The UK Deposit Management Organisation (UK DMO) is a not-for-profit organisation tasked with designing, delivering and operating the DRS for single use plastic and metal drinks containers, which is due to go live in October 2027.
Although Wales is developing its own DRS that includes glass, the Welsh Government has committed to aligning its launch date with the rest of the UK.
Bason has widespread experience in the food, drink and retail sectors, having held board roles at Associated British Foods and Compass Group in addition to serving as the chair of FareShare.
At FareShare, Bason oversaw its expansion into the UK’s leading charity tackling food waste by redirecting surplus food from retailers and producers to frontline charities.
Commenting on the appointment, Bason said that the DRS presented an opportunity to deliver “transformational change” in the UK as it shifts towards a circular economy.
“Having worked in markets across the world, I’ve seen first-hand the positive impact that such schemes can have,” he continued.
“However, it is also a complex and challenging undertaking that will only be effective if it is easy for consumers to use, fair for retailers and producers of every size, and trusted by the public. That’s why I will be focused on ensuring that the views and insights of as many people as possible inform how we build the scheme.”
Bason added that he had been impressed with the calibre of the other people that have been appointed to the UK DMO.
“I share their determination to build a scheme that works for everyone. Our goal is clear: bring business and consumers together to prevent billions of bottles and cans from littering our streets, seas and countryside, whilst cutting carbon emissions in the process.”
Since being appointed by the governments of England, Northern Ireland and Scotland just over three months ago, the UK DMO has engaged “with businesses of all sizes, trade associations, consumer groups, environmental groups and a diverse array of other stakeholders” to inform the development of an operational blueprint for the scheme.
The UK DMO has also appointed several interim leaders with relevant experience to guide the organisation’s setup, operations and engagement planning. Recruitment for the other board and senior levels positions is ongoing.
Northern Ireland Defra minister Andrew Muir, circular economy minister Mary Creagh and Scottish Government climate action secretary Gillian Martin all welcomed the appointment of Bason as chair of the UK DMO, describing it as an “important milestone”.
