Take back your cans: Michigan’s famous 10-cent bottle deposit subject of new MLive documentary

In Michigan, taking back returnable cans and bottles is a great way to score some extra cash and keep the environment clean.

But it can also be a chore. And critics say Michigan’s bottle deposit law overburdens grocery stores and beverage distributors.

There are also calls to expand the law, which was passed by voters 45 years ago, to cover more types of beverages and improve Michigan’s dismal overall recycling rate.

MLive’s latest documentary, ‘Michigan’s Bottle Bill: Sorting Through a Sticky Situation’ explores all the moving parts to Michigan’s bottle deposit system, what it’s getting right and how some think it needs to be improved.

If you cannot see the video player above, no worries, just click here to watch!

Read more about Michigan’s bottle bill here: Michigan’s bottle deposit law: Will the 1970s bill ever change?

Lori Chapman is a producer on MLive’s video team.

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.