Back Your guide to DRS
We’re here to help the UK hospitality industry get ready to successfully participate in a Deposit Return Scheme.
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What is a Deposit Return Scheme?
A Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) is a drinks container recycling scheme where consumers pay a deposit on a beverage in a single use container, and that deposit can be reclaimed by consumers upon return of the empty container. A deposit return scheme aims to incentivise positive behavioural change and reduce littering while encouraging people to return containers for recycling by placing value on a single use container.
Why introduce a Deposit Return Scheme?
A deposit return scheme incentivises behaviour change, presents a symbolic challenge to a throwaway culture and is a significant further step on our journey to developing a more circular economy. Benefits will also include more and better recycling, litter prevention, and tackling climate change.
There are over 50 Deposit Return Schemes in place across the world at the moment delivering against these key objectives.
Where is it being implemented?
The UK Government has announced plans for the introduction of a deposit return scheme (DRS) from October 2027. As more information becomes available, we will ensure that it is shared here with you.
Scotland had planned to be the first nation in the UK to implement a Deposit Return Scheme however in June 2023 this was delayed to October 2025. You can read the statement from the Scottish Government here.
The Republic of Ireland's Deposit Return Scheme is now live. You can find more information about the scheme here.
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