Ireland launches nationwide Deposit Return Scheme to increase recycling

Today, Ireland launches a nationwide Deposit Return Scheme for plastic bottles and aluminum cans, aiming to increase recycling rates from 60% to 90%. Consumers pay a refundable deposit of 15-25 cents on drinks with the Re-turn logo and receive it back when returning the empty containers to designated machines. Over 18,000 machines are installed across the country. The scheme is expected to reduce litter, emissions, and strain on natural resources.