Together with Tomra and the Portuguese catering association AHRESP, the city of Lisbon is introducing a city-wide reusable cup system. The aim of the initiative is to reduce waste and emissions - with a digital deposit-return system for cups.
Lisbon is making history as the first European capital with a comprehensive reusable cup system. The initiative was launched by the city council in collaboration with take-back specialist Tomra and the catering association AHRESP (Associação da Hotelaria, Restauração e Similares de Portugal). It aims to reduce plastic waste in the catering industry and establish sustainable reuse in everyday urban life.
The first return points have been in operation at two historic kiosks in the Praça de São Paulo and Praça do Príncipe Real squares since 26 June. Guests receive drinks in a reusable cup in return for a deposit of 0.60 euros, which is refunded on return using a contactless card or smartphone. The full roll-out of the system is planned for October 2025.
Smart system for the city
Tomra's „Rotake“ system is used, which integrates all steps of reuse - from digital tracking, return and cleaning to redistribution. Tomra, known for its reverse vending machines, takes care of all the logistics, thereby ensuring hygiene and efficiency, according to the statement.
According to the city council, around 25,000 cups are used every night in Lisbon's nightlife districts - until now without an effective return system. The new model is intended to close this gap.
Legal basis meets infrastructure
The launch of the system comes in the wake of the city's ordinance against single-use plastic cups, which is now being put into practice thanks to the new infrastructure. Rui Cordeiro, Councillor for Waste Management and Circular Economy, said: „Lisbon is focusing on concrete measures to bring about change. We want to make reuse the urban norm and inspire other cities to follow suit.“
Support from the hospitality industry
A decisive success factor is the involvement of the hospitality industry. AHRESP is helping to integrate bars, cafés and restaurants into the reusable system. AHRESP President Carlos Moura explained that the industry is thus taking an active role in the transition to a circular economy. For many businesses, the system is a practicable solution for complying with regulations.
Model with exemplary character
The system is based on experience from Aarhus (Denmark), where Tomra collected over one million cups in 18 months with a return rate of over 85 %. In Lisbon, at least 17 return points are to be set up in the city centre by October. Then a standardised „Lisbon cup“ introduced for all participating companies.
Geir Sæther, Head of Tomra Reuse, emphasised: „This is not just a cup system. It's about how cities rethink resources. Lisbon shows that with the right policies and strong partners, reuse can become effective and practical.“
Source: Tomra
