The new Deposit Return Scheme for bottles and cans has gone live.
Between 15 and 25 cent has been added to containers, which can be claimed back by returning the aluminum cans and plastic drinks bottles.
1,800 reverse-vending machines have been introduced across the country.
A deposit of 15 cents will apply to containers from 150ml to 500mls, while a deposit of 25 cents will apply to containers between 500ml and 3 litres.
When you return your empty, undamaged drinks container to any participating retail outlet, you get your deposit back in full.
About 5 million drinks are consumed in single-use containers in Ireland each day.
As well as boosting recycling rates, it's hoped the Deposit Return Scheme will significantly reduce the number of bottles and cans being littered or sent to landfill or incineration.
Welcoming the launch of the new scheme, Minister of State with responsibility for Communications and the Circular Economy, Ossian Smyth said:
"We know deposit return schemes work — they operate effectively in over 40 countries around the world, including 15 in Europe, where the average EU collection rate is 92%. By giving these containers a financial value, it incentivises consumers to return them."
