New National Recycling Effort to Feature Over 1,000 Return Points
Starting April 1, Singapore will implement a nationwide beverage container return scheme designed to significantly boost local recycling rates. Under this initiative, residents will pay a refundable 10-cent deposit on pre-packaged drinks sold in plastic bottles and metal cans ranging from 150ml to 3 liters. The deposit can be fully reclaimed by returning empty, uncrushed containers to designated collection points across the island.
To ensure maximum convenience, approximately 1,000 return points will be established at major supermarkets and high-traffic public areas. Officials estimate that 90% of Housing and Development Board (HDB) residents will live within a five-minute walk of a return station. The network is expected to expand further, with plans to double the number of collection points within the first year of operation.
Phased Rollout and Transition Period
The scheme will feature a six-month transition period from April 1 to September 30. During this time, beverage containers featuring the mandatory deposit mark will gradually appear on retail shelves. Consumers can expect widespread availability of these eligible containers by August and September. This phased approach allows for the strategic placement of reverse vending machines (RVMs) and gives the industry time to clear older, non-eligible stock.
The infrastructure for the central and north-eastern regions will be managed by TOMRA, a global leader in sensor-based collection solutions. The company is set to install at least 350 reverse vending machines at HDB void decks, town centers, and supermarkets with floor areas exceeding 200 square meters. These machines will handle the automated collection, cleaning, and maintenance processes, supported by local logistics providers to transport materials to processing plants.
Accessibility and Digital Refund Options
The reverse vending machines are designed for ease of use, featuring interfaces in Singapore’s four official languages. To reclaim their 10-cent deposits, users can scan their containers at the machines and receive refunds via EZ-Link cards, including concession cards for students and seniors. Additional digital refund methods are expected to be announced as the launch date approaches.
While the new system introduces a change in consumer habits, the environmental benefits are substantial. With over 1 billion beverage containers used annually in Singapore, the scheme aims to recover more than 16,000 tonnes of high-quality plastic and metal every year, moving the nation closer to its circular economy goals.
