Switzerland discusses mandatory return policy for beverage cartons and disposable packaging

Currently, used plastic packaging and beverage cartons are considered municipal waste in Switzerland, which is why the disposal of this packaging falls within the remit of the public sector.

Private organizations may only collect these recyclable materials if they have a license from the relevant municipality. In the summer, the Swiss Federal Council submitted a revised ordinance to strengthen the circular economy for consultation, which also provides for a “general overhaul” of the existing Packaging Ordinance (VerpV).

According to the Federal Council's proposal, a subsidiary return obligation for beverage cartons and single-use plastic packaging is to be introduced. The recycling rate for beverage cartons subject to take-back obligations is to be 70%, and for single-use plastic packaging subject to take-back obligations at least 55%.

Against this backdrop, InnoRecycling AG and the industry organization RecyPac agreed on a memorandum of understanding on October 30, 2025. On behalf of its members, the industry organization RecyPac is establishing a uniform, nationwide recycling system for plastic packaging and beverage cartons.