Kerala’s Bevco Launches Bottle-Return Scheme to Tackle Plastic Waste
Kerala is taking a big step towards going green with its liquor sales. Starting Tuesday, the Kerala State Beverages Corporation (Bevco) kicks off a new bottle-return program for plastic liquor bottles. This eco-friendly move aims to cut down on plastic waste and boost recycling in the state.
Bevco Managing Director Harshita Attalluri shared the exciting details. The scheme introduces a refundable deposit system. When you buy a bottle, you’ll see a special label on it, and you’ll pay an extra Rs 20 as a deposit. "Return the bottle, and you get your Rs 20 back," Attoluri explained. She encouraged everyone to join in: "Please return as many bottles as you can. We’re starting this as a trial, and it will go full swing from the New Year."
Bevco teams up with Clean Kerala Company to make this happen. For now, you need to bring the bottle back to the same outlet where you bought it. But the good news? Bevco is looking into letting people return bottles at any shop across Kerala. "Anyone can bring the bottles back to the shop," Attoluri added. The main goal here is to fight plastic pollution and encourage responsible drinking habits.
This launch comes right after Bevco smashed sales records during the Onam festival. In just 11 days, Bevco outlets sold liquor worth a whopping Rs 920.74 crore – that’s Rs 78.67 crore more than last year! Officials say the festive buzz drove these numbers, even with premium brands getting pricier.
The top performer this Onam? The Tirur outlet in Malappuram, which raked in Rs 6.41 crore in sales. Last year, the crown went to Karunagappally in Kollam. Strong demand during the celebrations clearly fueled this boom, showing how Onam boosts Kerala’s liquor market.
With record revenues pouring in, Bevco isn’t forgetting its duty to the environment. This bottle-return scheme for plastic liquor containers could slash waste from the trade once it’s up and running statewide. It’s a smart way to mix business success with sustainability, setting an example for other states in India.
If you’re in Kerala and grabbing a bottle, remember to return it – your wallet and the planet will thank you! This initiative highlights Kerala’s push for environmental sustainability in everyday shopping.
