Yellow recycling machine at Mercat de l'Olivar sparks conversation

This is what it looks like — and this is how it works

In the last few days, if you walked through the Mercat de l'Olivar, you may have seen it: a bright yellow box that at first glance resembles a bottle-return machine. But it doesn't open automatically; it wants you to pull out your smartphone. The principle is simple: scan the packaging, use the app, earn points.

More than just a head-turner

The machine is not placed randomly in Palma's largest market hall. Representatives of the Balearic government and the company behind the system presented the device — names such as Alejandro Sáenz de San Pedro, Diego Viu and Xavier Balagué came up in the short speeches. The aim is clear: encourage people not to discard plastic bottles and cans carelessly.

The technology behind it: Users scan the barcode of a bottle or can with the Reciclos app; the packaging is virtually collected. Then one takes a photo of the collection container on the street to verify disposal. For every successfully registered packaging there are points — and these can be redeemed later or donated.

Points, prizes, projects

Whoever has enough points can participate in sweepstakes and win bicycles or watches, for example. Alternatively, the points can be invested in projects: reforestation on the Spanish mainland, marine conservation projects, or local social initiatives. According to the operators, several thousand tons of CO2 have been offset up to last summer — specifically more than 13,300 tons — and an area almost the size of 45 football pitches has been reforested.

The system is not new on the islands: since 2020 the app has been active in the Balearics and has now been integrated into many municipalities. If you've paid attention in Valencia, you already know the principle — the Balearics followed suit soon after.

What people think

At the market, reactions range from curious to skeptical. A market woman selling fish early in the morning smiled: “Good if it reduces litter — but who has time to take a photo for every can?” Other visitors find it practical, especially younger smartphone users. A common criticism: not everyone owns a smartphone or wants to install an app.

Whether the yellow box ultimately brings significantly more recycling remains to be seen. In any case, it has made people look more closely at their next Sunday shopping. Trying it can't hurt — and if you're lucky you might even win a new bicycle. Or at least a good feeling.