Deposit Return Scheme
Changing the way the UK recycles.
What is the Deposit Return Scheme?
The Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) is a recycling initiative, used across the world, to help reduce litter and increase recycling of drinks containers such as bottles and cans.
It is estimated that over 35 million plastic bottles are used each day in the UK but nearly half of these do not make it the recycling bin.
How does the Deposit Return Scheme work?
From October 2027, when purchasing drinks in a bottle or can, consumers in the UK will be charged a small refundable deposit. This charge will be refunded when the empty container is brought back to a designated collection point to be recycled.
Timeline
What does this mean for my business?
Businesses that sell drinks for consumption off site in single-use plastic bottles and steel or aluminium cans will be required to participate in the scheme and will need to charge their customers the deposit on each drink container.
Businesses will need to act as return points, meaning they can take the containers back and store them until they’re collected. Some smaller businesses may be exempt from this – there will be more guidance on this in the future, but currently exemptions are available to businesses with a floor plan of less than 100m2 or their size, layout and location makes it difficult for a return point and they are in close proximity to another physical return point.
Producers of drinks in single-use bottles and cans will be responsible for registering with the scheme and ensuring that their containers have the right labels and barcodes. They will also need to contribute to the running costs of the scheme and report how many containers they sell into the market.
To find out more, visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/deposit-return-scheme-drinks-producer-and-retailer-responsibilities
How does the Deposit Return Scheme work?
The deposit return scheme will charge anyone buying a drink in a bottle or can, a small refundable deposit. Consumers can then return the bottle or can to a collection point where they will be refunded this deposit amount.
What is the purpose of the Deposit Return Scheme?
The purpose of the Deposit Return Scheme is to encourage consumers to recycle more and avoid littering. By bringing in the incentive of getting money back from every drink bought, more consumers will return the empty bottles/cans to be recycled.
When will the Deposit Return Scheme come into effect in the UK?
The Deposit Return Scheme will come into effect October 2027.
What items are accepted in the scheme?
The materials within the scheme for England, Scotland and Northern Ireland include PET bottles as well as steel and aluminium cans, that have a capacity between 150 millilitres and 3 litres.
The scheme will not include glass in the initial launch; however, Wales has committed to include glass in its scheme.
How Grundon can help
Our team is here to support your business as you adapt to these recycling requirements.
Contact us today for advice on this legislation and explore options for your business.