Scotland’s Deposit Return Scheme launches 16 August 2023

The UK’s first Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) will go live across Scotland on 16 August 2023, helping to recycle billions of bottles and cans every year. VisitScotland have pulled together what that might mean for your business and where to get further information.

Deposit return schemes are established in many countries. They help to tackle climate change and reduce litter.

In Scotland the scheme is designed to tackle our throwaway culture and help protect our environment for generations to come.

People will pay a 20p deposit when they buy a drink that comes in a single-use container made of PET plastic, steel and aluminium, or glass. They will get their money back when they return the empty container to one of tens of thousands of return points.

The scheme aims to:

• Improve recycling rates
• Increase the quality of recycling materials
• Reduce litter