Recycling machine roll-out begins

AHEAD of the November launch of Victoria’s container deposit scheme, the state’s first reverse vending machine has been installed in the carpark of Buninyong’s FoodWorks supermarket.

The size of a shipping container, the recycling machine is designed to give 10 cents for every bottle, can, or carton someone puts into it.

Environment minister Ingrid Stitt was in town last week to check out the new equipment, joined by the CEO of VicReturn, Jim Round, and the boss of CDS zone operator TOMRA Cleanaway, James Dorney.

“Victoria’s container deposit scheme will be the most accessible and convenient in the country, making it easier than ever to recycle here in regional Victoria and across our state,” Ms Stitt said.

“CDS Vic will maximise the number of cans, bottles and cartons being recycled into new products, while reducing the amount of litter in Victoria by up to half.”

Once the scheme is up and running, it’s expected that there will be 600 Victorian refund sites, made up of vending machines, depots, bag drops, and over-the-counter sites.

These collection points will be based at locations like Buninyong FoodWorks, in shopping and community centres, parks, sports grounds, and clubs.

Buninyong’s reverse vending machine will be usable when the Container Deposit Scheme begins in spring.

“At sites just like this one, Victorians will be able to return their containers and be rewarded with a refund,” Mr Round said.

“Not only will it put money back in their pockets, it’ll make a big difference to our environment and communities.”

The plan is that there will eventually be one collection point for every 750 people in the regions, and 350 people in rural areas.

“As the west zone operator for CDS Vic, TOMRA Cleanaway is proud to be partnering with FoodWorks Buninyong to host a reverse vending machine kiosk,” Mr Dorney said.

“CDS Vic is an exciting opportunity for all the community, and TOMRA Cleanaway as west zone operator is proud to be involved in delivering the best possible scheme for Victorians.”

Member for Eureka Michaela Settle expects the CDS not only to give residents a bit more pocket money, but to create local jobs.