Forum: Lessons from past recycling efforts must guide beverage container return scheme

Singapore’s beverage container return scheme is a strong idea on paper, but how it is built and run will determine whether it succeeds.

We have seen good intentions turn into cluttered, ignored bins in malls and housing estates when maintenance is forgotten. It is now common to see overflowing e-waste and clothes bins creating spillover litter.

First, operational reliability matters. People will participate only if machines work consistently. If machines are out of order, full, or cannot dispense the refund because there are “no coins left”, trust will quickly disappear. Clear uptime targets, rapid repair response and simple fault reporting should be contractual requirements.

Second, the system must be designed for peak demand, not average use. Evenings, weekends and festive periods will create surges. Capacity planning and frequent collections must be built into service standards.

Third, accountability should be visible. Each machine ought to display who operates it and the expected response times. Pilot testing in schools, community centres and selected estates may be critical before national roll-out to resolve any teething issues.

Chong Ryh Huei