Western Australians have recycled more than 283 million containers through Containers for Change; more than enough containers to draw a line from Perth to London.
Launched on October 1, 2020, Containers for Change gives Western Australians an opportunity to return eligible drink containers for a 10-cent refund.
Many West Australians have chosen to use Containers for Change as a way to give back to their community, by donating their refunds to local charities and community groups. Over $1.2 million has been donated to 3,000 charities and community groups, including hundreds of schools and local sporting organisations.
Donations can be made to any organisation fundraising through Containers for Change simply by using the groups scheme ID.
A list of charities and community groups fundraising through Containers for Change can be found at http://www.containersforchange.com.au/wa/fundraising
The scheme has also increased the recycling rate in Western Australia, and diverted tonnes of recyclable material from landfill. Over 11,000 tonnes of glass, 970 tonnes of aluminium and 258 tonnes of clear PET (plastic) has been sent to recyclers to date.
More information about the scheme can be found at http://www.containersforchange.com.au/wa
As stated by Environment Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson:
"This has been an amazing start to Containers for Change in WA. It's clear from these early results that West Australians are enthusiastic about recycling, and want to do their part to make sure we avoid sending recyclable materials to landfill.
"As well as helping the environment, the scheme has also given West Australians an additional way to show their generosity and support for their local charity or community group.
"Ten cents per container adds up, and I am sure that funds raised are making a real difference to the groups and organisations who do important work in our local communities."
