Food and beverage operators in Singapore are raising concerns over the upcoming beverage container return scheme, set to launch April 1. Many worry about pests and limited space to store used cans and bottles.
Mr Chen, who runs a roasted meat restaurant, said he’d rather serve drinks in disposable cups than risk attracting ants and cockroaches with dirty containers. Others, like Indian restaurant Sayalee, struggle with minimal storage capacity.
Under the scheme, a S$0.10 deposit is added to pre-packaged drinks. Businesses can either pass the charge to customers or absorb it and reclaim deposits by returning containers via reverse vending machines.
Some, like Queen of Wok, will retain containers and reward staff who return them. High-volume venues, including Clarke Quay bars, face bigger logistical hurdles due to storage rules requiring QR codes remain intact.
Hotel Pullman Singapore Orchard sees smoother integration, calling the scheme a natural extension of its current waste practices. BCRS Ltd offers collection for large-volume generators, while small operators are encouraged to use nearby return points during off-hours.