NSW’s container deposit scheme Return and Earn has reached two major milestones, with 16 billion bottles, cans and cartons returned by the community since the program began in 2017, according to scheme partners.
The returns have resulted in $1.6 billion in refunds flowing back to recyclers, alongside more than $100 million raised for charities and community groups through donations and return point hosting fees.
The scheme, delivered by the NSW Government in partnership with the NSW Environmental Protection Authority, scheme coordinator Exchange for Change and network operator TOMRA Cleanaway, said the figures reflect widespread community participation across the state.
“The NSW community has embraced the ability to donate containers to campaigns that are important to them through Return and Earn,” said Danielle Smalley, CEO of Exchange for Change.
“Donating eligible bottles, cans and cartons allows anyone to support their favourite cause, without putting their hand in their pocket for a cash donation. All donations, big and small, collectively add up and have a big impact,” she said.
Over the past year, fundraising through the scheme has supported a range of organisations, including $210,000 raised for the Children’s Medical Research Institute through a Jeans for Genes appeal, and $175,000 for Guide Dogs NSW/ACT.
Current statewide donation partner The Smith Family is seeking to raise $200,000 through container donations, with the charity noting that as few as 30 donated containers can help fund one book for a disadvantaged student.
Community groups across the state are also benefiting through the Return and Earn app, which lists more than 600 charities, including the Port Stephens Koala Hospital. Supporters have donated more than 230,000 containers to the hospital, raising over $23,000 to assist with equipment such as diagnostic tools for treating koalas.
“This 16 billion container milestone means $1.6 billion in container refunds has been returned to the community since Return and Earn began eight years ago,” said James Dorney, CEO of TOMRA Cleanaway.
“I’m proud that our network of over 660 return points across NSW is enabling the community to help their favourite cause. Return and Earn is a great example of the circular economy in action,” he said, adding that it delivers environmental and financial benefits across individuals, charities and community groups.
Return and Earn said the milestones reflect both environmental outcomes, including reduced litter and landfill, and continued public participation in container recycling across New South Wales.
