Europese Commissie overweegt proces tegen Duitsland vanwege statiegeld-systeem (en)

The European Commission may sue Germany over its controversial can and bottle recycling system, because they believe it discriminates against the import of foreign beverages.

Germany claims the rules are to protect the environment and encourage recycling, while the Commission says the rules are made to protect German bottle manufacturers.

"I can confirm it is on the Commission's agenda," Commission spokesman Jonathan Todd told Reuters.

According to the news agency, in 2003 Germany introduced a system of compulsory deposit on non-reusable beverage containers such as cans.

The rule favours domestic firms, who use refillable glass bottles, while foreign companies prefer plastic and aluminium in order to reduce the cost of transport.