Cashing in on the container scheme

The countdown is on for the launch of WA’s new container deposit scheme — Containers For Change.

From June 2, West Australians can receive 10¢ for each eligible drink container returned to an authorised Containers For Change refund point.

To support participation, 45 free community information sessions were scheduled to be held across WA.

The Containers For Change team arrived in Narrogin last Wednesday but future sessions have been cancelled because of the COVID-19 crisis.

Scheme co-ordinator, WA Return Recycle Renew chief executive Tim Cusack, said West Australians had shown overwhelming support.

The Narrogin community session was held at the John Higgins Centre and locals found out how it will work, as well as the personal and community benefits.

WARRRL spokeswoman Hannah Beazley presented the session to participants keen to learn about eligible containers and how to cash them in.

A refund point operator in Narrogin has yet to be confirmed but the Containers For Change team are working closely with potential operators to finalise locations.

Currently, Western Australians use 1.3 billion eligible containers a year – enough to line a path from Perth to Broome.

The scheme is set to see 5.9 billion fewer drink containers ending up in landfill over the next 20 years.