Irish Consumers Leave €66.7m in Unclaimed Drink Container Deposits
Dublin: Irish consumers failed to redeem €66.7 million in deposits for bottles and cans under the Government’s Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) in 2024, according to Re-Turn’s annual report. This unclaimed amount was the main factor behind the not-for-profit operator recording a €51.3 million pre-tax surplus.
Launched in February 2024, the DRS collected 877.85 million containers—433.2 million plastic bottles and 444.6 million cans—achieving an average recycling rate of 66%, with peaks of 75% in August.
Re-Turn generated €114.4 million in revenue, comprising €66.7 million in unredeemed deposits, €17.2 million from material sales, and €30.5 million in producer fees. Costs totalled €62.2 million, including €46.5 million for collection and recycling and €4.6 million on public awareness campaigns.
The organisation said unredeemed deposits were expected during the scheme’s early phase and are being reinvested in infrastructure, education campaigns, and a contingency reserve. As redemption rates improve toward the 90% target, unclaimed deposits are expected to decline.
Re-Turn closed 2024 with €89.8 million in cash, but this will reduce to around €32 million in 2025 due to major outlays, including VAT settlements, reserve provisions, and loan repayments.
Sustainability Milestone
CEO Ciaran Foley and Chair Tony Keohane hailed the scheme’s rapid adoption, highlighting its role in boosting high-quality recycling and advancing Ireland’s circular economy goals.
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