will need to return containers empty and intact in order to receive the deposit back.
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Return points will include reverse-vending machines, mainly at supermarkets, as well as manual collection points at participating retailers.
Common questions. Simple answers.
Is the deposit an extra charge?
No. The deposit is returned when eligible packaging is brought back through the DRS.
Why does the packaging need to remain intact?
The system needs to recognise the container through elements such as its barcode and DRS marking. Damaged or crushed packaging may not be accepted.
Where will I return it?
At participating return points, including reverse-vending machines and manual collection points at retailers.
Why is DRS important?
It creates an incentive to return beverage packaging, helping increase collection, reduce litter and provide cleaner, higher-quality material for recycling.
Does DRS replace recycling?
No. It is part of the recycling system. Better packaging design, collection infrastructure and effective recycling remain essential.
Who is responsible for making it work?
Everyone has a role: producers adapt packaging, retailers provide return points, public authorities oversee the system, recyclers process the material and consumers return eligible containers.