The Producer Responsibility Scheme (PRS) is a core policy under Hong Kong's Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework. It follows the "polluter pays" principle by shifting the responsibility for managing post-consumer waste from the government and the public to the producers—manufacturers, importers, and distributors. Producers must fund and organise the collection, recycling, and proper disposal of their products, helping to reduce landfill use, increase recycling rates, and build a circular economy.

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In Hong Kong, the upcoming Producer Responsibility Scheme on Plastic Beverage Containers (also called the Beverage Container PRS or Plastic Bottle PRS) specifically targets single-use plastic beverage containers and beverage cartons. Plastic waste currently accounts for around 20% of municipal solid waste, with plastic beverage containers accounting for around 6%. The scheme aims to turn this waste into valuable resources and supports the long-term goal of the Waste Blueprint for Hong Kong 2035: "Waste Reduction · Resources Circulation · Zero Landfill".

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Key Features of Producer Responsibility Schemes

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• A market-led approach where producers finance and manage recycling systems, often through a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO).

• Incentive mechanisms such as the Deposit Refund System (DRS) or Beverage Bottle Deposit System, offering rebates to encourage consumers to return containers (building on the current Reverse Vending Machine pilots that provide HK$0.1 incentives).

• Deposit-return elements that are designed to help achieve higher recovery targets.

• Strong focus on EPR plastic bottle recycling and PRS plastic bottle recycling to keep waste out of landfills, which are approaching full capacity.

• Complying with PRS can be challenging for producers, and require producers to establish efficient collection systems to handle high volumes of recyclables without disrupting operations.

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Our Solutions: Advanced One-stop Recycling Scheme Solutions

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At ALBA CES, we are pride to be the operator of the government's RVM Pilot Scheme (2023) and RVM Interim Recycling Scheme (2025), applying Reverse Vending Machines (RVM)  to collect plastic beverage containers in Hong Kong. Our one-stop waste solutions designed to help companies meet Hong Kong's PRS requirements with ease. Our RVMs are purpose-built for collecting plastic beverage bottles, aluminum cans, and beverage cartons, making it easy for consumers to return items and for producers to reclaim materials.

These user-friendly machines automate the process: users insert their beverage containers, the RVM verifies and sorts them, and refunds or rewards instantly. This not only ensures compliance with PRS regulations but also enhances brand loyalty by promoting eco-conscious practices. Our systems also deliver real-time data tracking and analytics to support corporate ESG goals and sustainability reporting. Whether you are a beverage manufacturer, a retailer or a property management office, our RVM solutions integrate seamlessly into stores, offices, residentials complexes or public areas, helping you achieve recycling targets efficiently.

Ready to Take Action?

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If you're looking to implement or enhance your responsibilities under Producer Responsibility Schemes, our services could be the perfect fit. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can customize a solution for your needs. Let's work together to build a greener future—reach out via email at enquiry@albaces.com to get started!

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Reference:

“Producer Responsibility Scheme on Plastic Beverage Containers and Beverage Cartons”

www.gov.hk/en/residents/environment/waste/management/prsplastic.htm

Waste Blueprint for Hong Kong 2035: "Waste Reduction · Resources Circulation · Zero Landfill"

https://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/prob_solutions/WFdev_intro.html