On Thursday, Queensland became the latest state in Australia to introduce a Container Refund Scheme (CRS). Containers for Change provides a 10-cent refund for each eligible container returned for recycling at one of the designated collection points.
The scheme launched with more than 230 refund points across the state, that number is expected to increase within the first 12 months of operation. Most drink containers between 150 millilitres and 3 litres are eligible for a refund under the scheme.
The beverage industry and government worked together to deliver a low-cost and efficient scheme for both manufacturers and consumers.
‘We congratulate the Queensland Government for working together with beverage industry on the CRS to ensure the configuration of this important program is successful and sustainable from the outset,’ said Geoff Parker, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Beverages Council.
‘Queensland’s Scheme offers community groups, not for profit organisations, sporting clubs, and schools the opportunity to raise funds for their own projects, and individuals can help by donating their refunds to these organisations,’ said Parker.
‘Ultimately, the community and the environment will be the main beneficiaries of this Scheme,’ added Parker.
Western Australia will be the next state to implement a container deposit scheme.
