The Impact of the Deposit System on Society and Environment

Abstract

Goal – The aim of this article is to present the principles of operation of the deposit system in Poland and to indicate how society can engage in the functioning of this system, with the active participation of non-governmental organisations (NGOs). The study examines the legal framework governing the deposit system implementation and its potential environmental and social impacts. Research methodology – The research methodology is based on legal analysis of the European Union directives, particularly the Single Use Plastic (SUP) Directive, and comparative analysis of deposit systems functioning in the selected EU Member States. The study also incorporates the analysis of the Polish legal regulations implementing the deposit system and the examination of the role of non-governmental organisations in environmental protection. Score/results – The analysis reveals that the Polish deposit system, scheduled to begin operation in October 2025, goes beyond the requirements of the SUP Directive by including not only single-use plastic bottles for beverages up to 3 liters but also reusable glass bottles up to 1.5 liters and metal cans up to 1 liter. The research demonstrates that deposit systems in other EU countries achieve collection rates of 80–90% through high consumer participation. Originality/value – The study contributes to the understanding of legal and social mechanisms for implementing environmental policies at the national level. The originality lies in analysing the role of non-governmental organisations in creating an “ecological society” and examining the Polish deposit system in the context of the EU legal requirements and comparative experiences of other Member States.