A deposit scheme for drinks bottles and cans is likely to backfire on the government, a senior councillor has claimed.
Customers would have to pay a small deposit when buying one, which they would get back when recycling it at a collection point, writes Local Democracy Reporter Jamie Waller.
The government scheme will be introduced in 2027, following similar ones in Germany and Sweden.
However there was scepticism at the Lincolnshire Waste Partnership meeting on Tuesday (June 24) as the plans were discussed.
Coun Richard Wright, leader of the county council’s Conservative group, said: “These legislation changes are absolute tosh, and the deposit return scheme is a farce. It’s so full of holes it’s unbelievable.
“It’s supposed to lead to a cleaner environment and carbon reduction, but anyone can be a collection point meaning everyone will want it for the financial return.
“There could be lorries going up and down the country to every shop. I just don’t see the common sense, and the fact it’s missed out glass is a travesty.”
Coun Rhys Baker described a council report on the law as “making a silk purse out of a pig’s ear.”
The government claims that 6.5billion single-use cans and bottles end up as waste each year – equivalent to 17million each day.
Anyone who cleans up their community will also be able to earn money from other people’s thrown-away bottles.
When the scheme was announced circular economy minister Mary Creagh said: “This is a vital step as we stop the avalanche of rubbish that is filling up our streets, rivers and oceans and protect our treasured wildlife.
“Turning trash into cash also delivers on our Plan for Change by kickstarting clean growth, ensuring economic stability, more resilient supply chains, and new green jobs.”
