For updates and further information, visit the APRS website

We are putting this page on hold for now. For updated resources and information, please visit aprs.scot. Scotland was to become the first nation in the UK to commit to a deposit return system for bottles and cans, due for launch on the 1st March 2024. On 7th June 2023 - the Scottish Government announced they intend to delay deposit return for a fourth time, to align with a UK system which will launch in October 2025 at the earliest.

Action to Protect Rural Scotland

A Scottish Deposit Return System for drinks packaging.

How would it work in practice? Easy. You pay a small deposit when you buy cans and bottles, and get it back when you return them.

Find out more about deposit return

And could it work here? Of course. Deposit return works reliably around the world, and there's no reason Scotland can't be next.

Read the international evidence

Why does Scotland need a deposit return system?

If we want to reduce litter and clean up Scotland, nothing else comes even close.

Litter

Less litter for Scottish councils to pick up means cost savings for local taxpayers.

Local Councils

When people get money back for recycling, it changes attitudes and changes behaviour.

Recycling

Collecting empty packaging more efficiently provides better materials for industry.

Circular Economy

There will be more good quality jobs in manufacturing as well as in recycling.

Jobs

Litter and landfill aren't just wasteful, they're bad for the planet.

Climate Change

Our "Let's Not Bottle It Now!" campaign video.

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