Viridor and TOMRA have launched a joint bid to design, build and operate Scotland’s deposit return scheme (DRS).

On 29 April, 2020 the Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform Committee voted through Scotland’s proposed introduction of a national DRS.

The scheme has been delayed by the coronavirus pandemic and looks set to be introduced from July 2022.

Under the proposals, customers would pay a 20p deposit when they buy a drink in a single-use container – which includes cans and bottles.

Viridor and TOMRA have formed a partnership to bid to operate the scheme.

Luke Burgess, Viridor Director of Business Development (Polymers), said: “TOMRA has extensive global experience in operating counting and sorting facilities and the partnership will add this to Viridor’s experience of working with Scotland to deliver its recycling, resource management and wider environmental goals.

“This experience and commitment to the goals of the Scottish circular economy means we have a very strong offering to make. The successful implementation of DRS in Scotland is of paramount importance if we are to reach the recycling goals of the Plastics Pact, a target that Viridor, a founding member of the Pact, is committed to helping to achieve.”

TOMRA Collection Solutions UK and Ireland managing director Truls Haug added: “The TOMRA/Viridor partnership is formed under the shared vision to facilitate a modern, cost-effective and best practice Scottish deposit return system, acting as a catalyst for sustainable recycling outcomes, delivering key sorting and counting centre services to the deposit operator.

“Our partnership forms a unique and complementary mix of global and UK-based experience, enabling a compelling ‘fit-for-purpose’ service offer – which if accepted could be deployed in due time for scheme commencement. We are inspired by the progress made to date and the opportunity ahead of us.”

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