Return percentage

The return percentage is based on the amount of deposit refundable packaging returned by consumers in proportion to the total amount of packaging sold.

Return percentage for 2011

• Refillable packaging: 103%
• One-way packaging: 89%

The return percentage laid down in the Statutory Order is 98 for refillable packaging and 95 for one-way packaging.

Dansk Retursystem A/S is confident that the return percentage for one-way packaging will improve as this type of packaging becomes more popular. The many new users of one-way packaging require constant re-education on returning this type of deposit refundable packaging. 

Surplus deposits

Deposits not repaid to consumers are called unclaimed deposits, surplus deposits or deposits credited as income. The Statutory Order sets out how these deposits should be treated. Surplus deposits are not included in the day-to-day financing of the deposit and return system.

The Statutory Order allows for surplus deposits to be spent on improving the system for the benefit of consumers. Measures include: improving the safety of the deposit and return system, creating better working conditions in bottle-handling departments, and further publicising the deposit and return system.

The surplus is also used to cover the costs of collecting beer and soft drinks packaging not covered by the deposit and return system – for example, privately imported cans and bottles.

Any remaining surplus can be spent on community projects such as environmentally-friendly activities, teaching and publicity.