Reloop report finds 54% less beach litter in countries with DRS

Plastic pollution public domain
Sustainability

Reloop has released its latest report, Littered with Evidence: Proof that Deposit Return Systems Work, based on litter composition data from more than 100 jurisdictions worldwide.

The study demonstrates that regions with deposit return schemes (DRS) consistently record substantially lower levels of beverage container beach litter—an average 54% reduction when compared to areas without such systems. In some territories, reductions reached as high as 75–89% within two years of implementation.

Reloop emphasises that strong DRS design—featuring accessible return points, meaningful deposit values, and integration with existing recycling infrastructure—is essential for success. The analysis also highlights that litter-control effectiveness improves when DRS are supported by comprehensive policies and public awareness efforts.

As countries implement or update DRS, including the planned rollout in parts of the UK, Reloop suggests this evidence provides compelling justification for these schemes in tackling marine pollution, reducing waste, and lowering clean-up costs.

Read the full report: Littered with evidence: Proof that deposit return systems work

Latest Packaging News

Amcor’s Exclusive stick simplifies refill process for specialist shampoo
Business

Amcor’s Exclusive stick simplifies refill process for specialist shampoo

Amcor announced that the simple, mess-free and hygienic refill process for its Exclusive stick has...
Clarins introduces reloadable airless packaging for its Total Eye Lift cream
Sustainability

Clarins introduces reloadable airless packaging for its Total Eye Lift cream

Aptar Beauty has worked with Clarins to develop new reloadable packaging for the updated version of...
One week to go: Excel London prepares for a landmark edition of London Packaging Week
Events

One week to go: Excel London prepares for a landmark edition of London Packaging Week

London Packaging Week 2025 promises two days of unrivalled inspiration, innovation, and...
Rowlinson Packaging protects high-value AI hardware with timber crate solutions
Supplier News

Rowlinson Packaging protects high-value AI hardware with timber crate solutions

As artificial intelligence (AI) adoption accelerates, the global demand for AI infrastructure...
Viscose Closures: Choosing the right cork – A guide for wine and spirits producers
Supplier News

Viscose Closures: Choosing the right cork – A guide for wine and spirits producers

Selecting the right cork stopper is a crucial decision for both winemakers and spirit producers....