Deposit and Refund (DR) systems and Reverse Vending Machines (RVM) play a central role in the transition to a circular economy, promoting selective collection, quality recycling, and the reuse of packaging.
As these systems expand, the need arises for complementary technological solutions that improve citizen information, facilitate the return experience, and enhance operational efficiency. It is in this context that digital billboards, self-service kiosks, and smart lockers come in as natural extensions of the DR ecosystem.
SDR and RVM Systems: The Basis of Intelligent Data Collection
SDR systems, such as the one implemented by SDR Portugal, are based on a simple and effective model: the consumer pays a deposit when buying beverages and recovers this amount by returning the empty packaging to a collection point. RVM’s automate this process, recognizing packaging by reading barcodes, shape, weight and material, and issuing vouchers or refund receipts.
These systems guarantee high levels of collection and quality of recycled material, but their success also depends on factors such as accessibility, user literacy, clear communication and integration with other urban and commercial services.
Digital Mupis and Self-Service Kiosks as Information Points
Digital billboards and multimedia self-service kiosks play a fundamental role in the dissemination and contextualization of SDR and RVM systems. Installed in public spaces, commercial areas, or high-traffic areas, these devices allow:
- Inform how the SDR system works and which packaging is eligible;
- Indicate the location of the nearest collection points and RVMs;
- Explain the return and refund process in a simple and visual way;
- Promote environmental awareness and circular economy campaigns.
Interactivity, through interactive interfaces and QR codes, allows users to access detailed information on their smartphones, making the experience more autonomous and intuitive. These interactive kiosks and digital billboards can also serve as support points for citizens, reducing doubts and barriers to adopting the system.
Smart Lockers and New Approaches to Collection and Reuse
Smart lockers emerge as a particularly relevant complementary solution in reuse models. In these cases, smart lockers allow for the organized disposal of reusable bottles, associating each delivery with a user or digital application.
Integrated into the SDR ecosystem, smart lockers can be used for:
- Depositing packaging outside of business hours;
- Collection in dense urban areas or condominiums;
- Separation by type or reuse circuit;
- Integration with digital incentive systems.
This approach increases the flexibility of collection points and contributes to a more convenient experience, especially in urban and tourist environments.
SDR and RVM systems form the backbone of smart packaging collection, but their true potential is achieved when integrated with complementary digital solutions.
Digital billboards, self-service kiosks, and smart lockers enhance the information, accessibility, and efficiency of these systems, creating a smarter, more inclusive, and sustainable ecosystem. By combining technology, communication, and urban design, these solutions accelerate citizen adoption and strengthen the path to an effective circular economy.