When it comes to recycling, every small action counts. In Australia, one of these small actions is the 10-cent recycling initiative - a scheme that rewards individuals for returning certain types of containers. This initiative not only encourages recycling but also financially benefits! But which states are the best recyclers of these 10-cent containers, and what's the state of play in 2023?

According to a report by Planet Ark, South Australia (SA) boasts the highest recovery rate at 80%, closely followed by the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) at 69%. New South Wales (NSW) and Victoria (VIC) share the third place, each with a recovery rate of 67%. Western Australia (WA) follows with a 64% recovery rate. Tasmania (TAS), Queensland (QLD), and Northern Territory (NT) trail behind with recovery rates of 51%, 47%, and 19%, respectively.

10c Recycling in Victoria: What's the Latest?

A common question that arises is: "Can you get 10c for cans in Victoria?" The answer is yes! Victoria's container deposit scheme, CDS Vic, is set to kick off in November 2023, rewarding Victorians with a 10-cent refund for every eligible can, carton, and bottle they return.

Understanding the 10-Cent Container Deposit Scheme

The container deposit scheme, was first implemented in South Australia in 1977. Over the decades, it spread to various territories and states, including Northern Territory (2012), New South Wales (2017), Australian Capital Territory (2018), Queensland (2018), and Western Australia (2020). Tasmania and Victoria are due to commence their schemes in 2023. Under this scheme, the value of a container deposit is 10 cents for an eligible container.

What Bottles are Accepted at Return and Earn?

Return and Earn, a popular scheme in New South Wales, accepts most drink bottles and cans that are between 150ml and 3 litres. However, the containers must be in good condition, empty, and show the 10c mark. Look for the 10c label on the container to see if it is eligible for a refund. Remember to leave the lids OFF when returning your containers - they can be recycled too, but seperately.

Recycling for 10c in Queensland: What Can You Recycle?

In Queensland, the Containers for Change scheme is making strides in promoting recycling. Most aluminum, glass, plastic, steel, and liquid paperboard beverage containers between 150ml and 3 litres are eligible for a 10-cent refund, as long as they're included on the scheme's product list and display the refund mark. Starting from November 1, 2023, the scheme will also include glass wine and pure spirit bottles, making them eligible for a 10-cent refund when returned to a container refund point, this is massive news for those wine drinkers! However, certain containers like plain milk containers of all sizes, large containers of flavoured milk, pure fruit or vegetable juice, cask wine or cask water, concentrated cordial or syrup containers, wine sachets above 250ml, and registered health tonics are excluded from the scheme.

Taking Recycling to the Next Level at Home

Making recycling a part of your daily routine is made easy with the right tools. A perfect example is the Mobile Recycle Station - 3 Panel from Hibag. This specialized 3-compartment recycling bag offers an unparalleled solution for organizing and classifying empty containers. With a capacity of up to 150 containers, it's designed with a sturdy aluminum frame, high-quality, durable, and waterproof materials. Plus, it's easily washable inside and out, eliminating the need for plastic bags and unpleasant odors. Best of all, it's lightweight, collapsible, and doesn't take up too much space, making it the most professional recycling kit for any home.

By participating in the 10-cent recycling initiative, you're not only contributing to a greener Australia but also earning a little cash along the way. So, next time you finish a drink, think twice before tossing that container away. It might just be worth 10 cents!