Circularity Scotland: Bottle deposit refund scheme on the brink of collapse | UK news
The firm which was supposed to run Scotland’s controversial Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) appears to be on the brink of collapse.
Staff have been sent home from Circularity Scotland and the board said it could not confirm whether workers would receive their month’s wages or even whether they would be able to return to the office.
The board said it recognized it was an “extremely difficult time” for staff as bosses “work tirelessly” to find a solution.
Scotland DRS was supposed to start in August but was postponed to March 2024 after Humza Yousaf was appointed as the first minister.
It was from that time postponed until at least October 2025 after the UK government ruled that it could only go without glass bottles.
Announcing the delay at Holyrood last week, Lorna Slater, minister for clean skills, the circular economy and biodiversity, said the Scottish Government had “no other option”.
Circularity Scotland issued a statement on Thursday afternoon.
It said: “Circularity Scotland’s board is working to manage the impact of the Scottish Government’s announcement and find a way for the business to continue to operate.
“While this work continues, we have instructed staff to return home on Thursday, June 8.
“Unfortunately, the reality is that at this time we cannot confirm if our staff will be paid for this month and if they will be able to return to the office.
“The board recognizes that this is an extremely difficult time for our people and is working tirelessly to find a solution.
“We have been in constant contact with our employees and will provide them with updates as soon as possible.”
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As similar schemes in the rest of the UK are not due to come into force until 2025, the Scottish Government sought an exemption from the Internal Market Act, which governs trade in different parts of the UK after Brexit.
Westminster limited exemption grantedbut the stipulated glass could not be part of it.
Environmental companies called Mr. Joseph to “endure the nerves” and the soldier in the scheme with cans and plastic bottles.
The First Minister wrote to the Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, calling for the glass to be turned on. The request was denied to ensure “simplicity and compatibility.”
Mrs. Slater previously admitted that the industry has “invested hundreds of millions of pounds” in the scheme.
The Scottish Greens leader said she was committed to DRS and pledged to work with the UK government and others to “play the hand we’ve been dealt” for a cleaner environment, less waste and climate targets.
