Welsh Government ministers have been warned that plans to include glass in the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) will inevitably hit consumers and pubs, by the Welsh Beer and Pub Association.

In their letter the leading trade body called for an immediate rethink of the policy, arguing that the current proposals are unworkable and jeopardise the sector’s future.

It asked ministers to honour their commitment to include glass in a DRS only when it is practically feasible, and to appoint the UK-wide scheme administrator, Exchange for Change, as Wales' Deposit Management Organisation.

The association warned that ploughing ahead with their current plans would increase glass bottle costs by 50p. They pointed out that pub customers would face even higher price increases as they bear the brunt from additional costs from storing returned glass, changing premises, and absorbing lost deposits where bottles are damaged or removed from site.

The WBPA said forcing Wales to operate in a different system from the rest of the UK, would pile yet more costs for businesses that are part of complex UK-wide supply chains.

Currently, pubs have high rates of glass recycling through existing commercial waste collection contracts, the WBPA said, which would make the environmental benefits of including glass in the scheme almost non-existent. Instead, the association said would inflict significant, and practically pointless, financial and operational burdens.

With around 80% of Welsh pubs operating as small and medium-sized enterprises, the WBPA, which represents almost 3,000 pubs across Wales, says independent businesses would bear the greatest impact of the proposals.

Emma McClarkin, CEO of the Welsh Beer and Pub Association, said: “Pubs have been at the heart of Welsh communities as as social hubs, cultural landmarks, and historical treasures for centuries. From early Welsh ales known as bragawd to today’s vibrant microbrewery scene of today, the tradition of brewing excellence has been a cornerstone of Welsh heritage. The sector must be protected, which is why the plans cause us so much worry.

“We support government’s environmental ambitions but fear this system will create an unworkable scheme that hits Welsh people, endangers Welsh businesses, and undermines rather than supports the move towards a more circular economy.

“We want to work with government in order to help deliver their objectives in a way that is workable and effective in a way that benefits the environment, customers, and pubs.”