MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Deposit return schemes (DRS) across all Member States – E-000766/2025

Question for written answer  E-000766/2025/rev.1
to the Commission
Rule 144
Mircea-Gheorghe Hava (PPE)

The 27 EU Member States have recently introduced measures to tackle packaging waste, aiming to achieve 100 % recycling rates by 2035 and a 15 % reduction in waste volume by 2040.

• 1.Given the EU’s objective to implement deposit return schemes (DRS) across all Member States by 2029, what specific measures will the Commission take to ensure the harmonised and interoperable implementation of these systems, particularly in border regions, to maximise collection rates and reduce complexity for producers and retailers?
• 2.How does the Commission intend to address the challenges related to the costs and space requirements for installing reverse vending machines, particularly for small retailers, taking into account potential incentives or financial support and the progress of discussions with competent authorities in Member States regarding the identification of funding options, including potential public budget contributions?
• 3.In the light of the current disparities among Member States regarding the inclusion or exclusion of certain materials (for example, glass) in DRS, how will the Commission ensure a uniform long-term approach to avoid complications for producers and consumers, and to maximise the efficiency of collection systems across the EU?

Submitted: 19.2.2025