Bottle Returns vs Recycling

Michigan is one of 10 states that have container deposit legislation, or “Bottle Bills”. Since 1976, Michigan has required that certain containers for soft drinks and alcoholic beverages be returnable at retailers for a deposit of 10¢. This bill has contributed to Michigan’s high collection rate of 75-90% for returnables.
 
Returnables, including pop cans, plastic bottles #1-#7, and glass (marked drop off bins only) are recyclable at the WWRA. Michigan Bottle Bill deposits can only be received at retailers. We recommend recycling your returnables when you are unable to bring them to bottle returns in store.
 
For more information on Michigan’s bottle bill, click the links below.