Digital Deposit Return Systems – What you need to know

By the end of 2020, over 290 million people worldwide had access to deposit return systems (DRS) for recycling their single-use beverage containers, and that number continues to grow. In fact, in the last two to three years, several countries, states and provinces have announced they too will implement or expand DRS.

DRS is the only proven way to ensure the separated, high-quality collection of more than 90% of the materials included. A well-designed DRS can also bring cost savings for local authorities, reduce carbon emissions, and create green jobs in the circular economy. As more jurisdictions consider DRS, stakeholders are wondering whether more digital elements should be part of the legislation from the beginning.

This fact sheet offers an overview of the new digital elements that are included within the concept of digital deposit return systems (DDRS). We also look at the key questions that need to be addressed before real consideration can be given to incorporating these technologies into a DRS.