A Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) will be introduced in 2025, Defra has confirmed but it will not contain glass in England and Northern Ireland.
Wales has decided to allow glass to be collected in its DRS, following the example of Scotland which had already announced its DRS system.
Retailers will need to set up reverse vending machines to take aluminium and steel drinks cans and PET bottles in England and Northern Ireland, and ones that also take glass bottles in Wales and Scotland.
Bottles and cans of 50ml to 3 litres will be under the scope of DRS.
A Deposit Management Organisation will be set up to run DRS and will set the amount for the refundable deposit that will be paid to the public.
Environment Minister Rebecca Pow said: “We want to support people who want to do the right thing to help stop damaging plastics polluting our green spaces or floating in our oceans and rivers.
“That is why we are moving ahead using our powers from our landmark Environment Act to introduce a Deposit Return Scheme for drinks containers.
“This will provide a simple and effective system across the country that helps people reduce litter and recycle more easily, even when on the move.”
The full Government response to the DRS Consultation can be viewed here
