Western Australia saves 765 million containers from landfill

Posted on October 7, 2021 by DrRossH in Plastic Limiting Regulations

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Western Australia has 765 million less containers in landfill due to the State’s container deposit scheme, according to premier Mark McGowan.

Since Containers for Change launched on October 1 2020, it has become the most recognised recycling program in WA, injecting more than $122 million into the economy through refunds and handling fees for refund point operators.

Approximately $2.5 million has been raised for community organisations and charities, with more than 800 WA schools using Containers for Change to raise funds for activities and resources. More than 730 jobs have been created through the State’s refund points and with 253 refund points across the State, Containers for the Change is now the most accessible container deposit scheme in Australia.

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The anniversary comes as Containers for Change continues to develop and grow partnerships with local governments, venues, events and organisations across WA in order to expand the collection network and change recycling behaviour.

All 10c containers accepted at a Containers for Change refund point are recycled and turned into new containers or other items. People can either keep their 10c per container refund or donate it to a charity or community group of their choice.

“Containers for Change has provided many benefits to Western Australia. It’s delivered for the environment, for local jobs and for community groups and charities, said McGowan. “More than 730 jobs have been created at refund points. This includes jobs for 76 people of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent and 227 people who were long-term unemployed or are living with a disability.”

“When Containers for Change launched a year ago, an estimated 70 per cent of 10c containers were going to landfill, but now as many as 60 per cent of 10c containers are being recycled. This is a fantastic achievement,” said Acting Environment Minister Stephen Dawson.

“By returning 765 million 10c containers to Containers for Change refund points Western Australians have fully realised the potential of each container, ensuring they can be re-used again and again.”