Government delays deposit return scheme

The government has launched a new consultation on the next steps for a deposit return scheme. In the consultation, the government has confirmed that it anticipates the scheme will launch in 2024, although it is seeking views on the timeframes as part of this stage of the process.

The consultation presents two main options for the size of containers that will be included in the scope of the DRS regulations, these are: an ‘all-in’ system that includes containers up to 3 litres in size and an ‘on-the-go’ system that excludes containers over 750ml, as well as containers that are part of multipacks.

Under the current proposals, all retailers would be required to take part in a DRS, either through a reverse vending solution or by accepting returns manually. The materials that are set to be included in the scope of the regulations are PET plastic bottles, glass bottles, and steel and aluminium cans.

ACS chief executive, James Lowman, said: “The introduction of a deposit return scheme has been talked about for several years, but there remain a host of unanswered questions about how a scheme would work in practice. We are committed to making DRS work, and the government can develop the most effective scheme by following our principles on a well-designed scheme, strategically mapping return points and placing no obligations on retailers to take back containers manually. We will continue to work closely with DEFRA on the detail of these regulations.”

In response, Tom Fyans, campaigns and policy director at the countryside charity CPRE, said: “This delay is so much more than kicking the can down the road – it seems that in the face of industry lobbying, ministers would prefer to stick their heads in the sand rather than tackle the problem of waste head on.

“The public want to see action, not just warm words. The evidence is clear that an ‘all-in’ deposit return scheme is the best option for people, planet, and our economy, yet the government are showing no leadership on the issue at all. It beggars belief that when the evidence is so clear that an ‘all-in’ deposit system is needed, they are still unwilling to make the polluter pay.”

Planet Patrol founder, Lizzie Carr, added: “If the UK government is genuine about its commitments to a green recovery and ‘high ambitions for the resources and waste sector’, we cannot continue to allow delays and excuses like this.”