Tasmania’s ‘Recycle Rewards’ container refund scheme is closing in on a huge milestone with 20 million containers returned just three months after it launched.
With more drop-off points appearing across the state, that number is set to rise quickly.
Recent figures show Tasmanians are now cashing in an average of 220,000 containers every day as the community gets behind the initiative.
On Sunday alone, 375,000 bottles and cans were returned statewide, resulting in $37,500 being paid back to Tasmanians.
A new reverse vending machine opened in New Town in Hobart this week, next to Queens Walk Oval on Risdon Road. It will support local residents, schools and sports teams.
The installation comes as southern Tasmania leads the state’s recycling efforts, accounting for half of all eligible containers returned since the scheme began in May.
Aluminium cans make up the bulk of returns at around 65%, followed by plastics at 20%, glass at 13% and liquid paperboard cartons at about 2%.
Devonport in the north-west has recorded the highest returns at 1.45 million containers, with Claremont, Bridgewater and Launceston’s Mowbray close behind.
TasRecycle CEO Ken Roughley said the milestone shows Tasmanians are embracing the recycling initiative.
“By transforming how we recycle, we are keeping recyclable materials out of landfill, litter out of our environment and reducing our reliance on new raw materials,” he said.
“That’s good for Tasmania and good for Tasmanians too.”
Another machine is also planned Glenorchy Central. The proposal, which would replace several car parks, is currently before the Glenorchy City Council.
