France rules out mandatory bottle deposit, leaving 2029 PPWR collection target out of reach
The French Ministry of the Environment has decided against introducing a mandatory national deposit-return system for plastic bottles, opting instead for voluntary regional collection schemes run by local authorities. France's current separate collection rate for single-use plastic bottles and metal beverage containers stands at about 58.3%, well short of the 90% by weight the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation requires by 1 January 2029, and analysts say the exemption route, which needs over 80% collection in both 2026 and 2027, is out of reach without a deposit system.
Why this mattersFrance's opt-out limits the recycled PET and aluminium available to converters and leaves the country short of the PPWR's 90% collection requirement for 2029.
- French Ministry of the Environment ruled out a mandatory national deposit system for plastic bottles in September 2026.
- France's separate collection rate for single-use plastic bottles and metal beverage containers is about 58.3%, versus the PPWR target of 90% by weight by 1 January 2029.
- A PPWR exemption from the deposit requirement needs proof of over 80% collection in both 2026 and 2027 plus a plan to reach 90%.
- Local government associations France Urbaine and the Association des Maires de France backed the decision, citing reliance on existing kerbside sorting and the cost of reverse vending machines.
- Portugal launched its national deposit system, Volta, on 10 April 2026, covering plastic, aluminium and steel containers up to 3 litres with a EUR 0.10 deposit.
- The UK plans a synchronised deposit-return launch on 1 October 2027 with a uniform 20p deposit on PET and metal containers.