Can or not? 2 migrant workers in Singapore using recycling machine sparks debate
The refund is small – 10 Singapore cents (8 US cents) per bottle – for each return under Singapore’s Beverage Container Return Scheme (BCRS). But the uproar is big. Since BCRS reverse vending machines became fully operational on October 1, Singapore’s social media has been flooded with videos and posts criticising people for raiding bins and holding up others by returning containers by the…
Singapore's Beverage Container Return Scheme (BCRS) has sparked debate after two town council workers used a reverse vending machine to retrieve empty drink cans, despite the scheme's rules prohibiting rummaging through bins. The refund provided for each recycled container is a mere 10 Singapore cents, but the controversy stems from the workers' actions during their personal time.
Social media users defended the migrant workers, labeling the critic as a "kaypoh" or busybody, and noting they only earned a small amount for their efforts. The town council defended the workers, explaining they were depositing containers from their own purchases and those given to them by residents, and that they were following the scheme's guidelines.
However, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu urged the public to refrain from rummaging through bins, citing hygiene and safety concerns. Violators could face fines or advisories, with more severe penalties for those deemed vulnerable. Since its launch on April 1, the BCRS has collected over 48 million containers, with the majority being plastic. The scheme aims to encourage sustainable consumption habits and promote a circular economy.
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
