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Abu Dhabi’s Environment Agency has announced its bottle return scheme initiative to reduce plastic waste. The plan involves a larger picture of recycling 20 million single-use plastic bottles annually. 

It is a part of the agency’s Mission to Zero campaign, whereby the emirate oversaw 172 million plastic bags out of circulation following their ban last year.

The initiative will install 70 reverse vending machines (RVM) and 26 smart bins throughout Abu Dhabi; those who utilize the RVMs and smart bins to recycle plastic bottles and aluminum can receive awards. “We have ensured that they are well located so that they are accessible, minimizing the efforts for consumers to find them,” said Sheikha Salem Al Dhaheri, secretary general of EAD, adding that these incentives are crucial in encouraging consumers towards more sustainable behavior.

RVMs will be found in popular areas such as the Abu Dhabi Corniche, international airport, sports venues, malls, and schools. The new recycling bins were introduced last month across Adnoc gas stations in Abu Dhabi. 

The event was attended by key players in the agency’s pool of stakeholders also taking part in this initiative, such as Lulu Hypermarket, Aldar, and Carrefour.