National deposit return scheme
Eesti Pandipakend, which was founded in 2005, operates the national deposit return system for plastic and glass bottles for soft drinks, bottled water, and beer as well as metal cans.
The collection rate for bottles is over 80%, and most of these go on to be recycled. The percentage of reusable bottles has been dropping in recent years (from around 20% to 12%) due to the fact that drinks producers have increased the use of bottles that are only suitable for recycling.
Eesti Pandipakend also runs a reusable cup service as well and plate and bowl rental for events. They have a stock of over 250,000 cups, which is sufficient for large-scale events in Estonia. A full-service option is available, with collection points at events, as well as a traditional rental and washing service.
