UK DMO begins work to deliver Deposit Return Schemes

UK Deposit Management Organisation Ltd (UK DMO) has been announced as the operator of the new Deposit Return Schemes for single-use plastic and metal drinks containers in England, Northern Ireland and Scotland.

The appointment has been made by the UK Government and DAERA. In Scotland, Scottish Ministers have also decided that UK DMO should be designated as the DRS scheme administrator.*

UK DMO is a not-for-profit organisation created to deliver this significant environmental infrastructure programme across England, Northern Ireland and Scotland. Once launched, UK DMO’s press release has stated that the Deposit Return Scheme will cut litter, boost recycling and reduce carbon emissions.

UK DMO will now begin engaging with partners including the three governments, business, including drinks producers and retailers, consumer and environmental groups to design and operate the scheme. Producers, retailers and other interested parties are encouraged to visit the UK DMO website and register their interest in getting updates at https://ukdmo.co.uk

SGF is a member of the DRS Advisory Council, which supported the establishment of the DMO. SGF will continue to engage with the DMO, DEFRA and the Scottish Government throughout the process. For further information please see SGF’s statement in the press release linked below.

You can read the full press release here.

*The appointment of UK DMO as the scheme administrator in Scotland is subject to the approval of the Scottish Parliament. the draft Deposit and Return Scheme for Scotland (Amendment Regulations) 2025 and draft Deposit and Return Scheme for Scotland (Designation of Scheme Administrator) Order 2025 have now been laid in the Scottish Parliament and will be voted on in due course.