Uruguay Unveils Innovative Deposit Return System for Sustainable Waste Management

Uruguay has initiated its first Deposit Return and Refund System (DRS) for single-use beverage containers, a partnership involving CIEMSA, CSI, and RLG. This innovative system aims to promote recycling across various materials, leveraging local and global expertise to ensure operational efficiency and sustainability. The project sets a precedent for eco-friendly practices in Latin America, showcasing a scalable model for future initiatives in the region.

On February 27, 2025, Uruguay launched its groundbreaking Deposit Return and Refund System (DRS) as part of the Plan Vale initiative. This initiative involves a partnership with CIEMSA, CSI, and the Reverse Logistics Group (RLG), making Uruguay the first nation in Latin America to implement such a system for single-use beverage containers, which aims to enhance recycling and waste management processes across the region.

The consortium will oversee the system’s design, implementation, and operations, promoting the return of a variety of recyclable materials such as PET plastics, aluminum cans, glass bottles, and carton beverages. This comprehensive approach is expected to significantly increase the ecological benefits of the program by incorporating a broader range of materials into the recycling process.

To ensure operational success, RLG has collaborated with CIEMSA and CSI, leveraging their extensive local expertise in material collection, transportation, and the establishment of counting and sorting centers. This partnership will allow for the effective transfer of RLG’s global knowledge to the DRS, fostering a system that prioritizes efficiency and reliability.

RLG will serve as the primary technology provider, implementing an integrated IT solution that connects all stakeholders while securely managing data and financial transactions. Additionally, their logistics management solution will enhance route optimization and tracking capabilities, which will meticulously monitor materials from collection to final processing.

The formation of a local entity by RLG dedicated to managing the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to the project’s success within Uruguay. The local team is expected to expand as the project evolves, embedding RLG’s environmental logistics expertise within the country and thereby supporting the attainment of Uruguay’s sustainability objectives.

The launch of the DRS positions Uruguay as a leader in sustainable practices in Latin America. This collaborative approach not only enhances local recycling efforts but establishes a replicable model for other nations in the region. Uruguay’s commitment to environmental responsibility can inspire similar initiatives throughout Latin America, potentially leading to widespread ecological benefits.

Original Source: www.logisticsbusiness.com