First Time in Amsterdam: How (and Why) to Donate Your Bottle Deposit

Statiegeld: Amsterdam’s Bottle Deposit System Explained

If you’re visiting Amsterdam for the first time, you’ll quickly notice a small extra charge on plastic bottles and cans at supermarkets and shops. This is statiegeld—the Dutch bottle deposit system designed to encourage recycling. But did you know you can donate your refund to local charities? Here’s how the system works and how you can make a positive impact during your stay.

How Statiegeld Works

• When you buy a plastic bottle or can, you pay a deposit—usually €0.15 to €0.25—on top of the retail price.
• Return your empty bottle to a reverse vending machine (found in most supermarkets) to get your deposit back.
• You’ll receive a voucher, which you can either cash out at the register or donate.

How to Donate Your Statiegeld

• Look for the ‘doneren’ (donate) option on the reverse vending machine’s screen.
• Select a local charity—these are often listed with logos and a short description.
• Confirm your donation. The value of your statiegeld is transferred directly to the charity of your choice.

Why Donate?

• It’s a quick, easy way to support local causes, from food banks to animal shelters.
• Even small donations add up—millions of bottles are returned every year.
• It’s a sustainable travel habit that leaves a positive footprint.

Traveler Tips

• Some hotels and hostels collect bottles for donation—ask at the front desk.
• If you don’t want to carry empty bottles, leave them neatly next to a supermarket’s return machine. Locals or collectors will gladly return and donate them.
• For more first-time advice, see our Amsterdam First Time Guide.

Conclusion

Statiegeld is an easy, eco-friendly part of Amsterdam life. By donating your deposit, you help keep the city clean and support community initiatives. It’s a small gesture that makes a big difference—and a memorable way to give back during your Amsterdam adventure.