Recycling of Household Packaging in Netherlands: Legislation, EPR & Infrastructure Highlights

Publication date: 10/09/2026 - Verpact to Introduce Additional Discount for European Recycled Plastics

Dutch producer responsibility organisation Verpact has announced that it will introduce an enhanced financial incentive from 2027 for packaging producers using recycled plastics sourced from Europe. The discount, applied through fee differentiation on standard waste management contributions, will also extend to bio-based drop-in materials including bio-PE, bio-PP, and bio-PET.

The initiative aims to boost demand for European recyclates, supporting investment in regional recycling capacity and accelerating the transition towards a circular economy. According to Verpact, existing fee differentiation measures have already reached 52% of eligible plastic packaging volume.

Publication date: 28/08/2026 - Deposit Return Rates Rise but Remain Below 90% Statutory Target

Half-year figures for 2026 from Verpact, the producer responsibility organisation overseeing the Dutch deposit return system (statiegeld), indicate that 78% of deposit bottles and 86% of cans will be collected this year, below the statutory 90% target in place since the scheme’s introduction in 2021 and never met. Verpact’s preliminary 2025 annual report shows return rates of 77% for plastic bottles and 83% for cans in 2025. Following the threat of fines from the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT) in 2026, Verpact added 2,500 collection points this year and expects to meet its legal obligation of 5,400 new collection points before year-end.

Publication date: 01/12/2025 - Verpact Opts for Reward Scheme Instead of Raising Deposit Amount

Verpact, the Dutch producer organisation, announced new measures to improve the deposit return system for plastic bottles and cans without increasing the deposit. The plan includes adding nearly 3,000 new supermarket collection points by the end of 2026, expanding bulk and donation points, installing special return kiosks in cities, and speeding up repair of return machines. Reward promotions will encourage returns with prizes, aiming to boost participation and reduce queues.

The organisation is investing over €5 million in litter reduction initiatives, including public trash bin improvements and an app for finding working return points.

Publication date: 20/11/2025 - Council of State Reviews Planned Increase in Deposit Fees

The Dutch Council of State is assessing an ILT proposal to raise deposit fees on small plastic bottles and cans by 15%. ILT argues the increase is needed because Verpact has not met the 90% collection target. Verpact opposes the measure, favouring more return machines instead of higher tariffs.

The case is being handled urgently, as ILT intends the change to take effect on 1 January. If Verpact prevails, implementation will likely be delayed. Potential penalties for non-compliance amount to €1.5 million per day, up to €21 million.

Publication date: 29/10/2025 - Verpact Launches 2026 Recycle Check to Strengthen Packaging Recyclability Standards

Verpact has released the updated Recycle Check 2026, a key tool for assessing packaging recyclability in the Dutch market. The new version introduces clearer definitions of main components and target materials, stricter criteria for heavy metals, and revised rules for coatings, labels, and compatibilisers. The platform has also been redesigned for greater usability and transparency.

Developed under Verpact following the full integration of the former Knowledge Institute for Sustainable Packaging (KIDV), the Recycle Check remains accessible through the KIDV website until migration to Verpact’s platform is complete.

Publication date: 15/04/2025 - New Measures Expected in 2026 for Single-Use Plastics

Since 1 July 2023, a surcharge has been imposed on single-use plastics for on-the-go items like cups and food packaging, whether made entirely or partially of plastic. A proposal to exempt paper/cardboard cups containing up to 5% plastic from this surcharge was rejected to comply with European reduction targets.

From 1 January 2024, single-use plastic cups and containers are banned in venues such as restaurants, company canteens, and sports clubs, which now use reusable tableware.

Enforcement of the surcharge and rules regarding paper cups with up to 5% plastic is suspended until 31 December 2025. New measures are expected in 2026, although specifics remain unclear.