Circularity Scotland welcomed MSPs to a Scottish Parliament drop-in event where the team answered questions and provided information on the Deposit Return Scheme.

During the three-hour session sponsored by Scottish Greens MSP Mark Ruskell, the team spoke with members and staff from all parties, representing constituencies across Scotland.

The discussions ranged from constituent enquiries on specific local issues to broader questions on how the scheme will operate for retailers, producers and consumers when it launches on 1 March 2024.

David Harris, CEO of Circularity Scotland, said: “We welcomed the opportunity to meet MSPs to address any questions they or their constituents have about the implementation and practicalities of the Deposit Return Scheme.

“The team enjoyed constructive discussions with representatives from across the political spectrum who speak for people living all over mainland Scotland and on the islands.

“We look forward to continuing the conversation as we work towards launching a DRS that will make Scotland a cleaner, greener country.”

Under the scheme people will be able to return eligible plastic, aluminium and glass drink containers in return for the 20p deposit they paid on each item.

The deposit is paid back by voucher over the counter or from a Reverse Vending Machine when the customer takes their empty to a return point for recycling. 

Circularity Scotland is a not-for-profit company, established by industry to meet their obligations under the deposit return scheme as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible. Its members consist of producers, retailers, hospitality and wholesalers and trade associations, which together represent more than 90% of the market in Scotland.