In recent weeks, there has been an increase in demand for the Volta system's automatic collection machines in Madeira, with consumers seeking to reclaim the deposit paid on non-reusable beverage packaging. This demand has led to frequent queues in some commercial establishments, particularly when large quantities of bottles and cans are returned at once.
The Volta system, officially the Deposit and Refund System (SDR), aims to increase recycling rates in Portugal, aligning with European Union environmental targets. The model operates with a 10-cent deposit per package (PET or metal/aluminum can up to 3 liters), which is refunded intact with a legible barcode and the official system logo.
Questions have arisen among consumers about the system's complete implementation on the island, specifically whether the planned 33 automatic collection machines have been installed in retail establishments. The system's management in Portugal is handled by SDR Portugal, under the supervision of the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA), and the collection network combines automatic machines with manual reception in local shops.
