Deposit return system: digitising something is not the same as innovation

Written by Chloé Schwizgebel, Fair Resource Foundation and Nina Maat, Bond Beter Leefmilieu 2023

2023 as an opportunity to test a ‘digital’ system

It is too early to claim victory. Minister Demir's decision to go for a deposit return system was not a choice for the existing, familiar system, where you as a consumer return your empties to the shop and get your money back immediately. Yet this is already proving to work in other European countries. Furthermore, a survey by Testachats/Testaankoop in 2021 showed that over 88% of the population is in favour of returning packaging to collection points such as supermarkets.

The decision merely states that a deposit will be introduced on all cans and plastic bottles in 2025, and that the industry will be given time this year to try out a new system. This new system asks consumers to scan a QR code on the packaging and the blue recycling bag before throwing their waste away.

Digitalisation does not equal innovation

Let there be no doubt: we are strong supporters of innovation. But digitalising something does not equal innovation. After all, it is only innovation if you offer a new solution to a problem. And the preparatory study commissioned by Fost Plus already brought a great deal of uncertainty to light regarding privacy, fraud and accessibility in the digital deposit return system. Not every citizen has access to digital applications. Secondly, there is the question of who will bear the additional costs and burdens. With a digital deposit system, for instance, it is more likely that companies will pass on the extra costs of printing QR codes on cans to consumers. In addition, it is uncertain whether all producers will be on board with the new system in time, especially given the many questions surrounding feasibility. Finally, the key question: will this system actually lead to less litter? Citizens can still dump their waste after scanning. Moreover, it is not clear whether this system will contribute to an effective circular economy for packaging by improving separate collection or setting up a system for reusable packaging.

These weaknesses were enough to convince Wales, after a similar trial, to ultimately opt for a classic deposit return system.

Key conditions for a sound system

While the existing deposit return system has already earned its stripes, the scanning system has another six months to prove itself. Its success or failure will depend on several key conditions. Firstly, a deposit return system is only successful if it reduces litter, thereby lowering costs for citizens and the environment. Secondly, it must be accessible to everyone, regardless of age, health, mobility or financial means, with or without the internet, a smartphone or a bank account number. Thirdly, it must leave no room for fraud and privacy breaches.

The Flemish digital test phase seems more like a last-ditch attempt by the packaging sector to shirk its responsibility. A lot of wasted time that could have been better invested in reducing the mountain of waste. Genuine innovation would, for example, focus on eco-design and circularity, where reuse is considered right at the start of the production chain—something Europe has indicated it wants to commit to fully.

Walloon Environment Minister Céline Tellier is therefore taking a slightly different approach. She also wants to roll out a deposit return system in 2025 and is therefore first carrying out a preparatory study of her own to determine the best option. To this end, discussions are taking place with all regions and neighbouring countries to ensure uniformity and convenience for citizens.

That is why we will continue to insist on transparency throughout the entire process, a clear timetable with firm deadlines, and the involvement of various target groups. In this way, we safeguard the ultimate goal: less waste in our environment thanks to an effective and accessible deposit return system in 2025.