Scope
Description
The UK Government is introducing a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) for drinks containers, launching in October 2027. Under the scheme, consumers will pay a small, refundable deposit on single use PET and metal drinks containers, which is returned when the container is brought back to a return point. The aim is to reduce litter, increase recycling rates, and generate high quality recycled materials. The latest published policy statement from May 2025 can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/deposit-return-scheme-for-drinks-containers-policy-statement/deposit-return-scheme-for-drinks-containers-policy-statement?utm_source=copilot.com
Defra is commissioning a national litter composition study for 2027 to update the 2020 study. This new evidence is needed to set a pre-launch baseline to evaluate the impact of the DRS and to support wider Circular Economy policy areas including plastics, vapes, litter, and packaging reforms. The study will provide a robust, statistically valid picture of what is being littered across England and Northern Ireland and in what quantities, forming the foundation for future policy assessment.
he commissioned service will replicate the 2020 methodology while expanding the scope to include new item classifications - particularly detailed categorisation of DRS in scope and out-of-scope drinks containers by size and material, and additional categories for vapes, plastics, and other priority items. Suppliers will design and deliver a national fieldwork programme, collect and sort litter samples, and produce a full dataset and analytical report. Key outputs include national estimates of litter composition and specific breakdowns of DRS eligible container litter by count and volume, establishing a clear pre DRS baseline.
Total value (estimated)
- £200,000 excluding VAT
- £240,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 6 July 2026 to 5 July 2027
- 1 year
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 73210000 - Research consultancy services
- 71241000 - Feasibility study, advisory service, analysis
- 90711500 - Environmental monitoring other than for construction
- 90711400 - Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) services other than for construction
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Engagement
Engagement deadline
6 February 2026
Engagement process description
You are invited to participate in a supplier engagement event regarding our DRS Litter Survey requirement . We are keen to engage with the market, to understand supplier capabilities, and explore innovations that can drive efficiency, resilience, and sustainability. This is a key opportunity for suppliers to input into the requirement and the procurement process.
The event will take place virtually via MS Teams on the 6th February 11:00am - 12noon.
The contract is expected to run for one (1) year starting Summer 2026 to Summer 2027
Suppliers are asked to register their interest by completing https://forms.office.com/e/YRG2WL89ee
This form should be completed and returned no later than 1pm on the 05/02/2026. If you have any questions prior to the event please email joyce.angoma@defra.gov.uk
The engagement session will include the opportunity for questions to be raised and also for the Authority to get feedback from you about the requirement.
Participation
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
23 March 2026
Contracting authority
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PNBD-3289-CDGX
Seacole Building, 2 Marsham Street
London
SW1P 4DF
United Kingdom
Region: UKI32 - Westminster
Organisation type: Public authority - central government