Strategies and attitudes toward the deposit-refund system in the context of the circular economy concept

This thesis deals with one of the subtopics of the circular economy, the implementation of a deposit-refund system for PET bottles and cans. The thesis aims to analyse the attitudes of individuals toward the issue of the utilization of these types of packaging. Specifically, the study investigated the recycling habits of Czech consumers and their attitudes toward the general introduction of a deposit-refund system. The thesis includes a theoretical and a practical part. The theoretical basis is based on European and Czech legislation, which define the main objectives of waste management. It also analyzes waste production, current waste sorting rates and recycling levels in the Czech Republic, including comparisons with other countries around the world. The introduction of a universal deposit system modelled on other European countries is discussed, including mention of the environmental and economic aspects. A separate chapter is devoted to a research review of existing studies on Czechs' attitudes toward waste sorting and the deposit-refund system. As part of the practical part, quantitative research was conducted in the form of a questionnaire survey carried out among the inhabitants of Kralupy nad Vltavou. The aim was to determine their attitude toward the deposit-refund system and their willingness to sort waste. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used to test the hypotheses. It was discovered that positive attitudes toward the introduction of the deposit-refund system are prevalent. It was also confirmed that older individuals are more inclined to adopt the system, as well as more females than males. The contribution of this thesis is the proposed concept of a PET bottle and can collection system in primary schools using elements of gamification that can be used in other organisations as well. Additionally, the results of this thesis can contribute to a better understanding of individuals' attitudes toward waste sorting and deposit refunds.