Re-Turn Plans Multimillion-Euro PET Recycling Facility in Ireland

Dublin: Re-Turn, the operator of Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), is moving forward with plans to establish a major bottle-to-bottle PET recycling facility, aiming for operations to begin by late 2026 or early 2027. The project seeks to reduce Ireland’s reliance on exporting PET waste, which currently accounts for about 90% of collected plastic due to the lack of domestic processing capacity.

The company intends to fund the facility using part of its €89.8 million cash reserve, including €66.7 million from unclaimed deposits. Seven potential contractors have already expressed interest, and a tendering process for the plant’s operation is underway.

During a meeting with Environment Minister Darragh O’Brien, Re-Turn CEO Ciaran Foley noted that legislative adjustments may be necessary and that discussions with the European Commission have begun. Re-Turn emphasised that the significant rise in national recycling rates—from 49% to 91% since the DRS launch—now provides the consistent volume of food-grade PET required to support Ireland’s first bottle-to-bottle facility.

The company is coordinating with government and industry partners, with plans for ongoing communication at key project milestones, including contract awards, site selection, and planning approval.

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