Re-turn – the operator of Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) – has reported that 900 million bottles and cans have been returned since the start of the scheme on 1 February 2024.
The scheme started with a transition period, ending 1 June, where old stock without the deposit charge was sold.
Since 1 June, all cans and bottles within the DRS parameters sold incur a charge and are eligible for return.
As the one-year mark since the transition period launched approaches, uptake for the scheme continues to grow.
The Re-turn network of DRS return points has also increased by more than 800 since its launch.
There are now over 2,600 reverse vending machines (RVMs) across the country, as well as 470 manual return points nationwide.
The increased number of RVMs includes four new RVMs at Cork Airport, installed in November 2024 – two for returning deposits and two on behalf of Return for Children, a charity fundraising initiative where deposits are donated to six children’s charities.
Circular Economy
As a circular economy initiative, Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme aims to move away from the ‘take, make and dispose’ culture to one of returning valuable materials and keeping them in the economy for as long as possible.
Through the DRS, aluminium cans can be recycled infinitely, while PET plastic bottles can be recycled multiple times, reducing the need for virgin materials.
By returning containers through DRS return points rather than placing them in the recycling bin, consumers are ensuring the separate collection of a higher quality recyclate.
Through engagement with the scheme, Ireland can increase its recyclate quality to 98% – up from 80% before the start of the scheme.
While the scheme has reduced the number of bottles and cans littered on the streets, overall litter levels have not fallen, according to a survey by Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL).
Conor Horgan from IBAL complimented the scheme's influence, however, saying, “We are definitely seeing cans and bottles disappear from our streets, which is very welcome – not only are they unsightly, but the bottles contribute to the very real problem of plastic pollution.
“However, it is clear from our survey that people continue to discard a wide range of litter types, with flagrant disregard for their surroundings.”
He added, “The DRS was one of a number of structural measures broached by the last government as part of its environmental agenda, with knock-on benefits in terms of litter.”
‘The Early Impact Is Undeniable’
Commenting on the progress of the scheme, CEO of Re-turn Ciaran Foley said, “This is an exciting milestone as we celebrate the first year since the Deposit Return Scheme began its transition period.
“The achievement of nearly one billion plastic bottles and cans returned is a testament to the growing support of the Irish people.
“The early impact is undeniable – recent research from IBAL shows almost a 50% reduction in plastic bottle and can litter on Irish streets already.
“Additionally, over 2,000 local initiatives have been launched to raise funds for clubs and charities, making a tangible and positive difference to communities nationwide.
“This 900 million milestone is a fantastic achievement and a sign of even greater things to come.”
Communities and event organisers who would like to get involved can get further guidance by emailing [email protected].
Read More: DRS Reduced Plastic Waste But Failed To Impact Overall Litter Levels – IBAL