The national Deposit Return Scheme which was introduced on 1 February 2024 enables consumers to bring back used plastic drink bottles and aluminium cans which carry the Re-turn logo to reclaim the deposit which has been paid at purchase. While it is too early to evaluate the success of the scheme in terms of the reduction in littering there is already anecdotal evidence that plastic drinks bottles and aluminium cans have become less evident among street litter, and it is certain that this reduction will happen as these containers now have a monetary value.  The success of similar schemes in countries such as Sweden and Norway for example is well documented and suggests that a return rate in excess of 90% of all drinks containers is achievable.  It is expected that the reduction in littering related to such containers will be evaluated in due course by the scheme providers and through the National Litter Pollution Monitoring Scheme which is run by the Dept of Environment, Climate and Communications.

It is estimated that 5 million single-use drinks bottles and cans are consumed every day in Ireland. Drinks containers are typically consumed 'on the go' and are often thrown away in mixed waste or litter, instead of being recycled.  At present the recycling rate for 'on-the-go' bottles is only 23% and this needs to be increased to 90% by 2029 if we are to meet EU recycling targets.  The Deposit Return Scheme will boost the recycling rate for these drinks containers by charging a small, refundable deposit for each plastic bottle or can. When you return your empty and undamaged bottles or cans you will receive your deposit back in cash or a voucher redeemable for cash at the shop you are returning it to.