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The beverage container return scheme was first announced in 2020 as part of efforts to reduce waste and increase recycling rates in Singapore. Pre-packaged beverages in plastic and metal containers ranging from 150ml to 3L will have a 10-cent refundable deposit applied to them.<\/p>\n
Public consultation was conducted in 2022, and a legislative framework for the scheme was part of the Resource Sustainability (Amendment) Bill that was passed in parliament in 2023.<\/p>\n
The National Environment Agency announced in 2024 that it had issued a licence to a consortium called Beverage Container Return Scheme Limited (BCRS Ltd) to design and operate the scheme.<\/p>\n
BCRS was formed by Coca-Cola Singapore Beverages, F&N Foods and Pokka. The consortium will act on behalf of all beverage producers, and it is required by law to appoint at least two board directors to represent the interests of smaller beverage producers.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe know that change takes time and effort, and we\u2019ve been working closely with the scheme operator, BCRS Ltd, as well as other stakeholders \u2013 from beverage producers to retailers \u2013 to ensure the rollout is practical and smooth for everyone,\u201d Dr Janil said, calling the scheme a significant step towards Singapore\u2019s circular economy goals.<\/p>\n
He added that in the coming weeks, BCRS will provide more details, such as the scheme\u2019s mark on the labels of beverage containers and where to return the empty drink cans and bottles.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cWe will also be stepping up our outreach and engagement with all producers, retailers, and F&B outlets,\u201d Dr Janil said.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n