returnable bottles
[/rɪˈtɜːrnəbəl ˈbɑːtəlz/]
nounpl: returnable bottles
garrafas retornáveis
1. Bottles that can be returned to a store or distributor for a refund or credit, typically after being emptied
The supermarket accepts returnable bottles for a 5-cent deposit refund.
O supermercado aceita garrafas retornáveis para devolução de depósito de 5 centavos.
2. Reusable containers designed to be refilled multiple times rather than discarded after single use
Glass returnable bottles reduce plastic waste and are better for the environment.
Garrafas retornáveis de vidro reduzem desperdício de plástico e são melhores para o meio ambiente.
In Brazil, returnable bottles are part of an informal economy where collectors ('catadores') gather discarded bottles to exchange for money. This system is culturally significant as both an environmental practice and a survival strategy for vulnerable populations. In the USA, particularly in northeastern states and California, returnable bottle deposits are legally mandated, whereas in Brazil it's primarily voluntary and informal. The practice reflects different approaches to waste management and consumer behavior in both countries.
NYC Slang
deposit bottles / can return
Related Idioms & Phrases
cash in your bottles (converter garrafas em dinheiro)
bottle return program (programa de devolução de garrafas)
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