The Beverage Container Return Scheme (BCRS) is Singapore’s first deposit-refund scheme for drink containers, paying consumers a 10-cent deposit on eligible drink containers to incentivize them to return containers for recycling.
Selected plastic bottles and metal cans are covered by the programme and can be returned at specific points for a refund. But not all drinks containers are eligible, and people need to look at the packaging before they try to recycle it.
Which Cans and Bottles Qualify for the Refund?
The Singapore Beverage Return Scheme is for plastic bottles and metal cans that are 150 millilitres to 3 litres filled with pre-packaged beverages. Products must have the official deposit mark and readable barcode. The programme does not include glass bottles and drink cartons.
How Does the 10-Cent Deposit and Refund Work?
Each eligible drink customer will be charged an extra S$0.10 deposit. They can collect back the amount by putting the empty containers at the collection points. The containers should be relatively undamaged, labels and barcodes should be visible so that the machines can check eligibility before giving the money back.
Where to Find Return Right Recycling Machines
The scheme was opened on April 1, 2026, in Singapore with over 1,000 Return Right machines at supermarkets, HDB estates and community sites. Consumers can find drop off points via Return Right. All refunds are made digitally via SimplyGo EZ-Link or DBS PayLah! and not cash.
October 2026 Rules and Containers That Are Excluded
Effective 1 October, all regulated beverages sold in Singapore will be required to have the deposit mark. Freshly prepared drinks, cartons, pouches and glass bottles are not yet included. Even if the containers can be recycled in the existing Singapore recycling facilities, they cannot be offered any refund if they are not marked.
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