THE UK Government has today implemented legislation for a deposit return scheme for drinks containers in England and Northern Ireland.
Targeted to launch in October 2027, it will give consumers a financial incentive to return empty containers to a collection point, such as at their local supermarket, so that the bottle or can will be recycled.
The news comes as Scotland’s own deposit return scheme regulations progress, with the UK Government saying it marks a ‘major step forward’ for the three nations – with deposit return schemes currently in operation across more than 50 countries worldwide.
Nations such as Germany, Sweden, and the Republic of Ireland have successfully implemented schemes, ensuring valuable materials are collected, recycled and made back into new drinks containers. The average return rate for European countries with a DRS is 90%, according to global eNGO Reloop, with Germany showing the best results at 98%.
Across England, Northern Ireland, and Scotland, consumers buy an estimated 30 billion single-use drinks containers each year – including 12 billion plastic drinks bottles and 13 billion drinks cans. An estimated 6.5 billion single-use drinks bottles and cans per year go to waste rather than being recycled, with many ending up littered. Research from the Marine Conservation Societyshows 97% of surveyed beaches were polluted with drinks-related items in 2023.
UK Government circular economy minister Mary Creagh said, “This government will clean up Britain and end the throwaway society.
“This is a vital step as we stop the avalanche of rubbish that is filling up our streets, rivers and oceans and protect our treasured wildlife. Turning trash into cash also delivers on our Plan for Change by kickstarting clean growth, ensuring economic stability, more resilient supply chains, and new green jobs.”
Stephen Moorhouse, VP and general manager of Coca-Cola Europacific Partners GB Business Unit, added, “We’ve been supportive of launching a DRS across the UK for a number of years as they are a proven way of increasing recycling, reducing waste and tackling litter. Therefore, we welcome the clarity provided by the regulation for England and Northern Ireland and are encouraged by recent developments that will ensure an aligned scheme with Scotland, despite wider challenges around a UK-wide approach.
“Delivering to the timelines will be challenging but achievable, and now is the time for industry to roll up its sleeves to create a well-designed system that works for businesses, shoppers and the environment.”
Association of Convenience Stores chief executive James Lowman commented, “We are pleased to have certainty on the DRS regulations so local shops can start to prepare for October 2027 and our communities can realise the benefits of reduced litter and higher quality recycled materials.
“Now the real work begins to make the deposit return scheme a success through cross-industry partnership and a planned network of return points that work for customers.”
