Packaging with Deposit System (PWDS)

Deposit-Based Packaging (DBP) is a reverse transformation system that enables consumers to reclaim their deposit fee by returning specific packaging. It has been implemented in Türkiye under the Zero Waste Initiative. The DBP system is an initiative aimed at reducing environment pollution, conserving natural resources, and promoting a circular economy.

A return machine and mobile app interface for the Deposit-Based Packaging (DBP) system – Anadolu Agency

History and Implementation Process

The DBP system has been developed within the framework of the Deposit Management System (DMS), managed by the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change. It was first launched as a pilot project in 2023 in Sakarya. It is planned to be implemented across all provinces and districts of Türkiye by the end of 2025.

System is being implemented under the leadership of the Türkiye Environmental Agency (TÜÇA), with collaboration from public and the private sector. The Turkish Chambers and Commodity Exchanges Union (TOBB) and the Confederation of Turkish Craftsmen and Artisans (TESK) like are supporting the project.

Objectives of the System

The DBP system aims to deliver multiple environmental and economic benefit in line with sustainable development goals:

• Promoting recycling: Separate collection of packaging at the source increases recycling rates and simplifies waste management.
• Conserving natural resources: Use of secondary raw substance saves energy and reduces consumption of primary source.
• Reducing carbon emissions: In line with circular economy principles, the environmental carbon foot footprint is minimized.
• Economic contribution: The recovery of approximately 25 billion packaging units annually is expected to contribute 520 million euros to the economy each year.

How the System Works

The DBP system provides consumers with a convenient, fast and accessible recycling process:

• Deposit Payment: A specific deposit fee is collected when purchasing packaged products.
• Returning Packaging: Consumers return empty packaging to deposit return machines or manual return points.
• Digital Payment: The deposit fee for returned packaging is credited to the consumer’s digital wallet within the DBP mobile app.
• Usage Options: The accumulated balance can be used at partnered restaurants, market or POS terminals via QR code, or transferred to bank accounts.

Technical and Digital Infrastructure

The DBP system operates in integration with the Türkiye Emlak Participation Bank infrastructure. The DBP mobile application is available on both Android and iOS platforms.

Packaging Covered by the System

Packaging covered by the DBP system includes:

• Material Type: Mosque, plastic and aluminium.
• Volume: Single-use packaging with a volume between 0.1 litre and 3 litres.
• Labeling: They must bear the deposit logo.

Economic and Environmental Impacts

The system aims to recover 25 billion packaging units annually. This process is expected to contribute 520 million euros annually to the country economy. Additionally, establishing deposit return points and logistics processes will create new employment opportunities. Increased recycling rates are expected to reduce together, lower carbon emissions and save energy.