Cologne, September 29, 2025. For 35 years, Der Grüne Punkt has been shaping the circular economy in Germany and far beyond. Founded on September 28, 1990, by industry and trade in Bonn, the company was established to implement a dual system for the collection and recycling of sales packaging. Originally a non-profit organization, Der Grüne Punkt is now an internationally operating company under the umbrella brand GreenDot group, known for innovative recycling solutions, efficient take-back systems, the development and production of recyclates, and consulting on design for recycling.

In 1990, industry and trade founded Der Grüne Punkt to create an independent system for the return and recycling of packaging. The initiative was driven by the growing volume of waste, which had previously ended up largely unsorted in landfills. With Der Grüne Punkt, a dual disposal system was introduced that collects packaging waste separately from general household waste. The introduction of collection containers such as the Yellow Bag and glass bins led to high costs, which were borne by companies and initially impacted product prices. The trademark “Der Grüne Punkt” was established as a licensing symbol and became an internationally recognized icon throughout the 1990s.

Milestones of a Sustainable Success Story

• 1990: Founding of Der Grüne Punkt – Industry and trade launch the Dual System to finance packaging disposal. The trademark “Der Grüne Punkt” is introduced as a licensing symbol.

   

• 1991: Legal foundation – The world’s first Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) law comes into force, marking a milestone for the circular economy.

• 1992–2000: Infrastructure development – Nationwide collection, sorting, and recycling of packaging is established across Germany.

• 2003: Market liberalization – Following decisions by the EU Commission and the German Federal Cartel Office, the market for dual systems is opened, paving the way for competition and efficiency.

• 2011: Entry into plastics recycling – With the founding of Systec Plastics GmbH, production of plastic recyclates (PP and LDPE) begins in Hörstel and Eisfeld.

• 2019: Packaging Act & Central Authority – The new Packaging Act comes into force, and the Central Packaging Register Office is established as a regulatory body

• 2024: Internationalization & Innovation – New owner GreenDot Global opens up opportunities for chemical recycling and expands operations in Italy and the TriPlast joint venture in Austria.

• 2025: Shaping the future – With Agilyx as a new shareholder, the group continues its development with the goal of keeping more materials in the loop and reducing emissions.

“From a well-established system in Germany to an international provider – The history of our company shows how circular economy works. We’re proud to actively conserve resources and promote environmental protection,” says Laurent Auguste, CEO of GreenDot Group.

“The challenges ahead are complex, but we’re ready to face them,” adds Denis Völler, Managing Director of Der Grüne Punkt. “With innovation, experience, and strong partners, we’re shaping the next generation of the circular economy.”

Today, Der Grüne Punkt stands as a symbol of responsible business practices, resource conservation, and environmental protection – a testament to how industry, trade, and innovation can come together to drive a movement. Looking ahead, the company remains committed to innovation, sustainability, and intelligent recycling solutions to make the circular economy even more efficient. The vision: a closed material loop that protects the environment and climate while remaining economically viable.