Is it reusable packaging or single-use beverage packaging subject to deposit?

Reusable packaging is packaging

• that is intended to be used multiple times for the same purpose, and

• whose actual return and reuse is facilitated by suitable logistics and

• encouraged by an appropriate incentive system, usually a sufficiently high deposit.

For packaging to be considered reusable, it must meet all three of these characteristics. Even the fact that an article of packaging can – or is – used multiple times does not make it reusable packaging. Packaging can only be classified as reusable if there are prior arrangements suggesting that it will be used multiple times. The incentive systems must be adequate to motivate final consumers to actually return the packaging to the producer.

Examples of reusable packaging include containers for food and beverages that come with a deposit refund for their return and will be reused, such as:

• Beverage bottles for beverages of all kinds

• Yoghurt jars filled with dairy or other products

• Plastic trays or bowls for takeaway sales of food such as fruit or salads

• Plastic cups for hot beverages, for example as used at funfairs or Christmas markets

Single-use beverage packaging is generally subject to deposit. Unlike reusable packaging, single-use beverage packaging is not designed and intended to be used multiple times for the same purpose. Single-use beverage packaging subject to deposit is packaging for liquid foodstuffs that is mostly or fully closed and is not reusable. Examples include single-use plastic beverage bottles and beverage cans in quantities between 0.1 to 3 litres filled with

• milk and dairy drinks with at least 50 percent milk content

• sparkling wines and sparkling wine cocktails

• wine and wine-based cocktails

• alcohol products and mixed beverages containing alcohol

• fruit and vegetable juices

Single-use beverage packaging subject to deposit must be participated with the deposit scheme of Deutsche Pfandsystem GmbH (DPG). They are not, however, subject to system participation.