1.6 billion bottles and cans returned through Deposit Return Scheme so far
This is according to figures from Re-turn, the administrator of Ireland's DRS.
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The most recent data from Re-turn also shows that an estimated 798 million more containers are now being recycled each year compared to before the scheme began.
Recycling rates have risen from 49 per cent to an estimated 91 per cent, with 76 per cent of containers captured directly through the DRS and a further 15 per cent collected via mixed dry recycling.
Chair of the board of Re-turn, Tony Keohane, said: 'The board is very encouraged by the strong performance and early impact of the scheme since its launch in February of last year.
"Re-turn has delivered a Deposit Return Scheme that is already achieving measurable environmental results and social impact, including the return of over 1.6 billion bottles and cans and a significant increase in Ireland's national recycling rate for drinks containers.
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"This has been driven by extraordinary collaboration across government, retailers, producers and the wider supply chain, and most importantly by the enthusiastic participation of the Irish public. The Board extends its sincere thanks to all stakeholders for their continued support. We look forward to building on this momentum as we work together to meet the ambitious targets ahead.'
Environment Minister Darragh O'Brien said the Deposit Return Scheme has already established itself as a "landmark initiative" in Irish society.
"It demonstrates that when change is right, Irish people will embrace it. I'm absolutely delighted to see such a strong response, with over 1.6 billion containers returned by families, organisations, and communities across the country," he said.
"I want to commend and congratulate Re-turn for their outstanding work to date, and I look forward to seeing the organisation progressing its plans to recycle plastic materials here in Ireland.'
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