The Ministry of the Environment has indicated that the deposit fee will be set at approximately four crowns per item, although the final amount will be determined through a decree as part of an amendment to the Packaging Act. This new system is expected to significantly improve the recycling rate of PET bottles and cans, which are commonly used across the country.

Currently, Czechia faces a considerable challenge when it comes to packaging waste management. Around 1.8 billion PET bottles and 0.8 billion cans are sold annually within the country. However, a substantial portion of this packaging fails to make it into the recycling stream. Approximately one in five PET bottles and a troubling three out of every four cans are not properly sorted or recycled. The introduction of the deposit-refund system is seen as a key solution to address this issue, encouraging consumers to return their bottles and cans for proper recycling in exchange for a small refund.

By implementing this system, Czechia hopes to significantly increase recycling rates, reduce littering, and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable environment. The success of such a program in other European countries, where similar systems have been in place for years, serves as a model for Czechia’s upcoming initiative. Ultimately, this change is expected to bring about long-term environmental benefits, while also promoting a more circular economy where resources are reused more efficiently.

Source: The Ministry of the Environment of the Czech Republic

CzechTrade Office in Bangkok