To implement the deposit-refund system, an amendment to the Waste Act will be prepared by the Ministry of the Environment. The amendment is expected to be approved by mid-next year. Under the proposed system, individuals would be able to return PET bottles and cans for recycling, similar to the existing deposit-refund system for bottles. There would be no fees charged for returning these items. The collection would include containers ranging from 0.1 to 3 liters, with a deposit of 4 to 5 Czech crowns.

Proper processing of PET bottles is essential, and they must be returned without being completely crushed. This requirement ensures that the EAN code can be read and prevents the redemption of containers from abroad. However, milk bottles would be exempt from this requirement and would continue to be placed in traditional yellow containers.

The legislation would make it mandatory for retailers and larger petrol stations to participate in the redemption system. Other retailers would be encouraged to join voluntarily, and online sellers would also be obligated to participate. Retailers participating in the system would receive a handling fee for the collected bottles and cans.

In smaller municipalities without stores available for redeeming bottles and cans, an appointed operator—a nonprofit organization—would be responsible for managing the redemption system. The Ministry of the Environment will select the operator.

To ensure proper management of unclaimed packaging waste, fifteen percent of the unclaimed deposits would be allocated to municipalities. This provision would provide municipalities with the necessary resources to handle packaging that is not returned to circulation.

The introduction of a deposit-refund system for PET bottles and cans reflects the Czech government’s commitment to addressing plastic waste and promoting a circular economy. By incentivizing recycling and establishing a unified approach to waste management, the proposed system aims to reduce the environmental impact of plastic waste and encourage sustainable practices throughout the country.