The amount of the fine will follow if the sector does not have a deposit on the cans as of January 1

If supermarkets, producers and importers do not impose a deposit on cans on January 1, 2023, they could face a heavy penalty. This was announced by the Human Environment Inspectorate (ILT). In total, the amount can reach 28 million euros.

Since July 1, 2021, a deposit has already been paid on small plastic bottles. This scheme will be extended to cans from January. Just like bottles, the deposit will be 15 cents. Charging the deposit should ensure that you end up with less litter on the streets.

The sectors that have to charge the filing fee say they need more time to prepare the system to also collect the cans again. 2 billion cans are sold each year. This doubles the number of containers that hold a deposit. 1.5 billion small and large plastic bottles are sold each year.

In June, the producers concerned informed Minister of State Heijinen for Infrastructure and Water Management that the intake system could operate from April 1, 2023. He indicated at the time that he did not agree with this and that he would ask ILT to consider the measures.

“It’s nothing new to have a deposit on the cans,” says ILT. “Stakeholders are heavily involved in advance and are informed of the December 31, 2022, date. Depending on the sector, it seems impossible to meet that date, but we really see it differently.”

The 17 parties involved now have four weeks to respond to the intent to impose a penalty.