Sprache: DE
12. August 2024
The New Deposit System in Austria –
What Producers Must Implement Starting January 2025
An Overview for Businesses
Introduction
On January 1, 2025, a new deposit system for single-use beverage packaging will come into effect in Austria. This system aims to increase recycling rates and reduce environmental pollution caused by discarded plastic bottles and metal cans. In this article, we explain which products are covered by the deposit system, which exceptions apply, and what companies need to consider before its introduction.
We will be happy to support you in registering and appointing an authorized representative in Austria,
give us a call: +49 2443 994912-0
or
Which Products Are Affected?
The deposit system covers all sealed beverages in plastic bottles and metal cans with a volume of 0.1 to 3 liters. These packages must be labeled with the deposit logo starting January 1, 2025. The deposit amount is 25 cents per package, which is charged at the point of sale and refunded upon return.
Exceptions to the Deposit System
Not all beverage packaging is subject to the new deposit system. Exemptions include:
- Composite beverage cartons (such as Tetra Pak)
- Glass bottles and metal bottles with plastic closures
- Bottles for baby food and liquid foods for special medical purposes
- Milk and dairy products
- Syrups, as they are not intended for immediate consumption
- Beverages in foil pouches
These products are not subject to the deposit and do not need to be labeled with the deposit logo.
Legal Basis and Introduction of the Deposit System
The foundation for the new deposit system was established through an amendment to the Waste Management Act in December 2021. This legislative change is based on EU Directive 2019/904, which mandates a 90% collection rate for single-use plastic bottles by 2029. Austria aims to meet this target with an efficient and service-oriented deposit system.
The introduction of the deposit system has been set for 2025 to give the involved companies sufficient time to make the necessary preparations. These include setting up logistics, purchasing return machines, and adapting processes for the collection and recycling of packaging.
Registration and Labeling of Beverage Packaging
Registration Process for Producers
Companies that sell single-use beverage packaging in Austria must register through a platform.
This process involves several steps:
- Portal Registration:
Producers must register in the appropriate deposit portal and complete the necessary contractual agreements.
- Submission of Packaging Samples:
For registration, samples of the packaging must be submitted. These will be reviewed by the platform operator to ensure they meet legal requirements.
- Final Registration:
After successful review and compliance with all specifications, final registration is completed. From this point, the products may be placed on the market.
Registration has been possible since June 2024. It is important to consider lead times to ensure that all products are approved for sale on time.
Dimensions, Form, and Labeling of Packaging
For registration and approval in the deposit system, packaging must meet certain dimensions and shapes. These specifications are necessary to ensure smooth handling by return machines:
- Dimensions: Bottle and can dimensions must fall within specific standard sizes (e.g., diameter of 50 mm to 100 mm, height of 80 mm to 360 mm).
- Form: Packaging that does not conform to standard shapes or is difficult to handle must be specially reviewed before approval.
- Labeling: Each package must be clearly marked with a Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) in the barcode, and the deposit logo must be prominently displayed on the packaging.
Use of GTINs in Barcodes
A key aspect of labeling is the use of GTINs in barcodes. These barcodes must comply with GS1 standards and be correctly placed on the packaging to be reliably read by return machines. The barcode's positioning is also crucial—it should be vertically placed on the cylindrical surface of the package and sufficiently distanced from the bottle neck and base to avoid distortion.
Important Information for Producers
For companies placing single-use beverage packaging on the market in Austria, there are several obligations and requirements to follow:
- Registration Requirement:
Every producer and importer who places beverages in plastic bottles or cans on the market as a producer must register with the deposit platform operator. Without this registration, sales will be prohibited starting in 2025.
- Labeling Requirement:
Every single-use beverage package must be labeled with a deposit logo that is clearly and visibly applied to the packaging. This labeling is necessary for the packages to be recognized by return machines.
- Deposit and Producer Fee:
For each package placed on the market, a deposit amount of 25 cents must be collected and paid to the deposit system operator. This also applies to free goods such as samples, sponsored items, and beverages consumed within the company.
- Specific Requirements for Foreign Companies:
Companies without a presence in Austria must appoint an Austrian representative to fulfill the obligations of the deposit ordinance on their behalf.
- Transition Periods:
Products filled before April 1, 2025, may be sold without a deposit until December 31, 2025. However, no deposit products may be placed on the market before January 1, 2025.
- Penalties for Non-Compliance:
The Waste Management Act (AWG 2002) provides for fines of up to 8,400 euros for violations of the deposit ordinance, including the sale of unregistered products.
Economic Impact on Companies
The deposit system imposes both obligations and rights on companies. Producers must not only register their products and pay producer contributions but also have the right to repurchase the recycled material of their containers. This option supports a closed recycling loop, where collected materials are used to manufacture new bottles and cans.
Companies placing single-use beverage packaging on the market must also take responsibility for the collection and return of the packaging. This includes collecting the deposit amount and correctly accounting for and transferring it to the deposit system operator.
We are happy to assist you with registration and appointing an authorized representative.
give us a call: +49 2443 994912-0
or
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