The state government will expand the container deposit scheme and set up a “return and earn” program to include wine barrels, bottles and other large bottles.
The government has initiated regional consultations on expanding the scheme. It claims to recycle an additional 400 million eligible bottles each year.
A returns and revenue sorting facility located in western Sydney.credit:Quentin Jones
“The expansion of the scheme will increase recycling rates, reduce landfills and strengthen NSW’s commitment to a circular economy,” Environment Minister James Griffin said in a media release on Saturday.
Since 2017, the plan has deposited more than 800 billion containers, donated $35 million to charities, refunded $800 million, and reduced beverage container waste by 52%, according to the government.
We are currently accepting beer, cider and other small beverage containers. Under the proposed change, it would also include wine bottles, wine barrels, spirits bottles, cordials, and bottles up to 3 liters.
Regional consultations will end on December 2nd.
