Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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My Department is strongly committed to playing its part in moving towards a more sustainable economy and society and recognises the importance of circular economy practices, such as a deposit return scheme for coffee cups and other beverage containers, in achieving this goal.

The Second National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development – ESD to 2030, with an accompanying Implementation Plan was published in June 2022. ESD to 2030 includes an action to promote circular economy principles and practices in higher education campus operations to reduce waste, and the Department is aware that a number of initiatives are underway in this regard across various institutions.

Most canteens and shops on university campus are run by third party retail outlets and they will be required to fulfil their obligation under the Separate Collection (Deposit Return Scheme) Regulations 2021.