Portugal is set to launch its national Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) for single-use beverage packaging in 2026, with non-profit SDR Portugal as scheme administrator and waste management company Sensoneo as IT solution provider.
According to Sensoneo, while Malta launched its own DRS in November 2022, Portugal’s implementation will serve as a model for larger neighbouring nations such as Spain, France, and Italy. Sensoneo’s IT system will power the DRS infrastructure, covering all operational aspects including the critical reverse logistics component known as the take-back system, aiming to ensure efficient tracking, collection processes, and warehouse and transport management. The digital ecosystem will also include multiple mobile applications, seeking to enhance engagement and efficiency across stakeholders.
With a population size and retail landscape similar to other European countries that have successfully implemented DRS, Sensoneo says that estimates suggest Portugal could operate between 7,000 and 10,000 collection points. The company states that one of the most significant differentiators of Portugal’s DRS is its integration of the hotel, restaurant, and catering industries (HoReCa). Leveraging its experience from Malta, Sensoneo aims to optimize the process to ensure high collection rates across all participating venues.
Martin Basila, CEO of Sensoneo, commented: “We are proud to support another Deposit Return Scheme with our IT expertise, especially in a region that is implementing such a system for the first time. Our extensive experience from previous projects, particularly in Malta’s HoReCa sector, will enable us to create a highly efficient and innovative solution for Portugal.”
Early last year, operator Re-turn reported that over two million drinks containers had been returned in the first month since Ireland introduced its national DRS. It is hoped the scheme will improve separate collection and recycling rates for single-use drinks containers across the country.
More recently, new data from Sweden’s Deposit Return System (DRS) operator Pantamera (Returpack) stated that more than 2.8 billion PET bottles and aluminium cans were returned in 2024 – a 6% increase from the previous year, with every person in Sweden recycling 271 containers on average. The deposit increase announced in January hopes to further push recycling rates and reinforce the importance of returning every bottle and can.
If you liked this story, you might also enjoy:
The ultimate guide to the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation in 2024
How are the top brands progressing on packaging sustainability?
Sustainable Innovation Report 2024: Current trends and future priorities
Everything you need to know about global plastic sustainability regulation
No comments yet