The New South Wales Government has announced it will introduce a Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) across the state in December this year.
The network will be operated by TOMRA-Cleanaway and coordinated by Exchange for Change (a joint-venture of Coca-Cola Amatil, Carlton and United Breweries, Coopers, Lion and Asahi).
Over 800 “reverse vending machines” will be installed across the state, allowing community members to dispose of their bottles and cans and receive 10 cents in return.
Local Government New South Wales (LGNSW) has welcomed the announcement and the significant cost savings it will bring to councils.
“Councils spend hundreds of thousands of dollars each year picking up litter, and would much prefer to be investing this money in other community services,” LGNSW President Keith Rhoades said.
“The scheme has the potential to cut litter in NSW by up to 43 per cent, but the complexity of the collection and refund processes required have become increasingly clear.”
Cr Rhoades said LGNSW is working with the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) to ensure the scheme is well implemented.
“Things like expert advice and guidance for councils, a community education package, and data will be vital to help ensure councils get the best deal for their ratepayers in contracts with Material Recycling Facilities (MRFs).”
New South Wales joins South Australia and the Northern Territory as jurisdictions with container deposit legislation. The Queensland and Western Australian Governments are set to introduce schemes in 2018.
South Australia this year celebrates the fortieth anniversary of the introduction of its container deposit scheme and the return of more than 6 billion containers.
