Bottle return scheme deposit set at 20p

The compulsory scheme will see the cost of drinks in single use glass or plastic bottles or aluminium and steel cans rise by 20p, which will be refunded when it is returned.

Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham told MSPs at Holyrood that a "return to retail" model would be adopted to encourage more recycling.

It is intended to encourage more recycling and reduce the amount of plastic and aluminium thrown out in general waste and litter bins.

Ms Cunningham said: “There is a global climate emergency and people across Scotland have been calling, rightly, for more ambition to tackle it and safeguard our planet for future generations.

“I am therefore delighted to confirm that I intend to implement a system covering PET, the most common form of plastic packaging, aluminium and steel cans, and glass, with a deposit refund set at 20p.

“Supported by international evidence our plans for Scotland’s Deposit Return Scheme are gathering pace with widespread consensus demonstrating that a well-run, appropriately-targeted scheme could improve the environment, change attitudes to recycling and litter, and support a more circular economy.”

The move has been welcomed by environmental organisations.

Jill Farrell, Chief Operating Officer, Zero Waste Scotland, said: “This will be a game-changer for recycling and the circular economy in Scotland. By giving people an extra incentive to do something good for our environment, and having a consistent approach across Scotland, we are confident it will be easier for all of us to do the right thing. This will improve the volume and quality of recycling and help tackle litter in the process.