As a Young person living in the UK, I've witnessed first-hand the detrimental impact of irresponsible waste disposal on our local environment. Plastic bottles and cans are carelessly discarded, tarnishing our town's beauty and posing a threat to its wildlife. This is why I am advocating for the implementation of a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), similar to those successfully operating in other countries.

In nations where DRS are used, over 95% of bottles are reused - an impressive figure compared to the UK's mere 57% recycling rate. Furthermore, recycling processes often involve energy-intensive stages such as mass shredding and remanufacturing, which could be avoided through reuse.

The proposed scheme wouldn't just benefit our environment; it could also support charitable causes. By directing government profits from this initiative towards charities, we can foster social good while promoting environmental responsibility.

Furthermore, the scheme would benefit our nation's economy. Local Councils could reduce their expenditure on rubbish collection, recycling plants, landfill sites, Ocean and landscape cleanups etc. According to research conducted by the Guardian in 2018- this would save each local council up to 35 million pounds! £35 million that could be used to fund other things of importance, maybe the potholes can finally be filled!

It's time for us to learn from successful models abroad and adapt them to our context. Let's reduce waste, conserve energy, support charities and protect our beautiful towns and wildlife by implementing a Deposit Return Scheme that donates its profits to charity. Please sign this petition today!

Disclaimer:

The Government has already proposed a bill for DRS to be implemented by 2025. However, with all the backtracking on policies, we want to ensure the government understands that such a system is desired. Additionally, the bill strives for a return rate of 70%, which is frankly not enough! 

Ok, that's great but what is a Deposit Returns Scheme, I hear you ask.

When you purchase your favourite drink you pay a simple deposit- in this scenario 25p- on the plastic bottle. But don't worry, you will receive this money back! Simply bring your bottle to a local shop, have your bottle scanned in a returns machine, receive a receipt and present it to the cashier. Hurrah! You've completed the cycle, and as a reward you receive your 25p back.

If you find an empty bottle on the street, this too can be cashed in! Again bring it to a returns machine, receive your receipt and cash in, for a profit!