Single-use drink containers are a major source of litter in the environment, accounting for 15 per cent of litter nationwide according to Clean Up Australia’s annual Litter Report.
But there’s good news – container deposit schemes across Australia and the world are having a significant impact on litter reduction. Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic) was launched less than 18 months ago and participation continues to grow, reducing litter and boosting recycling rates.
The scheme is a recycling program that gives back to the planet, your community and your pocket. Keen recyclers are collecting and returning eligible drink bottles, cans and cartons at local return points for a 10-cent refund per item. While it might not sound like much, it quickly adds up. Drink containers are processed to make new products, working towards a circular economy.
Since launching in November 2023, CDS Vic has processed almost 1.5 billion drink containers — returning $150 million to Victorians and raising $1.5 million for local charities, schools and community groups.
The Christmas holidays saw the scheme’s highest volume of containers returned on record. Weekly returns usually average around 20 million, but Victorians returned around 30 million containers almost every week over the summer.
With the Easter holidays approaching, Victorians have another chance to cash in big while keeping their communities clean. Following record-breaking container returns over Christmas, another surge is expected as families and friends gather to celebrate, says Jim Round, CEO of scheme coordinator VicReturn.
“This Easter, let’s turn our empty drink containers into extra cash while making a real impact on the environment. By recycling through CDS Vic, every bottle, can, or carton returned helps keep Victoria clean and puts money back in your pocket,” he said.
“Let’s set a new record and make an even bigger difference!“
The scheme has also fostered new opportunities for local communities. Schools, sporting and community groups, and not-for-profit organisations have embraced the initiative as a fundraising tool. CDS Vic is working with grassroots sporting and community groups to boost scheme participation even further.
As Easter approaches, consider donating your refunds to The Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal. As a registered scheme donation partner, the Good Friday Appeal has raised over $72,000 through the scheme to date.
Executive Director of the Good Friday Appeal Rebecca Cowan said: “Victorians have a natural generosity when it comes to helping others, and donating your containers is yet another way to support the community and contribute to the Good Friday Appeal.”
“For 94 years, the community has come together to raise funds for the Good Friday Appeal, supporting sick children and providing lifesaving medical care at The Royal Children’s Hospital. This ongoing effort continues to make a meaningful impact, with $72,000 raised through the community donating the 10 cents from the refund of each container.”
Visit cdsvic.org.au to learn more about the scheme and find your nearest refund point.
