1 July 2025

Overview of Glass Packaging Collection Systems in Europe

Glass packaging is collected in various ways across Europe, reflecting national preferences, infrastructure, and regulatory approaches. While there is no single collection model, most systems fall into a few broad categories. This overview presents the main types of collection systems and highlights their role in supporting efficient glass recycling and a circular economy.

We often hear that there is no single way of collecting glass for recycling and everyone does it slightly differently. We wanted to put the theory to the test…

… and yes, it’s quite true! But we could pinpoint at least 7 broad categories:

🔹 Monomaterial bring-back systems where glass packaging is either collected in mixed colours, dual colours or 3-way colours;
🔹 Comingled bring-back systems where glass packaging is collected together with metals;
🔹 Door-to-door collection systems where glass packaging is either collected in monomaterial mixed colours or comingled with other packaging materials
🔹 Deposit-return systems on glass packaging for recycling

And of course, in some countries, there is a combination of several different types of collection systems 😯

But the system of choice implemented across EU countries is clearly a monomaterial and mixed colour bring-back for all glass packaging.

Collection systems underpin the closed loop and have direct implications for glass quality, sorting efficiency, and overall recycling rates. Understanding the structure and spread of collection systems is essential for targeting improvements, harmonising practices, and advancing toward a truly circular glass economy. 🔄