DRS PLAYBOOK:

Everything you need to know about developing, financing, and operating a Deposit Return Scheme

WHY DEPOSIT RETURN SCHEMES (DRS) MATTER

In a circular economy, beverage packaging is more than a container, it is a valuable resource. When collected and recycled properly, it can be turned into new bottles and cans, reducing environmental impact and preventing litter. DRS are among the most effective collection tools to achieve this. With their implementation now mandatory* under the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), an increasing number of European countries are rolling them out.

*with some exemptions. See here.

WHAT IS THE DRS PLAYBOOK ABOUT?

The DRS Playbook, developed by OLHC Consultants** with input from UNESDA Soft Drinks Europe and Natural Mineral Waters Europe (NMWE), is a comprehensive guide to designing, financing, and operating new DRS successfully. It brings together years of expertise, practical insights, and proven approaches to help stakeholders navigate the complexity of DRS implementation. Whether you are a beverage producer, importer, policymaker or collection scheme administrator, this Playbook offers a structured, principle-based framework to support the rollout of efficient and locally adapted DRS. It is not an evaluation of existing systems, but a forward-looking resource to inspire best practices. The Playbook is a living document and will evolve with new developments and lessons learned.

** OLHC is a boutique consultancy established in 1997. A small team of consultants with years of collective experience assists DRS coalitions initiated by beverage producers and industry, from a first introduction about DRS all the way to operations. Knowledge transfer, internal training, scheme design and roll out, (financial) modelling & business plan development, assistance in preparing DRS legal guidelines, DRS administrator license applications, project management, stakeholder mapping and management, interim management and operations are OLHCs key areas of expertise. For more info: raymond@mindthezebra.com.

Explore the DRS Playbook
DRS Playbook

WHAT IS INSIDE THE PLAYBOOK?

The Playbook takes readers through every critical aspect of DRS implementation, from legislative foundations to operational execution. Here is a glimpse of what it covers:
  • Legislative Context
    • Explains the role of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)
    • Unpacks the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)
    • Reviews national legislative frameworks and their implications
  • Design of a DRS
    • Offers guidance on setting up accessible and effective return points
    • Compares return processes, including Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) and manual options
    • Presents the nine key design principles any news DRS should follow
  • Stakeholder Engagement
    • Highlights strategies for involving producers, retailers, consumers, and public authorities
  • Financial Architecture
    • Breaks down funding models, operational costs, and revenue flows
    • Details how to manage expenditures and optimize financial sustainability
  • Governance and Administration
    • Explores the setup and responsibilities of the DRS administrator
    • Provides insights into legal, technical, and operational requirements
  • Technical Specifications
    • Defines packaging, labelling, and RVM standards
    • Outlines IT system requirements for efficient data management and fraud prevention
  • Consumer Education
    • Shares best practices for building public trust and driving participation
  • Strategic Considerations
    • Discusses optimal deposit fee setting
    • Offers guidance on defending the system against fraud
    • Covers transition planning and stakeholder readiness
  • Reuse and Future Innovation
    • Explores the role of reusable packaging within DRS frameworks
    • Reflects on digital DRS (DDRS) and emerging technologies