Collection Systems in Austria
- EPR Scheme
- ARA
- Deposit Return
- Yes — EUR 0.25 / PET bottles + cans since Jan 2025
- Collection Streams
- 6
- Last Major Change
- 2025 — Unified plastic/metal collection + DRS launch
About
Austria has a well-structured waste management system that separates materials based on type and recyclability. The system emphasizes the critical distinction between packaging and non-packaging items, with strict rules for each stream. From 2025, Austria unified plastic and metal packaging collection in the yellow system nationwide. Proper sorting is essential—some items are only collected in specific streams, while others must be taken to dedicated drop-off points. Here's a complete guide to what goes where.
Collection Streams
Important Notes
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The packaging vs. non-packaging distinction is critical in Austria—yellow bins accept only packaging, not all plastics or metals. Non-packaging items must go to recycling centres or other designated streams.
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From 2025, Austria unified plastic and metal packaging collection in the yellow system nationwide, though some areas phased this in earlier.
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Empty and clean requirements are strictly enforced—packaging must be rest-emptied, and paint/spray cans with any contents must go to hazardous waste, not yellow bins.
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Regional variations exist for bio-waste (especially regarding animal-based waste) and some collection routes—always check your municipality's specific guidelines.
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Austria's deposit return system (Einwegpfand) covers PET bottles and metal beverage cans (0.1–3.0 L) with a €0.25 deposit. Containers must be empty, uncrushed, and have readable labels/barcodes for refund.