I understand that the intention of the Beverage Container Return Scheme is to encourage recycling and reduce waste. It would be useful, however, to communicate more clearly to the public how success will be measured.
Consumers now need to pay a 10-cent deposit and then take steps to recover it. Some may therefore feel that they are paying first to take part in a recycling system.
I also wonder whether the overall environmental and operating costs have been fully considered. Reverse vending machines require investment, space, electricity, maintenance, cleaning and manpower to clear the collected containers. Are there simpler or more cost-effective alternatives?
There are also some practical issues. Some consumers wash their empty bottles and cans before storing them for return, which uses additional water. Others do not wash them, resulting in leftover drinks leaking from plastic bags and creating hygiene problems.
The scheme has also created new behaviours. Some coffee shops and foodcourt operators collect customers’ empty containers and redeem the deposits. Other individuals, both locals and foreigners, have started collecting bottles and cans as a way of earning some additional pocket money.
While there is nothing wrong with this, it raises an interesting question: Is the scheme mainly encouraging recycling, or has it unintentionally created a new informal collection economy?
I have even observed minor disagreements among friends when one person collects all the empty cans for the 10-cent refunds, although the drinks were paid for by someone else at the table. It may sound trivial, but it shows how a small deposit can affect everyday behaviour.
It would also be useful for the public to know whether the scheme has resulted in a meaningful increase in recycling rates, and whether the environmental benefits outweigh the additional infrastructure and operating resources required.
I support efforts to improve recycling in Singapore. My hope is simply that the authorities will review the ground experience, environmental costs and public feedback, and consider whether the present system can be made simpler, cleaner and more convenient for everyone.
Raymond Lim
https://www.straitstimes.com/opinio...e-a-boost-for-recycling-or-side-hustle-income