Redemption is a podcast dedicated to exploring A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices. The series is produced by Reloop North America with its Director, Elizabeth Balkan, serving as our host.
In each episode of Redemption, we dive deep into one of the essential practices and hear how they’re being used together by states and countries to build, run, and maintain an effective deposit return system to address the massive problem of beverage container waste.
Our guests include policymakers, advocates, and system operators, all seeking the best public policy solutions to change the reality that every minute worldwide 2.5 million beverage containers are being burned, buried or littered.
We hear from pioneers forging the exciting path to effective post-consumer material recovery and reuse. The Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems will serve as our roadmap, our reference, and our inspiration on this journey.
Redemption Podcast episodes
- In this episode of Redemption, we revisit the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and dive deeper into the role that reuse could play in transforming how we manage waste and packaging. While the PPWR sets ambitious goals for recycling and reducing single-use packaging, we explore how reuse systems have the potential to push sustainability even further. Nathan Dufour from Zero Waste Europe shares insights into how reuse systems are already working, and where local initiatives are thriving despite opposition. Clarissa Morawski from Reloop sheds light on the regulatory framework and how Europe is leading the way in creating […]
- In this episode of Redemption, we explore the often-overlooked but essential practice of reuse. Although reuse ranks higher than recycling in the waste hierarchy, it is frequently left out of discussions about large-scale solutions to the plastics crisis and landfill overflow. Our global guests—advocates and pioneers—share insights on how reuse is being implemented across various economic and cultural landscapes. From grassroots efforts in Southeast Asia to innovative city projects in the U.S., we highlight how communities are leveraging reuse for a more sustainable future.In Reuse Stories from Around the World – Part 1, hear inspiring stories from Perpetual, and Greenpeace […]
- In the latest episode of Redemption we dive into the Global Plastic Action Partnership (GPAP), led by the World Economic Forum. Our guest, Clemence Schmid, Director of GPAP, shares how this initiative is tackling the global plastic waste crisis through National Plastic Action Plans (NPAPs) across 17 countries. Discover the strategic approach behind GPAP's efforts to create sustainable, circular economies by fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration and aligning local actions with global plastic treaty negotiations. This episode offers a deep dive into the practical steps being taken to ensure plastic is managed responsibly, sustainably, and efficiently on a global scale.Learn more about […]
- In the latest episode of Redemption, we delve into Europe’s ambitious Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), a groundbreaking legislation aimed at reducing packaging waste, promoting a circular economy, and harmonizing internal market rules. Adopted by the European Parliament in April 2023, this regulation is set to transform waste management practices across Europe. Clarissa Morawski from Reloop gives us a crash course on how this landmark regulation came to be. Next, Redemption speaks with Fernando Rodriguez Mata from New ERA, Natan Dufour from Zero Waste Europe (ZWE), and Dr. Dagny Tucker from Perpetual, who share their expertise on how this […]
- This special episode of Redemption features a roundtable discussion with experts from CalRecycle – Clara Vazeix, Mindy McIntyre, and Krystal Acierto. Discover how California is leading the way towards a circular economy through a comprehensive approach that emphasizes industry partnerships and standardized definitions. Elizabeth Balkan and the CalRecycle team delve into the state's zero waste plans and explore strategies for reducing packaging waste and promoting reuse. Listen in to learn how California is setting the standard for sustainable practices and resource recovery in the US.You can learn more about Senate Bill 54 and CalRecycle’s efforts using the links belowSB 54: […]
- The new season of Redemption brings you a special live recording from the 4th Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-4) meeting in Ottawa, in April 2024. Tune in to understand the stakes at INC-4 and what it means for the global fight against plastic pollution. Featuring insightful discussions with Taylor Cass Talbott from the International Alliance of Waste Pickers (IAWP), exploring the crucial role that waste pickers play in shaping effective and fair environmental policies. Read IAWP’s Vision for a Just Transition for Waste Pickers under the UN Plastics Treaty to know more. And listen to expert analysis from Clara Vazeix from […]
- Join us on a new chapter of "Redemption," as we delve deeper into resource recovery and circular material management, exploring their environmental and social ramifications. Each month, we will bring you a curated selection of content on a wide array of environmental and social topics, keeping you informed about global policy practices. Stay tuned as we further our mission to safeguard our planet.
- In the 14th episode of Redemption, we delve into one final facet of A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices – Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). Explore how EPR and DRS can complement each other to enhance packaging recovery and recycling rates. Featuring insights from industry experts Mike Noel of TOMRA and Lynn Hoffman of Eureka Recycling, we uncover why DRS is a vital component of effective EPR implementation, and how integrating DRS into EPR legislation can lead to higher recycling rates.Download “A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices” on BottleBillReimagined.org
- Episode 13 of Redemption, delves into the intersection of modern deposit return systems (DRS) and existing curbside recycling programs, focusing on their impact on material recovery facilities (MRFs). We discuss how well-designed DRSs can complement MRF operations, mitigate revenue loss, and improve material recovery. Through insights from industry experts Lynn Hoffman in Minnesota and Robert Kelman in Australia, we explore the challenges and opportunities of integrating MRFs into DRSs, offering practical solutions for policymakers and stakeholders. Download “A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices” on BottleBillReimagined.org
- In the twelfth episode of Redemption, we dive into the link between deposit return systems (DRS) and reuse initiatives. With single-use packaging dominating modern consumption, the resurgence of reusable packaging offers promising solutions to combat plastic waste. Our exploration highlights the pivotal role of DRS in facilitating the transition to refillable containers, amplifying the impact of reuse on environmental sustainability and economic efficiency. Featuring insights from Kirstie Pecci of Just Zero, Alexis Eisenberg from Reloop, and Henriette Schneider in Germany, we uncover innovative approaches driving the shift towards a circular economy. Download “A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 […]
- For the final essential practice from A Guide to Modern DRS, Elizabeth and Clarissa Morawski (Reloop CEO & Co-Founder) dig into the management of material flow and financial data. This practice centers on the clearing process in which beverage containers registered upon entering the market are matched with the units returned. This is critical for operational efficiency, data management, and reporting compliance. Thank you for listening to Redemption! Be sure to download “A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices” on BottleBillReimagined.org.
Related resources
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A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices
10 key requirements for successful implementation of a DRS to serve as a roadmap for policymakers, advocates, and producers seeking the best public policy solutions.
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A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices Executive Summary
Short summary of the 10 key requirements for successful implementation of a DRS to serve as a roadmap for policymakers, advocates, and producers seeking the best public policy solutions.
