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Delhi to Pay You Back for Recycling!
15 Apr
Summary
- Delhi plans a Deposit Return Scheme for non-recyclable waste.
- Refunds offered for returning items at designated points.
- Scheme aims to reduce litter and pollution from waste.

The Delhi government is preparing to launch a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) to address its mounting waste problem. This initiative will offer monetary incentives for the return of recyclable and non-biodegradable waste. Consumers could potentially pay a refundable deposit on items, receiving their money back upon returning them to designated drop-off points or retailers.
The environment department has been tasked with analyzing successful DRS models from other Indian states like Goa, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, as well as international examples, to formulate a proposal within a month. The goal is to encourage better waste segregation and collection, thereby minimizing environmental pollution from plastic and other non-biodegradable materials that currently clog drains and pollute water bodies.
Experts note that implementing DRS in Delhi presents unique challenges due to its borders with neighboring states. While the scheme has proven effective in other countries, achieving high collection rates of up to 96% in places like Germany and Sweden, its success in Delhi will depend on careful planning regarding financial mechanisms and stakeholder involvement.