Cash for recycling, which was tested in a pilot program, could help Wales achieve its zero waste goals. Conwy hosted a four-week trial of the digital deposit return scheme (DRS) from July 2020 to July 2021. When participants in the experiment scanned specially labeled bottles when recycling them at home, they were given 25 cents for each bottle. The organization behind the project, WRAP Cymru, claimed the notion might “help Wales to deliver on its recycling ambitions”. People can use a smartphone app to scan bottles at home, eliminating the need to return containers in person, as in a traditional DRS scheme. The outcomes of the trial, which used Polytag Technology, revealed that a widespread program promoting high-quality recycling might enhance collection rates, reduce garbage, and reduce carbon emissions.

The research, which was carried out in cooperation with Conwy Council and the Welsh government, found that it might give homes additional options and flexibility when it comes to recycling. According to the study, any wider implementation would need to ensure that households without sufficient technology could still participate. “WRAP Cymru is pleased to have been involved with this innovative work investigating the possibility of using the well-established recycling collections already provided by Welsh councils as part of a deposit return scheme,” said Emma Hallett, of WRAP Cymru’s Collaborative Change Program.”