Source: @buddha23456 on TikTok
A TikTok video showing a man allegedly reusing the barcode of one can to deposit multiple cans into a Beverage Container Return Scheme (BCRS) recycling machine has gone viral.
The 35-second video was posted by TikTok user @buddha23456 on 9 Nov.
In the footage, a man wearing a red long-sleeved shirt and grey trousers could be seen standing in front of a BCRS Return Right Reverse Vending Machine (RVM).
Source: @buddha23456 on TikTok
He appeared to be holding a can in his right hand, with a large trash bag placed between him and the machine.
The text overlay accused the man of reusing the barcode of one can to deposit other cans that were allegedly ineligible for the scheme.
The footage appeared to show him scanning the barcode of a can in his right hand before withdrawing it and depositing another can with his left.
He repeated the action throughout the video. However, it was unclear whether the other cans in the trash bag bore the required deposit mark.
Source: @returnright.bcrs on Instagram
The TikTok post has since drawn attention from netizens, some of whom praised the man for the alleged workaround.
One netizen thanked him for the BCRS “trick”, saying they disliked having to carry rejected cans to the nearest recycling bin.
Source: TikTok
Another commenter expressed relief at discovering a possible way to deal with cans rejected by the machines.
Source: TikTok
A Redditor also defended the man, saying he “might not be cheating the system” as the machines sometimes fail to detect cans bearing the required deposit mark.
Source: Reddit
Another netizen shared a similar sentiment, describing the method as a “creative” way to get around a system they felt was “so unreliable”.
Source: Reddit
In response to MS News’ queries, BCRS Ltd said it was aware of videos circulating online showing an individual depositing ineligible containers into a Return Right machine after scanning an eligible container bearing the 10-cent deposit mark.
The 10-cent deposit refund is intended for eligible beverage containers returned through the Beverage Container Return Scheme.
“As the scheme operator, our priority is to ensure the system functions reliably and fairly for everyone,” a BCRS spokesperson said.
“This includes validating refund claims and reconciling transaction records to guard against fraud, in accordance with our operating license.”
BCRS Ltd added that deliberate manipulation of the machines or fraudulent claims are taken seriously, as such behaviour undermines public trust and the efforts of those genuinely trying to recycle.
Source: @food_value_683 on Instagram
The operator has since worked with its Return Point Network Operators (RPNOs) to calibrate the Return Right machines to address the issue, and said it would continue strengthening safeguards across the network.
All Return Right machines are equipped with digital transaction logs, 24-hour CCTV surveillance, and fraud detection technology.
BCRS Ltd also regularly monitors data across its return network for anomalous transaction patterns, with suspected fraudulent behaviour referred to the relevant authorities for investigation and appropriate action.
“We appreciate the community’s vigilance and urge members of the public to report suspected misuse of Return Right machines directly to BCRS Ltd,” the spokesperson said.
Please continue using the machines as intended to support our national recycling effort.
The National Environment Agency (NEA) told MS News that it takes a serious view of any deliberate misuse of Return Right machines under the Beverage Container Return Scheme.
“We have reminded the scheme operator, BCRS Ltd, to take appropriate measures to safeguard the integrity of the Scheme and address any deliberate misuse of the Return Right machines,” an NEA spokesperson said.
The agency added that it would continue working with BCRS Ltd to review the system and strengthen safeguards where necessary so that the scheme operates as intended.
It also urged members of the public to use the Return Right machines responsibly in support of national recycling efforts.
MS News has also reached out to the OP for more information.
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Featured image adapted from @buddha23456 on TikTok.