Scotland Deposit Return Scheme

Scotland’s Deposit Return Scheme is a recycling initiative requiring customers to pay a 20 pence deposit when purchasing a drink in a single-use container. The deposit is refunded when the container is returned, aiming to increase recycling and reduce litter. The scheme applies to pre-filled, single-use containers for drinks ranging from 50 ml to 3 litres, made of PET plastic, steel, and aluminum. Containers sold empty or made from other materials, like HDPE, are excluded. Managed by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency and Circularity Scotland, the scheme will be launched in October 2025. Producers must register with Circularity Scotland or work with registered entities to comply with the regulations.