# Singapore Recycling Machine Video Sparks Debate Over Refund Procedures Viral footage of a man reusing a single barcode triggers questions about recycling ethics. - **Source:** [The Independent SG](https://theindependent.sg) - **Published:** 2026-11-12 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/578882ad-e85a-46b5-9adb-31ef10b98fea ## Viral Recycling Video Controversy A viral video showing a man using a single beverage can to repeatedly trigger a recycling machine has ignited intense public debate. The footage, which gained over 2 million views on Facebook, depicts the individual scanning one barcode multiple times while processing a large bag of containers at a BCRS station. ## Efficiency or Potential Fraud Viewers are divided on whether the man's actions constitute cheating or a clever workaround for technical difficulties. While some accuse him of manipulating the refund system, others argue he is simply bypassing the machine's inability to read damaged or misaligned barcodes, thereby speeding up the recycling process for everyone involved. ## Technical Challenges in Recycling The Beverage Container Return Scheme machines require specific barcodes to process refunds. Users often struggle with dented cans or labels that must be rotated into precise positions for the scanner to register them. This technical friction leads some individuals to seek alternative methods to ensure their containers are successfully accepted. ## Refund Eligibility and Requirements The BCRS system provides a 10-cent refund for eligible containers that feature the official scheme logo. However, the viral video does not confirm if the man actually received payments for every can or if all items in his bag met the strict eligibility criteria required by the automated return machines. ## Community Perspectives on Recycling Public opinion remains split regarding the man's behavior. Many commenters emphasize that the primary goal of the scheme is environmental protection through waste collection. These supporters argue that as long as the cans are being recycled, the specific method used to process them at the machine is secondary to the outcome. ## Economic Impact for Workers Recycling refunds have become a notable source of supplemental income for some residents in Singapore. Recent reports indicate that migrant workers, for example, have been earning between 150 and 160 Singapore dollars per month by consistently returning empty bottles and cans through the official deposit refund system at various collection points. ## System Integrity and Compliance There is a clear distinction between optimizing the recycling workflow and attempting to claim refunds for ineligible items. Authorities and observers emphasize that the system relies on the machine verifying each individual container to maintain integrity. Users are encouraged to follow official guidelines to ensure the scheme remains sustainable and fair. ## Future of Automated Recycling This incident highlights the growing pains of implementing automated deposit schemes in urban environments. As these machines become more common, balancing user convenience with strict verification protocols remains a challenge. Future developments may focus on improving scanner sensitivity to reduce the need for manual workarounds while maintaining the system's financial security. ## Sources covering this story - https://theindependent.sg/cheating-is-this-legal-man-repeatedly-scans-barcode-of-same-beverage-can-at-bcrs-machine-sparking-debate-over-earning-refunds-on-multiple-cans-in-sg — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._