Container deposit schemes (CDS) are rapidly expanding in importance and reach. By 2023, we will see CDS in every jurisdiction in the country, making Australia the first continent globally to reach this milestone. At the same time, we aim to achieve participation and redemption rates targets set by the jurisdiction authority.
People recycle through container deposit schemes, like Containers for Change, ACT CDS, and Return and Earn, for a variety of reasons: to get some extra cash, to help the environment by preventing harmful litter and landfill, or to support local charities and community organisations by donating their refunds. Recyclers rely on the convenience of access to refund collection points. Lack of convenience and inaccessibility are fundamental roadblocks to overcome if we want to see these schemes succeed.
So, what’s the solution?
Enter, digitalisation. Technology brings a wealth of opportunity, new ways to engage with consumers, and convenience to many traditional services. Container deposit schemes are no different when it comes to embracing technology to improve customer experience, especially when it solves logistic challenges that prevent customers from engaging in the schemes.
ReCollect, a subsidiary company of Re.Group, provides a digital and smartphone app that removes these barriers – it’s the “Uber” of container deposit schemes. Recyclers who use the app can organise direct pick up of their eligible CDS containers and bottles from a location of their choice. The door-to-door pick-up service delivers the customer’s containers to a local CDS depot for sorting, collating, and processing under the customer’s account, providing an easy and seamless recycling experience.
The ReCollect app also provides users with tangible, easy-to-access information right on their smartphone. People can visualise their donations in the form of an ‘environmental impact report’. That’s direct visibility of how individual collections directly contribute to the good of the planet.
Re.Group and Return-It are firm believers that technology and automation can and will play a significant role in improving holistic customer participation in container deposit schemes. Growing and supporting services like ReCollect is a fundamental first step in this process.
More than 4 million containers have already been recycled by customers using the App. The ReCollect service not only achieves greater customer participation but also elevates the redemption rates for the scheme – making it a win/win for all of us!
ReCollect is a pioneering initiative, leading the charge to increase redemption rates in Australia. By giving recyclers and customers the convenience and functionality they desire, ReCollect is helping Australia achieve the ultimate goal of zero waste and preventing environmentally harmful litter and landfill.
Visit today* at www.re-collect.com.au
*Currently the ReCollect service is operating in selected areas within NSW, ACT, and Queensland. For more information please see the website.