Anca Marinescu, RetuRO: Peste 80% dintre ambalajele puse pe piață sunt returnate. Garanția de 50 de bani a schimbat comportamentul românilor

The return rate of packaging in Romania has exceeded 80% due to the successful implementation of the Deposit-Return System (SGR). Anca Marinescu from RetuRO highlighted that the system has made recycling a common practice among many Romanians, driven primarily by the 50 bani deposit refund. The infrastructure and clear rules have encouraged people to separate their waste. In the first half of 2026, over 2.4 billion packages were returned, with a collection rate of 82%. The initiative has also fostered environmental awareness, especially among children, who actively participate in recycling. However, generational differences exist, with older individuals being more disciplined in returning packaging compared to younger generations, who express interest in environmental issues but show less commitment to returning items.