Betétgyjtés

Betétgyűjtés, meaning "deposit collection" in Hungarian, refers to the process of gathering empty beverage containers, primarily plastic bottles and aluminum cans, for recycling. This system is implemented in many countries to encourage the return of packaging and reduce waste. Consumers typically pay a small deposit when purchasing a beverage, which is refunded when they return the empty container to a designated collection point.

These collection points can vary, including dedicated reverse vending machines found in supermarkets, smaller kiosks, or even manual collection centers. The returned containers are then processed, often sorted by material type, and sent to recycling facilities. There, they are cleaned, shredded, and melted down to create new products, thus conserving natural resources and reducing the energy required for manufacturing from virgin materials.

The betétgyűjtés system aims to increase recycling rates for beverage packaging, as the deposit acts as a financial incentive for consumers to participate. This method has proven effective in diverting a significant amount of waste from landfills and contributing to a more circular economy. The specific types of containers included in the deposit scheme, the deposit amount, and the return infrastructure can differ by region and country.