Why Danes leave bottles behind in public spaces

During my stay in Copenhagen, I noticed a phenomenon that, according to locals, is quite common in the capital's parks and other public places. Among people enjoying their free time after school or work, sitting with drinks, bottle and can collectors move inconspicuously. They are often homeless or marginalized people, who go around trash cans and groups on the lawn, searching for deposit-bearing containers with a bag in hand. I observed this at Kongens Have, one of the city's most popular parks, and tried to speak with some of the collectors myself, but either they declined to talk or could not communicate in English.

What is a "Pant" system?

Throughout Denmark, a simple deposit system called "pant" is in place. When buying drinks in cans or glass or plastic bottles, customers pay a small deposit, which depends on the material and size of the container. The deposit is returned when the packaging is brought back to a collection point. According to the non-profit company Dansk Retursystem, which manages the system, 92% of bottles and cans are returned, making Denmark a world leader.

Local residents confirm that they use the system:

"Yeah, we collect all the bottles and then we return them and buy something with it like for the house. Like cleaning supplies," says a Danish student.

"Yes, of course. I keep them at home in bags and once a month, I take them back to the store, so I get my purchase cheaper," explains a Copenhagen resident.

“When I drink at home, I return them. But if I’m in the park, I’ll just leave the cans by a trash can so people can take them and get some money,” one Dane adds. 

Giving bottles is common

Many note that carrying bottles home is not always convenient, and if a collector approaches them, they are happy to give their bottles or leave them nearby a bin. “I don't put the bottles into bins, but you know, put them next to the bins, so it's less humiliating and nasty for these people to get those bottles.”

Most locals agree that the majority of collectors are foreigners and communicate mainly through gestures. That’s perhaps why collectors don’t always ask, and sometimes take bottles without asking, which can feel uncomfortable. 

One student recalled, “We were at a party in the park, drinking beer, and someone started taking our bottles without asking. We let him, but it would have been nicer if he had asked first.” 

Another Dane adds, “They don't always ask. Sometimes it feels a bit rude, like they just want the can and that can be kind of intimidating. They just come up, look at you, and then indicate in some way. But most of them are trying to be nice. I think it's just that many of them don't speak Danish or English.”

What tourists think?

Tourists’ attitudes vary. Those from countries with a deposit system, such as Germany or Estonia, are familiar with how it works and usually keep their bottles to return them in a store. “In Germany, we have the same system, so I would bring the bottles back myself. But if someone came and asked me for it, I would just give them,” said a visitor from Germany. 

Others, from countries without such a system, often did not know about it but appreciated the idea: “We don’t have this back home, but it seems great for the environment,” explained a tourist from Turkey.

Overall, Copenhagen residents see the practice positively. Leaving bottles near bins is not a sign of carelessness, it reflects thoughtfulness. People understand that collectors use these deposits to earn a small income, while also keeping the city clean and supporting recycling.

This article is intended for international readers who are unfamiliar with the Danish deposit system, which affects everyday life in Copenhagen's parks and public places.