Participation in Germany’s dual system

The dual systems form the backbone of packaging disposal in Germany. They ensure that sales packaging that accumulates as waste with private end consumers is properly collected, sorted and recycled.

System participation for sales packaging
Case studies
Peace of mind with Dual System Zentek

Obligations at a glance

System participation for all sales packaging
Registration in the packaging register (LUCID)
Volume reporting in the dual system and LUCID
Packaging design for recycling
Evidence and reporting requirements (CSRD)
Declaration of Conformity under the PPWR

The principle

In Germany, producers and distributors are legally required to participate in a “dual system” for waste collection if they place sales packaging filled with goods on the german market and this packaging accumulates as waste with private end consumers. These businesses pay participation fees that finance the waste disposal infrastructure – laying the foundations for a well-functioning circular economy.

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System participation for sales packaging

All sales packaging subject to system participation must be collected via a dual system in which producers and other obligated companies participate. Nationwide collection is organised through regional waste management operators, and the materials are processed at sorting facilities. This creates a circular system that can reliably handle large volumes and enables high-quality recycling.

Grafik, die das folgende Schema in 360° zeigt: Verpackungshersteller - Inverkehrbringer - Handel - Verbraucher - Sammlung - Sortierung/Aufbereitung/Verwertung - Sekündarrohstoffe/andere Produkte

In Germany, the dual systems organise the nationwide collection, sorting and recycling of used sales packaging on behalf of producers and retailers.

Their activities are based on the requirements of the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and Germany’s national implementation and enforcement framework under the Packaging Law Implementation Act (VerpackDG).

Case study

Face cream jar in Dual System Zentek

A face cream jar sold in a health and beauty store becomes waste in the home of a private end consumer.

Participation

The producer is legally required to register the face cream jar in a dual waste collection system before placing it on the german market. Only then can the packaging be put into circulation. The participation fee paid by the producer funds collection and sorting.

Collection

After use, the consumer disposes of the jar – depending on the material – in their household recycling bin, their waste paper bin or a bottle bank.

Sorting & recycling

Plastic jars are sent to a sorting facility, where they are separated from other materials and then processed into recyclate by the processor. Glass jars are collected in bottle banks and melted down to make new glass products. Paper sleeves or cardboard grouped packaging are disposed of in waste paper bins and recycled. Metal lids are collected separately and also recycled.

New product

The recovered secondary raw materials are used to make new packaging, such as new jars, bottles or other plastic products.

Through system participation, manufacturers take responsibility for keeping packaging in circulation.

The dual system then makes sure that the packaging is collected, sorted and recycled, so that it can be used again as a raw material in new products. To find out what additional obligations you’re required to fulfil when selling across borders in the EU, please visit our page about EPR.

More about EPR

Peace of mind with Dual System Zentek

Successful recycling involves many steps – from licensing to collection and sorting to reprocessing, disposal and the provision of important data. To ensure that the process runs smoothly, we take care of every stage – lawfully and reliably.

Participation obligation for packaging

We support you throughout the process to ensure that your packaging is compliant with participation requirements.

Collection of sales and grouped packaging

We work with certified partners to organise nationwide collection and ensure that your packaging is taken back throughout Germany.

Reprocessing of recyclable materials

We make sure that your packaging is reprocessed sustainably so that the raw materials can return to the cycle.

Sorting of packaging waste

To optimise the recycling of recoverable resources, we ensure that materials are separated efficiently.

Proper disposal of nonrecyclable materials

If materials cannot be recycled, we dispose of them for you – safely and legally.

Provision of data on greenhouse gas emissions and waste streams

We provide you with reliable figures – enabling you to prepare legally compliant reports that meet CSRD standards.

Let’s talk

We’re here to help you.

Simply fulfilling your obligations is no longer enough nowadays. Costs, sustainability and transparency are increasingly in the spotlight – not only because of legislation, but also due to the expectations of customers, investors and partners. 

This is where Dual System Zentek comes in. We offer you a solution that goes beyond mere compliance – with benefits that have environmental, legal and economic impacts.

Fair and efficient

Fair pricing, open communication and transparent processes – for maximum cost-effectiveness.

Supportive and reliable

Bespoke advice, customised solutions, regular communication.

Lawful and compliant

Trustworthy implementation of the German Packaging Law Implemenation Act and the PPWR.

Sustainability

Active contribution to the circular economy with the first B Corp in the waste management sector.

360° Service – more than just packaging licensing

Extended range of services – from transport packaging to international EPR advice to design for recycling and reporting.

Structural independence

Focus on producers’ needs, joint undertaking composed of leading, independent waste management companies.

Let’s talk

zmart – Packaging licensing for small quantities

With zmart, the Zentek Group offers online retailers and small businesses a simple, digital solution for legally compliant system participation in accordance with the PPWR and Packaging Law Implementation Act (VerpackDG). Packaging quantities can be licensed online in just a few steps.

Exclusively for recycling.de visitors:
5% discount with the code RECYCLING5

zmart: Packaging licensing for small quantities

Support you can rely on.

You want to be certain that processes are effective, rules are followed and help is available whenever you need it. Our transparent, reliable and practical services are designed to satisfy all of these needs.

Expertise

We continuously analyse and adapt to the latest requirements and market developments. We help companies understand which requirements are relevant to them now and which will be in the future.

Advice

We take a practical approach to resolving individual issues, developing specific recommended actions that combine legal certainty with cost-effectiveness.

Legal certainty

All processes – from packaging design to volume reporting – are based on current requirements. Companies act in compliance with the rules at all times.

Implementation

From dual-system participation to reporting, in addition to planning measures, we also provide operational support until quantifiable results are achieved.

Efficiency

Complex processes are structured, digitally supported and clearly documented. This reduces internal effort and creates space for core business activities.

Zentek Group

We are happy to advise you

Work with us and we will offer you advice and support. Our team of experienced experts is always available to answer your questions.

Tel.: +49 2203 8987‑0

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