The NSW Return and Earn recycling scheme has hit a new record, celebrating a staggering 13 billion bottles, cans and cartons returned through the return point network since the scheme began.
“Since launching in December 2017, Return and Earn has grown into one of the most successful recycling initiatives in the state, with 8 out of 10 NSW adults making Return and Earn part of their regular routine, most visiting monthly or more often,” said Danielle Smalley, CEO of scheme coordinator, Exchange for Change.
Independent consumer research conducted in December found:
- 82% of NSW adults have participated in the scheme either by recycling at a return point or by giving their containers to someone else to return.
- Young people aged 18-24 recycled more (75%) than those aged 65 or older (66 per cent), although older NSW residents recycled more frequently.
- A higher proportion of people in regional NSW have participated (72%), significantly more than those in metropolitan NSW (65%).
“This achievement shows just how important drink container recycling is across NSW. With over 650 convenient and accessible return points, it has never been easier to recycle in our state,” said James Dorney, CEO of network operator, TOMRA Cleanaway.
The 13 billion container milestone means over $1.3 billion in refunds have gone back into people’s pockets, helping with the cost of living, saving for a special goal or supporting amazing causes. Over $72 million has also been raised for charities and community groups through donations and return point hosting fees.
Return and Earn has raised funds for everything from weddings and holidays to free care flights for sick children and meals for people doing it tough. Community members can donate their refund to one of over 300 donation partners listed on the Return and Earn app or to the current statewide donation partner, food relief charity, Foodbank NSW & ACT.
“Recycling isn’t just about cleaning up the environment – it’s about turning waste into valuable resources to grow our circular economy,” said Ms Smalley. “Together, we are contributing to a more sustainable future, where the materials that our bottles, cans and cartons are made of are kept in use and out of landfill.”
Following a record-breaking summer, with 23 December 2024 setting a record for the biggest single day ever at 10.3 million containers, 2024 ended as the scheme’s biggest year yet with 2.125 billion containers returned.
Return and Earn is delivered in partnership between the NSW Environment Protection Authority, scheme coordinator Exchange for Change and network operator TOMRA Cleanaway.