Comparison of Store Collection of PET Bottles Between Sweden and Japan

Abstract

More retailers in Japan have recently collected used PET bottles. These store collections face many problems such as the burden on retailers and the relationship with municipal governments. On the other hand, in Sweden, mandatory deposit-refund systems collect used PET bottles in stores with the same types of reverse vending machines as those used in Japan. This paper aims to clarify the characteristics of store collection in Japan, from the structural and historical perspective, compared to that in Sweden, in terms of PET bottles. This clarification will create a basis for future Japanese store collection.

This paper suggests solutions to Japanese store collection problems: Firstly, the store collection should include a scheme such as handling fees and charging deposits on a purchase phase, in order to decrease the burden on retailers. Secondly, stores should collect more recyclables, and municipalities should help households and difficult-to-reach areas with store collection. Thirdly, sharing a policy target with a variety of stakeholders for socially efficient use of store collection would be valuable.