In brief: Türkiye's deposit return system launched nationwide on 1 July 2026. Consumers returning beverage packaging bearing the DOA deposit logo receive the deposit refund per container directly into their mobile app wallet. The system is managed by the Turkish Environment Agency (TÜÇA); data flows are tracked via the Deposit Information Management System (DBYS) operated by the State Mint (Darphane); and field collection and verification operations are conducted by authorised DRS operators (DSYS operators) appointed by TÜÇA.
DYS, DSYS and DOA: Three Concepts, One System
Deposit Management System (DYS) is the national framework governing the take-back of beverage packaging. Its legal basis is Environment Law No. 2872 and the Packaging Waste Control Regulation.
Deposit Field Management System (DSYS) is the operational field layer of this framework: return points, collection vehicles, counting and verification facilities, and the digital tracking of all these steps. In international industry terminology, it is referred to as a deposit return system (DRS).
DOA designates packaging subject to a deposit. The DOA deposit logo printed on packaging indicates that the container falls within the system's scope and that the deposit value will be refunded upon return.
How the System Works Step by Step
- Producers (placing products on the market) release eligible beverage containers featuring the DOA deposit logo and register packaging data in the DBYS.
- Consumers purchase the beverage and bring empty containers to a return point.
- Returns take place via three channels: reverse vending machines (RVM / DİM), manual return points (MİN) where staff scan containers using handheld terminals, and direct collection by the operator from hotels, restaurants and cafes (HoReCa).
- The deposit refund is credited to the consumer's digital wallet in the mobile app.
- The authorised DRS operator collects containers from return points and transports them to a counting and verification centre (SDM).
- At the SDM, containers are counted, verified, compacted or crushed, and baled by material type on automated counting and verification lines (SDH).
- DBYS logs every transaction; verified packaging material is sent to recycling facilities.
Roles and Responsibilities
- Turkish Environment Agency (TÜÇA): Manages the system at the national level, authorises operators, approves field plans and conducts oversight.
- State Mint (Darphane): Operates the DBYS, maintaining the central ledger of return, collection and verification data.
- Authorised DRS operators (DSYS operators): Establish and operate the return point network, collection and transport logistics, and counting and verification infrastructure in their designated provinces.
- Producers: Place covered packaging on the market bearing the DOA deposit logo, register packaging data in the DBYS, and contribute to system funding.
- Retailers and return points: Operate RVMs or manual return points; returns become an integral part of footfall.
- HoReCa establishments: Collect empty beverage containers on-site and hand them over to their contracted authorised DRS operator.
Timeline
The DOA deposit scheme launched nationwide on 1 July 2026. The national integration period (UES) that began on this date runs through June 2028. During this phase, the return point network is expanding, provincial field implementation plans submitted by operators are being approved, and counting and verification capacity is being deployed.
Becoming an Authorised DRS Operator: Four Stages
- Authorisation: Application to TÜÇA and receipt of operator authorisation.
- DESUP: Deposit field implementation plan (DESUP); the binding operational document detailing how the operator will execute field requirements for TÜÇA approval. Details: What is DESUP and how is it prepared?
- Field infrastructure: Return points, collection vehicles, DBYS integration and counting and verification centres (SDM).
- Operations: System performance management (SPY) monitoring operational performance against planned capacity.
A key rule applies to field equipment: reverse vending machines (RVMs) must be selected from certified models provided by authorised RVM manufacturers listed in the DBYS. The current list of authorised manufacturers is published at dbys.gov.tr.
What Changes for Producers and Retailers?
For producers, packaging design updates (DOA logo placement), DBYS registration and financial contributions represent core compliance requirements. For retailers, operating a return point is both an obligation and a driver of footfall; evidence from European DRS schemes demonstrates that return facilities influence store choice. Whether a location deploys an RVM or a manual return point depends on available floor space, container volume and operator agreements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is DSYS?
DSYS (Deposit Field Management System) is the operational field layer of Türkiye's Deposit Management System (DYS): return points, collection, transport, counting and verification, and the digital recording of these steps. In international industry terminology, it is known as a deposit return system (DRS).
What does the DOA logo mean?
DOA indicates packaging subject to a deposit. Glass, PET and aluminium beverage packaging bearing the DOA deposit logo fall within the scope of the system, and consumers are paid the deposit refund upon returning them.
Who is an authorised DRS operator (DSYS operator)?
An authorised DRS operator (DSYS operator) is a company authorised by TÜÇA to establish and operate the return point network, collection and transport logistics, and counting and verification infrastructure in designated provinces. Approval of a deposit field implementation plan (DESUP) is required before commencing field operations.
When did the system launch?
The DOA deposit scheme launched nationwide on 1 July 2026. The national integration period (UES) runs until June 2028.
Sources
- Turkish Environment Agency (TÜÇA)
- Deposit Information Management System (DBYS)
- DBYS — Authorised RVM manufacturers
- Anadolu Agency — Türkiye's beverage container deposit return system
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