NSW’s flagship drink container recycling initiative, Return and Earn, is celebrating its seventh anniversary, highlighting its environmental and social achievements since its inception in December 2017.
The scheme has unveiled its latest Local Government Volumes Report, detailing community participation rates and the volume of containers returned by council areas.
Since its launch, more than 12.5 billion drink containers have been returned through a statewide network of return points, with an estimated 84 per cent of NSW adults taking part in the program, according to a news release.
Spearheaded by the NSW Government in collaboration with Exchange for Change and network operator TOMRA Cleanaway, the program is a pioneering example of product stewardship funded by the beverage industry.
Danielle Smalley, CEO of Exchange for Change, emphasised the program’s dual environmental and community benefits.
“It’s been amazing to see so many people make Return and Earn part of their regular routine. Their participation has led to two out of three drink containers sold in NSW being returned, over 1,077,000 tonnes of material recycled, and a 73% reduction in drink container litter compared to pre-scheme levels,” she said.
Smalley noted that the scheme has not only helped the environment but also contributed to the community.
“In addition to the environmental benefits, we have also seen $1.25 billion in container refunds put back in people’s pockets, and over $62 million raised for charities and community groups through donations and fees from hosting return points,” she added.
Consumer confidence in the program remains high, with 93 per cent of NSW adults expressing support and 78 per cent indicating trust in the initiative.
Monthly participation is strong, with three out of five adults returning containers regularly.
The network, operated by TOMRA Cleanaway, has grown significantly, with 103 new return points added in the past year.
James Dorney, CEO of TOMRA Cleanaway, explained the ongoing investment in technology and accessibility to ensure ease of use for participants.
“We’re proud to invest in technological upgrades to make recycling even easier for the community. Over the last 12 months, we’ve added 103 new return points to the network including new return point formats as well as upgrades to some machines to ‘takes-all,’” he said.
Currently, over 650 return points, ranging from reverse vending machines to automated depots, are available across the state.
The upcoming summer holiday season is expected to see record activity, with an estimated nine million containers returned daily.
To accommodate the influx, residents are encouraged to check live updates on return point statuses via the Return and Earn app or website before visiting.
Smalley praised the collective effort behind the scheme’s success. “Congratulations to everyone who has contributed to Return and Earn’s achievements over the past seven years—whether through industry funding, community participation, or operational partnerships. Together, we’re building a more sustainable, waste-free future,” she said.
For more information, visit Return and Earn’s website.
