The Pat Kenny Show Is the deposit return scheme a success or headache for people?
Oct 30, 2025
Josh Crosbie, a dedicated reporter, dives into the real-world impacts of the deposit return scheme. He discusses how the initiative has significantly reduced litter while boosting income for vulnerable collectors, transforming discarded items into cash. Listeners hear insights on the operational challenges and the positive engagement from communities, especially children. Crosbie also highlights ambitious future goals like enhancing app features for convenience and expanding accepted recyclables, painting a vivid picture of ongoing evolution in recycling efforts.
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Recycling Rates Jump Dramatically
- The deposit return scheme sharply increased recycling with about 800 million more bottles or cans recycled annually.
- Public sentiment warmed over time despite initial resistance and practical annoyances.
Elderly Bottle Collector's Income Boost
- A 72-year-old man collects bottles overnight and can make around €100–€120 to cover basics like bread and milk.
- He spends early-morning hours running routes and sometimes risks small injuries from broken glass.
High Capture, Ambitious Targets
- Return reports 91% recycling of in-scope containers, with 77% via the deposit scheme and aims for 90% scheme capture by 2029.
- Operators are deploying contractors to service machines and investigate fraud as the system scales.