Only 42% of consumers have heard of deposit return scheme and understand how they worked, according to research by global standards organisation GS1 UK.
The research also reveals that 26% of respondents had no idea what deposit return schemes are at all.
When consumers were told how a potential scheme could work, 60% of consumers surveyed said being able to reclaim a deposit would make them more likely to buy products included in the schemes, and 57% would do a lot more recycling if it meant they wouldn’t be left out of pocket.
Anne Godfrey, Chief Executive of GS1 UK, said: “The introduction of deposit return schemes will fundamentally change the way we recycle for the better. It will however add costs and complexity not just for consumers, but industry, waste collectors and local authorities.
“A successful scheme relies on consumer participation. Our data demonstrates that simplicity is key and therefore needs to be at the heart of any successful scheme.”
GS1 UK’s research among business owners also revealed a lack of awareness, with 38% not aware of the proposed scheme.
Despite the research showing that 69% of businesses believing the introduction of DRS will be a positive step for their industry, four in 10 think that a deposit return scheme will have a negative impact on their own businesses.
In addition, 33% of businesses surveyed said they will raise the RRP of products to account for added operational costs and complexities.
Godfrey added: “Our research has shown a little incentive can go a long way to encourage people to do the right thing and recycle more. The operational impact for businesses, compounded by the lack of awareness, means there are significant challenges that will need to be addressed in the next two years.
“We have a limited window of opportunity to help the industry solve this conundrum. In the meantime, much more needs to be done to inform consumers and change their behaviour. Only through this level of focus and collaboration will any scheme stand a chance of being successful.”
Nadiya Catel-Arutyunova, policy advisor for the British Retail Consortium, said: “A well-designed DRS can bring us one step closer to creating a circular economy and the retail industry is working tirelessly to make it happen.
“A successful scheme needs to be simple and straightforward for shoppers if we are to change recycling behaviours. It also needs informed consumers, which is why we back calls for greater awareness raising from UK governments and deposit management organisations, to ensure customers know exactly how to return their containers and redeem their deposits.”
