Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 May 2021
215. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will he consider proposals to introduce utilising a digital deposit and return scheme for plastic bottles and aluminium cans which would have a much lower carbon footprint and offer greater public convenience compared to the proposed return to retail digital return scheme model under consideration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26354/21]
View answerUnder the Single Use Plastics Directive, Ireland must achieve a collection target of 90% recycling for plastic bottles by 2029 with an interim target of 77% by 2025. A deposit and return scheme (DRS) for plastic bottles and aluminum drinks cans will be critical to help achieve this. I am working towards the introduction of a DRS based on the return to retailer model by the third quarter of 2022. This model has a proven track record over many years in other jurisdictions. While digital schemes are being trialled in some locations at present, and may have a role here in future in complimenting the return to retailer model, I am not aware of any major national DRS that operates on a digital basis solely.
I expect to approve the appointment of a system operator for our DRS in the coming months and this operator will be tasked with reviewing new technologies in this area to ensure that the most efficient collection methods are deployed.
