More Than 5 Million Bottles and Cans Collected Through Sparklo Reverse Vending Machines in Partnership with JSC Zhasyl Damu

JSC Zhasyl Damu and Sparklo are jointly developing a network of reverse vending machines in Kazakhstan for collecting plastic bottles and aluminium cans. To date, residents have returned more than 5 million items of packaging for recycling through these machines, with over 100,000 people taking part in the programme.

Currently, 46 reverse vending machines have been installed in Astana, Almaty, Kokshetau, Aktobe and other cities across the country. The machines are located in shopping centres, offices, schools and public spaces, including Astana Central Park. This convenient placement allows residents to return recyclable packaging on their way to work, while shopping or during leisure activities.

The project is aimed at promoting separate waste collection and supports the objectives of the nationwide environmental initiative Taza Kazakhstan, launched by the Head of State. The cooperation between Sparklo and JSC Zhasyl Damu helps make recyclable waste collection more accessible and encourages residents to develop the habit of sorting and returning waste for recycling.

The reverse vending machines use machine-learning technology to identify plastic bottles and aluminium cans. In return for deposited packaging, users receive points in the Sparklo mobile application, which can be exchanged for discounts and bonuses offered by programme partners. The reward system provides an additional incentive for residents to participate regularly in separate waste collection.

Zero Waste, a company engaged in the collection and transportation of municipal solid waste, is also involved in expanding the network. With its participation, nine reverse vending machines have been installed. Another five machines are planned to be deployed in Aktau in cooperation with a local partner.

Going forward, JSC Zhasyl Damu and Sparklo plan to expand the geographical coverage of the project and increase the number of reverse vending machines in the cities where the programme operates. This will enable more residents to return plastic bottles and aluminium cans at convenient locations along their daily routes.

For reference: Sparklo is an international technology company founded in the United Arab Emirates. The company develops and manufactures reverse vending machines for collecting plastic bottles and aluminium cans and integrates them with a user reward system. In Kazakhstan, the company is represented by Sparklo Kazakhstan LLP.