A digital deposit return scheme (DDRS) trial is set to be implemented in London in the second quarter of next year.
As reported by the Grocer, the move follows the DDRS scheme showing positive results in its initial trial backed by companies such as Aldi and Morrisons in Brecon, Wales.
Through the DDRS trial, consumers claimed 10p for every bottle they recycled by scanning an app.
Circularity Solutions founder Duncan Midwood told the Grocer: “The results from the trial are very encouraging but we have to be realistic that this was a trail in Brecon, Wales, not in the middle of an urban area.
“That’s why I think a trial in London is the perfect way to show if it can work in such an environment,” he added.
“We are already having conversations and we hope it will fit with the progressive environmental agendas that some of the local authorities have in the capital.”
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The London trial will run in one or more council areas, but not the entire capital.
The news follows Aluminium Packaging Recycling Organisation (Alupro) stating it is opposed to a DDRS scheme and prefers a traditional deposit return schemes.
The organisation said that while it aims to achieve 100% recycled cans by 2030 but said this could only be done through reverse vending machines or when consumers physically return cans to retailers.
Alupro also questions whether the requirements placed on the packaging value chain by a DDRS are even feasible or sensible”.
Feature image credits: Welsh government
