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The Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), launched in February 2024, has made a remarkable impact in its first year, with strong public participation and tangible environmental benefits. Minister for Climate, Environment and Energy, Darragh O’Brien TD, celebrated the scheme’s anniversary, highlighting the transformative effects it has already had on waste management, community fundraising, and environmental sustainability.
Key Achievements
In its inaugural year, the DRS has surpassed expectations with over 980 million containers returned for recycling, diverting millions of plastic bottles and aluminium cans from landfills and litter. Public participation has been notably high, with 84% of the Irish population engaging in the scheme. The scheme has also significantly reduced the prevalence of bottles and cans being discarded as litter, achieving a near-50% reduction in their presence on Irish streets and shores.
“Thanks to the efforts of everyone involved, the DRS has made a substantial contribution to reducing waste and encouraging recycling. I’m excited to see the continued success and growth of the scheme in 2025,” Minister O’Brien said.
Community Impact and Fundraising
Beyond its environmental impact, the DRS has become an essential fundraising tool for local and community groups. More than €90,000 has been raised for the ‘Return for Children’ charity initiative, and over 2,000 schools, sports clubs, and community organisations have registered to participate in their own fundraising activities. This community-driven effort has seen consumers donate their deposits for charitable causes, further amplifying the positive effects of the scheme.
Minister of State for Circular Economy, Alan Dillon, praised the scheme’s role in supporting local causes: “By participating in DRS, schools, sports clubs, and other groups are not only raising vital funds but also contributing to a greener, more sustainable Ireland.”
Positive Environmental Outcomes
The environmental benefits of the DRS have been evident from the outset. In addition to the significant reduction in litter, a pilot project aimed at reducing on-the-go waste has been launched, allowing consumers to easily donate their empty containers at designated bin surrounds. Early reports from IBAL (Irish Business Against Litter) and CoastWatch indicate a substantial decrease in the prevalence of plastic bottles and cans in littered areas and along the Irish coastline since the scheme’s introduction.
Ciaran Foley, CEO of Re-turn, the operator of the DRS, expressed optimism for the future:
“Ireland’s DRS has already exceeded expectations, and we’re on track to recycle approximately 630 million more containers in the next 12 months. The momentum is clear, and we’ll continue to expand participation and impact throughout 2025.”
Looking Ahead
The DRS has already made significant strides towards achieving Ireland’s EU target of 90% separate collection of plastic beverage bottles by 2029, with an interim goal of 77% by 2025. The scheme’s continued success will play a crucial role in meeting these targets and in helping Ireland transition to a more sustainable, circular economy.
With over 3,000 return points established nationwide, the DRS ensures that both urban and rural communities have easy access to recycling facilities. As the scheme moves into its second year, both the public and industry stakeholders are committed to building on its early success and further enhancing its environmental and community impact.
For more information on how to participate in the DRS or to get involved with fundraising initiatives, visit Re-turn’s website or contact their community support team at [email protected].
This past year has shown just how effective collective action can be in creating a more sustainable future, and with continued support, the DRS is set to make an even greater difference in the years ahead.