Lisbon Mayor calls for review of Volta deposit return system

Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas has called for a review of the Volta deposit return system in Brussels, arguing that the 10-cent packaging refund policy is causing “serious social problems” in the capital. Moedas expressed concern that the implementation of the environmental policy is negatively impacting human dignity, noting reports of individuals using the system to fund drug addictions. He suggested a flexible approach similar to France, where the system has been suspended in certain cities.

In response to these concerns, European Commissioner for Environment, Resilience and Water Economy Jessika Roswall has agreed to facilitate a technical meeting involving the European Commission, the Portuguese government, and the Lisbon municipality.

Meanwhile, the technical expansion of the recycling network continues. SDR Portugal reports that eight Volta kiosks are currently operational in various locations, including Albufeira, Almada, and Cascais, with four more scheduled for inauguration. Since the system's launch in April, over 470 million packages have been returned, achieving a collection rate exceeding 40%. There are currently 38 pending requests for new kiosk installations across 26 municipalities.