Reverse vending machine

Have you ever played a game where you put coins into a vending machine and then it gives you a toy or candy? Well, a reverse vending machine is a special kind of vending machine that works the opposite way! Instead of putting money in, you put in empty containers like bottles or cans, and the machine gives you money or points that you can exchange for rewards.

So, imagine you just finished drinking your favorite soda or juice, and you have an empty can or bottle. Instead of throwing it in the trash or littering it on the ground, you can take it to a reverse vending machine. The machine will scan the barcode or shape of the container to make sure it's the right one, and then it will crush it and store it in a special compartment.

After you've scanned and deposited a certain number of items, the machine will give you money or rewards. Sometimes these rewards are in the form of points that you can later exchange for coupons, discounts, or free products at participating stores or brands. This way, you're not only helping the environment by recycling, but you're also earning something back for yourself.

Reverse vending machines are usually found in places like grocery stores, malls, or train stations, where people are more likely to consume drinks and snacks on-the-go. They help promote sustainable behavior and reduce waste, as well as encourage people to recycle more often. Some countries, like Norway and Germany, even have mandatory deposit schemes for certain types of containers, where you have to pay extra when you buy a drink but get it back when you return the container to a reverse vending machine.

In summary, a reverse vending machine is a recycling machine that gives you rewards or money for depositing empty containers like bottles or cans. It encourages people to recycle more and contributes to a cleaner environment.