NSW’s recycling scheme, Return and Earn, is marking six years since it was first launched. The scheme has reportedly seen 8 out of 10 NSW adults participate and over 10.4 billion drink containers returned for recycling.
Launched in December 2017, Return and Earn is a NSW government initiative delivered in partnership with scheme coordinator Exchange for Change and network operator Tomra Cleanaway.
Danielle Smalley, CEO of Exchange for Change, said: “We’ve achieved some incredible milestones in six short years, including putting $1.04 billion in container refunds back into people’s pockets and recycling 960,344 tonnes of materials.
“Importantly Return and Earn is NSW’s leading product stewardship scheme, funded by the beverage industry. The clean stream of materials it generates allows for new bottles and cans to be made from re-used plastic, aluminium and glass, contributing to a growing domestic circular economy.
“Even though it’s been successful, everyone involved in delivering the scheme remains focused on continually improving and innovating to make it even easier for people to participate and increase the number of containers recycled.”
The government says new return points and return point formats continue to be rolled out across the state, with 618 return points already available, including reverse-vending machines, automated depots and over-the-counter return points.
Network operator Tomra Cleanaway has introduced several innovations this year, including upgrades to existing machines for a smoother recycling process, new Return and Earn mobile return point vans, as well as the introduction of new small-format machines in petrol stations, newsagencies and other convenient locations. Several Return and Earn machines have also been upgraded to the new, next-generation ‘takes-all’ technology, which accepts all eligible containers in each of the four chutes rather than requiring separate glass and lightweights inputs.
James Dorney, CEO of TOMRA Cleanaway, said: “One of the hallmarks of Return and Earn’s success is our commitment to providing convenient and accessible return points across NSW. We’re proud to continue to invest in technological innovations to make it even easier for people to drop off their collections on the go.
“We’re also constantly reviewing and expanding the return point network, with seven new return points launching in December, which will provide even greater access and capacity for people to redeem their eligible containers for the 10c refund.”
The scheme says it is trialling two new Return and Earn mobile vans across metro Sydney this summer.
“Congratulations to the millions of people participating in Return and Earn for making a real difference to the environment and their communities. This includes the many, many charities and local community groups that have raised $47 million over the last six years.
“The huge success of the scheme is due to the strong partnership between government and industry, support from the beverage and waste industries, and the passionate participation of community members,” concluded Smalley.
