Residents are encouraged to rethink how they recycle eligible drink containers, with Containers for Change offering a more beneficial outcome for the Denmark community.
While placing recyclable items in yellow top kerbside bins was once considered best practice, containers eligible for the 10-cent refund are now far more valuable when returned through the Containers for Change program. When these containers are placed in kerbside bins, they are transported out of the local area and processed in bulk, with any potential refund calculated using estimates. This means only a limited portion of that value may return to local government.
In contrast, Containers for Change (CFC) ensures every eligible container is individually counted, with the full refund returned directly to the community. This provides a significant opportunity to support local residents, charities and community groups, with funds generated locally and spent locally.
The impact is already being felt across our Shire. Local refund points can generate more in a single day than kerbside recycling returns over an entire quarter. Many public donation bins are hosted by local businesses, with proceeds directed to community groups and charitable organisations.
With an increasing number of public donation bins available throughout Denmark, and more expected in the near future, our residents have convenient options to participate. The recent inclusion of wine and spirit bottles in the scheme further expands the opportunity to contribute.
The Shire encourages residents to consider Containers for Change as a preferred recycling option for eligible drink containers. By making a simple change in recycling habits, the community can maximise environmental benefits while also supporting local initiatives and strengthening the local circular economy.