In a big win for the environment and hip-pockets, Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett has backed plans to include glass wine and spirit bottles in the Containers for Change program.
Queenslanders are being asked to provide their feedback on an online survey and discussion paper that looks at expanding the 10-cent program to include glass wine and spirit bottles, larger flavoured milk, pure vegetable or fruit juice, as well as water and wine in liquid paperboard packs.
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett, who was instrumental in creating the policy as Queensland’s former Shadow Environment Minister, said he’s extremely proud of the program that has seen more than 5.7 billion containers recycled and refunded in just four years.
“This was a landmark policy that saw bi-partisan support and has resulted in a great win for the environment and local residents,” he said.
“It was years in the making and I’m thrilled to see it become such a huge success statewide.
“In the Wide Bay, we have crushed, smashed, and shared our way to returning millions of containers already.
“Thank you to everyone who has embraced this program to help keep the region litter free.”
Currently, the containers for change program accepts most aluminium, glass, plastic, steel and some liquid paperboard beverage containers.
Mr Bennett said recycling would be even easier if more containers were included in the scheme.
“We all have a role to play in protecting our local environment, and what easier way than recycling our containers for cash!” he said.
“It’s no secret that cost-of-living pressures are increasing. Right now, every cent counts.
“I wholeheartedly support the expansion of the Containers for Change program to help put a few dollars back into their pockets of Queenslanders.”
The survey is open now until 5pm, 20 February 2023.
To have your say, head to the link here.
ENDS.
16/12/2022