The initiative, which aims to enhance on-the-go recycling and reduce littering in high-footfall areas, has now being extended to new locations including Galway City, Meath, Carlow, Clare, Westmeath and additional areas of Dublin.
The second phase of the rollout has already seen 24 new bin surrounds installed across Dún Laoghaire Harbour. The move follows a positive public response to the initial pilot, which launched in October 2024, in collaboration with Dublin city council and introduced 80 bin surrounds across the capital’s centre.
The surrounds are designed to sit externally on existing waste bins, providing a convenient location for people to leave eligible bottles and cans for others to return through the Deposit Return Scheme.
Re-turn’s data shows containers left on the surrounds are typically collected within just 16 minutes, underscoring the initiative’s efficacy in enabling circular behaviours among the public.
Survey results released by Re-turn reveal that 79% of respondents support such on-the-go recycling schemes and would welcome similar infrastructure in their own communities.
Councillor Jim Gildea, Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown county council, welcomed the new installations: “It’s a simple idea that makes a big difference, giving people an easy way to return their bottles and cans while out and about. Putting these units in such a busy, scenic spot helps encourage better habits and keeps the harbour looking its best.”
Re-turn’s CEO, Ciaran Foley, said: “We are committed to providing the public with convenient and visible recycling options, and the bin surrounds pilot scheme is successfully delivering on that promise. We are encouraging the public to utilise bin surrounds and assist with the recycling of plastic bottles and cans. Together, we can support the circular economy and make a real difference in our communities and environment.”
The units are being mounted on existing Big Belly Bins – solar-powered compactors already in use in many local authorities. Frank Curran, chief executive of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown county council, said: “This initiative directly supports the implementation of our Waste Management Plan for a circular economy and aligns with the council’s Climate Action Plan 2024-2029. By working in partnership with Re-turn, we are not only encouraging sustainable habits but also taking tangible action to reduce litter and protect the environment across our communities.”
Since its launch in February 2024, Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme has seen over 1.6 billion containers recycled.
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