Milestone reached as over 21m bottles and cans returned via Deposit Return Scheme

Ireland's Deposit Return Scheme, Re-turn, has achieved a significant milestone, collecting over 21 million drinks containers since its inception on February 1.

As of March 29, a total of 21,018,360 bottles and cans were collected since the launch of the scheme.

That day was significant as it also recorded the highest daily collection rate since the scheme began, with Irish people returning 1.2m (1,267,178) containers nationwide that day alone.

Additionally, over 2.2m drinks containers were collected over the course of the long St Patrick's weekend, from March 16 to 18. 

Easter is expected to be another bank holiday weekend with significant collection numbers.   

With 2,300 Reverse Vending Machines now operational across the country, Re-turn has facilitated over 6.89 million transactions, illustrating the scheme's widespread acceptance and effectiveness. 

Ciaran Foley, CEO of Re-turn, commented on consumer support and the levels of returns over the last few weeks: “The support of consumers nationwide is really positive and as more Re-turn logo products enter circulation, we are seeing high return numbers that will only continue to grow as we all become more accustomed to the scheme.” 

The Scheme, which described as a 'pivotal part' of Ireland’s strategy to meet EU recycling targets, has seen a 'significant uptake' in participation, setting a positive trajectory for future collections and environmental impact.