The Minister for Climate, Environment and Energy, Darragh O’Brien TD, today celebrated the one-year anniversary of the introduction of the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS).
Designed to significantly reduce single-use waste, the DRS has been one of the most positive consumer behaviour initiatives to happen this country in decades and has already had a transformative impact. In its first six months 350 million containers were returned and, by the end of its first year, over 980 million containers have been collected through the scheme, diverting millions of plastic bottles and aluminium cans from landfill and litter.
The scheme has also taken off at a grassroots level, with community and charity organisations using it for fundraising. €90,000 has been raised for the ‘Return for Children’ initiative and well over 2,000 schools, clubs and community organisations have registered with DRS for their own fundraising activities.
Minister O’Brien said:
“In its first 12 months, the DRS has collected and recycled over 980 million bottles and cans and has dramatically reduced the number of those containers ending up as litter or being landfilled. I’d like to thank everyone who participated in the scheme in its first year. The efforts are making a real difference in reducing waste and promoting recycling and I look forward to an even stronger 2025.
“Essential to the success of DRS has been the Irish beverage industry and retailers who, through Re-turn, have come together to build an entirely new recycling model. With over 3,000 return points nationwide, DRS ensures maximum coverage for urban and rural communities alike.”
Minister of State for Circular Economy Alan Dillon said:
“DRS has helped many local and community groups as an additional fundraising measure. By participating in DRS, schools, sports clubs and other groups are not only raising much needed funds by reducing litter and cleaning up their own communities but also collectively contributing to a greener, more sustainable Ireland.”
Ciaran Foley, CEO of Re-turn said:
“One year in, Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme has exceeded expectations. Over 980 million drinks containers have been recycled through the scheme. At current rates, we will recycle approximately 630 million more plastic bottles and cans over the next twelve months than we recycled prior to the introduction of the scheme. Beyond the environmental impact, over 2,000 clubs, schools, and organisations are now using deposit returns to fund vital causes. While there’s more to do, the momentum is clear, and in 2025, we’ll focus on growing participation and impact.