Portugal's Volta deposit system records 100 million returns amid criticism

Within three months of launch, Portugal’s Volta deposit‑return scheme has processed 100 million single‑use beverage containers, reaching a collection rate of about 38% and aiming for 90% by 2029 as required by the EU. The manager, SDR Portugal, says early operational hiccups are “temporary” and pledges cooperation with municipalities to improve the network.

Public reaction is mixed. A petition against the system has gathered more than 15 000 signatures, while a study of 498 Portuguese consumers found that 74% have never used Volta and 53% view the 10‑cent credit as a tax rather than a deposit. The same study notes that many find the required storage, transport and condition of containers burdensome, leading to low perceived incentive.

Lisbon’s municipal authorities report hygiene problems as some people rummage through public waste containers seeking eligible bottles and cans, prompting extra cleaning efforts. SDR Portugal acknowledges these incidents as “point issues” and compares them to challenges faced by similar schemes in Germany, the Netherlands, Latvia, Malta and Ireland.