Deposit rules for festivals and events (2025–2026): What you need to know

The world of festivals and major events is changing rapidly, and one of the most notable developments is the introduction of new deposit rules for 2025 and 2026. As an organizer, festival visitor, or sustainability manager, you want to be prepared for these changes. In this article, I will take you through everything you need to know about the new regulations, why they are being introduced, and what you can expect as a stakeholder. Let's set the right course together towards a more sustainable festival scene.

Why are the deposit rules being changed?

The world is under increasing pressure to become more environmentally friendly. The government and industry organizations are striving to drastically reduce the amount of waste at festivals and to encourage the reuse of packaging. One of the reasons for the new rules is the European directive, which explicitly states that packaging in the Netherlands must be more recyclable and that consumers must be encouraged to take responsibility for waste separation.

By introducing stricter deposit rules, the aim is not only to reduce the amount of waste, but also to raise awareness. The result? Less litter, more reuse, and ultimately a cleaner and greener festival experience for everyone.

Contents of the new deposit rules for 2025–2026

What exactly is changing? Below you will find the key points of the new regulations, compiled to give you a clear overview:

• Mandatory deposit on plastic bottles: From 2025, all plastic bottles of at least 250 ml will be subject to a deposit of at least €0.25. This applies to both small water bottles and large soft drink bottles sold at events.
• Refillable cup and can packaging: Large festival organizers will be required to use reusable cups and cans. These must be easy to return and clean, with a view to maximum sustainability.
• Introduction of a national return mechanism: To encourage recycling, a uniform system will be introduced whereby visitors can quickly and easily return their empty packaging to special return points located throughout the site.
• Stricter control and enforcement: Organizers and caterers can be fined for violations, and there will be extra checks to ensure compliance with the rules. This ensures a level playing field and decisive action for a cleaner environment.
• Inventory management and supplier obligations: From 2025 onwards, organizers must make agreements with suppliers to ensure sustainable packaging and deposit-refund systems.

The impact on festivals and events

The introduction of these rules will not be without consequences. As an organizer, you need to start thinking now about your logistics, purchasing process, and communication. Here are some important points to consider:

Packaging selection and logistics

• You must choose packaging that complies with the new requirements for reuse and deposits. This may mean investing in sustainable cups, cup systems, and return infrastructure.
• The logistics involved in collecting and cleaning cups and cans are becoming more complex. It requires planning and cooperation with specialized partners.

Communication with visitors

• It is essential to properly inform your visitors about the new rules. Clear communication ensures greater compliance and less frustration.
• Provide eye-catching signage, social media updates, and possibly rewards for collection and returns.

Financial considerations

• Although the investment may seem large, it also offers opportunities, such as cost savings on waste processing and a positive reputation for your festival or event.
• In addition, any fines for non-compliance could destabilize your organization financially, so compliance is truly essential.

How can you prepare for the introduction?

Good preparation is half the battle. Here are some concrete steps you can take:

1. Take stock of your current packaging use: Check which packaging you currently use and whether it meets the new requirements.
2. Communicate with suppliers: Ensure that they comply with the new regulations and offer sustainable alternatives.
3. Develop a collection plan: Provide sufficient return points and logistical processes for the return and reuse of packaging.
4. Inform your team and volunteers: Make sure everyone is aware of the new rules and knows how to deal with them.
5. Develop a communication plan for visitors: Make it as easy and attractive as possible for visitors to participate in the deposit system.

The benefits of compliance for your festival or event

By complying with the new deposit rules, you position yourself as a sustainable and responsible organizer. This not only earns you a positive reputation, but also opens doors to subsidies, sponsorship, and collaborations with environmentally conscious partners. In addition, you increase satisfaction among your visitors, who increasingly value sustainable choices. And last but not least, you contribute to a cleaner planet.

Feedback helps you get ready for 2025–2026

Want to make sure your festival is perfectly prepared for the new regulations? Feeback is here to help. We offer comprehensive consulting, logistics solutions, and communication support to help you navigate the changes smoothly. With our expertise, we ensure that you not only comply with the rules, but also take advantage of the opportunities that sustainability offers. Together, we will make your event a model of environmentally conscious fun and responsibility.

Deposit rules for festivals and events (2025–2026): What you need to know

The world of festivals and major events is changing rapidly, and one of the most notable developments is the introduction of new deposit rules for 2025 and 2026. As an organizer, festival visitor, or sustainability manager, you want to be prepared for these changes. In this article, I will take you through everything you need to know about the new regulations, why they are being introduced, and what you can expect as a stakeholder. Let's set the right course together towards a more sustainable festival scene.

Why are the deposit rules being changed?

The world is under increasing pressure to become more environmentally friendly. Governments, civil society organizations, and industry recognize that waste issues at major events can no longer be ignored in the coming years. For several years now, the European Union has made it a priority to improve recycling rates and reduce litter, focusing in particular on plastic waste that would otherwise often end up in nature, the sea, and urban areas.

The Dutch government is now taking the lead in this area by introducing stricter rules for plastic packaging and cups. In addition, there is a growing awareness among consumers that they have a responsibility and that changing their behavior can yield immediate environmental benefits. The new rules are intended not only to reduce waste, but also to encourage a change in mentality: visitors must be encouraged to make smart choices and actively reduce waste.

Furthermore, the sector itself also plays an important role: many festivals want to achieve their sustainability goals and see these regulations as an opportunity to distinguish themselves as environmentally conscious organizers. The aim is to make the entire chain, from procurement to waste processing, more sustainable and to integrate it into the festival system. This is also in line with broader environmental objectives of the government, such as reducing CO₂ emissions and stimulating the circular economy.

