After the new Deposit Return Scheme was introduced in Ireland, research by Every Can Counts, a non-profit recycling organization, showed that nearly 29% of Irish citizens are hesitant about using the system.
Consumers have the option of obtaining a rebate for beverage containers with the Re-turn logo. The deposit is 15 cents for beverage containers with a capacity between 150 ml and 500 ml, and 25 cents for those with a capacity between 500 ml and 3 liters.
Regarding the recycling process through the Deposit Return Scheme, people indicated that they did not have a clear understanding of it (36%) and that they were concerned about not having enough space to store uncrushed containers (36%). They also mentioned as main reasons for not recycling through this plan that the reimbursement was not high enough (22%) and that there were too many steps to follow (17%). Seventeen percent of respondents also mentioned that they do not have enough time to return their cans and plastic bottles as a main reason.
Although there is uncertainty about the process, most people (69%) say that the new Deposit Return Scheme will encourage them to recycle more. The main reason for motivation is concern for the environment. The vast majority (78%) of the population residing in Ireland has an inclination towards purchasing packaging that is considered recyclable, prioritizing aluminum cans, plastic bottles and glass bottles.
According to Chris Latham-Warde, Every Can Counts’ program director, people are understandably uncertain about the details of the newly launched Deposit Return Scheme in the Republic of Ireland and how they can claim their refundable deposit. “We are confident that as they adapt to the system and understand how it works, we will see more people participating in it and recycling their used beverage containers through Re-turn. Those who don’t know how to return a beverage container to get their deposit back can follow the three key steps outlined by Every Can Counts.” indicated.
Before making the refundable deposit, it is important to check that your beverage container has the Re-turn logo. Only containers with this logo are part of the program and can be returned for a refund. You must then take your beverage container to a reverse vending machine or return it manually at the cash register of participating stores. All machines will have detailed instructions on how to operate them and, when you insert your container, you will be given a coupon to redeem for the refundable deposit.
Finally, you must take your coupon to the cashier of a store participating in the promotion. There, you will have the option to choose between a full refund or a credit to use on your next purchase at that store.
According to research conducted by Every Can Counts, 75% of respondents said they agreed that if they understood the environmental benefits of recycling, they would be more likely to use the Deposit Return Scheme.
For Chris Latham-Warde, it is crucial to raise awareness and understanding of the importance of the environment for people to participate in the Deposit Return Scheme. This is reflected in our highlighted findings. It is hoped that the tips provided will serve to make the deposit return process more understandable and encourage more people to join the Deposit Return Scheme.
Bank of Ireland appointed as financial partner for new National Deposit Return Scheme
Netherlands includes cans in its return system
Scotland invests £80 million for recycling
MALTA INTRODUCES SDDR FOR BEVERAGE CONTAINERS
CALIFORNIA HAS $600 MILLION IN UNSIGNED RECYCLED ALUMINUM CAN STOCKPILES
85% OF SPANIARDS WANT TO RETURN CANS AND OTHER PACKAGING TO STORES AS SOON AS POSSIBLE
TESCO SELECTS TOMRA AS SUPPLIER FOR DEPOSIT RETURN SYSTEMS IN SLOVAKIA
A packaging return system in Spain would eliminate more than 6,000 million cans and bottles that end up in nature each year.
Deposit refund schemes spread beyond Europe
Netherlands to charge 15 cents deposit per canned drink sold
