The Government has today (27) implemented legislation for the deposit return scheme for drinks containers in England and Northern Ireland. The scheme will come into force in October 2027.
Post October 2027, consumers will have a financial incentive to return empty containers to a collection point, such as at their local supermarket and stores, so that the bottle or can will be recycled.
The 150ml to three-litre single-use drinks containers made from plastic and metal included in the scheme.
With the new legislation for England and Northern Ireland now into force, the scheme administrator – known as the Deposit Management Organisation – will be appointed in April 2025. This will be a not-for-profit, industry-led body responsible for the administration and day-to-day running of the scheme.
With Scotland’s own regulations also progressing, this marks a major step forward for the introduction of the scheme across the three nations, stated the official announcement.
The three governments will ensure the scheme is implemented effectively, working closely with businesses to provide the infrastructure and investment to make it a success.
Circular Economy Minister 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."
Association of Convenience Stores chief executive James Lowman said, "We are pleased to have certainty on the DRS regulations so local shops can start to prepare for October 2027 and our communities can realise the benefits of reduced litter and higher quality recycled materials.
"Now the real work begins to make the deposit return scheme a success through cross-industry partnership and a planned network of return points that work for customers."
Welcoming the scheme, Stephen Moorhouse, Vice President and General Manager of Coca-Cola Europacific Partners GB Business Unit, said, "We’ve been supportive of launching a DRS across the UK for a number of years as they are a proven way of increasing recycling, reducing waste and tackling litter.
"Therefore, we welcome the clarity provided by the regulation for England and Northern Ireland and are encouraged by recent developments that will ensure an aligned scheme with Scotland, despite wider challenges around a UK-wide approach.
"Delivering to the timelines will be challenging but achievable, and now is the time for industry to roll up its sleeves to create a well-designed system that works for businesses, shoppers and the environment."
Hitting this milestone is another big step forward for the Government’s collection and packaging reforms, which together will support 21,000 new jobs and stimulate more than £10 billion of investment in recycling over the next decade.
