BCRS Malta Ltd., the licensed operator of Malta’s Beverage Container Refund Scheme, incorporated in 2020 by the Malta Beverage Producers Association, the Malta Beverage Importers Association and the Malta Beverage Retailers Association, has signed an agreement with Envipco for the supply, installation and servicing of Reverse Vending Machines (RVM). The installation of the machines will be instrumental in the operation of the Beverage Container Refund Scheme and the collection of empty single-use beverage containers, which scheme will commence in April 2022.
Reverse Vending Machines shall be deployed across Malta and Gozo early next year by BCRS Malta Ltd. to receive empty single-use beverage containers from consumers, in return of a deposit refund. Powered by the latest Internet of Things technology, Reverse Vending Machines comprise the high-tech front-end of this new Scheme that aims to collect and recycle 85% of all single-use beverage containers placed on the market by 2026.
Commenting ahead of the signing of the agreement, BCRS Malta chairperson Mr Pierre Fava noted how the signing was an important milestone for the country as it sought to protect the environment in the battle against climate change.
“Having led this initiative over the last three and a half years, it now gives me great pride to make such a significant step forward towards delivering a very tangible environmental initiative for our country that will have a lasting impact for generations to come” Mr Fava said.
The contract is expected to provide initially for the installation of around 300 RVMs across Malta and Gozo. Initial RVM deployment will commence by the end of 2021 with rapid expansion in support of the Beverage Container Refund Scheme Go-Live date of 1st April 2022.
“Key to this award is Envipco’s understanding of our program needs along with their extensive experience of global Deposit Refund Schemes (DRS). Envipco’s RVM product range combined with their strong service attitude and commitment is especially well suited for the Malta DRS. We look forward to working with Envipco and their local partner Joseph Cachia & Son Ltd (JCS) as we embark on this important circular economy initiative for Malta” said Ing Edward Chetcuti, CEO of BCRS Malta Ltd.
Mr. Simon Bolton, CEO Envipco added “We are privileged to have the opportunity to support BCRS as they implement a deposit scheme in Malta. It shows the strength of our technology platform and our focus on partnering with customers to offer an excellent solution. With an exceptional local partner in Joseph Cachia & Son Ltd., we look forward to delivering this system and supporting Malta as they make another important step to a circular economy.”
