The Return Machine project collected approximately half a ton of post-consumer steel packaging in the first half of 2020. Compared to the same period in 2019, there was an increase of 57% in the collection of steel packaging. The initiative is a partnership between the company Triciclo Soluções Susteníveis and Prolata, a non-profit association created in 2012 by the value chain of steel can manufacturers in Brazil for the recycling of post-consumer steel cans.
The Return Machine works as a loyalty program. As the user deposits his packages in the reverse vending machines, he acquires “tricycle points”, which can be exchanged for deduction on ENEL electricity bills, credit on the Bilhete Único, on the MTU Card or BOM Card, cell phone credits prepaid, PagBank credits or transfer to the Saraiva bookstore loyalty program (SaraivaPlus). Points can also be donated to philanthropic institutions. Each steel package deposited at the Return Machines is equivalent to 10 tricycle points. Steel cans for paint, food and beverages, among others, can be delivered.
The person responsible for managing the Return Machine project is Triciclo Soluções Susteníveis. The partnership with Prolata for receiving the steel packaging started two years ago. The partnership also includes the steel company Gerdau, which is responsible for recycling the steel material collected, also ensuring traceability. In addition to steel cans, the Return Machines receive aluminum, PET, glass and Long Life packaging.
