Almost five years after UK Ministers first promised a deposit return system, we’re delighted to see them take the next big step. There will be significant benefits in having deposit return across the whole of the UK, for the public, for the environment, and for business alike.

Westminster’s intention to exclude glass from the English system is a backward step, though, given it is the most carbon-intensive material used for drinks, and the most expensive waste for local councils to deal with. Excluding glass would also create unnecessary cross-border issues, leading to higher business costs and inconvenience for the public and risking further delays to the English system.

Once deposit return is launched in Scotland this August, we will see immense reductions in litter. We urge the UK Government to follow Scotland’s lead and to keep up with Wales by committing to deposit return for glass as well as cans and plastic bottles.