Sustainability News

Plastic is one of the most widely used materials in the world due to its versatility and durability. Each year, around 300 million tonnes of plastic are produced globally, making it essential to reuse and recycle as much as possible. Recycling plastic helps reduce our reliance on non-renewable fossil fuels, cuts down energy use in manufacturing, lowers greenhouse gas emissions, and keeps waste out of landfill. By extending the life of plastic materials, we can significantly lessen their environmental impact.

The recycling process involves sorting plastic by type, shredding, washing, melting, and turning it into pellets that are used to create new products. The plastic containers returned to the Container Deposit Scheme are taken reused in many different ways, including new drink bottles, polyester fabrics, and outdoor furniture. Because of the nature of the scheme, it provides a ‘clean stream’ of plastics to be recycled into a wide range of possibilities.

Max, Stella, Maximilian and Jamie at CERES learning about the process used to recycle plastic bottles.

Since the introduction of the Container Deposit Scheme at St Joseph’s at the end of last term, we have already raised $15.30, and more importantly, we have prevented 153 containers from ending up in landfill. 

There are a few ways you can support our efforts....

If you’re available to help return containers on behalf of the school, please email me at siobhan.odwyer@sjmalvern.catholic.edu.au. 

If you are returning containers from your own household and would like to donate the refund to the school, we are a registered donation partner with both the Northern and Eastern Zones. Simply quote the Zone ID C2000056397 when making your return.

Siobhan O'Dwyer

Sustainability Leader