Tesco is set to trial a Deposit Return Scheme for plastic bottles in a number of stores across the UK as part of its commitment to eliminating single use plastic.

The first reverse vending machine was opened today (Thursday) in Borehamwood, with further trials to take place in Swansea, Edinburgh, Manchester and Birmingham.

Customers will receive 10p for each bottle returned.

In addition, from 3 October customers will be able to reuse their own multi-use plastic containers when they buy meat, cheese or fish from deli and fish counters in UK stores.

Instead of using single-use plastic bags, products will be weighed and wrapped in recyclable paper then placed inside the customer’s container with the price label placed on the paper.

Jason Tarry, Tesco UK and ROI ceo, said: “We are already committed to eliminating single use plastic wherever we can and make recycling simpler for customers. Today is another step in that direction.

“However, we know that it is going to take retailers, manufacturers and government to work together to make progress. We would urge the government to move to a single, nationwide approach to waste collection that makes it much easier for people to recycle.”