System participation requirement catalogue - 2021 edition published

This new version reflects changes to the content and editorial amendments that have been implemented following the catalogue's annual review. The new 2021 edition now comprises 37 product groups with more than 491 individual products. Click here to search the catalogue database.

Individual delineation criteria for the beverages product group in particular have changed because single-use beverage packaging with higher quantities has achieved greater market relevance amongst private households and comparable sources of waste generation. 

With effect from 1 January 2022, the statutory provisions relating to the deposit obligation for single-use beverage packaging will change as prescribed under the amended version of the Verpackungsgesetz (Packaging Act). Packaging for various beverages that had been subject to system participation up to that point will be subject to deposit from then on.

In future, the following beverages that are contained in single-use plastic bottles for beverages or in cans with a volume of between 0.1 and 3.0 litres will be subject to deposit:

• sparkling wines and sparkling wine cocktails;

• wine and wine-based cocktails;

• beverages and mixed beverages similar to wine;

• alcohol products and mixed beverages containing alcohol;

• fruit and vegetable juices; and

• non-carbonated fruit and vegetable nectars.

The following beverages are subject to deposit if they are filled in cans:

• milk and dairy drinks as well as other drinkable dairy products; and

• dietary beverages for infants and young children.

The deposit obligation will be pointed out in the product sheets of the beverages affected by the change, and the packaging types subject to deposit as from 1 January 2022 will be labelled '(Amended: deposit)' in the 'Detailed system participation requirement' overview ('Shape/form' column).

The previous statement that the system participation requirement never applies to packaging for lubricants and lubricating oils was not confirmed when reviewing supporting materials submitted with applications for classification. As such, the relevant delineation criteria were fine-tuned for packaging of lubricants and lubricating oils that does not contain any hazardous materials.

It is important that the catalogue be used with the corresponding guideline. The guideline explains the background to the catalogue, as well as how to use it. Detailed information about practical application is also provided.