Deposit Return Scheme surpasses 1.6 billion bottles and cans

Ireland’s recycling rate for plastic bottles and aluminium and steel cans has jumped from 49% to 91% since the introduction of the Deposit Return Scheme in February 2024

Re-turn, the administrator of Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), recently announced that the Irish public has returned over 1.6 billion bottles and cans through the scheme since its launch in February 2024.

The most recent data from Re-turn also shows that an estimated 798 million more containers are now being recycled each year compared to before the scheme began.

The research indicates that recycling rates have increased from 49% to an estimated 91%, with 76% of containers captured directly through the DRS and a further 15% collected through mixed dry recycling.

Commenting, Tony Keohane, chair of the Board of Re-turn, said: “The Board is very encouraged by the strong performance and early impact of the scheme since its launch in February of last year.

“Re-turn has delivered a Deposit Return Scheme that is already achieving measurable environmental results and social impact, including the return of over 1.6 billion bottles and cans and a significant increase in Ireland’s national recycling rate for drinks containers.

“This has been driven by extraordinary collaboration across government, retailers, producers, and the wider supply chain, and most importantly by the enthusiastic participation of the Irish public.

“The Board extends its sincere thanks to all stakeholders for their continued support. We look forward to building on this momentum as we work together to meet the ambitious targets ahead.”

Ciaran Foley, CEO, Re-turn added: “These latest recycling figures are far beyond what we had projected to achieve just a year after the end of the transition phase for the scheme.

“They speak to the commitment of the Irish people to sustainability and their desire to support the vision of a greener, cleaner Ireland.”

“Additionally, the social impact of the scheme and the engagement with it from community groups across the country has exceeded any and all expectations. Schools, clubs and charities all over Ireland have engaged with and utilised the scheme to raise funds for a wide variety of worthy causes.”

“The degree to which the scheme has been embraced is a credit to the people of Ireland. The environmental and social impact so far has been significant, but this is just the beginning. It’s vital that we continue returning containers to maintain momentum and ensure lasting change.

“The next focus is on capturing the remaining 15% of containers still going into standard recycling bins and the further 9% going into general waste, which would unlock even greater environmental benefits and broaden the impact of the scheme nationwide.”

The environmental impact is already being felt.

The Coastwatch Annual Marine Litter Survey shows that 2024 recorded the lowest average levels of bottle and can litter on Irish shores in 25 years.

In parallel, Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL) reports a 50% drop in litter from bottles and cans since the scheme launched.

These improvements are driven by public action and supported by a growing national network of return points, with further expansion planned.

Commenting on the success of the DRS to date, Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment Darragh O’Brien, stated: “The Deposit Return Scheme has already established itself as a landmark initiative in Irish society, alongside transformative measures like the plastic bag levy and the indoor smoking ban.

“It demonstrates that when change is right, Irish people will embrace it.”