Glass Deposit Operator Confirmed for Wales' Recycling Scheme

The Welsh government has confirmed the appointment of Exchange for Change as the operator of its deposit return scheme (DRS), following months of discussions over the inclusion of glass. This decision marks a significant step towards improving recycling and reuse in Wales. Exchange for Change will run the DRS from its launch in October 2027, and will be responsible for managing the collection and recycling of drinks containers.

## Background to the Appointment

The appointment of Exchange for Change was not without its challenges. Drinks industry lobbyists had previously warned that delays in appointing an operator could risk delaying the launch of the scheme. The Welsh government had been in discussions with Exchange for Change for months, but there were key differences in what the government wanted and what the operator was prepared to deliver. One of the main sticking points was the number of reverse vending machines required to handle glass at the outset of the scheme.

The Welsh government had initially required 3,500 reverse vending machines, while Exchange for Change proposed launching with 100 suitable machines around the country. However, the sustainability minister, Llŷr Gruffydd, has said that the number of return points would increase over time. Gruffydd also stated that the government would be working on exclusions for smaller producers and flexibilities around smaller retailers to address concerns about increased costs and complexity.

## The Deposit Return Scheme

The DRS will include plastic, metal, and glass drinks containers from day one, but a four-year transition period will apply to glass drinks containers. During this period, glass drinks containers will be exempt from labelling requirements and will carry a zero pence deposit. The scheme aims to tackle litter while supporting the collection of high-quality recycled materials, and will help provide a pathway towards the roll-out of reusable drinks containers in Wales.

## Reaction to the Appointment

The drinks industry has welcomed the appointment of Exchange for Change, with the British Soft Drinks Association director general, Andy Bagnall, calling it a crucial milestone in delivering a successful DRS. However, Bagnall also warned that preparations for launching the DRS in England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland are already well advanced, and that delivering the scheme in Wales within a short timeframe means there can be no further delays. Exchange for Change has called the appointment an important milestone that will help deliver an effective and efficient scheme, and is looking forward to working closely with the Welsh government to take the scheme forward.