Guide
Which drinks containers are in the DRS?
Single-use PET plastic bottles and steel or aluminium cans, from 150ml to 3 litres. Last checked: 12 Oct 2026
In short: Single-use PET plastic bottles and steel or aluminium cans, from 150ml to 3 litres. In scope: single-use PET plastic bottles and steel or aluminium cans. Size: 150ml up to 3 litres. Glass is not included in England, Scotland or Northern Ireland, and HDPE (milk-bottle plastic) is excluded.
What is in
GOV.UK lists the materials as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic and steel or aluminium, for single-use drinks containers from 150ml to 3 litres.
Source: GOV.UK: DRS retailer responsibilities
What is out
- Containers made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), the material used for many milk bottles.
- Containers under 150ml or over 3 litres.
Source: GOV.UK: DRS retailer responsibilities
Wales
In Wales single-use glass is included, but carries no deposit or label before October 2031. Glass is not included in England, Scotland or Northern Ireland.
Sources: Exchange for Change exemptions criteria (PDF); Welsh Government written statement
Questions
Are glass bottles in the scheme?
Not in England, Scotland or Northern Ireland. In Wales single-use glass is included but carries no deposit before October 2031.
Sources: Exchange for Change exemptions criteria (PDF); Welsh Government written statement
What sizes are covered?
Single-use containers from 150ml up to 3 litres.
Are milk bottles included?
HDPE containers, the material most milk bottles use, are excluded.