Volta deposit system faces refund and accessibility questions in Portugal

The Volta deposit and refund system (SDR) in Portugal, which charges a 10-cent deposit on single-use plastic, metal, and aluminum beverage containers, is facing questions regarding accessibility and refund rules.

Under current regulations, certain establishments such as corporate canteens, school cafeterias, and non-profit association bars are not legally obligated to accept empty containers or refund the deposit, as these spaces are intended exclusively for specific members or employees. However, consumers can still recover their deposit by returning containers to any authorized Volta point or kiosk, where they can receive vouchers or cash.

Discrepancies have also emerged regarding the availability of collection points. While the Volta platform lists over 3,000 points, local authorities in several municipalities have reported a lack of access to the system. SDR Portugal has responded by stating that the website is undergoing updates and that most municipalities do indeed have registered collection points, despite some local leaders claiming no equipment is present in their specific regions.