Starting September, Swedish stores will introduce products with increased deposit fees, aiming to boost recycling rates. The deposit for aluminum cans and small PET bottles will rise from one to two kronor, and for large PET bottles from two to three kronor. This initiative, led by Returpack/Pantamera, seeks to meet national and EU recycling targets. The transition will be complete by the end of 2026, with old packaging still redeemable for two more years.
New Deposit System Hits Shelves: What You Need to Know
New Deposit System Hits Shelves: What You Need to Know
The deposit fee will increase in 2025. Starting in September, this change will be visible on store shelves. The goal is to encourage more recycling of cans and bottles. Here's what you need to know.
In January, Returpack/Pantamera announced that the deposit in Sweden will increase in 2025. The fee for aluminum cans and small PET bottles will rise from one to two kronor, and from two to three kronor for large PET bottles.
And in September, it's happening.
Why the Deposit is Increasing
The first products with the higher deposit will start appearing on store shelves. This means not only more money back when recycling but also slightly higher drink prices.
"By making this increase, we are giving the system an extra push so that we can recycle even more cans and bottles," said Tomas Kjellker, CEO of Returpack/Pantamera.
The aim is to meet national collection targets and the goals set by the EU's packaging regulations.
Old Cans Can Be Recycled for Two More Years
When the new products with the higher deposit are available in stores, they can be recycled immediately. According to Returpack/Pantamera, recycling machines will be updated "well before September." However, only the new packaging will offer the higher deposit, so those who have stockpiled old cans and bottles won't receive any extra. By December 31, 2026, the old packaging should be off store shelves, but they can still be recycled for two more years.
Glass Bottles Incorrectly Disposed
For glass, it's not Returpack/Pantamera but Sweden's breweries that are responsible. They increased the deposit from 56 and 90 öre per bottle to three kronor on June 1 this year.
"Many people can't distinguish between returnable glass bottles and other glass bottles, and therefore mistakenly take them to the recycling station instead of returning them in-store," said Anna-Karin Fondberg, CEO of Sweden's breweries.
And:
"Higher deposits and clearer labeling are important measures to encourage more consumers to return bottles, thereby reducing the climate impact."