Reverse vending pioneer, TOMRA Collection, has recently introduced its new Basic Line of Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs), tailored for retailers that enter Deposit Return Systems (DRSs). This initiative aims to simplify the collection of empty beverage containers for recycling, offering an easy and affordable solution to consumers and retailers, while conserving space and resources.
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Basic Line’s TOMRA B5 Combi
Leading the Basic Line is the TOMRA B5 Combi, designed with a compact footprint of 0.8 square meters, aimed for smaller stores or locations with a limited space available. Equipped with a user-friendly touch display, it simplifies the deposit return process for consumers who are new to the use of this system. A free-standing RVM can collect a combination of plastic bottles and cans in two different bins inside the machine, or just one bin for one material type.
TOMRA B5 Combi’s first launch will take place in Ireland, which aligns with the country’s recent implementation of DRS on February 1st.
How the Reverse Vending Machine System operates
The system requires retailers to take back drink containers and refund deposits, as part of Ireland’s efforts to reduce pollution and increase the recycling rates of consumers. The Basic Line is powered by TOMRA Essential Technology™, which utilizes 360° barcode scanning, an integrated camera, and precise weight and metal sensors, to recognize various objects and brands, and ensure accurate refunds to consumers.
The Role of Retailers
For the successful implementation of a DRS and the desired level of consumer contribution to be achieved, the role of retailers is crucial. As they offer the location where consumers both buy and return drink containers, it is their engagement to the system which will drive forward the initiative and simplify recycling for people who enter the stores.
Photo by TOMRA Collection, via: https://www.tomra.com/en/reverse-vending/media-center/news/2024/tomra-basic-line-launch , © 2024 TOMRA Systems ASA
Future Implementations
Expanding the Basic Line, the TOMRA B5 Flaker will debut in France, and will be able to shred returned PET beverage bottles into small pieces, making them ready to send for recycling by retailers. Further additions to the Basic Line are expected within 2024, including new innovations, which are designed to accept refillable glass bottles.
Consumer Concerns
With the introduction of the RVMs and the recent general implementation of a DRS in Ireland, it is important to remember the findings of a research that we have previously analyzed, on consumer apprehension of the Irish DRS, conducted by Every Can Counts.
According to these findings, importance of consumer education is crucial, as expressed by the 29 % of consumers in Ireland who are unsure on how to use a DRS. Specifically, by providing comprehensive education on the use of the system and the environmental benefits of recycling, Ireland can strive for an efficient and well-supported Deposit Return System.
About TOMRA Collection
TOMRA Collection provides Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) for Clean Loop Recycling. The company’s products gather beverage containers made of glass, plastic, and aluminum so they can be recycled and utilized again to make new bottles and cans. Moreover, TOMRA’s RVMs are installed in approximately 82,000 locations throughout more than 60 markets, and they collect over 45 billion used bottles and cans annually.
Conclusion
In conclusion, TOMRA Collection’s launch of the Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) marks a significant step towards simplifying the participation of consumers in Deposit Return Systems. However, while the innovative features of this machines do make easier the return process for consumers, the crucial role of retailers in facilitating recycling initiatives is also underscored, along with consumer apprehension of the system, in order to maximize the success of a DRS implementation.
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