10¢ Bottle Return Movement: Singapore’s Beverage Container Return Scheme Begins

Apr 3
2 min read

A new nationwide initiative that rewards responsible recycling while advancing Singapore’s zero waste goals.

Hand inserting a red can into a blue recycling machine. Text: "Return Right starts today!" and "Get 10¢ back". Eco-friendly theme.

From 01 Apr 2026, the Beverage Container Return Scheme invites residents to return eligible plastic bottles and metal cans in exchange for 10 cents per item, reinforcing Singapore’s vision of a zero waste future.

Check bottles for Deposit Mark. Blue, red, and green bottles shown with a magnifying glass. Text: "Look for the Deposit Mark."

Image: instagram/returnright.bcrs

The initiative encourages mindful recycling through a structured routine. Consumers are required to check for the Deposit Mark on beverage containers, as only marked items qualify during the transition period from 01 Apr to 30 Sep.

During the transition phase of this Singapore Beverage Container Return Scheme, some products without the Deposit Mark will remain in circulation and will not be eligible.

Preparing the container is essential:

Barcodes must remain intact
Containers should not be crushed.
A quick rinse helps maintain a clean recycling stream

Person recycling a bottle in a blue Return Right machine. Text promotes recycling benefits, with red and yellow signage. Brick wall background.

Image: instagram/returnright.bcrs

Once ready, each container can be inserted individually into a Return Right machine. Refunds are processed through SimplyGo EZ Link cards or DBS PayLah QR codes, allowing users to receive 10 cents per returned container.

Eligible items include pre packaged plastic or metal beverage containers ranging from 150ml to 3000ml, provided they carry the Deposit Mark and a scannable barcode. Excluded items include glass bottles, paper cartons, pouches, crushed containers, freshly prepared drinks, and powdered beverages.

Recycling kiosk in a store with "Return Right" text. Red and blue design, camera above. Shelves of drinks visible in the background.

Image: Circular Connection

Returned containers are processed at a dedicated facility managed by Cora Environment. Materials are sorted and transformed into high quality resources for new products. This reduces waste sent for incineration and supports the goals of the Singapore Green Plan 2030 while extending the lifespan of Semakau Landfill.

Promotional image with text "The 10¢ difference" highlighting recycling benefits. Features Singaporean coins on a blue and green background.

Image: instagram/returnright.bcrs

Adopting the habit of rinsing and consolidating containers before visiting a machine can make participation more efficient. Over time, this routine is expected to improve recycling rates and reduce contamination across Singapore.