site.btaEnvironmentalists Sound Alarm over Delay of Bulgaria's Deposit Refund Scheme in Waste Management

The environmental organization Za Zemiata [For the Earth] Friday voiced concern over the Environment Ministry's decision to postpone the introduction of a deposit refund scheme (DRS) for beverage packaging to 2027, and to have it managed, once it is set in place, by a state-owned joint-stock company. According to Za Zemyata, such an approach raises doubts about the transparency, efficiency, and independence of the system. Unlike most EU countries, where deposit refund schemes are run by producer and retailer associations and are self-financed, Bulgaria's plan risks creating a conflict of interest—with the state acting both as operator and regulator, the environmentalists say.

The planned DRS postponement transpired in remarks by Environment Minister Manol Genov during the annual meeting of Local Authorities earlier in October.

The NGO argues that the proposal contradicts the "polluter pays" principle, as it shifts responsibility away from producers and may impose additional costs on taxpayers. Despite businesses expressing readiness to fund and manage the system, the government has suggested that public funding might be involved.

Furthermore, Za Zemiata criticizes the lack of transparency in the process: the working group assigned to develop the scheme reportedly hasn't functioned effectively, and its analysis hasn't been made public.

They point out that the delay comes amid a waste management crisis in Sofia, with large volumes of recyclable materials ending up in mixed waste. Between 2015 and 2024, over 750,000 t of plastic packaging were discarded in Bulgaria—representing a lost resource valued at over EUR 106 million.

The organization calls for urgent action, proposing the scheme cover all beverage containers made from plastic, metal, or glass (100ml–3L), include mandatory targets for reusable packaging, and ensure retailers take back used containers and refund deposits. Their goal is at least a 90% return rate for all types of packaging.