A Deposit Return Blueprint for the UK

The UK’s recycling rates are around 70% lower than in leading Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) countries with return rates exceeding 90% such as Germany, Finland and Norway. Financially incentivising recycling and reducing waste is important, but our end goal must be a reuse, not throwaway, economy. 

A DRS that includes glass is key. Glass is infinitely recyclable (although currently energy intensive). Inclusion of glass, as seen in Wales’ proposed model, helps improve resource recovery and reduce emissions. 

Wales is pursuing a better DRS model, with improvements such as the inclusion of glass and alignment with broader circular economy goals*. Public engagement is key to long-term success. We must redesign systems, products and packaging to support a circular economy. This involves reducing single-use plastics and reusing containers, transforming our production and consumption mindset.

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) will hold manufacturers accountable for the lifecycle of their packaging. Tax breaks and grants can spur businesses innovation and investment in refill stations and digital tracking systems. Consumer education will highlight the economic and environmental benefits of reusing over discarding.

Technology and innovation partnerships will support smart solutions whilst legislation must mandate reuse-friendly designs. Monitoring reuse rates and environmental impacts will drive continual improvement.

We must:

• Reduce plastic production and rethink how products are used, such as:

  • Using a refillable cleaning spray bottle and adding concentrate plus water at home (this avoids transporting water).

  • Bringing jars and bags to refill at zero-waste stores with grains, cereals and more.

• Reuse by shifting the economy towards models where reuse is cheaper and more convenient than discarding. 

• Reorient and diversify packaging and production methods to favour sustainability. Plastics must be recyclable in the markets where they’re sold, and recycling infrastructure must be economically viable.

Only 9% of plastics are currently mechanically recycled. This must change. A reuse-driven circular economy can help build a sustainable and resilient future.

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For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk

*Scotland's plan to include glass was rejected by the UK Government through the internal market process

Edited 17 June 2026

Image: Food preservation containers - Image by Freepik (ST ref: 1246)