The Barwon community embraces CDS – Surf Coast Times

RESIDENTS from the Surf Coast and Barwon region have put $3.3 million back into their pockets and favorite charities during the first six months of TOMRA Cleanaway’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) programme.

Since Victoria’s CDS launched on November 1, 2023, residents have returned more than 33 million eligible beverage containers to the region’s two depots and 24 return machines.

TOMRA Cleanaway CEO James Dorney said more than 1,000 charities, community groups and organizations had already benefited from the 10p refund on every item.

“As operator of the CDS Vic West Zone, TOMRA Cleanaway has seen first-hand the enthusiasm of the Barwon community in embracing Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme.

“Strong partnerships have been developed in the CDS Vic West zone, including valuable social enterprise partnerships.

“Our commitment to ensuring that social enterprises and charities have the opportunity to generate valuable funds through our network is a core focus of our activities.”

Torquay Food Aid is one such charity benefiting from the scheme. President Michael Buckley said the program helped them buy more food for vulnerable community members.

“Since one of our committee members came to us three months ago and told us about it, we’ve made over $250. That’s 2,500 items donated to support us.

“Not only does it help us provide our community with access to food, but it also helps our environment and prevents plastics and recyclables from entering the waste stream.”

Statewide, more than 500 million containers were returned in the six-month period.

“TOMRA Cleanaway is exceptionally proud to have played a role,” said Mr Dorney.

“Through our convenient and accessible, technology-enabled network of refund collection points, the Western Zone community has contributed more than 200 million eligible bottles, cans and boxes through CDS Vic alone.”

For more information, residents are encouraged to download the CDS Vic West Zone app or visit cdsvic.org.au