Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic) is rolling up its sleeves for Clean Up Australia Day, joining the nation’s largest community-driven environmental event on Sunday 2 March, as it celebrates its 35th year.
The CDS Vic team will be on the ground and on the water of the Yarra River clean-up site, collecting litter and educating the community about how eligible drink containers can be recycled through the scheme instead of polluting waterways.
Jim Round, CEO of VicReturn, the scheme coordinator of CDS Vic, said the partnership highlights a shared commitment to a more sustainable Victoria.
“Clean Up Australia is dedicated to reducing litter and driving positive change. That’s why we’re thrilled to join them for Clean Up Australia Day, encouraging Victorians to take positive actions,” Round said.
“Whether you join a Clean Up event near you or return your eligible containers through CDS Vic, every action counts. Plus, you can donate your refunds to Clean Up Australia to support their ongoing work.”
Beverage containers account for 15 per cent of litter nationwide, according to Clean Up Australia’s annual Litter Report. But there’s good news, as container deposit schemes have been proving to have a huge impact on litter reduction.
The NSW scheme has contributed to a 13.6 per cent drop in litter from beverage containers since its launch in 2017. Victoria is expected to follow suit as participation in CDS Vic continues to grow.
Chair of Clean Up Australia, Pip Kiernan, highlighted the important role CDS plays in keeping communities cleaner.
“Recycling programs around Australia and the world have significantly reduced litter and increased recycling rates,” explained Kiernan.
“Through the simple act of returning eligible drink containers, community groups can raise funds while helping to create a cleaner Victoria.”
Victorians can support Clean Up Australia and join a local event by registering at register.cleanup.org.au/join-a-clean-up.
Last year, over a million Australians registered to participate across more than 16,000 sites.
