Reloop | New global analysis confirms deposit return systems drastically reduce beverage container litter

A new global analysis by Reloop shows that jurisdictions with deposit return systems (DRS) experience a reduction in beverage container litter by over 50% on average, and up to 89% in some cases. The report, based on data from over 100 areas with and without DRS, highlights the significant impact these systems have on reducing litter where they are implemented. 

The study also emphasises the importance of metrics in understanding litter, revealing that while cigarette butts are the most common litter by count, plastic bottles dominate by weight. In countries with DRS, plastic bottles made up only 0.5% of total litter by count in 2023, compared to 3.2% in places without DRS, an 86% reduction. This evidence supports DRS as a key solution to marine pollution and rising cleanup costs. 

Source: www.reloopplatform.org