A new initiative set to launch in 2027 will see the UK adopt a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) for used drinks containers, similar to systems already in place across more than 50 countries. The measure, aimed at curbing waste and increasing recycling rates, has been confirmed by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
The scheme will require retailers to apply a deposit charge on eligible drink products at the point of sale, which consumers can reclaim when they return the empty container. According to Defra, the policy forms part of the wider Environmental Improvement Plan 2025 and is designed to tackle “the avalanche of rubbish that is filling up our high streets, countryside, and oceans.”
Financial Incentives for Returning Empty Containers
Under the Deposit Return Scheme, customers will be able to return used drink containers made primarily from aluminium, steel, or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic, with sizes ranging from 150 millilitres to 3 litres. Once returned to a designated collection point, either manually or via a reverse vending machine, shoppers will receive a financial reward in the form of cash, card payment, or a voucher.
According to Defra, all retailers selling beverages included in the scheme must charge the deposit to consumers at the point of sale and repay it upon return, even if no receipt is provided. Supermarkets such as Tesco, Asda, Morrisons and Sainsbury’s are among the major outlets where return points will be located, with smaller convenience stores, newsagents, and other vendors also participating.
While urban retailers with premises smaller than 100 square metres are exempt from the requirement to host a return point, they are free to apply voluntarily. In addition to retail sites, schools, gyms, hospitality venues and mobile catering services may also apply to become official return points.
Specific Rules and Scope of the Scheme
The scheme applies exclusively to single-use drinks containers that are likely to be discarded after a short time. Containers with lids made from alternative materials are still accepted, provided the main body meets the criteria. According to the Express, products not included in the scheme are containers made from high-density polyethylene (such as milk bottles), as well as those used for liquid medicines or drink flavour enhancers like syrups.
The deposit scheme will be implemented across England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. A parallel initiative is being developed separately by the Welsh government to ensure coordination across all nations. Once live, the system will allow any individual to return a qualifying container (whether purchased by them or not) as long as it is in acceptable condition.
According to Defra, the ultimate goal is to reduce litter, improve recycling infrastructure, and foster more sustainable consumer habits. “This simple change will reward people for doing the right thing and recycling their empty drinks containers,” the department noted in its update. It also stated that the packaging reforms are projected to generate 25,000 new jobs and attract over £10 billion in recycling investments over the next ten years.
