Wales has announced its decision to withdraw from the joint UK initiative for a unified deposit return scheme (DRS), as confirmed by Huw Irranca-Davies MS, the Welsh deputy first minister and cabinet secretary for climate change and rural affairs. This move signifies that Wales will no longer participate in the shared development of a UK-wide DRS but will instead proceed with crafting its own scheme tailored to its needs.
Irranca-Davies clarified that the decision was influenced by challenges related to the UK Internal Market Act of 2020, a legislative issue inherited from the previous Conservative government. This Act has caused ongoing complications in the progress of the UK DRS, particularly regarding the inclusion of glass in the scheme. The exclusion of glass from earlier plans delayed Scotland’s scheme, and it seems this ongoing issue has contributed to Wales' decision to move forward independently.
Despite stepping away from the joint effort, Wales remains committed to advancing its own DRS, with a strong focus on supporting the country’s transition to a circular economy. The Welsh government is determined to include glass in its DRS, ensuring that all types of drink containers, including those made from glass, are part of the collection and recycling process. Irranca-Davies emphasized the importance of continued engagement with industry stakeholders to build a scheme that meets these goals, drawing on international best practices.
The announcement has drawn mixed reactions. Jenni Hume, UK and Ireland director at the circular economy charity Reloop, expressed support for Wales’ ambition to include glass and prioritize reuse, which she believes offers significant environmental benefits. She also acknowledged the complexities that led to the Welsh government’s frustration with the UK government’s lack of cooperation. Hume now calls for clear timelines and clarity from the Welsh government moving forward.
Meanwhile, the British Soft Drinks Association (BSDA) expressed regret over Wales’ decision, noting that it undermines efforts to create a unified DRS across the UK. Gavin Partington, the BSDA's Director General, reiterated the association’s commitment to a DRS for cans and PET bottles, with a target delivery date of October 2027, and pledged to continue working with all governments to ensure the scheme’s success.
In conclusion, while Wales takes a step back from the UK’s joint DRS process, it remains determined to create a system that works best for the country, ensuring the inclusion of glass and advancing its circular economy goals. The announcement marks a significant moment in the ongoing development of deposit return schemes across the UK.
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