ACS reiterates calls for a DRS ‘workable’ for small shops

The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has asked a parliamentary committee to consider the concerns of local shops to deliver a ‘workable’ deposit return scheme (DRS) for single use drinks containers.

Responding to an Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) call for evidence on the next steps for the implementation of DRS, the ACS recommended that small retail outlets should be able to apply for exemptions from DRS where they have limited sales and storage space or to facilitate a return point.

The trade body added that the scheme should strategically map the location of return points rather than mandating every location that sells drinks to take back containers.

Other recommendations included restricting the return of containers through a network of reverse vending machines, and adequate handling fees to cover the cost of taking back drinks containers.

The ACS also called for an appraisal of the logistical challenges caused by the inclusion of glass in the development the scheme.

“It is important that the committee takes local shops’ concerns into consideration and our priority remains with ensuring sector has sufficient support and guidance for implementation aided by Government liaison, guidance, and a reasonable implementation period,” James Lowman, ACS chief executive, said,

“We are committed to working with the government and the scheme administrator to implement a scheme that is workable for both smaller stores and consumers.”

In the Environment Bill, which is currently making its way through Parliament, the government has proposed a framework for DRS which might be implemented in England, Northern Ireland and Wales.

Defra has earlier said that it would hold a second consultation this spring on the proposed regulatory framework for introducing a DRS through secondary legislation, including more detailed proposals for the nature of any such scheme.

Scottish Parliament has meanwhile passed DRS regulations in May last year, and the scheme is set to take effect on 1 July 2022, after the Scottish government has delayed the introduction by over a year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.