What do you need to know about deposits in the Netherlands since 2023?

Since April 1, 2023 there is a deposit on plastic bottles and cans in the Netherlands. You pay a small extra amount when you buy them and get it back when you return the packaging. You could read all this in the previous blog post, but how do you best deal with such a change?

It sounds simple, but in practice the system still raises many questions. How exactly does it work? And how do you, as a consumer or company, play it smartly? Below are five practical tips to effortlessly deal with deposits in the Netherlands and reduce your impact on the environment.

1. Make smart use of collection points

Scattered across the Netherlands you can find thousands of collection points where you can hand in your empty bottles and cans. Think supermarkets, gas stations and some offices. By actively using these points:

• Get your deposit amount back (€0.15 for small bottles and cans, €0.25 for large bottles).
• Help create a circular economy.
• Reduce your litter and plastic pollution.

📍 Tip: Set up a central collection point in the office for deposit containers. That way, returning them becomes a habit.

2. Sort your waste consciously

Good waste separation is crucial for the deposit system to work. If you don't throw your deposit packaging with the residual waste, you will lose your deposit and they will not be recycled.

🔍 Fact: Not all packaging is covered by the deposit. Note the special logos on the label. Packaging without a symbol belongs in the PMD waste (plastic, metal and drinking cardboard).

3. Use a reusable drinking bottle

Want to pay no deposit at all and go zero waste? Then a reusable drinking bottle is the best solution. This way you avoid disposable plastic packaging and contribute to less carbon emissions, less transport and less waste.

💡 Many companies install refill points or water dispensers in the office to encourage the reuse of drinking bottles. Dripl is a good example of this.

4. Buy more consciously

The introduction of deposits encourages more conscious buying behavior. Whenever possible, opt for:

• Beverages in reusable containers.
• Products without unnecessary repackaging.
• Local brands committed to sustainability.

By buying more consciously, you not only reduce your carbon footprint, but also save money in the long run.

5. Pay close attention to the deposit symbols.

Since its introduction, products covered by the deposit have had a recognizable logo. You can usually find this on the label or near the barcode. So always check:

• Is there a deposit on this package?
• Where can I turn it in?

🧾 Tip: On statiegeldnederland.nl you can find a handy list of participating packages.