In yet another important step towards achieveing plastic-free Tamil Nadu, the State government, which recently implemented plastic ban, has now launched smart dustbin scheme. Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami launched the first smart dustbin (reverse vending machine) near his camp office in Chennai. It has been installed at a cost of Rs. 5.5 lakh. This is the first such machine that disposes plastic bottles and also offers a reward to users. If you drop plastic bottle or disposable aluminium tins into a smart dustbin, you can get coupons that can be exchanged for things at select supermarkets.
The reverse vending machine is promoted by Golden Star Innovations. Based on the quantity of the plastic waste and aluminium tins dropped into this ‘smart dustbin’, coupons would be generated. Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board Member Secretary D. Sekar said, "We are now working on the details. The idea is that coupons would have details where they could be exchanged for offers."
He added: "The Chief Minister has advised to sponsor these units in places with more footfall such as malls and transport terminals. This would promote a responsible way of disposing plastic waste." An expert in waste management, the Golden Star Innovation Pvt Ltd., has introduced the first ever smart dustbin in the Greater Chennai Corporation, as part of the company’s innovative ideas in waste management to keep the city clean and hygienic.
