Romania’s Deposit-Return System (SGR) has exceeded expectations more than two years after its launch, while still facing significant challenges ahead.

“The DRS system is at a point where it works well and, moreover, it has somehow exceeded all our expectations more than two years after its launch. This, however, does not mean we are free of challenges,” Robert Uzuna, president of ARAM (Romanian Association for Packaging and the Environment) stated today at the Resource Recovery Summit.

According to him, while the system has performed strongly so far, further adjustments are still needed to ensure it meets its long-term objectives.

“There are still things to be settled in how the system operates. Even though it has performed very well so far—and I believe the real stress test was last year’s return rate performance—this year brings major challenges if we are to reach the targets set both in the system’s original plan and in the legislation governing its obligations,” he explained.

Uzuna highlighted that achieving higher performance levels will become increasingly difficult as the system approaches its maximum potential.

“This means a 10-percentage-point increase in achieving collection targets for two materials. When performance approaches its designed maximum potential, further incremental growth becomes harder to achieve. I say this from an optimistic perspective, and by no means as an excuse or as a prelude to complaints about what is not working or who might stand in our way,” he added.

Looking ahead, 2026 is expected to be a demanding year, requiring close cooperation between all stakeholders involved in the system.

“We have entered 2026 with multiple challenges, but also with expectations that, together with our partners in building the system—first and foremost the shareholders and the authorities—we will do everything in our power not to disappoint in the third year of SGR’s operation,” Uzuna said.

He also noted that while the system is progressing, it has not yet reached full maturity.

“There are still adjustments to be made, and the DRS system is still some distance away from reaching cruising speed. We need to allow the system time to settle and fine-tune its mechanisms, and I would say it is premature to expand it. On the other hand, moving forward, we may keep an open mind and be ready to discuss and analyse thoroughly any proposals for potential expansion opportunities, by dedicating time properly, as this is normally a lengthy process, if done diligently.”