Research commissioned by Container Exchange (COEX), the not-for-profit that runs Containers for Change, and conducted by Veracity found protecting the environment is the number one reason people participate in the recycling program. 

The research of more than 5,000 Queenslanders found that reducing litter and landfill outweighs financial incentives as a motivator for recycling, while nine in 10 Queenslanders say the scheme helps keep their communities clean and reduces waste.

According to the inaugural Environmental Behaviours Report:

• 57% of Queenslanders recycle their containers to benefit the environment 
• 91% of Queenslanders agree Containers for Change keeps local areas clean 
• 79% of Queenslanders participate in the scheme.

Keeping Australia beautiful

Erin Core, Managing Director of Veracity, said the report demonstrated the important role behaviour change programs play in creating cleaner, more sustainable communities. 

“What’s particularly encouraging is that Queenslanders aren’t just expressing concern about environmental issues, they’re acting on them through recycling their containers,” she said.

COEX Interim Chief Executive Officer Trevor Evans said Keep Australia Beautiful Week (3-9 August) was a reminder that the places we value most don’t stay beautiful by accident. 

“What this research tells us is that Queenslanders care deeply about the places around them and want practical ways to make a positive difference,” Mr Evans said. 

“While the 10-cent refund provides a financial incentive, the stronger takeaway is that people are participating in the scheme because they want to do the right thing for the environment and help keep their communities clean.” 

This Keep Australia Beautiful Week, Containers for Change is encouraging Queenslanders to think about the places that matter to them and how container recycling can help keep those spaces clean. 

Since the scheme launched in 2018, more than 12.3 billion eligible containers have been returned at refund points, putting $1.2 billion in 10-cent refunds back into the pockets of Queenslanders, community groups and charities.