Singapore is rolling out a brand-new system called the Beverage Container Return Scheme or BCRS, starting 1 April 2026. It’s simple at heart: when you buy a drink in a can or plastic bottle, you’ll pay a small refundable deposit — and you get it back when you return the empty container for recycling.

What the Beverage Container Recycling Scheme Is

Think of BCRS as a “deposit and refund” system. When you buy a drink in a plastic bottle or metal can (150ml–3L), you’ll pay an extra 10¢ at checkout. That 10¢ isn’t spoken for — it’s a deposit you get back once you return the empty container at designated return points, like reverse vending machines or collection stations.

This mechanism converts a typical throw-away item into something with value, nudging us all to bring it back instead of littering or tossing it with regular trash.

Why This Matters

Singapore wants to boost recycling rates, reduce waste going to Semakau Landfill, and cut carbon emissions. Deposit-return systems like this aren’t new. They’ve been used for decades in countries like Germany, Norway, and Australia, where recycling rates for cans and bottles exceed 90%.

How Does This Affect Me

If you buy bottled or canned drinks — whether it’s water, soda, or craft beer — you’ll see a 10¢ deposit added at checkout. Return the empty container and you’ll get that 10¢ back. If you recycle consistently, the net cost is effectively zero. If you don’t, that’s the only time the scheme actually costs you and even then, it’s just 10¢ per drink.

Retailers and importers will also adapt. Eligible products will be clearly labelled with the scheme’s logo, so it’s easy to tell what’s refundable.

That said, you may notice slightly higher drink prices at the start. Beyond the deposit, retailers and importers incur compliance costs such as relabelling and logistics, which can add around $0.60–$0.80 per can before retail margins. This is why some shelf prices may rise by more than just the 10¢ deposit.

We are actively working to reduce these costs over time, but during the early stages of the scheme, some increase is unavoidable.

GULP's Take: This Is a Positive Step

At GULP, we think Singapore’s Beverage Container Recycling Scheme is a win — for drinkers, the environment, and the culture we all share:

• It motivates good habits: a small deposit prompts returns and reduces litter.
• It rewards participation: the refund gives people agency, even in small amounts, to act sustainably.
• It supports a circular system: better recycling feeds better raw materials back into new products.

Yes, it adds an upfront deposit, but if you consistently return containers, it costs you nothing — and you contribute directly to less waste and cleaner streets. That’s a win not just for craft beer lovers, but for everyone who enjoys this city we live in.

Where Can I Learn More?

If you’d like to dig deeper (or just want the official details), here are a few useful links:

• National Environment Agency - Beverage Container Recycling Scheme - the official source for how the scheme works, what's included, and rollout timelines.
• Reverse Vending Machine Locations - a list of return points where you can drop off your empty cans and bottles, and get your deposit back.
• GULP FAQs & Updates - we'll keep our own page updated with FAQs, practical tips, and any changes that affect the beers we stock - so you know exactly what to expect as the scheme evolves.

Final Word

The BCRS is a nationwide change, not a decision made by individual retailers or breweries.

Yes, prices may look a little different.
Yes, labels might get a bit busier.

But in return, recycling becomes easier, more rewarding, and more consistent and you’ll actually get money back for doing the right thing.

Thanks for bearing with us as Singapore takes this next step towards a more circular economy 🍻 and as always, drink well, recycle better, and give us a shout if you’ve got questions.