Over 500m plastic bottles and cans returned since launch of deposit scheme

Over 500 million bottles and cans have been returned since the launch of a deposit scheme in Ireland in February.

The deposit return scheme aims to encourage more recycling by allowing consumers to redeem a deposit if they return plastic bottles and aluminium cans to designated points described as “reverse vending machines”.

There are now over 2,500 reverse vending machines and over 350 manual collection return points nationwide.

Re-turn, the operator of Ireland’s deposit return scheme, said the 500 million milestone was achieved over the weekend when 4.32 million containers were returned in a single day.

Ossian Smyth, Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, said the deposit return scheme has made itself at home in Ireland.

"Already, it seems like we have been doing this forever. Families and communities have recognised that small changes can make a big difference. Our towns, villages and roadsides are much cleaner. Clubs and charities are benefitting too from new ways to fundraise.

"To reach our EU collection and recycling targets, we need to build on this great start but I’m confident that we can get there by working together. Congratulations to Re-turn, all its members and the Irish public on reaching our first half billion in returns."