Apply to manage the drinks containers Deposit Return Scheme

How to apply to be a deposit management organisation for the DRS initiative due to launch in October 2027.

The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) has opened applications to become a deposit management organisation (DMO) for the Deposit Return Schemes (DRS) in England, Northern Ireland and Scotland.

The United Kingdom Government is working with the Scottish Government and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) to introduce a DRS in October 2027. The Welsh Government is proceeding with a separate scheme.

The scheme will introduce a refundable deposit on some drinks containers. It aims to:

• reduce litter
• increase recycling rates
• create high-quality recycled materials that drinks producers can use again

The scheme will include drinks containers from 150ml to 3 litres made from:

• polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic
• steel
• aluminium

The DMO will have obligations and powers under the relevant DRS regulations. The DMO is responsible for:

• running the DRS, including management and oversight of the material and financial flows
• producing and publishing technical information for businesses to prepare for the DRS
• engaging with industry to ensure information about DRS is easy to access
• communicating the DRS with consumers
• creating an easy process for users of the DRS to raise queries
• meeting the collection targets laid down in the legislation

To apply to be a DMO, your organisation must be an independent, not-for-profit, private body.

There are two schemes – one across England and Northern Ireland, and one in Scotland. You can apply to manage one or both of the schemes. If you apply to be the DMO for only one scheme, you must explain how this will work alongside the other scheme.

Find out more about the DMO selection process and how to apply.

First published 3 December 2024