A new container return scheme will be implemented by the National Environment Agency (NEA) to help promote the act of recycling, by the middle of 2024.
All metal and plastic pre-packaged drinks will see a small deposit of 10 to 20 cents being charged.
However, before the new scheme is rolled out, NEA is seeking the public’s opinion on the scheme through public consultation.
You can get the deposit back when you return the container
Under the scheme, if you buy any metal can drinks or plastic bottled drinks, you will be charged an additional 10 to 20 cents on top of the beverage’s retail price, as a “deposit”.
This will apply to all metals and plastic drink containers for all kinds of beverages such as beer, soft drinks, fruit juices and milk.
You can then get your 10 to 20 cents deposit back when you drop the cans or bottles off at the designated return points, which will be located at community spaces and retail outlets.
At the return points, you can use a Reverse Vending Machine to get your money back, or over the counter through a cashier.
Other options for the refunds include electronic transfers, cash, cash vouchers or even donate it to charity.
The scheme is part of initiatives to improve the rate of recycling and reduce waste, and is the first phase of an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) approach to manage packaging waste and Singapore’s low recycling rate.
This would also extend the lifespan of the landfill at Pulau Semakau beyond 2035, as well as cut down on carbon emissions.
It was first announced at the 2020 Committee of Supply debate in parliament.
NEA said that 8 in 10 people are supportive of the scheme, in a survey conducted early last year among 1,000 households.
You can provide feedback about what you feel and think about the scheme by clicking here.