Six Months of the Deposit System in Austria
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Since January 2025, Austria has implemented a new deposit system (Einwegpfand, EWP) for single-use bottles and cans. Six months after its introduction, the latest Im Fokus report – conducted in cooperation with m.core/WU Vienna – offers an initial look at the results.
An initial survey on disposal behavior and the deposit system was conducted in December 2024, before the system’s launch. Since January 1, 2025, Austria’s new deposit system has required a deposit on all sealed beverage containers made of plastic or metal, ranging in volume from 0.1 to 3 liters. Now, half a year into the system, the survey was repeated and the data show clear changes in attitudes and behavior.
Less Waste in General Waste Bins
The study, which included 332 participants (average age 44.6 years, 50% female), reveals a noticeable reduction in the disposal of deposit-eligible containers in general waste. Compared to December 2024, PET bottles are now significantly less often discarded in the general waste stream (t(614) = 6.25, p < .001). A similar reduction is seen with beverage cans (t(622) = 3.54, p < .001).
Higher Acceptance Than Expected
Encouragingly, the deposit system has been better received than anticipated. Respondents are more compliant with the system than they themselves had expected (t(662) = 2.03, p = .021). Additionally, the system is perceived to be functioning somewhat better than assumed before implementation (t(662) = -1.74, p = .041).
Room for Improvement in Public Cleanliness: Despite these positive developments, some expectations remain unmet. When it comes to hopes for cleaner streets and public spaces, the results show that this goal has not yet been fully achieved (t(662) = 2.18, p = .015). Respondents had hoped for a greater improvement in cleanliness.
On the Right Track
Even after just six months, the deposit system in Austria is showing measurable changes in how plastic and metal waste is disposed of. While some expectations, such as cleaner public spaces, have not yet been completely realized, the impact on recycling behavior is largely viewed as positive.
You can find the full report (in German) here!
published: 04.07.2025
