Deposit return schemes (DRS) are already helping over 350 million people worldwide recycle beverage containers. Research shows DRS can quickly boost recycling rates, and new systems are planned in countries like India, Turkey, and Uruguay, reaching an additional 230 million people.
In the UK, a DRS is set to launch in October 2027, and Wales is considering including glass within its scope. The Welsh government recently ran the ‘Best for Wales’ consultation, which closed on 10 November. In this blog, we outline the key points of Valpak’s response and what this means for producers, retailers, and consumers.
At the heart of our response is interoperability. The Welsh DRS must work seamlessly alongside systems in England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
Key points:
Shared rules on scope, targets, and fees maximise citizen participation
Reduces cross-border confusion, labelling differences, and handling variations
Supports straightforward compliance for producers and retailers
“An aligned system reduces fraud risk, improves clarity for consumers, and ensures efficient compliance.”
The Welsh consultation also proposes a regulatory framework for reuse. Valpak supports reuse in principle but emphasises that adequate infrastructure is essential.
Key conditions for success:
Standardised reusable bottles
Adequate logistics and washing facilities
Local trial programmes before national rollout
Without proper preparation, low participation could undermine the environmental benefits.
We recommend setting separate targets for each material rather than combined targets. This allows:
Focused performance improvement where practical
Higher capture rates for reuse
Reduced pressure on producers facing commercial or operational barriers
Valpak does not prescribe exact deposit levels, fees, or targets. These are best set by producers with detailed knowledge of their operations, costs, and supply chains.
The Best for Wales Deposit Return Scheme has the potential to boost recycling, enhance reuse, and support a circular economy, but alignment, preparation, and material-specific targets are critical.
To learn how Valpak can support your business with DRS compliance and planning, visit our Deposit Return Scheme Services page or enquire about our DRS consultation support today.
Policy Advisor