In the first half of 2025, PET to PET Recycling Österreich GmbH in Müllendorf recycled 18,403 tonnes of PET beverage bottles - an increase of 14.5% compared to the same period last year. The main reason for this growth is the introduction of the one-way deposit system, which improves material quality and makes it easier to recycle the recyclable material.
After a decline in 2024 as a whole, PET to PET is thus making a solid comeback. The increase is the result of the new deposit system in Austria and other European countries, which reduces waste and increases the purity of the PET packaging collected. Managing Director Christian Strasser emphasised that secondary raw materials are still more expensive than primary materials despite increasing volumes and that this is slowing down the development of a functioning circular economy. Competitors from abroad who comply with lower environmental and social standards are also intensifying competition, added Managing Director Thomas Billes.
System optimised and geared towards deposit quality
In preparation for the changeover, PET to PET made technical adjustments to its recycling plant in the first half of the year. One focus was on the detection and removal of metallic contaminants, which are increasingly occurring as a result of the return of beverage cans. The control of foreign substances thus remains a central component of the processing.
Expansion of warehouse capacities and new brand image
The construction of an additional silo with a volume of 140 cubic metres is planned for the second half of the year. This will increase the weather-protected storage space for PET recyclate and at the same time create the conditions for expanding the photovoltaic system from the current 1.2 MWp by a further 250 kWp. At the same time, PET to PET modernised its corporate image, including a new façade design, a large-scale recycling motif at the entrance and uniform work clothing for the staff.
Source: PET to PET Recycling Österreich GmbH
