The UK government has committed to reducing waste by introducing legislation for a deposit return scheme (DRS) for bottles and cans in England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
When the scheme formally launches in October 2027, consumers will be financially incentivised to return their empty containers to collection points such as local supermarkets, ensuring the bottles or cans are recycled in the process.
Used in more than 50 countries globally as a practical way to encourage greater recycling of single-use bottles and cans, a DRS allows individuals to receive a refund for returning their containers.
Countries such as Germany and Sweden have implemented schemes that collect, recycle, and reuse materials to create new drink containers, offering a simple and effective circular solution.
According to global environmental nongovernmental organisation Reloop, the average return rate for European countries with a DRS is 90%, with Germany achieving the highest rate at 98%.
An estimated 30 billion single-use drink containers, including 12 billion plastic bottles and 13 billion cans, are purchased by consumers annually across England, Northern Ireland, and Scotland.
Around 6.5 billion of these single-use drink bottles and cans are wasted each year instead of being recycled, with many ending up as litter.
Research from the Marine Conservation Society reveals that 97% of surveyed beaches were polluted with drinks-related items in 2023.
The DRS will encourage universal participation in recycling, covering single-use drink containers from 150ml to three litres, made either of plastic or metal.
UK Minister for Nature 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.”
