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Deposit & Return systems: The foundations
The fundamentals of deposit and return systems - from design to impact
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of Deposit and Return Systems (DRS), designed to cater to a range of audiences, from technical experts to individuals new to the subject. By the end of this course, participants will have the tools and knowledge to understand, analyze, and advocate for well-functioning DRS systems that drive impactful and sustainable outcomes.
What you'll gain from this course:
- Key Understanding: Learn the core principles of DRS, including how they function, their economic impacts, and their role in promoting sustainability and a circular economy.
- Practical Insights: Gain knowledge of successful and unsuccessful system implementations and the factors that differentiate them.
- Critical Considerations: Understand inclusion and just transition aspects, ensuring equity for informal workers and marginalized stakeholders.
- Real-World Application: Develop the ability to clearly explain what makes a DRS effective, highlighting its benefits and critical design elements.
- Hands-On Learning: Engage with case studies, interactive assignments, and real-life examples to apply your learning effectively.
Course Curriculum
Introduction to the course
4 sessions
- Welcome! Self-paced
- Getting started Self-paced
- Characteristics of a deposit return system Self-paced
- DRS in real life Self-paced
Collection and reverse logistics
5 sessions
- Getting stuff back Self-paced
- Principles of successful DRS logistics Self-paced
- Getting the incentives right Self-paced
- To reuse or to recycle? Self-paced
- What can be solved with DRS - different products and materials Self-paced
Economics of DRS
1 sessions
- Who´s wallet is touched with DRS Self-paced
Stakeholders and engagement
3 sessions
- Key stakeholders and their roles Self-paced
- Just transition and social inclusion Self-paced
- Fixing a broken system Self-paced
Legislation and DRS
1 sessions
- The role of extended producer responsibility Self-paced
Kickstarting action
4 sessions
- From theory to action Self-paced
- Final assignment Assignment
- DRS expert in action Self-paced
- Keeping in touch Self-paced

