Deposit Return Scheme will be 'turning point for recycling', says MSP

SCOTLAND’s Deposit Return Scheme will be a turning point for recycling and waste across the north-east, says local Scottish Green MSP Maggie Chapman.

This comes as the Scottish Green Party co-leader and Minister for Circular Economy, Lorna Slater has announced that companies responsible for more than two billion recyclable drinks containers are now registered with the scheme, covering over 95 per cent of all containers sold in Scotland.

From August 16, a 20p deposit will be paid when buying a drink in a bottle or can. The empty container can be returned to one of the thousands of return points that will be available and claim that 20p back.

Ms Chapman, who is a Scottish Green MSP for North East Scotland, said: “The Deposit Return Scheme could make a huge difference in the north-east.

"We can all see the problem, with far too many of our streets, communities and beauty spots being blighted by litter that can be recycled.

“That is why I am glad to see that retailers and businesses across the north-east are preparing for the Scheme. Many will be pleased to know that the vast majority of bottles and cans will be included. I know that people in the north-east value our local environment and will welcome this.

“I am hopeful that this scheme will come to be seen as an important, significant and successful pieces of work delivered by this parliament. It will be a turning point for Scotland’s relationship with litter and recycling and will mean cleaner communities across our region."

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