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UK Government implements Deposit Return Scheme legislation

The UK Government has implemented legislation for a deposit return system for single-use beverage containers in England and Northern Ireland.

Scotland’s regulations are also progressing, marking a major step forward for the introduction of the deposit system across the three nations. Launching in October 2027, the system will cover 150ml to three-litre single-use beverage containers made from plastic and metal.

Last year, Wales announced that it would be looking to include glass in its system.

The new legislation allows the appointment of the scheme administrator – known as the Deposit Management Organisation (DMO) – in April 2025. This will be a not-for-profit, industry-led body responsible for the administration and day-to-day running of the scheme.

Across England, Northern Ireland and Scotland, consumers purchase an estimated 30 billion single-use beverage containers each year – including 12 billion plastic drinks bottles and 13 billion drinks cans.

“We were delighted to see the Deposit Return Scheme regulations pass through the UK Parliament, allowing England and Northern Ireland to move ahead at pace with the delivery of this vital scheme by October 2027.

“We fully support the next steps to kick off the scheme, which will both tackle the scourge of litter and offer a valuable source of recyclate materials to industry.

“The Republic of Ireland has seen almost 1 billion containers returned since its scheme launched last February, and surveys there have reported huge falls in drinks litter around the country.

“Around the world, countries are rolling out deposit return schemes to boost recycling rates and tackle litter. Austria launched its scheme this month, and Spain has recently announced its own initiative.

“This widespread global support highlights how bottle deposit return systems represent international best practice for creating a sustainable and circular economy, while helping to tackle litter in our seas, rivers, trails, and streets.”

Research from the Marine Conservation Society shows that 97% of surveyed beaches were polluted with drinks-related items in 2023.

Trash Free Trails’ State of Our Trails Report identified that 33% of the single-use pollution their volunteers are surveying are containers that would be part of the deposit return system.

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This news article is in line with Reloop’s programme for packaging collected properly, with effective separation.

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