Deposit for 0.5-liter Reusable Glass Bottles Will Increase From 9 to 20 Cents
Starting February 2, 2025, the deposit for 0.5-liter reusable glass bottles, including the iconic beer bottle, will increase from 9 to 20 cents per bottle. This adjustment aims to incentivize consumers to return bottles to the trade instead of disposing of them improperly, thereby strengthening the circular economy.
A Step Towards Sustainability
Reusable glass bottles, which can be refilled up to 40 times, boast an excellent environmental balance for regional beverages such as beer. However, declining return rates in recent years have threatened this system, as many bottles end up in recycling rather than being reused. According to Karl Schwarz, chairman of the Austrian Brewers' Association, the low deposit value contributed to this trend, causing millions of euros in losses for breweries and beverage producers due to the need for replacement bottles.
The deposit of 9 cents unchanged for over 40 years, originally corresponded to 1.2 Austrian Schillings. From February 2, the new 20-cent deposit will be charged at purchase and refunded upon bottle return.
Enhancing the Circular Economy
Florian Berger, managing director of the Brewers' Association, expects the higher deposit to increase return frequencies, thereby reducing the need for new glass production. This change supports resource conservation, as producing glass bottles is energy-intensive.
The association also highlighted that the initiative complements Austria’s recently introduced deposit on single-use PET bottles and cans. By integrating both systems, the goals of a functioning circular economy can be achieved more effectively.
Supporting Consumer Awareness
Consumers play a vital role in ensuring the success of the reusable system by returning bottles promptly and in good condition. The deposit system ensures that bottles remain in circulation, benefiting both the environment and the brewing industry.
The Austrian Brewers' Association, through its "Bierland Österreich" initiative, emphasizes the ecological and economic importance of reusable glass bottles, calling on all beer lovers to contribute to a sustainable future.
