The initiative will aim to ensure that residents and visitors on Arranmore, Cape Clear and Inishturk can conveniently return eligible drinks containers for recycling, despite the logistical and infrastructural challenges faced by remote locations.
Minister of State for Small Business, Retail & Circular Economy, Alan Dillon, commented: “The launch of this pilot programme is a clear demonstration of Re-turn’s commitment to ensuring that Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme is accessible to everyone, no matter where they live.
“Island communities are a vital part of Ireland’s social and environmental fabric, and it’s essential that they benefit fully from our national efforts to reduce waste and build a more circular economy.
“This marks a positive step forward in enhancing Ireland’s circular economy and ensuring that everyone can contribute to it.”
The Irish DRS hit 1.2 billion packaging containers returned in its first year of operation, after the scheme was launched in April 2024.
Expanding DRS access through pilot scheme
Under the pilot, RVMs have been installed on Arranmore and Cape Clear, with a communal Re-turn collection bin introduced on Inishturk.
The three islands were selected to provide geographic spread and population variation, following engagement with local communities.
Re-turn said the programme is designed to test collection logistics, evaluate machine usage patterns and gather return-rate data to inform a wider rollout of RVMs and collection points across Ireland’s offshore and remote communities.
Ciaran Hope, COO of Re-turn, said: “Re-turn’s goal is to make it easier and more convenient for everyone in Ireland to participate in the Deposit Return Scheme.
“Ensuring equal access to recycling infrastructure is essential so that no community is left behind in Ireland’s transition to a circular economy.
“Extending the scheme to island communities is an important step forward in achieving that vision.”
Island regions often face greater barriers to recycling services due to limited transport links and smaller local infrastructures.
Re-turn said providing convenient return points helps ensure no island community is disadvantaged in participating in the national DRS and supports equal access to recycling opportunities across Ireland.
Hope added: “The Islands Pilot Programme will allow us to test and refine collection logistics, strengthen local engagement, and gather valuable insights to inform wider rollouts.
“We’re proud to work hand in hand with island communities and stakeholders to make recycling simple, accessible, and impactful for all.”
Interested in the future of Deposit Return Schemes?
We’ll be hosting our Deposit Return Scheme Conference in April 2026, bringing together policymakers, retailers, waste operators and system innovators to explore the challenges and opportunities of DRS implementation across the UK and Ireland. Registration isn’t open yet – but you can be the first to know when it is by completing our Register Your Interest form.
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