WELSH political parties welcomed an initiative announced today to charge a deposit for glass drink containers as an important part of the county’s approach to recycling.

The Welsh government has started its consultation on the scheme, which will prioritise reuse over traditional recycling methods.  

Wales already ranks second in the world for recycling, according to a poll last year, and climate change minister Huw Irranca Davies wants to build on this success by supporting the transition to reuse.

Mr Irranca Davies claimed reusing glass delivers greater environmental benefits than recycling alone.

Welsh Green Party leader Anthony Slaughter welcomed the consultation, but said the reuse scheme must take place as soon as possible and not be subject to prolonged delays.

A Plaid Cymru statement said: “We have long supported implementing a deposit return scheme for Wales because we need a cleaner, more circular economy.”

The consultation closes on November 10 2025.