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A landmark poll has revealed Brits support an ‘all-in’ deposit return scheme model with a variable deposit.
The Populus poll shows some 84% of the UK public believes all drinks containers should be included in the government’s proposed scheme – up from 69% in May last year.
Almost four in five believe the scheme should have a variable deposit – a departure from the government’s consultation where some 57% favoured a flat deposit level.
‘The survey results show the British public supports the introduction of a deposit return scheme that puts the environment first.
‘Making the deposit return scheme as comprehensive as possible ensures no materials will be left to litter our precious seas and coastline for generations to come.’
DR SIAN HENLEY
Lecturer in Marine Science at the University of Edinburgh
The UK government has committed to introducing a deposit return scheme covering England, Wales and Northern Ireland in 2023.
Campaigners believe an ‘all-in’ scheme with a variable deposit is key to tackling Britain’s waste crisis.
They argue a comprehensive scheme capturing as many materials as possible will be easier for consumers to understand and is the most effective model for reducing waste.
‘It’s high time the government takes its lead from the public and introduces a scheme of all sizes and all materials that will give us the best chance to combat litter and plastic pollution once and for all.’
DR LAURA FOSTER
Head of Clean Seas at the Marine Conservation Society
The Scottish government passed legislation in May to introduce its ‘all-in’ deposit return scheme in 2022.
Campaigners have warned the flat deposit could make it more economical for consumers to buy drinks in larger plastic bottles.
They argue a flat deposit represents a substantial percentage increase on the price of small drinks servings compared to larger servings.
This could compound the plastic crisis and lead to increased obesity rates by encouraging consumers to purchase larger portions of sugary drinks.
Populus polled 2,087 members of the UK public aged 18 and over 29-31 May this year, and academics and campaigners have welcomed the results. The poll was commissioned by Nature 2030, an international coalition of businesses, politicians and campaigners focused on ‘doing right by the environment in the 2020s and beyond’.
A spokesman for the Nature 2030 campaign said: ‘The Great British public has spoken. With Whitehall set to introduce a deposit return scheme over the next few years, ministers have got the necessary time to design a system that has the support of consumers across Britain.’
Charities urge the government to support an ‘all-in’ deposit return system that collects every drinks can and bottle.
An ‘all-in’ deposit return system could generate £2 billion for the economy over 10 years.
International ‘Clean Planet’ coalition calls for worldwide deposit return systems for drinks containers.
How deposits on cans and bottles could untangle recycling confusion and spark a recycling revolution.
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