How will retailers and cafés be impacted by the proposed Deposit Return Scheme? Will they be obliged to purchase reverse vending machines?
Q
How will retailers and cafés be impacted by the proposed Deposit Return Scheme? Will they be obliged to purchase reverse vending machines?
A
The Government is proposing to introduce a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) for drinks containers in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (Scotland has a separate scheme.) This is likely to commence in 2024. The purpose is to ensure that 90% of drinks containers are collected and recycled, thus conserving valuable resources. The DRS would cover PET plastic bottles, aluminium and steel cans, and glass bottles (not cartons).