Queenslanders are celebrating a major recycling milestone with 10 billion beverage containers returned through Containers for Change, enough to fill almost 3,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
Those returned containers have also put $1 billion in 10-cent refunds back into Queensland communities.
Natalie Roach, the Chief Executive Officer of Container Exchange, the not-for-profit organisation that runs Containers for Change, said the significant achievement was a milestone all of Queensland should celebrate.
“Thanks to Queenslanders more than 600,000 tonnes of container waste has been diverted from landfill, which is enough to fill almost 3,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools,” Ms Roach said.
“Over the past six years, we’ve heard incredible stories about the real difference Containers for Change has made across the state from boosting recycling rates to creating over 1,500 local jobs.
“Queenslanders have also donated nearly $17 million in 10-cent refunds to charities.”
One of those charities, the Magnetic Island Network for Turtles (MINT), has raised more than $43,800 in funds directly from can and bottle collection.
MINT has set up dedicated container bins at local business and community areas across the island, from which volunteers collect the containers and then deliver to the bag drop at Nelly Bay. People on and off the island also nominate MINT to receive their 10-cent refunds using the charity’s member number.
The 10-cent refunds raised directly supports critical aspects of turtle rehabilitation efforts, including purchasing essential medications, specialised foods for turtles in rehabilitation, veterinary supplies and medical imaging.
MINT spokesperson Traci Ayris said Containers for Change significantly contributed to providing continuous care to endangered sea turtles, which incurred expenses of more than $10,000 each through care.
“The Containers for Change program has been invaluable to our mission,” Ms Ayris said.
“It not only provides essential funds for our rehabilitation activities, but it also fosters community engagement and environmental responsibility.
“As our organisation faces increasing pressures due to the impacts of global warming and extreme weather events, the reliability and consistency of this initiative plays a crucial role in helping us meet the growing demand for sea turtle rescue and care.
“Containers for Change exemplifies how small, everyday actions by a community can produce substantial positive outcomes for both local wildlife and the broader ocean environment.”
Visit the Containers for Change website for more information on how to return eligible containers to earn the 10-cent refund.
Media contact:
m: 0408 915 422
e: media@containerexchange.com.au
