CIRCULAR ECONOMY
Many systems involve reverse logistics solutions – such as reverse vending machines – to collect the packaging, allowing waste management companies to collect and sort it at recycling facilities.
What is the UK’ s plan? The UK’ s DRS was first promised in the Government’ s Resources and Waste Strategy, announced in 2018.
Across England and Northern Ireland, suppliers will face new responsibilities, with a similar legislation coming into place in Scotland, issued by the Scottish Government. The deposit will apply to all drinks containers that are made from aluminium, steel or polyethylene terephthalate( PET) plastic and have a capacity of between 150 millilitres and three litres.
All suppliers in the drinks supply chain must charge the deposit when they sell eligible filled drinks containers. This applies to all drinks producers, importers, wholesalers and retailers across the country.
All retailers selling products included in the scheme must pay the deposit to the producers or wholesalers supplying the drinks and charge the deposit to consumers, according to the Government.
It says that supermarkets, convenience stores and newsagents included in the scheme must host a return point for the containers, which can be manual or automated using a reverse vending machine.
This new system will work alongside the UK’ s existing waste management infrastructure, rather than a replacement. WATCH NOW
Transforming waste into opportunity with Dr Adam Read MBE
98 July 2026