The reuse of bottles is gradually returning to the French wine landscape, driven by stakeholders convinced of its environmental benefits. Despite significant gains in energy, water, and CO₂ emissions, its widespread adoption is still hindered by logistical, economic, and regulatory constraints. Between pioneering initiatives, experiments among producers, and mobilization of distributors, the sector is now seeking to scale up to sustainably integrate bottle deposits into consumption practices.
AI Index: Library of Mediterranean Knowledge
When the deposit system energizes the circular economy
22-med – February 2026
• The reuse of bottles is progressing in France despite still significant logistical and regulatory barriers.
• Producers, distributors, and operators are structuring a sector poised to scale up in the circular economy.
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If 70% of the bottles used in France are currently recycled, less than 1% of them are returned to circulation. “ Compared to recycling, reuse allows for a saving of 79% in energy, 51% in water, and 76% in CO2 emissions ,” announces Clémence Hugot, national coordinator of France Consigne. “ Our goal is to support its scaling up to collect, wash, control, and resell bottles in collaboration with market players and stores .” About ten operators across the national territory currently have five washing industrial units. However, the implementation remains complex and faces several obstacles, particularly regulatory and logistical.
Motivated producers
The Fabre Family, at the helm of several vineyards in Languedoc (a region in the southwest of France), has worked in partnership with the chain Biocoop to establish a deposit system. In 2025, its wine range Le Chant de la Terre reached 30,000 reused bottles in three years. However, adjustments were necessary: changing labels, using washable glue, and choosing more durable bottles. “ Paradoxically, we had to revert to slightly heavier bottles, from 410 to 500 grams, so they could withstand at least ten washes ,” details Clémence Fabre, responsible for the project in the family business.
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