In the framework of global waste reduction efforts, while some states attempt to decrease the consumption of plastic through governmental policies and restrictions, the others try to sanction the manufacturing, importing and application of plastic by introducing penalties and fines. For example, it was found that an average European fish consumer receives 11,000 microplastics-plastic particles (< 1 mm) per year. The detrimental consequence of such unsustainable waste disposal can have a severe impact on ordinary individuals through food chains. The latest studies suggest that by the year 2050, the amount of plastic waste in the ocean will overweight the marine inhabitants. Unfortunately, the significant portion of the plastic waste, including bottles, end up either in the oceans or landfills. Euromonitor International’s global packaging trends report indicates that by the year 2017, there were almost 1 million plastic beverage bottles sold every minute. This invention triggered increased beverage production leading to enormous plastic waste generation, which continues up today. It was far more lightweight, safer and cheaper than previously used materials such as glass and metal. The wide-scale application of plastic bottles started in the late 1970s when the first polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle was invented. At present, despite the measures introduced by the government to encourage the general public to segregate waste and recycle as well as the willingness of individuals to do so, there is still no clear strategy on how to motivate people to segregate and recycle plastic items. In Kazakhstan, particular challenges are evident concerning plastic collection and recycling. In developing countries with growing economies and increasing consumption of goods, the waste generation increases continuously. Effective waste collection and segregation is a critical element of a waste management system of any country and a strategic solution for ensuring environmental sustainability.

Vending machine sequence diagram