Can Kerala Tipplers Now Exchange Plastic Liquor Bottles?
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Synopsis
In a groundbreaking initiative, Kerala's Bevco launches a bottle-return scheme for plastic liquor containers, aiming to curb plastic waste while celebrating record liquor sales during Onam. This program promises to revolutionize sustainability in the state's liquor trade, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.
Key Takeaways
- Bevco's bottle-return scheme promotes environmental sustainability.
- Consumers pay a Rs 20 deposit for each plastic bottle.
- Bottles can be returned for a full refund.
- Initial returns are limited to the purchase outlet.
- The program aims to significantly reduce plastic waste.
Thiruvananthapuram, Sept 9 (NationPress) In a significant move towards environmental sustainability, the Kerala State Beverages Corporation (Bevco) is set to launch a bottle-return program for plastic liquor containers starting this Tuesday.
Bevco's Managing Director, Harshita Attalluri, shared that a refundable deposit system will be implemented, where each bottle will have a label and customers will pay a Rs 20 deposit upon purchase.
“Upon returning the bottle, customers will receive their deposit back. We encourage everyone to return as many bottles as they can. This initiative will initially serve as a trial before becoming fully operational in the New Year,” Attalluri stated.
The initiative is being developed in partnership with Clean Kerala Company. For a start, customers must return bottles to the original outlet where they were purchased.
However, Bevco is exploring the possibility of allowing returns at any location throughout the state.
“Anyone can return the bottles to any outlet,” clarified the MD, emphasizing that the initiative aims to minimize plastic waste and support recycling efforts.
This decision aligns with the surge in liquor sales, reaching record highs during the Onam festival.
Official statistics reveal that Bevco outlets sold liquor worth Rs 920.74 crore in a mere eleven days, exceeding last year’s sales by Rs 78.67 crore.
The highest sales this year were recorded at Tirur in Malappuram, totaling Rs 6.41 crore.
Last year, the top-selling outlet was located in Karunagappally in Kollam.
Officials attribute this increase in sales to strong festive demand, despite the rising prices of premium brands.
With record revenue and the initiation of a green program, Bevco seeks to merge commercial success with social responsibility.
The bottle-return scheme, once fully launched, is anticipated to greatly reduce the plastic waste produced by the liquor industry in Kerala.
Point of View
The initiative by Kerala's Bevco is a commendable step towards addressing the pressing issue of plastic waste management. It reflects a growing awareness and responsibility among corporations to align profit with sustainability. As the liquor sales soar, the challenge now is to ensure the success of this eco-friendly program while keeping the consumers engaged.
NationPress
09/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the bottle-return scheme?
The bottle-return scheme allows consumers to return plastic liquor containers for a refund of the deposit they paid at purchase, promoting recycling and reducing plastic waste.
When does the scheme start?
The scheme will launch on Tuesday and will be in a trial phase before becoming fully operational in the New Year.
How much is the deposit for the bottles?
A refundable deposit of Rs 20 will be charged for each plastic liquor bottle purchased.
Where can I return the bottles?
Initially, bottles must be returned to the same outlet where they were purchased, but plans are in place to allow returns at any outlet in the future.
Why is this initiative important?
This initiative is crucial for reducing plastic waste and promoting recycling efforts in Kerala, especially given the record liquor sales during the festive season.
