Singapore recycling scheme debate follows post on workers using machines

Key facts

• The refund under Singapore's Beverage Container Return Scheme is 10 Singapore cents per bottle returned.
• Social media posts have criticized people for raiding bins and returning containers by the bag-load.
• The post on October 28 showed two town council workers using the reverse vending machines.

A social media post on October 28 showing two town council workers using Singapore's beverage container return machines set off criticism, as the scheme's reverse vending machines have drawn complaints on social media since becoming fully operational on October 1. The refund under the Beverage Container Return Scheme is 10 Singapore cents (8 US cents) per bottle returned. Posts have criticized people for raiding bins and holding up others by returning containers by the bag-load. The report did not name the town council involved or identify the workers.