Singapore is set to begin its Beverage Container Return Scheme (BCRS) on 1 April to advance circular economy efforts by encouraging the recycling of drink containers such as metal cans and plastic bottles.
However, the transition period has been extended from three months to six after manufacturers raised concerns about the time needed to clear existing inventory.
The extension, which will run until 30 September, was confirmed by Singapore’s Senior Minister of State of Sustainability and the Environment Dr Janil Puthucheary via a Facebook post.
A previous announcement said the transition period would run until 30 June to give the beverage and retail sectors time to clear older stock that is not eligible for refunds.
Under the BCRS scheme, consumers can return eligible empty containers at reverse vending machines (RVMs) to receive a S10¢ refund.
Puthucheary said: “We know that change takes time and effort, and we’ve been working closely with the scheme operator, BCRS (formed by Coca-Cola Singapore Beverages, F&N Foods, and Pokka), as well as other stakeholders – from beverage producers to retailers – to ensure the rollout is practical and smooth for everyone.”
During the transition period, retailers may sell both non-BCRS-labelled and BCRS-labelled stock.
The non-labelled containers will be sold without the S10¢ deposit, while BCRS-labelled containers will include a S10¢ deposit.
Puthucheary added: “In the coming weeks, BCRS will share more details on the scheme with the public, including how to look out for the scheme’s mark on beverage containers and where to return these empty containers.
“We will also be stepping up our outreach and engagement with all producers, retailers, and F&B outlets. Together, we’re taking an important step towards a more sustainable Singapore. Every container returned makes a difference for our future generations.”
