112. Why the UK Deposit Return Scheme is free for brands

Why might the UK’s Deposit Return Scheme be free for drinks brands for its first 15 months? We dig into the surprising finances behind DRS, from producer fees and the value of recycled material to the huge sums generated by unclaimed 20p deposits. Using Ireland’s scheme and the UK Government’s own forecasts, we ask who will really pay for DRS, why lower return rates can actually make the system more money, and whether there’s an uncomfortable tension at the heart of how the scheme is funded. Plus, is Smint packaging rubbish or not, which council provides the highest quantity of bins, how will tomato ketchup be packaged in our dream shop, and why are James and Robbie excited about reusable packaging? Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish. To see James and Robbie live at London Packaging Week, get your free ticket here.  Please take a moment to complete the Simpler Recycling tracker We would love you to join our community on Discord Special thanks to our sponsor, Ecosurety To get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcast Or you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address [email protected] or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232 Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.ee Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website Timestamps: Why the UK Deposit Return Scheme is free for brands - 01:00 Additions and corrections - 30:45 Rubbish or Not: Smint container - 35:53 Rubbish News - 40:37 Which council provides the highest quantity of bins? - 44:49 Green Grocer: tomato ketchup - 50:31 Residual Rubbish - 55:54 Send us a message directly…  Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL