Almost 100 million containers have been returned since the NSW Return and Earn scheme began in December last year, according to the official website.
Reverse vending machine technology, alongside over-the-counter and automated depots have helped NSW reach this goal. As of Monday, the website showed more than 98 million containers collected.
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NSW Minister for Environment, Gabrielle Upton said more than five million drink containers had been returned over the second weekend of February.
Nepean Distributors, a drinks product supplier to schools and sporting club canteens, have been supporting the scheme and having a positive impact on the local community, according to EPA NSW.
In two months, Nepean Distributors has processed 133,034 containers, with over record of 11,879 in a day.
“It is making people, especially kids and teenagers, think about recycling. We want to help change their mindset to think about their environment and cleaning up their local park,” Managing Director of Nepean Distributors, Anthony Morrissey said.
They have also teamed up with local sports groups such as Macarthur BMX to help fundraise for the club and encourage locals to donate their refunds to charities like the African AIDS Foundation.