Plastic Bottle Deposit Scheme

The government has confirmed that a deposit scheme for plastic bottles will begin next spring.

Shoppers will pay a small extra charge when they buy a drink in a plastic bottle.

They will get the money back when they return the empty bottle to a collection point.

Similar schemes in other countries have raised recycling rates to more than ninety percent.

Retailers have welcomed the plan but say they need more time to install the machines.

Environmental groups argue that the scheme should also include glass bottles.