Despite all of the delays in their implementation, especially in Scotland, a new poll has revealed strong public support for the introduction of deposit return schemes (DRS) across the UK.
The poll, conducted on behalf of reverse vending machine (RVM) manufacturer Tomra, found that 75% of those surveyed across the UK backed the launch of DRS.
The survey also revealed that:
- Nine in 10 would use a DRS to return empty beverage containers. Sixty per cent believe a single DRS running across the UK would be most effective.
- More than eight out of 10 people (85%) say that litter is a problem in their area.
- Four in five (81%) have already made changes to their lifestyle to help tackle climate change – with two-thirds (66%) worried about the impact of climate change.
DRS will roll out across the UK from October 2027, with separate schemes in each of the four home nations. The UK government and the devolved administrations in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have agreed to align on the key elements of DRS such as a uniform level of deposit, labelling and a single point of registration for producers and retailers. Ireland launched its DRS on 1 February.
The full polling results can be viewed as a Google document. The survey, conducted between 26 March and 2 April 2024, interviewed a representative sample of 2,042 respondents aged 18 and above.
John Lee, Vice President Public Affairs UK and Ireland, Tomra, said: “Public opinion and environmental concerns strongly support the deposit return scheme, signaling a widespread demand for action. As we face issues like litter, climate change, and sustainability, it’s obvious that we need significant changes now. By working together, we can transform numbers into real solutions and create enduring change.”
