A number of medical professionals, including a public health specialist, have raised concerns that bottles and cans returned through the scheme can contain residue from sugary drinks and alcohol. They say these leftover liquids could create conditions for microbial growth, while also attracting rodents, flies and other pests.
The latest edition of the Irish Medical Journal stated that hygiene and infection control issues must be carefully considered alongside the environmental benefits of the Deposit Return Scheme.
The journal also highlighted concerns around potential exposure risks for retail workers, logistics staff and maintenance personnel who regularly come into direct contact with returned containers and collection points. It said clear infection-prevention protocols should be put in place to help protect workers involved in the scheme.
The authors called on Re-turn, the Health Service Executive (HSE) and other relevant organisations to work together in developing safe and hygienic operating procedures for the DRS.
They stated: “Integrating practical infection-prevention measures alongside environmental objectives will help ensure that Ireland’s DRS continues to operate successfully, safely and with strong public confidence, while minimising harm for all involved in the process.”
Those involved in publishing the journal article include Dr Mick Molloy, consultant in emergency medicine at Wexford General Hospital; Dr Walter Cullen, GP and professor at University College Dublin; and Nandakumar Ravichandran, a public health expert at the School of Medicine at University College Dublin.
In response, Re-turn said the company “is not aware of any recorded cases of illness arising from the operation of the DRS”.
A spokesperson added that Re-turn regularly provides guidance to retailers and machine operators, including seasonal advice during warmer weather to help manage issues such as residue build-up, odours and insects.
“We take all matters relating to public health, safety and environmental performance seriously and remain open to engaging constructively with medical, public health and environmental experts, as well as relevant agencies, on any evidence-based guidance that could further strengthen public confidence in the scheme,” the spokesperson said.
