A cleaner Territory and green jobs – a bargain at just 10 cents a can!

The Environment Centre NT has today warmly welcomed the Territory Government’s decision to pass new container deposit legislation (CDL) that will see people paid 10 cents for each bottle, can or small milk carton returned to collection sites.

“At long last there’s action on container deposits. Congratulations go to Paul Henderson and Alison Anderson for having the courage to ignore the self-interested objections from the beverage industry and give Territorians what they have long wanted – a cleaner environment,” said Stuart Blanch, Coordinator.

“The beverage industry has successfully lobbied states against legislating container deposits. They’ve won the debate this last 30 years. It’s good to see the Territory Government not waiting for other states to stick their toe in the water on this issue.

“This is good news for Indigenous communities and local government. It will help clean up our communities and towns by allowing people to earn money by picking up litter. That’s green jobs.”

Recyclable bottles and cans made up around 40% of all rubbish collected during this year’s Clean Up Australia Day.

“After 30 years of procrastination since South Australia passed its container deposit law, the Territory is moving to a cleaner, greener future.

“The proof is in the pudding. Experience in South Australia shows the 10 cents deposit works – recycling rates are higher than in other states which don’t have container deposit laws.

“Over 150 million containers were returned to collection depots in South Australia last year.

For further information contact: Dr. Stuart Blanch, Coordinator, on 08 8941 7439 or 0448 887 303