Confusion equals contamination

Reverse vending machines allow users to deposit an empty can or drink bottle in exchange for tokens or vouchers. The machines are currently being trialled in New South Wales shopping centres, schools and large outdoor events like Field Day.

The technology being used in the multi-commodity (reverse vending) machines that are being rolled out by Envirobank can be expected to have a significant affect on the recycling habits of Australians and our overall environmental impact by eliminating the confusion around what can and can’t be recycled and by offering incentives.

The machines accept aluminium cans (up to 1 litre) and PET bottles (up to 3 litres in size).

Each reverse vending machine can crush and store up to 3,000 cans, minimising collection frequency. Best of all they won’t accept non-recyclable material. Scanners in the machine identify what can and can’t be recycled - ensuring that all material gets recycled every time.

The machines are smart too. They can collect data to measure carbon offsets that may count towards eventual carbon offset legislation and can be branded in striking skins for effective advertising campaigns - making them a highly unique business tool.

Reverse vending machines offer an efficient and effective return solution in place of CDL that is both auditable and sustainable. Australians can be motivated to recycle and its time we started to deliver on our environmental sustainability promises and stop simply sitting on the fence.