Contents of the new deposit rules for 2025–2026

What exactly is changing? The new regulations contain several important points that affect how festivals and organizers can operate. Below is an overview of the key points, including the underlying objectives and practical implications:

• Mandatory deposit on plastic bottles: From 2025, all plastic bottles of at least 250 ml will be subject to a deposit of at least €0.25. This applies to both small water bottles and large soft drink bottles sold at events. The aim is to increase the recycling of plastic bottles, reduce litter, and offer a financial incentive for visitors to return empty packaging.
• Refillable cup and can packaging: Large festival organizers will be required to use reusable cups and cans. These must be easy to return, clean, and reuse. The use of sustainable cups and cans reduces waste production and promotes a circular system where reuse is central.
• Introduction of a national return mechanism: A uniform, transparent system for collecting empty packaging will be introduced, with return points strategically placed across the festival grounds. This will make it easy for visitors to return their packaging and encourage reuse.
• Stricter control and enforcement: To ensure compliance, fines will be imposed on organizers and caterers who violate the rules. In addition, extra checks will be carried out during and after events. This promotes a level playing field and better compliance, with the aim of minimizing negative impact on the environment.
• Inventory management and supplier obligations: Organizers are required to make agreements with suppliers regarding the use of sustainable packaging and deposit systems. This means that sustainability and reuse must be taken into account from the outset, making the entire chain more sustainable.
• Development of digital registration systems: To optimize compliance, digital systems are being developed to make the return and issue of packaging and deposit monitors easier and more transparent. Data analysis helps to make further improvements in this area.

The impact on festivals and events

The new rules entail not only administrative changes, but also practical and strategic adjustments for organizers. Here is a more in-depth overview of the effects and considerations:

Packaging selection and logistics

• In order to comply with the new legislation, festivals must switch to packaging that is suitable for reuse and subject to a deposit. This may mean that existing purchasing contracts need to be revised and new suppliers found who can provide sustainable options.
• The logistics chain is becoming more complex because more attention must be paid to the collection and cleaning of returned packaging. For smaller events, this may mean that additional containers and instructions are required, while large festivals invest in advanced return systems and logistics partners.
• In addition, storage, transport, and reprocessing of returned packaging must be taken into account. This may require investments in infrastructure and personnel, but it also offers opportunities for collaboration with local recycling companies and circular initiatives.

Communication with visitors

• A good communication campaign is crucial. Visitors must be informed about the new rules from the outset, clearly explaining the benefits for the environment and the community.
• The use of eye-catching branding, such as banners, screens, and social media posts, can help convey the message. Adding game or reward systems, such as discounts on drinks when cups are returned, can provide additional motivation.
• Education during the event itself, for example through volunteers or apps, also raises awareness and facilitates compliance.

Financial considerations

• Although the initial investment in sustainable packaging systems and infrastructure can be significant, it yields long-term benefits. These include cost savings due to reduced waste processing, a more positive image, and the ability to receive subsidies or financial support from governments and funds.
• Cost estimates must also be made for training staff and volunteers, adapting logistical processes, and monitoring compliance.
• In addition, fines or reputational damage in the event of non-compliance can be more costly than investing in adequate measures.

How can you prepare for the introduction?

Thorough preparation is essential for a smooth transition. Here are some practical steps to guide your garden:

1. Take stock of your current packaging use: The first thing you need to do is analyze your existing packaging and purchasing process. Which packaging already meets your needs, and which needs to be replaced or modified?
2. Communicate with your suppliers: Involve your suppliers and ask for sustainable alternatives that comply with the new rules. Make agreements about deliveries and the return of used packaging.
3. Develop an effective collection plan: Plan the logistics for collecting, cleaning, and reusing packaging. Determine the locations of return points, logistics routes, and storage facilities.
4. Train your team and volunteers: Ensure that everyone is aware of the new procedures and understands how the systems work. This reduces errors and increases efficiency.
5. Develop campaign and communication materials for visitors: Create instructions and promotional materials that are clear and appealing. For example, offer rewards or discounts for correctly returning packaging.
6. Test and optimize your processes: Conduct pilot tests in advance, for example at smaller events, to identify bottlenecks and make adjustments.

The benefits of compliance for your festival or event

By investing now in sustainable packaging and return systems, you can position your festival as a leader in environmentally conscious organization. This has several advantages:

• Strengthening your image: Visitors, sponsors, and partners appreciate sustainable initiatives. A green image can lead to higher visitor numbers and more support from sponsors who value sustainability.
• Opportunities for subsidies and financing: Governments and funds are increasingly offering financial support for sustainable projects and innovations. This can help you cover the costs.
• Long-term financial benefits: less waste means lower processing costs, and reusing packaging can even save money.
• Increased visitor satisfaction: Visitors are becoming increasingly environmentally conscious and appreciate events that are committed to sustainability, which can result in a loyal and engaged audience.
• Contributing to a cleaner planet: As an organizer, you play an important role in reducing litter and plastic pollution, which contributes to a better world for future generations.

Feedback helps you get ready for 2025–2026

Want to make sure your festival doesn't get left behind? Feeback guides you toward successful implementation of the new regulations. Our services include:

• Consultancy and advice: Based on your current situation, we provide customized advice on packaging choices, logistics, and communication.
• Logistics solutions: We offer practical infrastructure and return systems tailored to your festival, including monitoring and reporting.
• Training and communication: We train your team and develop communication materials that raise awareness and encourage compliance.
• Innovative technologies: We implement digital systems for tracking and monitoring returns, and for data analysis to improve efficiency.

Together, we ensure that your event not only complies with the law, but also stands out in terms of sustainability and environmentally conscious organization. The future of festivals lies in circular thinking and responsible behavior—and we are ready to support you in this.