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Our answer to the Deposit Return Scheme consultation

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs had launched a consultation about the introduction of a Deposit Return Scheme in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, which closed on 4th June 2021.

As a group, we submitted a detailed answer to the online survey. We particularly focused on points like the implementation target which we argued should be 2023 as initially planned, and not 2024 as it would be under the current plans, and the fact all types of packaging materials should be covered. You can download our response with full details (pdf).

our consultation response (pdf)

In addition to the detailed answer, we also encouraged individuals to submit their contribution through an online action which resulted in around 90 answers being submitted. The proposed email read as below:

“I’ve considered the consultation on the Deposit Return Scheme and am delighted to see the progress with the plans. This is the opportunity to increase our recycling rates in the ‘UK’ but It’s critical the scheme goes far enough, so I ask the government to ensure the final plan includes: 

1. All recyclable containers irrespective of size

2. All types of recyclable packaging 

3. A commitment to increase recycling capacity and end the incineration and export of waste  

4. Assurance that it will not detract from the priority to reduce single use plastic. For this reason, the Deposit Return Scheme should not mean producers are exempt from measures taken in relation with the “Extended Producer Responsibility for Packaging” consultation.

Finally, change isn’t happening fast enough and plans need to be accelerated so the scheme is in place by the end of 2023 as originally promised.  We need to stop plastic pollution now and move towards a true circular economy. This is the time for the government to be bold and act to protect our natural environment before it’s too late.”

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