How it Works

Implemented in 1978, the state of Michigan was the first state to adopt a bottle and can return system. Since then, we have seen a drastic decline in both litter and waste and carbon emissions resulting from the consumption of carbonated beverages. By law, any stores that sell beverages with deposits in Michigan are also required to accept returns, and most grocery stores are equipped with a bottle and can return station.

Whenever you purchase a carbonated beverage in Michigan, you also pay a 10-cent deposit. By returning your aluminum, glass, and plastic containers to the grocery store for processing and recycling through Michigan’s deposit system, you can easily claim your 10-cent deposit back.

If your store will not accept containers that are clean, clearly labeled as deposit containers, and sold by the store, contact the Michigan Department of Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division to file a complaint or call 1-877-765-8388.