In a progressive move to combat the plastic waste crisis, the Kerala government has announced a bottle-return scheme for liquor bottles sold through its Kerala State Beverages Corporation (Bevco) outlets. This is part of the state’s broader effort to encourage responsible consumption and waste management.
How the Scheme Works
Starting September 2025, liquor bottles—whether plastic or glass—will carry an additional refundable ₹20 deposit. This amount will be returned to customers once they bring back the empty bottles to the Bevco outlet. Each bottle will feature a QR code to facilitate easy tracking and ensure a transparent refund process.
Excise Minister MB Rajesh emphasized that this is not an extra charge but an “investment in responsible consumption.” The project is being launched in partnership with Clean Kerala Company.
Pilot Project in Two Cities
The scheme will initially roll out in Thiruvananthapuram and Kannur as a pilot project. If successful, it will be expanded across the state.
Kerala sells around 70 crore liquor bottles annually, of which 80% are plastic. The new initiative could drastically reduce the number of bottles dumped in public spaces and landfills.
Move Toward Glass for Premium Liquor
In a related decision, the excise department has announced that all liquor priced above ₹800 will now be sold only in glass bottles. This aims to reduce the long-term environmental impact of high-end liquor packaging.
Super Premium Bevco Outlets Coming Soon
Adding to its efforts to revamp the liquor retail experience, the department is set to open Bevco’s first-ever super premium outlet in Thrissur on August 5. These stores will exclusively stock foreign liquor priced above ₹900. The state plans to open one such outlet in each district.
Inspired by Tamil Nadu
Kerala’s move takes inspiration from Tamil Nadu, where a similar bottle-return system has been implemented with success. With clear implementation guidelines and customer cooperation, Kerala hopes to create a model that merges eco-consciousness with efficient governance.
