With the launch of the Volta national deposit and return system for single-use beverage packaging, a new regulation for the return of certain beverage packaging has been in effect in Portugal, and therefore also in the Azores, since 10 April 2026.
The national system captures non-reusable primary beverage packaging with a capacity of less than three litres made from plastic, metal, and aluminium. This includes, but is not limited to, water, juices and nectars, soft drinks, energy drinks, beer, and cider. For each affected container, a deposit of €0.10 is charged at the point of sale, which is refunded upon return at authorised collection points.
Packaging not captured by the system includes packaging without a Volta marking, such as beverage cartons like Tetra Pak, glass packaging, and beverages with a milk content of more than 25 percent. During the transition period until 9 August 2026, only packaging with the Volta symbol and a valid barcode may be returned via the system. Unmarked packaging may continue to remain on the market, but cannot be subject to a deposit during this period and must be disposed of through the usual recycling systems.
Take-back will be mandatory for parts of trade
Retail outlets have different return obligations depending on their size. Shops with a sales area of at least 400 square metres must accept all packaging recorded by the system. Retail outlets with more than 50 and less than 400 square metres must at least take back packaging that they themselves sell, subject to legal exceptions.
The Horeca sector, comprising cafés, restaurants, bars, and similar establishments, is also integrated into the system. These businesses must charge the deposit, show it on the bill, and refund it upon return of the packaging. However, they are only obliged to accept back those packages that they themselves have sold. In cases where guests pay only at the end of the meal, no deposit is levied, according to information from the regional government, because the packaging remains with the establishment and is returned by them. In contrast, with advance payment, the customer is responsible for returning the packaging.
Registration and logistics commence in the Azores
Businesses selling drinks in the affected packaging must register with SDR Portugal – Packaging Association. Registration is carried out via the system's online platform. According to the regional government, information on the process, information events, and frequently asked questions can also be found there.
In the Azores, the system has been prepared since October 2025 with chambers, municipalities, and other institutions. Several partners have been involved for the regional collection and treatment of packaging.
According to the regional government, 71 collection points have already been registered.
The aim is a higher collection rate for beverage packaging
The packaging returned will be registered in counting and sorting centres and then processed into food-grade secondary raw materials. These materials are then intended to be reused for new packaging. The system is part of Portuguese waste and circular economy policy and aligns with European guidelines on separate collection of packaging and the use of recycled materials.
From 10 August 2026, all corresponding single-use beverage packaging under three litres made of plastic, ferrous metals and aluminium, which are placed on the market, must be included in the system and bear the Volta symbol. For the Azores, the regional government sees this as a further step towards a more circular management of packaging and resources.
Source: Presidency of the Regional Government of the Azores
