Congratulations NSW!
Last week, TOMRA Cleanaway was thrilled to celebrate the collection of 12 billion drink containers through the NSW container deposit scheme’s ‘Return and Earn’ network.
Congratulations NSW, together, we have now recycled over 12 billion drink containers through the Return and Earn network since the scheme began. This astounding result means over $1.2 billion in container refunds have gone back into the community’s pockets.
Circular economy success story
“Return and Earn is a NSW circular economy success story. Almost seven years after launching, it has become one of the most successful and trusted recycling initiatives in the state,” said James Dorney, CEO of TOMRA Cleanaway, network operator for Return and Earn.
As the Network Operator, TOMRA Cleanaway is proud of the circular economy impacts of Return and Earn over the last 6.5 years, with hundreds of thousands of tonnes of containers recycled.
“It has also resulted in more than 1 million tonnes in materials recycled, contributing to a 54 per cent reduction in drink container litter since pre-scheme levels.”
Support for Return and Earn at an all time high
New research shows support and trust in Return and Earn is at an all-time high, respectively 93 per cent and 78 per cent of NSW adults. More people than ever are participating in Return and Earn with 84 per cent of NSW adults having participated.
Container deposit scheme creating cultural change
Danielle Smalley, CEO of Exchange for Change, the scheme coordinator for Return and Earn said today’s achievement and the research findings highlight that we have seen amazing cultural change over the last years with taking drink containers to your local Return and Earn return point becoming a way of life throughout all corners of NSW.
She thanked the NSW community and the beverage industry for making Return and Earn such a success, contributing to significant financial, economic and social benefits.
“The operation of Return and Earn is fully funded by the beverage industry and is Australia’s best example of product stewardship.
Community and social benefits of Return and Earn
“As well as environmental benefits, we have seen $1.2 billion in container refunds generated, and over $62 million raised for charities and community groups through donations and fees from hosting return points.
“The 10c per container refunds have helped families and individuals with day-to-day expenses or to reach savings goals for special extras, holidays, and even a wedding.” said Ms Smalley.
Over 300 charities to support on Return and Earn App
The social benefits of Return and Earn have become essential for the community. The scheme has become a popular fundraising channel for hundreds of charities and community groups. The Return and Earn app now features more than 300 charities, enabling anyone returning containers to donate their refund to their favourite cause.
“It’s not just about recycling to clean up our environment; we are turning those bottles and cans into an in-demand and valued commodity in our growing circular economy,” said Mr Dorney.
Thank you to our Scheme partners the NSW Environment Protection Authority, scheme coordinator Exchange for Change , TOMRA and Cleanaway together we are making an immense difference, one container at a time.
For more information visit www.returnandearn.org.au.
