Jeongeup-si to Pilot Operation of 3 'Transparent PET Bottle Unmanned Collection Machines'

Published 16 Jul.2024 09:52(KST)

Jeongeup City in Jeollabuk-do will pilot operate three unmanned transparent PET bottle collection machines.

According to the city on the 16th, the unmanned transparent PET bottle collection machines were promoted to encourage resource recycling and to make resource recycling a daily practice for citizens.

The unmanned collection machines are resource circulation robots utilizing artificial intelligence technology in the form of vending machines.

Unmanned collection machine for transparent PET bottles. [Photo by Jeongeup City]

The usage method is to install the ‘Superbin’ app on a mobile phone, enter the phone number into the unmanned collection machine, and simply insert the transparent PET bottles.

When inserting PET bottles, the contents must be emptied and labels removed. Colored PET bottles or bottles with remaining beverages will be recognized as unacceptable for insertion.

Users earn 10 points per transparent PET bottle, and when accumulated points exceed 2,000, they can be exchanged for cash using the app.

Transparent PET bottles are high-quality raw materials that can be recycled into textile fibers for clothing and are reborn as new resources through the recycling process.

The city installed unmanned collection machines at Naejangsan Cultural Plaza Camping Site, Chosandong Youth Training Center, and Yeonjidong Community Center, which are frequently used by citizens and tourists, and plans to expand installations while monitoring operational status.

A city official said, “The installation of unmanned collection machines provides an opportunity to newly recognize the value of recyclable resources and the importance of separate collection, and it is expected to help foster a resource circulation culture. We hope many citizens use the transparent PET bottle unmanned collection machines to participate in resource circulation and have the opportunity to earn money.”