MEMBER for Bega Andrew Constance has welcomed NSW Premier Mike Baird’s announcement that a re-elected Liberals and Nationals Government will introduce reverse vending machines across the state as part of a cost-effective container deposit scheme for the recycling of drink containers.
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Mr Constance said if re-elected, the Baird Government will introduce reverse vending machines by July 1, 2017, to help communities look after their local environment by being better equipped to tackle litter and increase recycling.
“I recently visited our region’s environmental education centre and was shocked at the volume of litter that was collected in a 100metre stretch on our local roads,” Mr Constance said.
“People can be lazy and downright ignorant when it comes to their rubbish.
“I would hope that the incentive to collect a few extra dollars might see some think twice before throwing their bottles and cans out the car window.
“Kids up and down the coast used to collect cans and return them to the local scrap metal dealer for a bit of pocket money.
“There was an incentive to pick up rubbish and keep our local communities and waterways clean, and we are aiming to return that incentive.
“Under this exciting new initiative, communities will be rewarded for their recycling efforts through the use of reverse vending machines at popular parks, waterways, beaches and other public spaces across NSW,” Mr Constance said.
Reverse vending machines will be installed in the Bega Valley region – offering communities the opportunity to be rewarded for contributing to positive environmental outcomes.
The community will be consulted on key aspects of the scheme, including:
- The incentives for the community to participate in the scheme;
- The location of reverse vending machines; and
- The role of our local councils and the recycling industry in contributing to the scheme.