Turkey starts nationwide deposit return system for beverage packaging

Turkey’s Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change will launch the Depozitosu Olan Ambalajlar (DOA) deposit‑return scheme on 1 July 2026. The programme applies to PET bottles, glass bottles and aluminium drink cans that carry the DOA logo. Consumers receive a 1 TL incentive for each returned container at designated return points or machines, with the amount credited to a digital wallet that can be withdrawn or used for purchases. The government expects the system to collect roughly 25 billion containers each year, generating about 30 billion TL in economic benefits and supporting a circular‑economy model. Roll‑out will cover 81 provinces and 973 districts, with machines installed in supermarkets, malls, airports and hospitals. Businesses must register with operators and install collection infrastructure; HOREKA (hotel, restaurant, café) establishments will also gather used containers for return. The scheme follows a 2025 pilot in Sakarya that offered a 0.25 TL incentive and aligns with Turkey’s Zero‑Waste Movement and COP31 commitments. No additional deposit charge will be added to product prices, and illegal charging will be penalised.