Dublin: Ireland’s deposit return scheme has successfully collected 150 million drink containers, significantly reducing litter and promoting recycling. The initiative, which started on February 1, has been widely embraced, with 2,300 reverse vending machines installed across the country.
The scheme has grown rapidly since its inception. In February, only 2 million containers were collected. Now, an impressive 2.5 million containers are being returned daily, with May alone seeing over 75 million items recycled.
Starting today, all products for sale must display a mandatory return logo. This move aims to further encourage recycling and participation in the scheme.
Additionally, a new charity will soon take over the re-turn scheme’s operations. In a collaborative effort, staff from the Return Company will collect drink containers at the Bloom Festival in Phoenix Park in the coming days, with proceeds benefiting the charity.
The deposit return scheme has not only helped clean up public spaces but also fostered a culture of recycling, demonstrating Ireland’s commitment to sustainable waste management.