The Welsh government has committed to accelerate its implementation timetable for a deposit return scheme (DRS) for drink containers to align with the rest of the UK, which it says would provide for interoperability across the UK.
Elise Seibold, chief operating officer, Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I, said: “We are ready to welcome Wales to the scheme with open arms. This is a really positive step and it gives us the certainty we needed to move forwards. The October 2027 rollout is a crucial milestone in the UK’s path to net zero and together with Wales we can accelerate progress for a circular economy for drinks containers.”
Sarah Horner, UK and Ireland Director at circular economy non-profit Reloop, said: “Reloop welcomes the update on the Deposit Return Scheme by the Deputy First Minister for Wales. We are pleased by the Welsh Government’s offer of alignment of timelines on common materials together with a phased approach to the introduction of glass and reuse. We support this approach and call on the UK Deposit Management Organisation and the UK Government to support the Welsh Government’s environmental ambitions.
“We hope that all involved keep in mind the benefits that deposit return systems bring in meeting public demand for cleaner beaches, streets, trails and green spaces. Deposit Return is also part of a more circular economy for all nations in the UK that recognises the value of reusing wasted materials, keeping materials in use for longer and regenerating natural systems.”
Jason Galley, director and chief executive of the Metal Packaging Manufacturers Association (MPMA), said: “The Welsh Government’s decision to accelerate its Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) implementation timetable to align with the rest of the UK is a welcome step and indicates its steadfast focus to realise ambitious waste management and recycling targets through a forward-thinking, fit-for-purpose infrastructure.
“If we are to drive higher recycling rates and work to reduce carbon emissions through successful DRS implementation then it’s vital that schemes across the devolved administrations maximise interoperability to fully harness aluminium’s circularity and Permanent Material status. “Designing and implementing robust and interoperable schemes is a complex process with significant challenges to address. We remain committed to supporting governments so that well-intentioned policies deliver their desired outcomes and avoid unintended consequences.”
Carla Brian, Biffa’s Head of Partnerships, said: “Positively, the Welsh Government has decided to accelerate the implementation timetable for its Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) for beverage containers, bringing it forward to October 2027. This move aligns timings and the scope of materials with that of all four nations and ensures that, wherever people are, they will be able to take part in the same scheme.
“The Welsh Government has extensively engaged with stakeholders, including Biffa, producers, and retailers to get to this place, and we applaud the ambition to keep Wales at the forefront of recycling performance. The focus now must be on delivering effective implementation, and we look forward to working with all four nations to deliver DRS for plastic and metal drinks containers.”