Return and Earn soars past 170 Million

The number of drink containers deposited through the NSW Government’s Return and Earn initiative on the Central Coast has now passed the 170 million milestone.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said Return and Earn had been highly successful at reducing litter across NSW.

“A massive 179,204,595 drink containers have been cashed in for 10 cent refunds since the initiative was launched nearly three years ago,” Mr Crouch said.

“The Automated Depot at West Gosford, which is ideal for a bulk number of containers, has proven to be the most popular collection point having clocked up 19 million returns.

“The most popular Reverse Vending Machine in our region is located at Woolworths Bateau Bay, which has accounted for 16 million drink containers since its opening in December 2017.

“Over 170 million ‘return and earns’ is not just good news for our local waterways and environment, but it also means a massive $17 million back in the pockets of Central Coast residents.

Mr Crouch said the 19 collection points on the Central Coast form part of a Statewide network of 618.

“The Reverse Vending Machines operate 24/7 and are easily accessible, with a total of 19 collection points located across the Coast,” Mr Crouch said.

“As the summer season approaches, I would encourage everyone to continue caring for our environment by ‘returning and earning’ drink containers in the responsible way.”

Return and Earn users can choose to donate their refund directly to selected charities or transfer it to their designated account. Drink containers eligible for the 10 cent refund include most containers between 150mL and three litres. Containers should not be crushed or broken and have the original label attached to be eligible for the refund.

For more information, go to: www.returnandearn.org.au.