Since its launch in early February, Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme has gained momentum, despite a slow start. Over 5 million drink containers have been collected, with a significant increase in returns recently. The scheme adds 15c to the price of plastic bottles and cans, refundable through reverse vending machines at supermarkets. A 25c deposit is charged for larger plastic bottles. Despite some controversy, Re-turn, the group behind the scheme, reports strong support for Ireland’s recycling efforts. A ‘bumper weekend’ saw nearly 1 million containers returned, surpassing February’s total in just the first week of March. With over 1.9 million transactions recorded across 2,300 machines nationwide, CEO Ciaran Foley expresses delight at the growing support, stating it reflects efforts to promote recycling and support environmental goals in Ireland.
