A container deposit return scheme for New Zealand
A container deposit return scheme is a practical, affordable way to help New Zealanders recycle more and cut waste, litter and emissions. #BringitBackNZ
We need a better way to recycle our drink bottles, cans and cartons. Too many end up in landfill or as litter. Bottle deposit schemes work well in other countries. We want our Government to introduce one here.
Benefits of a container return scheme
2.6 billion drink bottles, cans and cartons get sold in New Zealand each year. Less than half of these are collected for recycling. 50 years of international experience across 32 countries shows that a well designed scheme would recycle 85%+ of our empties.
Every drink bottle, can and carton sold, would pay its own way through the recycling system, taking the pressure off ratepayers and councils who subsidise recycling now.
76% of New Zealanders want a scheme here. Many fondly remember returning bottles to claim deposits in the 1970s and 1980s. The scheme already drafted by the government is based on international best practice and it is a good fit for New Zealand.
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A well-designed container return scheme will:
Double the collection rate for empty drink containers
Increase the collection of bottles, cans and cartons from 45% to 90% because people want to get the cash from their deposits back.
Reduce litter
Cut litter on our beaches, roadsides, parks and riverbanks by 60% and cut ocean plastic, minimising pollution to protect te taiao.
Reduce greenhouse gas emissions
Replace virgin content in drink packaging with recycled glass, plastic and aluminium to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Read our full brief on why 76% of New Zealanders support bringing back container deposits to boost recycling and protect te taiao.
How it works
Drink producers help set up and fund take back systems for the drinks they put on the market.
Take action
Help us push for a well-designed container return scheme in Aotearoa to create jobs and protect te taiao
We want government to implement a well designed container deposit return scheme because it’s:
1. A better way to recycle your empty drink containers, turns more bottles, cans and cartons into recycled content and includes caps & lids
2. Sets NZ up with a strong producer responsibility model and creates a nationwide take-back system that can work for reuse too
3. Creates jobs, business and fundraising opportunities for local recycling centres and drop off points, whānau, marae, kura, hapū, iwi, clubs and organisations.
