Over 20 million bottles and cans have been recycled since the launch of the BCR scheme in November, when 320 reverse vending machines were introduced around different locations in Malta and Gozo. 

This translates to 600 tons of containers, which have been exported for recycling. 

Still unsure about how it works?

A deposit charge of 10c on beverages in containers like soft drinks, beers and water now applies, and are refunded if consumers return the empty containers to any of 320 BCRS Reverse Vending Machines installed across supermarkets and major beverage retail outlets, and within Public Recycling Hubs around Malta and Gozo.The deposit is returned to consumers by means of a voucher issued by the Reverse Vending Machines to be deducted against the bill at retail shops where beverages are sold.

In the case of catering establishments, the deposit is charged to the consumer only when the beverage container is taken away from the establishment by the consumer. When consumed on-premises, the consumer is not be charged, and the establishment will keep the beverage containers and as such will claim the deposit back when the said containers are returned to the Beverage Container Refund Scheme, a non-profit private operator.

This circular economy system entices returns of single-use beverage containers by consumers, which are then gathered and sorted by BCRS Malta for onward sale as recyclable material.

What is eligible for recycling?

• water
• flavoured water
• non-carbonated soft drinks
• carbonated soft drinks
• ciders
• beers
• malt beverages
• ready to drink coffee
• flavoured alcoholic beverages having alcoholic content level not more than 5%
• dilutables

Products such as wine, spirits, milk and juices are not eligible for recycling. 

For more information on how it works, visit the BCRS website.