Container deposit scheme on its way

Published on 13 October 2023

Benalla Rural City residents will soon be able to add to their savings while contributing significantly to environmental conservation with the Victorian Government’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic) coming to our community, from Wednesday 1 November 2023.

CDS Vic is an initiative that offers Victorians a 10 cent refund for every eligible drink container returned. This not only provides a financial incentive for residents but also contributes significantly to environmental conservation efforts. Residents also have the option to donate the refund to selected community groups and charities.

Foott Waste Solutions will operate a dedicated depot in Benalla for easy and convenient returns. Foott staff will be on hand to guide residents through the process. Automated counting machines will be installed to efficiently process all volume of cans and bottles, making it quick and easy to get your refund.

From 1 November 2023, residents can exchange eligible cans and bottles for cash at the Foott operated depot at 22 Irwin Road, Benalla.

Benalla Rural City Council Mayor Cr Bernie Hearn expressed her enthusiasm for the scheme.

“We are thrilled to welcome CDS to Benalla Rural City,” Cr Hearn said. This initiative is a win-win for our community. It not only encourages responsible waste management, but it also supports our local charities, schools, community groups and environmental organisations.

“By participating residents are able to support local groups by donating their funds from collected containers directly to a group or organisation of their choice,” Cr Hearn said.

CDS Vic aims to create a cleaner stream of recyclable materials and reduce the number of bottles, cans and containers that end up in landfill or littering our streets. It is a product stewardship scheme, meaning that beverage companies pay for the 10 cent refund and operating costs, helping make CDS Vic convenient and accessible for all Victorians. This collaboration between the beverage industry and the community makes a significant step towards improving recycling rates.

The easiest way to determine if a container is eligible for a refund, is to look for the 10 cent mark, usually around the barcode. Most aluminium, glass, plastic, steel and liquid paperboard drink containers between 150mL and 3L qualify. Containers should be empty, and lids can be left on to ensure all parts are recycled. Crushing containers should be avoided as they can not be accepted in this condition.

Once returned, these containers undergo a transformation, becoming new streams of material for recycling. This process supports the creation of new drink containers and various useful products, contributing to a circular economy.

For more information on CDS Vic or for information on how to become a donation partner visit https://cdsvic.org.au/