Vietnam's Hue Launches Southeast Asia's First Deposit Return Recycling System

Under the framework of the “Thua Thien Hue—Plastic Smart City in Central Vietnam” (TVA Project), Thua Thien Hue City in Central Vietnam has launched Southeast Asia’s first Deposit and Return System (DRS) pilot project. This initiative is funded by WWF Norway through WWF Vietnam. The innovative system places a strong emphasis on plastic recycling and regeneration, providing a sustainable solution to the region’s plastic waste crisis.

This deposit return system has been successfully implemented in more than 40 countries worldwide. Its core principle is that consumers pay a small deposit when purchasing bottled or canned beverages, which is refunded when the empty containers are returned to designated collection points.

The pilot project launched in Hue aims to raise public awareness, especially among young people, about source waste separation and rational consumption, while also increasing the recycling rate of plastic packaging, with a particular focus on promoting plastic recycling and regeneration. The project will test the feasibility of a deposit return system for beverage containers, summarize lessons learned, and contribute to reducing the amount of plastic waste entering the environment.

The system will begin operation on September 20, and the collection machines will be placed at the University of Sciences, Hue University, and Nera Garden Apartment Building.

The director of the TVA project, Nguyen Thi Dieu Thuy, stated that this model is a pioneering initiative for Hue City to reinforce its commitment to becoming a plastic-smart city. The success of the project requires joint efforts from all parties to create a green, sustainable, and plastic-free future for the city.

At the same time, Dr. Bui Quang Vu, Chairman of the Council of the University of Sciences, Hue University, believes that this system will help cultivate sustainable consumption habits and encourage teachers and students to take action for a greener future.