Give garbage, get money: GHMC to incentivise plastic recycling
The corporation has planned to introduce Reverse Vending Machines in areas where there would be heavy footfall, which would accept plastic bottles and offer monetary rewards
HYDERABAD: The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has decided to incentivise citizens against throwing away waste plastic bottles which will have a detrimental impact on the environment. The corporation has planned to introduce state-of-the-art Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) in areas where there would be heavy footfall, which would accept plastic bottles and offer monetary rewards. These rewards would be deposited into mobile wallets, eliminating the need for cash transactions. The upcoming machines would feature advanced technology, enhancing their functionality.
The GHMC has drawn inspiration from other countries where the concept of RVMs in shopping malls has proven effective. By depositing plastic bottles of drinking water, soft drinks, and similar items into these machines, individuals receive monetary compensation based on the weight of the plastic. This not only enhances public awareness about cleanliness but also financially benefits participants. In line with this approach, the GHMC has outlined a plan to deploy reverse vending machines across three areas within the city initially, with future expansion planned for densely populated regions. The initial locations include Malkam Cheruvu near Shaikpet and two other spots in Hitec City.
Individuals can simply insert water bottles, beverage containers, and other plastic items into these machines to earn money proportional to their weight. GHMC's decision reflects its commitment to raising public awareness about the critical issue of plastic waste clogging drainage systems.
The city's daily garbage production amounts to a staggering 8,000 tons Approximately ten per cent of this waste constitutes plastic materials. While efforts are being made to segregate plastic waste from regular garbage, complete recycling remains a challenge. Plastic waste obstructs open drains, underground flood canals, sewers, and culverts, leading to inundation in nearby low-lying regions. In light of these concerns, the GHMC has intensifed its efforts to combat plastic waste, including its aim to ban single-use plastic bottles.