Manilva residents will soon earn shopping credit for every bottle and can they recycle

Your empty bottles and cans are about to become pocket money in Manilva. A smart recycling pilot arrives next month, turning everyday packaging into digital credit you can spend close to home.

How the Manilva recycling rewards scheme works

Manilva Town Hall has teamed up with Lealtad Verde, a company that makes “reverse vending” machines. Think of a drinks dispenser working backwards: you put your empty packaging in, and you get something back.

Plastic bottles of up to three litres and drinks cans are both accepted. Every item adds balance to the “Leales al planeta” (Loyal to the Planet) mobile app, ready to spend at businesses that sign up to the scheme.

Where to find the five machines

Five terminals will be installed at these spots:

– Plaza de la Vendimia
– Plaza Vicente Espinel
– Calle Bolivia
– Plaza Pozo del Rey
– Puerto de la Duquesa

Having them spread across the local area means a bag of empties can be dropped off on a walk to the beach, the market or the marina.

Why neighbours will welcome it

Anyone who has lugged a heavy bag to the bins will struggle to not see the appeal. Great news is also that your credit stays in town too, because it is redeemable only at participating local businesses, giving shopkeepers a boost.

Lealtad Verde says its app also tells users what they have recycled and what difference it makes to the environment, helping motivate families and keen eco-minded residents.

Details still to follow

The council has not said how much credit each bottle or can will earn, nor which businesses have signed up to the programme. We will update this story as soon as that information is released.

Lealtad Verde has operated in Mexico and has since expanded to Spain, with more than 300 machines across Mexico, Uruguay, Peru and Spain. Mayor Mario Jimenez says the project puts Manilva at the forefront of innovation and sustainability, making recycling easier, more modern and beneficial for everyone.

For those who call Manilva home, this initiative is a great way to join in with local life, keep the town clean, support local businesses and do a little good for the planet. Keep your empties handy, download the app when November arrives, and watch this space for the full list of participating shops. For more information visit the Manilva Town Hall website.