PORVORIM: In a major move towards controlling rising waste in Goa caused by disposable plastic, the State government is all set to introduce a “Deposit Refund System” scheme, wherein the consumers will have to deposit an additional amount while purchasing items like pet bottles, metal cans, and other plastic packaging items and get a refund upon returning it.
Environment Minister Nilesh Cabral on Monday told the House that a Bill in this regard would be introduced during the ongoing session and requested all the Members to support the initiative that will help to control plastic menace.
Cabral explained that Deposit Refund System or DRS is a simple incentive system that encourages consumers to bring back their waste
(plastic packaging or e-waste) for a refundable deposit of Rs 10 and more, collected at the time of purchase.
“Bigger the item, the smaller will be the DRS and vice versa,” he said.
The Minister further said that the consumer will be able to recover the amount after scanning a unique QR code when depositing the recyclable item. He said that for this purpose, manufacturers and stockists affix a unique QR code on each bottle or can, besides charging a refundable deposit of Rs 10 at the time of purchase.
“Once the consumers return the used bottles or cans to the retailer or designated collection points, they will be eligible for a full refund of their deposit,” he said.
