Introduction of a deposit return scheme in England, Wales and Northern Ireland

2021, DEFRA

This consultation asked for opinions on DEFRA’s proposals to introduce a deposit return scheme for drinks containers in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

By creating a deposit return scheme, DEFRA wants to increase the recycling rate of drinks containers and reduce littering.  DEFRA argues that introducing such a scheme will help change consumer behaviour to encourage higher levels of drinks container recycling.

DEFRA asked for views on:

• how a deposit return scheme will operate
• scheme scope and design
• implementation timelines
• scheme enforcement