Reverse Vending Machines Aim To Make Recycling Easier, But There's A Catch

Grocery

Reverse Vending Machines Aim To Make Recycling Easier, But There's A Catch By Joe Hoeffner Oct. 22, 2025 3:20 pm EST

If you've been to the supermarket lately, you may have seen reverse vending machines stationed outside it. (Maybe they call them "bottle deposits" where you are.) It's a neat, convenient way to return your recyclables, like plastic or glass bottles and cans, helping you make an eco-friendly choice with the incentive of a little reward — usually a bit of money or a store coupon. But these machines, as handy as they can be, aren't quite perfect, and there are a few catches that might complicate your recycling experience, including busted machines, trash being put where it doesn't belong, and even fraud.

Yes, fraud. Although reverse vending machines are oft