Spanish pilot project for deposit system receives support from Tomra technology
In the picturesque region of Sangüesa, Navarra, Spain, a pioneering project is underway. The pilot scheme for a single-use packaging deposit return system, launched in June 2025, is a collaboration between the Government of Navarra, local authorities, and Norwegian technology company Tomra.
The project, which ends on August 31, 2025, is using Tomra's reverse vending machines. These innovative machines, installed at a supermarket and a central city location, enable the return of PET bottles and cans up to three liters. Since the start of the project, over 150,000 bottles and cans have been collected through these machines.
Over ten local businesses are participating in the scheme, redeeming the deposit vouchers. This initiative has not only collected a significant amount of waste but also strengthened Navarra's role as a pioneering region in sustainable waste management.
The Sangüesa project is more than just a local endeavour. It serves as a testing ground for the technology and processes ahead of Spain's nationwide deposit-return system planned for November 2026. The insights gained from the Sangüesa project will be invaluable in refining the national implementation of the deposit-return system.
Spain's goal with this initiative is to meet the EU's recycling targets for single-use beverage packaging. The nationwide system, like the one in Sangüesa, will use Tomra's reverse vending machines. A deposit of 0.10 euros is refunded for each container returned through these machines.
The project provides valuable practical experience for the nationwide deposit-return system. With the success of the Sangüesa project, Spain is well on its way to joining over 50 markets worldwide, including Germany, Norway, Romania, and Austria, that already have deposit-return systems in place.
The Sangüesa project is just the beginning of Spain's journey towards a more sustainable future. The regional pilot scheme is a significant step towards ensuring a comprehensive and efficient return of beverage containers nationwide, contributing to Spain's commitment to recycling and waste reduction.
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