How does deposit system work at Nowa Market?

Why Choose Glass for Storage?

Unlike plastic, which is rarely 100% recyclable, returnable glass is fully recyclable and can be reused indefinitely. This makes it a more environmentally friendly alternative, while also being safer for both the environment and human health, as glass does not release harmful chemicals into food.

An Environmental Challenge

While zero waste is becoming a priority, the production of single-use plastic continues to rise by 4% per year since 2000. In response to this, deposit systems for food packaging and everyday items are emerging as a key solution to reducing environmental impact.

Although the deposit system is making a comeback in France and Belgium, the concept of returnable glass has existed for decades. It allows consumers to return bottles and jars to stores, where they are cleaned and reused.

But how does this system really work, and why did Nowa Market choose to adopt it? This article explores the origins, effectiveness, and benefits of the deposit system.

Why Choose Reuse Over Recycling?

The current model of extraction, production, and consumption in developed countries is no longer sustainable for a responsible future. We need to shift towards a circular model, focused on reusing already-extracted resources, thus reducing environmental impact. This is the goal of the circular economy, in which deposit and reuse systems play a crucial role.

Returnable glass has two major advantages over recycling:

• Economic: Deposit costs are 2 to 7 times lower than recycling costs. Consumers also save money by avoiding single-use packaging.
• Environmental: A glass bottle can be reused up to 50 times, whereas recycling requires melting glass at 1500°C, leading to significant energy consumption.

👉 Choosing reuse over recycling could reduce: 70% of greenhouse gas emissions, 60% of sulfur dioxide emissions, which cause acid rain, and 40% of water consumption compared to traditional production.

What Are the Benefits of Glass for Food Storage?

A Natural and Safe Material

Glass is made from sand, limestone, and soda ash, with no added chemicals. It is inert and unalterable, meaning it does not release harmful substances or alter the taste of food.

A Safe and Airtight Packaging

Unlike other materials, glass preserves the flavor and nutritional properties of food (vitamins, minerals…). Its high-level insulation makes it an ideal choice for storage.

How Does the Deposit System Work at Nowa Market?

The Deposit System

At checkout, a deposit fee is applied to each container. This fee ranges from €0.10 to €1.

💡 This deposit functions as a rental for the packaging. Once returned, you will receive a store credit equal to the amount paid.

If you no longer wish to order from Nowa Market, we can refund your deposit directly to your bank account. Simply email hello@nowa.market.

Our Returnable Containers

Glass Jars

• L (1700 ml)
• M (850 ml)
• S (446 ml)
• XS (236 ml)
• XXS container

Returnable Bottles

• Bottle 1000 ml
• Bottle 750 ml – Potje d’ici
• Beer bottle
• Bottle 250 ml
• Pajottenlander juice bottle
• Inex milk bottle
• Beer pack

Other Returnable Packaging

• Bucket
• Recycled bag
• Shampoo bottle
• Egg box

How Does the QR Code System Work?

Each returnable container is equipped with a unique QR code that ensures proper tracking. This system guarantees quick refunds as soon as the container is returned to one of our partners.

💡 To avoid damaging the QR code, we recommend not putting glass jars in the dishwasher. Simply rinsing them before returning them is sufficient.

1001 Reasons to Switch to Glass

Returnable glass is a sustainable solution that helps reduce waste, preserve resources, and save energy. It is more eco-friendly, more economical, and healthier than disposable alternatives.

Why not make the switch today?