Have your say: What are your thoughts on the Deposit Return Scheme?

Over €60 million in unclaimed deposits remained uncollected by Irish consumers last year under the government's Deposit Return Scheme, according to data released in Re-turn's 2025 annual report. The figure represents a decrease of €6.6 million from the previous year's total of €66.7 million. This means that despite increased participation, a significant portion of the deposits still went unclaimed. The report noted that a total of 1.4 billion containers were returned in 2025, marking a substantial increase from the 877 million returned in 2024. This rise translated into a return rate of 76.4%, which Re-turn described as a positive indicator of public engagement with the scheme. The company also highlighted that 30,917 tonnes of recyclable materials were collected, surpassing the 18,893 tonnes recorded in 2024. Re-turn's Chief Executive, Ciarán Foley, praised the public's response to the scheme, calling it "incredible." He emphasized the importance of continued participation and expressed gratitude toward all individuals who contributed to the success of the program, whether by returning a single container or playing a role in the broader effort. The scheme operates by requiring consumers to pay a small deposit when purchasing eligible beverages, which can be reclaimed upon returning the empty container. The initiative aims to boost recycling rates and reduce litter. Despite the high number of returns, the unclaimed deposits suggest that some consumers either fail to reclaim their money or are unaware of the process. According to the report, Re-turn achieved a surplus of €34.4 million after taxes during the reporting period. This financial performance reflects the growing efficiency and scale of the operation, driven by higher volumes of returned containers and improved sorting processes. The company continues to work with local authorities and retailers to expand access points for returning containers and improve awareness campaigns. Industry experts have observed mixed responses to the scheme. Some businesses in urban centers have reported instances of organized groups searching through bins for recyclables, raising concerns about potential misuse of the system. Meanwhile, independent waste management bodies have acknowledged the quality of household recycling efforts, noting that they meet the standards set by Re-turn. The government has maintained its support for the Deposit Return Scheme, viewing it as a key component of Ireland's environmental strategy. Officials have reiterated their commitment to improving collection infrastructure and increasing public education on how to participate effectively. With the scheme continuing to evolve, future reports will likely provide further insights into consumer behavior and operational improvements. As the scheme moves forward, the challenge remains to ensure that more consumers take advantage of the opportunity to reclaim their deposits while contributing to sustainable waste management practices. The latest figures underscore both progress and areas for improvement within the system.