SGF to help develop retail deposit return scheme retailer exemptions framework

SGF to help develop deposit return scheme retailer exemptions framework

The Scottish government has invited the Scottish Grocer's Federation to become a member of an industry advisory group which will develop a deposit return to retailers scheme for retailers in Scotland.

The DRS regulations, approved earlier this year state that the exemptions process will go live in January 2021.

Two main criteria for exemptions will be proximity to another return point and if a retailer can show there is no reasonable way to operate a return point on their premises without being in breach of legal obligations such as food safety.

The advisory group will provide expertise and advice from a range of backgrounds to support the Scottish Government in developing an assessment policy that will ensure fair and consistent assessment of exemption applications in line with the DRS Regulations.

Dr John Lee, SGF head of public affairs, commented: “We are very glad to accept the invitation to be a key member of the advisory group. DRS will simply not be workable for many retailers and they must have the option of taking an exemption.

"The process has to be fair, consistent and transparent. The application process goes live in January and we have to get ready for it now.”

The group will be chaired by the Scottish Government and secretariat support will be provided by the Scottish Government’s Circular Economy Unit.

Representatives of Zero Waste Scotland and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency will attend as observers.