Blog: I Discovered A Reverse Vending Machine To Deposit A Plastic Bottle For Recycling In Delhi, Here’s How It Works

New Delhi: Everytime I read or watch a video on ‘reverse vending machines’ being installed in different parts of the country for the purpose of discarding plastic bottles, I wonder if they actually work and if people truly use these. For the uninitiated a reverse vending machine is one which instead of dispensing something on inserting money, takes in plastic bottle and doles out some sort of goodies or incentives for the user. Basically reversing the process of a dispenser. Yes, I have seen videos posted by numerous people on how to use a reverse vending machine and get a reward for dropping a plastic bottle, but even then I was doubtful about if it really works. It is with this scepticism that I approached the reverse vending machine I spotted in Delhi, while strolling in the streets of Connaught Place, on weekend.

The scorching sun forced me to purchase a water bottle to quench my thirst. Though, I always carry a water bottle with me, but thanks to the unrelenting heat, I ran out of drinking water and had to purchase a plastic water bottle from a local food stall.

It was sheer coincidence that just as I emptied the plastic water bottle I noticed the reverse vending machine in front of me. I quickly thought of using it to see if I will really get any incentive.

Also Read: Why I Pushed For The Ban On Single-Use Disposable Plastic

Reverse vending machine in Delhi’s Connaught Place to collect plastic bottles

I went to the machine, read the instructions which were fairly simple – touch the screen to start the process, dump the plastic bottle, choose coupon, confirm it and get the reward. As soon as I dumped the bottle, on the screen three blank coupons were displayed and so without knowing what was on offer, I chose one randomly and received a receipt. The receipt was a discount voucher of Rs. 2 which could be availed at ‘John Neembu Pani’ in Connaught Place itself.

The amount was quite minimal, but despite that I was elated with the discount voucher. I was glad that I sent one less bottle to the already overflowing and dying landfills. I was pleased to know that instead of polluting land and water bodies, the plastic bottle used by me will be recycled.

Reverse Vending Machines: Crucial Observations

• While using the machine, I realised that the machine takes in bottle with bar code only.

• All the instructions were in English so using this kind of machine might be tad difficult for ragpickers, who usually have plenty of plastic bottles. Though it is not rocket science you just have to tap, but people who know nothing about the machine and its functionality can do with instructions in local language.

• I discovered the machine accidentally, but I think there needs to be signages to promote the existence and usage of the machine.

Also Read: Indian Railways Goes Green, Offers Rs 5 Cashback For Dropping Plastic Bottle In A Crushing Machine At Vadodra Station

After my encounter with the reverse vending machine, I researched about it and spoke to the Director of Zeleno, the company that has installed a total of seven machines in Delhi- six in Connaught Place and one in Sarojini Nagar market. For the discount coupons and giveaways on depositing the bottle, to encourage people to use these machines, Zeleno has tied up with seven shops in Connaught Place and Swiggy, which is an online food delivery service.

Reverse vending machine provides an opportunity to choose reward according to an individual’s preference

When you used the machine, three blank coupons were displayed because of internet issue. The machine needs good internet connectivity to function properly. When internet strength is good, coupons are displayed and an individual can choose as per his/her preference. As far as collaboration with Swiggy is concerned, an individual can avail 33 per cent discount on any order. There is no cap on the order value. The only thing is, swiggy coupons are valid only for two months, tells Nimish Gupta, Director, Zelono, while speaking to NDTV.

Further sharing details on the cost of the machine and clearing my doubts on language barrier, Mr. Nimish said,

Each machine costs Rs. 5 lakh. This was an initial lot of machines and was installed to understand the hurdles. We will soon be updating the software which will provide audio instructions in Hindi.

Also Read: On #WorldEnvironmentDay, Mumbai Sees Launch Of Plastic Bottle Recycling Project

As of today, 3,12,000 plastic bottles have been collected from Connaught Place and Sarojini Nagar. The collected bottles are sent for recycling which are then converted into polyester yarn.

Want to dump single-use plastic water bottle? Head over to Connaught Place, if you reside in Delhi and do your bit. The machine I used was located in F-block, near Rajiv Chowk Metro Station gate number 5 and 6.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. The facts and opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.