Collection network critical to container deposit scheme success

The Government’s proposal for a network operator that is independent of the beverage industry and incentivised to collect as many containers as possible is positive and in line with the MAV’s preferred model for the scheme.

Container deposit schemes (CDS) are celebrated around the world for their demonstrated success in increasing recovery of beverage containers, reducing litter, and delivering a range of social, economic and environmental benefits. The number one factor in the success of any CDS is ease of access to collection points.

Introduction of a container deposit scheme was one of the five key actions the MAV advocated for from the State as part of our Rescue our Recycling Action Plan.

MAV CEO Kerry Thompson said councils have long advocated for a CDS in Victoria and are now keen to ensure the scheme’s design maximises recovery of containers.

“We know there is strong community support for a scheme in Victoria, with recent polling by Infrastructure Victoria finding 92 per cent of respondents in favour of a CDS.

“One of the top priorities now should be to ensure that the design of the scheme provides for a network of accessible and convenient collection points right across the state.

“We need a network operator focused on maximising recovery of containers which is why we support the split governance model.

“A scheme that is both coordinated and controlled by the beverage industry would be hopelessly conflicted – the incentive to reduce costs by minimising the number of containers recovered would be too great.

“The scheme should also include wine and spirit bottles, and material collected must go back into beverage packaging to achieve a true circular economy.

“Victoria has a great opportunity to learn from the experience of other states and territories and build a CDS that is the envy of the nation.

For further information, contact the MAV Communications Unit on (03) 9667 5590.