Proposed scheme to impose refundable deposit on beverage containers; NEA seeking feedback

WHAT THE PROCESS MAY APPEAR LIKE

The particular scheme will likely be managed by a not-for-profit entity that will take charge of operations, such as the collection of used containers, as well as the handling of deposits.

This owner will be required to review its operations and performance, and acquire a return target established by the NEA, that will regulate and monitor its compliance.  

In similar overseas initiatives, producers of pre-packaged beverages are legally accountable for the collection plus recycling of utilized containers. They sign-up as a member with the plan operator to collect and recycle beverage containers on behalf of the operator and also fund the scheme.  

Barcodes associated with pre-packaged drinks should be registered with the owner. This helps the owner track the quantities and types of storage containers covered and also acts to prevent consumers from claiming a refund for inapplicable storage containers, such as those purchased overseas. Barcodes may also be scanned when came back to reverse snack machines.

Aside from a barcode, containers will be labelled having a deposit mark to assist consumers identify the ones that are covered under the scheme.  

As to where the storage containers can be returned, the Government is mulling mandated return points in particular supermarkets with a complete area of more than 200 sq m. These types of supermarkets – of which there are around 400 – account for one-third of pre-packaged drinks sold in Singapore and are also the preferred return places for survey participants.

Other come back points will be considered after balancing their convenience and option of consumers against the functional costs of an considerable collection network.  

Return points could take the kind of over-the-counter manual results handled by cashiers, or automated invert vending machines. The scheme operator can pay these return factors handling fees to compensate for associated expenses.

As to just how food and beverage providers may carry out the particular scheme, Dr Khor said that operators may choose to pour the drink into cups for customers and keep the containers, or they might hands the container to customers themselves.  

Upon return of the containers, customers may get their refunds through electronic move, cash, cash vouchers or may also choose to donate the amount to charity.  

Based on the past study, cash and digital transfers were the most popular options.  

The public is invited to give their suggestions and views, especially on the type of drink containers to include, the deposit amount plus return point locations, via  move. gov. sg/nea-bcrs . The survey will certainly close on Oct 14, 11. 59pm.