A higher proportion of people in regional NSW have participated in the Return and Earn Scheme (72%), significantly more than those in metropolitan NSW (65%).
The NSW Return and Earn 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. This means over $1.3 billion in container 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.
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 our biggest year yet with 2.125 billion containers returned.
“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.
“Thanks to all the people of NSW, what was once seen as waste is now a valuable resource, delivering significant environmental, social and economic benefits. “ “Recycling isn’t just about cleaning up the environment – it’s about turning waste into valuable resources to grow our circular economy. 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,” said Ms. Smalley.
Return and Earn has raised funds for everything from weddings and holidays to free care flights for sick children and meals for people who are 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.
For more information visit www.returnandearn.org.au.