Norway

The Norwegian model uses a loan scheme whereby the bottle you ‘purchase’ does not belong to you. Instead, it can be exchanged at the several thousands of reverse vending machines, or over the counter at stores and gas stations in return for cash or store credit.
If that isn’t enough, the Norwegian government implemented an environmental tax on plastic producers which can be reduced the more they recycle. If collectively, over the nation, recycling is above 95% then everyone is exempt from paying the tax. Over the last seven years plastic producers have continued to reach this target. To ensure consumers also meet the target, they attach a deposit onto the bottle of around 15 to 30 cents which will be redeemed when it is returned. A bottle can be recycled 12 times. Clear bottles are used to re-make bottles and the coloured ones can make new plastic materials. The model has been welcomed by small shop owners as they receive a small fee for each bottle and some say it even increases business.