Good to know

The fund for small devices is significantly below the regulatory minimum. An increase to the ARC is necessary to ensure sustainable financing and high recycling quality.

The new ARC tariffs will come into force on 1 January 2026.

The ARC (advance recycling contribution) finances collection, transport, recycling, quality control and awareness-raising measures in the framework of the SENS system.

Reasons include increased costs, a growth in the volume of devices and a lack of advance recycling contribution adjustments in recent years.

Since 2017, there have been no increases for service partners. In 2024, the charges were increased by 15%. The key drivers behind this were miniaturisation, lithium-ion batteries, decreasing material yield, and higher energy and transport costs.

For small devices (<0.25 kg), the existing contribution sufficiently covers the actual costs.

It is growing at a consistent rate of about 4% annually. Online retail continues to grow, but it has no significant impact on the freeloader rate.

Yes, after the USG and VREG revisions in 2027, new requirements such as contribution obligations and universal applicability will be introduced.

In Switzerland, the impact remains low – high labour costs and a low acceptance of repairs are hindering the development.

The ARC is a part of the final sale price. Manufacturers and importers must check whether they will pass the additional costs on to their customers or absorb them internally. Transparent communication with retailers is crucial.

No, the adjustment primarily concerns the contribution level, not the product declaration. However, the new ARC should be taken into account for price information.

No, the date of sale applies. Products that were placed on the market before 1 January 2026 are subject to the old tariff.

Yes, SENS eRecycling offers advice if there is uncertainty regarding the weight category or product category. You can contact the customer team directly at: kunden@sens.ch.

According to the forecast, the current adjustments are expected to ensure medium-term stability (until around 2030). Further adjustments will depend on market developments and costs.

With the universal applicability planned for 2027, compliance will be more strictly monitored. Violations could lead to sanctions or exclusion from the system.

Advantages include simple disposal solutions for customers, uniform financing solution, access to industry know-how, equal opportunities in the market and a proven recycling system.

Starting in 2028, non-participating companies are to be identified more effectively and involved – this is to protect fair market participants from distortion of competition.

Currently, no exceptions apply. However, special cases can be discussed directly with SENS.

Not directly at this time. In the long term, however, systemic incentives for environmentally friendly products could be examined.