Today (1 April) marks the 18-month countdown to the introduction of the UK’s Deposit Return Scheme (DRS).
Due to start on 1 October 2027, the new DRS will mean customers will pay a refundable deposit for certain single-use drink containers. Slightly different rules are also currently under consideration for Wales, with glass also due to be accepted after a vote earlier this month.
Now, not-for-profit campaign group Reloop has issued a statement as a result of the milestone. Sarah Horner (left), UK and Ireland director, said: “We’re excited to hit the milestone of just 18 months until the UK’s deposit return schemes begin.
”Our streets, rivers, seas and countryside trails have been choking under the weight of pollution, much of it made up of discarded drinks containers.
“Once the scheme is up and running we expect this litter to start dramatically reducing as the new cash deposit will incentivise people to return these items for recycling.
“Reloop has calculated that a further 9.9bn plastic and metal drinks containers will be wasted in the UK before the scheme begins next year, a stark reminder of why the bottle and can return scheme is so urgently needed.
”The scheme will keep resources in circulation and support a more circular economy, while making a tangible difference to people’s lives through reducing litter and protecting our natural environment.”
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