Greece Approves National Deposit Return System for Bottles and Cans

The Hellenic Recycling Agency approved a licence for DRS Hellas to operate a national deposit return system for plastic bottles and aluminium cans. Under the new rules, shoppers will pay an extra 10 cents for containers up to 0.5 litres and 15 cents for larger containers up to three litres. Consumers will receive the full amount back when returning empty containers to designated return points. Glass bottles, Tetra Pak cartons, milk and wine are excluded from the scheme. The network aims to establish 8,700 return points across supermarkets and tourist areas to meet European Union recycling targets.

What this means for your next trip or stay in Greece

If you are visiting Greece or living there, this new system will change how you handle beverage purchases at local supermarkets and shops. Whenever you buy a plastic drink bottle or an aluminium can, a small extra fee of 10 to 15 cents will be added to your total. To get this money back, you will need to keep the empty containers and return them to one of the designated collection points, which will be set up in supermarkets and tourist areas. Note that glass bottles, Tetra Pak cartons, milk and wine are entirely excluded from this scheme, meaning no deposit applies to them. It is always wise to check directly with local authorities or stores for the exact launch dates and the precise locations of the return machines in your area.

FAQ

How much extra will shoppers pay for bottles and cans in Greece? Shoppers will pay an extra 10 cents for containers up to 0.5 litres and 15 cents for larger containers up to three litres.

Are all types of bottles included in the new deposit scheme? No, glass bottles, Tetra Pak cartons, milk and wine are excluded from the system.

How can consumers get their deposit money back? Consumers will receive the full amount back when returning empty containers to designated return points.