Nestlé Waters UK Launches Digital Recycling Scheme in Welsh Town Brecon

In a pioneering effort, Nestlé Waters UK, in collaboration with the DDRS Alliance, the Welsh Government, and local stakeholders, has launched a first-of-its-kind digital recycling scheme in Brecon. This 12-week trial allows residents to earn monetary rewards for scanning and recycling beverage containers, with Buxton brand products being eligible for the program.

The 12-week trial, from July 13 to October 4, 2023, aims to explore the effectiveness of a scan, recycle, reward digital deposit return scheme (DDRS). Notably, online supermarket Ocado also recently announced a similar initiative.

Nestlé Waters' participation in the trial encompasses various drink containers and material types, including glass, metal, plastic PET bottles, and paperboard cartons. The primary objective is to test the potential of digital technology in promoting recycling practices.

The program offers a 10p (12 euro cents) reward for each recycled eligible container to encourage participation. Consumers can use their mobile phones to scan a special QR code on the label or sticker. Recycling options are also flexible, allowing participants to recycle at home, use designated bins around town, or hand containers over the counter at select stores.

The Buxton brand, the largest natural mineral water brand in the UK, is the exclusive brand eligible for this program. With a commitment to using 100% recycled PET plastic for their entire bottle range, Buxton has made significant strides in reducing the consumption of virgin PET plastic.

As corporate affairs and sustainability head at Nestlé Waters UK, Hayley Lloyd House expresses enthusiasm for this large-scale digital Deposit Return Scheme trial. She highlights the opportunity to explore digital solutions within a deposit return scheme and engage consumers in the bottle-to-bottle circular economy journey, ultimately striving for higher recycling rates.

This pioneering initiative, led by the DDRS Alliance and its partners, demonstrates a commitment to advancing recycling efforts and fostering a more sustainable future.

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