What can I return?
Did you know that not all containers are eligible?! To find out what can and can’t be returned, search the list of eligible containers via the link below.
Here we will run through what you need to know and how to do it.
From November 1 2018, Queenslanders have been able to return eligible containers to a Container Refund Point and and obtain a 10c refund per container. A series of refund points have been established across the state.
Events can collect containers left by patrons, and claim the refund. (You could use this money to support further plastic free measures or environmental initiatives at your event or arrange for the refund to be donated (either wholly or partly) to one or several charities, community groups or schools.
Did you know that not all containers are eligible?! To find out what can and can’t be returned, search the list of eligible containers via the link below.
Your next step is to consider how you are going to collect the containers and what your arrangement will be to get your collection to a Container Refund Point. While this sounds logistically challenging, it is worth noting that the Qld scheme is well designed with a good business case for Container Refund Point Operators to motivate them to seek out container collections.. let's explain.
Container Refund Point Operators (CRP's) are businesses that have applied and gone through a tender process with Container Exchange (the organisation established to set up and manage the scheme). From a CRP point of view, their aim is to collect as many containers as possible, because they are paid a handling fee per container by Container Exchange. Thus they will be looking for opportunities to collect containers in bulk, and if you will be doing this, they will want to talk to you about how they can get your containers.
If your event is small and a a one off, approach a CRP and ask if there is a mobile collection unit you can borrow for the day. Get in early though, these units will be booked quickly. If you are a market or a large event, talk to the CRP about your expected container collection, if the numbers stack up for them, they may offer you a cage for event/market days, and they may even come and collect it for you. If you don't have a large collection, don't let that deter you though, you can negotiate with the CRP for some the of the refund to help cover their costs in exchange for their assistance.
In order to receive refunds, you or your beneficiaries will need to be registered with the Scheme. This is because bulk refunds will mostly be paid by EFT, and you will need a registered name and bank account for this to occur. In the case of charities, it is also is to ensure the charity is legitimate. If you have elected not to receive refunds, you will not need to register. Registration is through the Containers for Change website. If you plan to donate to a charity, ensure they already have a scheme ID set up.
TIP: If you are donating to charity, you could get the charity to help you set the collection point up and come on the day to act as ''Waste Warriors' - This will ensure people put their containers in collection bins (and bonus, they can also help with your composting stream as well if you have one). Ever considered 'Plastic Free Noosa' as a beneficiary? Supporting us helps us support you and will continue to strengthen our plastic free community!
1. Set up your collection bin/cage - this may be your own cage or one the CRP provides depending on what you arrange in step 1. Depending on the size of your collection and the size/frequency of your event, it may be in the form of large wheelie bins, a mobile unit or a purpose-built cage. Consider where you will place this, with access, safety and security in mind. Be aware that a large cage in an unsecured location may attract stealing if left overnight. You will also need signage for your bin/cage to make sure people know you are collecting containers.
2. Establish your system for collecting containers and how you will promote it on the day. Ensure if you are using 'Waste Warriors' (people to stand at bin stations to help people make good waste decisions), they are organised and briefed. If you have an MC you could arrange for them to let people know to donate. Also consider promoting your collection before the day to prepare patrons. Make sure you monitor your bin/cage on the day to ensure your collection isn't being contaminated or becoming too full.
3. Arrange for your cage to be picked up or dropped off to a depot. You may have already arranged this is step 1 with the CRP. The containers will go back to the depot and the funds credited to the groups you nominate. You can instruct the CRP to split the refunds between several groups at whichever ratio you decide.
Containers for Change Noosa - Express Recycling
Turn your glass, plastic and cardboard drink containers and cans into CASH… They offer fast and friendly service to our community to encourage everyone to redeem their container deposits and reduce the amount recyclables in landfill... LEGENDS!
Ready to go plastic free? Plastic Free Noosa helps to protect the environment by empowering the Noosa community in eliminating single-use plastics through direct engagement, recognition and facilitating circular economies.
Go plastic free
