Research Publications

This study assesses the current effectiveness of Michigan’s Bottle Deposit Law and explores opportunities to modernize the system in response to shifting redemption trends and stakeholder needs. Specifically, the study seeks to:

1. Understand the factors contributing to declining redemption rates,
2. Benchmark Michigan’s system against other bottle bill states to identify best practices, and
3. Incorporate insights from key stakeholders including retailers, recyclers, distributors, and policy advocates to evaluate feasible policy or operational changes.

By combining data analysis with stakeholder engagement, the study provides recommendations to strengthen the bottle deposit system’s role in reducing waste, supporting a circular economy, and advancing broader sustainability and recycling goals in the state.