Over 60 businesses have joined Polytag, a technology business specialising in sustainability initiatives, to call upon environment minister Mary Creagh to review Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) legislation. The open letter calls for the removal of “return-to-retail” prescriptions, framing plans in an open way and offering modern, digital solutions that would mean consumers would be able to recycle their plastic bottles at home and still get their deposits back.
The UK is on the brink of implementing a Deposit Return Scheme, a positive step toward a circular economy. But current DRS proposals lean toward a strictly “return-to-retail” model, where consumers would need to store plastic bottles and cans at home and then collect their deposits by using reverse vending machines (RVMs), which are usually only available at large retail locations.
In their open letter to the environment minister, Polytag call upon the Government to set the UK’s DRS up for success by allowing and encouraging at home digital scanning within the regulations, alongside the physical return of containers to shops. Polytag and Ocado Retail’s world-first trial back in 2023 proved successful with over 20,000 rewards redeemed in 56 days, highlighting customers are ready for a deposit return scheme that embraces digital technology. Without the flexibility for digital solutions, retailers face significant challenges that could impede the success of the scheme.
Alice Rackley, CEO, Polytag, said: “At Polytag, we are backing a digital future for the UK’s Deposit Return Scheme.
“The introduction of a DRS is extremely welcome and will play a key part in the UK’s circular economy ambitions. However, without the flexibility for digital solutions, the scheme could make recycling harder, not easier, for consumers. A digital option would allow consumers to reclaim deposits conveniently from home, relieving pressure on retailers. Through innovation and digital integration, the Government can implement a blended DRS that works for both businesses and consumers.
“We hope to be able to work with the Government to improve environmental outcomes for all.”
Laura Fernandez, senior packaging and sustainability manager, Ocado Retail, said: “Ocado Retail and Polytag have already clearly demonstrated that shoppers have an appetite for a digital deposit return scheme; we fully support the need for a modern, flexible scheme that embraces digital innovation. A digital option is a convenient and a necessary step toward creating a recycling system that really works. This approach would empower consumers, reduce operational strain on retailers, and accelerate progress toward the UK’s circular economy goals.”
Will Ghali, CEO, Ecosurety, said: “A successful Deposit Return Scheme needs to be future-proofed, and digital integration is key to achieving that. By enabling consumers to scan and recycle from home, we can improve participation rates, reduce logistical challenges, and ensure the system delivers on its purpose: increasing the recycling rates of beverage containers. Polytag’s vision for a blended DRS is exactly what the UK needs to balance practicality with ambition.”
