Singapore Beverage Container Return Scheme (BCRS)Can for recycling in CDS

A Guide for Manufacturers

As Singapore moves towards a circular economy, the National Environment Agency (NEA) is implementing the Beverage Container Return Scheme (BCRS). This initiative aims to increase the recycling rate of beverage containers and reduce waste at the source.

For manufacturers and importers, the primary impact lies in labelling requirements and barcode management.

1. What is the Beverage Container Return Scheme?

Under the scheme, consumers pay a small, refundable deposit (typically S$0.10) when they purchase a pre-packaged beverage. They can then get this deposit back by returning the empty container to a designated return point.

Key Details for Manufacturers:

  • Target Containers: Most plastic bottles and metal cans (ranging from 150ml to 3L).

  • The Deposit Mark: All eligible containers must display a standardized “Deposit Mark” to help consumers and machines identify them.

  • The Role of Barcodes: Accurate barcodes are the backbone of the scheme, allowing Automated Return Machines (RVMs) to verify the product’s eligibility.

2. Barcode Requirements for BCRS

Barcodes are no longer just for inventory and checkout; they are now a regulatory tool for environmental compliance.

Unique GTINs (EAN-13)

Every beverage container participating in the scheme must have a unique Global Trade Item Number (GTIN), usually represented as an EAN-13 barcode.

  • No Sharing: If you sell a 500ml sparkling water both in Singapore and another country, the Singapore version must have a unique barcode if the other market does not participate in the same deposit scheme. This prevents “cross-border fraud” where containers from non-deposit markets are returned in Singapore for a refund.

Registration with the Scheme Operator

Manufacturers must register their GTINs with the appointed Scheme Operator. When a container is inserted into a Reverse Vending Machine (RVM), the scanner reads the barcode and checks it against the central database to ensure:

  1. The product is registered.

  2. The deposit was paid at the time of sale.

  3. The material is valid for recycling.

3. Label Design and the Deposit Mark

In addition to the barcode, your packaging must be updated to include the Singapore Deposit Mark.

  • Placement: The mark should be clearly visible and placed near the barcode where possible.

  • Durability: The label (and barcode) must be able to withstand moisture and refrigeration without peeling or fading. If the RVM cannot read the barcode due to damage, the consumer will not receive their refund.

  • Contrast: Ensure high contrast (black bars on a white background) to maximize “First Time Read” rates in high-speed recycling machines.

4. Transitioning to 2D Barcodes (GS1 Digital Link)

While EAN-13 is the current standard, NEA and global retailers are moving toward 2D Barcodes (like QR codes using GS1 Digital Link) by 2027.

For beverage manufacturers, 2D barcodes offer a significant advantage:

  • More Data: You can encode batch numbers and expiry dates, which helps in more precise recycling data.

  • Consumer Engagement: The same QR code used for the deposit scheme can link the consumer to your brand’s sustainability story or rewards program.

5. Implementation Checklist for Manufacturers

  1. Audit Your SKUs: Identify which beverage products fall under the BCRS categories (plastic bottles and cans).

  2. Assign Unique Barcodes: Ensure that products intended for the Singapore market have GTINs that are not used in non-deposit regions.

  3. Update Packaging Artwork: Incorporate the Singapore Deposit Mark and ensure barcode placement meets GS1 visibility standards.

  4. Register with barcodes.sg: Ensure your GTINs are properly licensed and registered in the global GS1 registry (GEPIR) to avoid rejection by retailers or the Scheme Operator.

Need Help with Your Singapore Barcodes?

At barcodes.sg, we specialize in providing GS1-compliant barcodes for Singapore manufacturers. Whether you need new EAN-13 numbers for the Beverage Container Return Scheme or want to explore 2D Barcode transition, our team is here to help.

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