Deposit System Expansion: Glass and Cartons Next in Line
The Ministry of Climate and Environment is planning to expand Poland’s mandatory deposit system beyond current plastic and metal containers, with new regulations for glass and cardboard...
The Ministry of Climate and Environment is planning to expand Poland’s mandatory deposit system beyond current plastic and metal containers, with new regulations for glass and cardboard packaging expected by 2029.
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Current State of the Deposit System
Since October 2025, the deposit system has incentivized the return of plastic bottles and metal cans up to 1 liter, requiring a 50-grosz deposit. Reusable glass bottles up to 1.5 liters currently carry a 1-zloty deposit.
Scope of Proposed Changes
Officials are now targeting additional packaging types for inclusion in the system. Beyond common containers, the government is specifically looking to regulate small-format liquor bottles, often referred to as “małpki,” and is actively evaluating the inclusion of cardboard packaging.
Timeline for Regulatory Implementation
Deputy Minister of Climate and Environment Anita Sowińska confirmed that the ministry intends to integrate these new fractions into the deposit framework. While final decisions are expected this autumn, officials have indicated that the changes will include an extended vacatio legis period, with full implementation scheduled for no later than January 2029.