The UK Deposit Return Scheme, run by the Deposit Management Organisation trading as Exchange for Change, launches in October 2027 with a 20p deposit on single-use PET and steel or aluminium drink containers from 150 mL to 3 L, returned via reverse vending machines and return points. Glass is excluded in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Honest caveat: Wales withdrew from the UK-wide design in 2024 to pursue a glass-inclusive scheme, though the operator's site now lists Wales as covered for plastic and metal; the final Welsh position was unclear when we checked. Until launch, use kerbside recycling.
How to prepare: exchangeforchange.co.uk/