The Victorian Government has announced a new container deposit scheme, CDS Vic, with VicReturn appointed as the scheme co-ordinator, a not-for-profit formed by Lion, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners and Asahi Beverages.
VicReturn will manage the marketing of CDS Vic, run its financial operations and ensure the scheme operates smoothly.
“I congratulate the Victorian Government on the introduction of its container deposit scheme. CDS Vic will have real environmental and social benefits and help create a circular economy for beverage containers,” said Paul Klymenko, chair of VicReturn.
Container deposit schemes are important in the recycling of beverage containers, as well as reducing litter and landfill. The beverage companies comprising VicReturn bring a wealth of experience in managing container deposit schemes across Australia. The organisations express pride in being involved.
“Lion is proud of our longstanding involvement in Australian container deposit schemes, which stretches back more than 40 years,” commented Lion group CEO Sam Fischer. “As the brewer behind some of Australia’s most loved beverage brands including Victorian born Furphy, XXXX, Stone & Wood and James Squire, we are thrilled to play a role in delivering this important scheme for the community here in Victoria.”
“As the maker of some of Victoria’s most beloved beverages such as Victoria Bitter, Carlton Draught, Schweppes, Pepsi Max, Solo and Cool Ridge water, we’re pleased that more of our beverage containers will now be recycled and play a part in the circular economy,” echoed Robert Iervasi, group CEO of Asahi Beverages.
The commitment to container reuse and recycling does not end with CDS Vic, either.
“We’re in the process of helping build a PET recycling facility in Altona, with our joint venture partners, Pact, Cleanaway and Coca-Cola Europacific Partners,” Iervasi explained. “CDS Vic will play an important part in providing PET bottles for the Altona recycling facility, leading to better environmental outcomes for Victoria.”