Hue (VNA) – The central city of Hue launched a pilot “Deposit and Return System” (DRS), the first of its kind in Southeast Asia, under the project “Hue – A Plastic Smart City in Central Vietnam" (TVA project) funded by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) – Norway through the WWF – Vietnam.
The model, widely seen as an effective tool for extended responsibility of producers, requires consumers to pay a small deposit when purchasing bottled or canned beverages, which they will reclaim when returning empty containers to designated collection points. The system has proven successful across more than 40 countries worldwide, including the US, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
The pilot in Hue aims to raise public awareness, particularly among young people, about waste classification at source and responsible consumption, while increasing the recycling rate of plastic packaging. It will test the feasibility of the DRS for beverage containers, gather lessons learned, and contribute to reducing plastic waste dumped into the environment.
The system will begin operation on September 20, with collection machines placed at the University of Sciences, Hue University and Nera Garden condominium.
According to TVA project Director Nguyen Thi Dieu Thuy, the model is the city’s pioneering move to consolidate its commitment to turning itself into a plastic smart city. Its success requires joint efforts from competent sides towards a green, sustainable, and plastic-free future for the city.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the Council of the University of Sciences, Hue University Dr. Bui Quang Vu held that the system will help shape up sustainable consumption habit and encourage lectures and students to act for a green future./.
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