ODS Private Limited has introduced the Maldives’ first-ever Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program, marking a major step toward promoting environmental sustainability and corporate accountability in the country.

Through the initiative, ODS will buy back empty PET bottles of its “ONE” brand, produced at the company’s One Degree South Addu Factory. Customers can return their used bottles to receive MVR 0.33 (33 Laari) per bottle in cash or choose the equivalent value in Green Points, redeemable for future purchases.

To qualify under the EPR program, bottles must be clean, undamaged, and intact with their caps, neck rings, and company labels still attached. Bottles that have been repurposed or refilled with other substances will not be accepted.

At present, returns are being accepted only at the One Degree South Addu Factory in Hithadhoo.

However, ODS plans to expand collection centers to other islands and urban areas across the Maldives as the program develops.

Established in 2017, the One Degree South Addu Factory initially focused on producing multi-use 18.9-liter water bottles, contributing to the reduction of plastic waste across Addu City’s interconnected islands.

According to the company, the new EPR program underscores ODS’s commitment to sustainability and circular economy practices, serving as a model of environmental corporate responsibility.

ODS stated that it aims to raise the standard of its products and services while maintaining an eco-friendly and socially responsible approach.

A fully Maldivian-owned company, ODS currently produces 18.9-liter, 1.5-liter, and 500-milliliter water bottles, which are purified using UV and Ozone technology before bottling at the Addu facility.