Deposit Return Scheme: SCDI Signs Open Letter to Government
“Dear First Minister, Deposit Return Scheme must be delayed We are all determined to play our part in driving sustainability, enabling a circular economy, improving recycling rates and tackling waste and litter. We share the objectives that DRS was set out to deliver, but in its current form, and without change, it is destined to fail.
For months business groups and trade associations have sought clarity on how the scheme will function and have made comprehensive suggestions that could make it work. In good faith, businesses across Scotland have spent precious time and resources to understand and implement the scheme. But it is clear to us now that these efforts, and those of trade associations that have worked so hard to make the scheme work, have not been matched by Ministers and will not deliver a DRS fit for purpose.
Instead we believe we need to delay, review and rethink DRS plans, and give businesses more time to prepare and allow them to sign up for a scheme in which they can have confidence will deliver and without taking on unacceptable liability. You will know the economic conditions in which Scotland’s businesses are operating, with inflationary pressures hitting bottom lines. You will know the economic recovery following the pandemic is fragile, and not to be taken for granted. You will also know the pressure hard-pressed businesses and consumers are under. Given this, pressing on with DRS in its current form would be reckless.
“With the deadline for registration having elapsed with fewer than one in five producers registered, we have heard from the Minister for Green Skills, Circular Economy and Biodiversity that businesses want DRS to continue. We can tell you businesses the length and breadth of Scotland’s communities do not.”
Instead we believe we need to delay, review and rethink DRS plans, and give businesses more time to prepare and allow them to sign up for a scheme in which they can have confidence will deliver and without taking on unacceptable liability. You will know the economic conditions in which Scotland’s businesses are operating, with inflationary pressures hitting bottom lines. You will know the economic recovery following the pandemic is fragile, and not to be taken for granted. You will also know the pressure hard-pressed businesses and consumers are under. Given this, pressing on with DRS in its current form would be reckless.
Tracy Black Director CBI Scotland
Andrew McRae Scotland Policy Chair Federation of Small Businesses (FSB)
Dr Liz Cameron CBE Director and Chief Executive Scottish Chambers of Commerce
Mark Kent CMG Chief Executive Scotch Whisky Association
Jamie Delap Scotland Director Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA)
Leon Thompson Executive Director for Scotland UK Hospitality
Sara Thiam Chief Executive SCDI
Colin Smith Chief Executive Scottish Wholesale Association
Marc Crothall MBE Chief Executive Scottish Tourism Alliance
Miles Beale Chief Executive Wine & Spirits Trade Association
