Abstract: The plastic pandemic has assumed a worldwide dimension since millions of tons of plastic garbage are dumped onto the landfills and oceans every year. It is in pursuit of reducing this atrocity that this study examines the possibility and viability of having an incentive-based rewards plastic collection vending machine.The research utilizes a mixed-method design using both qualitative and quantitative data gathering. The 100 sample survey was given to gauge recycling behavior, reward preference, and preference to use the vending machine. Research findings are that there is a significant percentage of volunteers among the respondents who would use the vending machine, particularly if what is offered to them as rewards is sufficiently high, e.g., discounts on usual purchases or vouchers in shops nearby. Also, the interview with the experts' findings mirror the usability of the system operationally, e.g., logistical problems, maintenance required, and need for coordination with recycling stations and retail business partners. Moreover, according to the research, the machine has the potential to generate economic value by developing new sources of revenue through partnership with reward coupon sponsorship companies. Also, it can reduce plastic garbage pollution by making disposal effective. Ethical values such as informed consent and data secrecy were ensured throughout the research. Some limitations of the research are also mentioned, i.e., 100 sample size of the respondents, which may not be representative of the total population. Time limit and possibilities of obtaining unbiased responses are also cited as limitations. The research validates that as an incentive reward, plastic collection vending machine is a valuable and deserving undertaking. It is highly successful in bringing about environmental, social, as well as economic gains through promotion of plastic recycling, reward of cleaner behavior, and promotion of enterprise. The research recommends additional pilot trials in the target areas for fine-tuning the model before large-scale implementation.
Keywords: Plastic waste management, Incentive-based recycling, Vending machines, Environmental sustainability.
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