Unhygienic Practices under Beverage Container Return Scheme

Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim asked the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment (a) what measures will prevent unhygienic practices under the Beverage Container Return Scheme, such as rummaging through rubbish bins and pouring leftover drinks onto public walkways; and (b) whether separate collection holders and facilities for the disposal of liquids will be provided at high-use locations.

Ms Grace Fu Hai Yien: Members of the public should do their part in keeping shared spaces clean. Rummaging through public refuse bins, removing items from them, and leaving or spilling waste on the ground are against the law. The National Environment Agency will take action against those who have committed these offences.

As the Return Right Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) are designed for the return of empty beverage containers, users should ensure their containers are empty before returning them. Most users exercise responsible behaviour and return empty beverage containers, so there are no plans to provide dedicated facilities for the disposal of liquids at RVMs.