What they do
TOMRA is a Norwegian technology company operating reverse vending machines (RVMs) for beverage container recycling in 60+ markets worldwide. Their machines process over 45 billion used beverage containers per year. TOMRA also develops sensor-based sorting technology for recycling facilities, mining operations, and food processing. The company has been a pioneer in deposit-return scheme (DRS) infrastructure since 1972.
Why they matter
Deposit-return schemes achieve container recycling rates above 90%, compared to 30 to 50% in markets without deposits. TOMRA provides the physical infrastructure that makes these systems work: machines in supermarkets where consumers return containers and receive their deposit back. As more countries adopt DRS (the EU is moving toward a continental scheme), TOMRA's technology becomes critical infrastructure for the circular economy. Their sorting technology also improves recycling purity, increasing the value and usability of recovered materials.
How to support
Use reverse vending machines to return containers in your area. Advocate for deposit-return scheme legislation in markets that do not have it. TOMRA's annual sustainability report tracks container collection volumes and recycling rates.
Key project to explore
TOMRA's reverse vending machines process over 45 billion beverage containers annually across 60+ markets, achieving recycling rates above 90% in deposit-return scheme jurisdictions.