If so, Return and Earn reverse vending machines could well be the answer.

The NSW Container Deposit Scheme is now open to applications from not-for-profit groups, sports clubs, schools and charities in Taree and surrounding areas.

These groups could become local donation partners and be one of the four charities on their local TOMRA Reverse Vending Machine (RVM).

The communities of Taree and surrounding areas can choose to support a not-for-profit group from their local area by returning their eligible drink containers and donating their 10 cents a container to that local group.

TOMRA CEO, Ryan Buzzell, says: “Groups are free to use the donations however they see fit, whether it helps provide funding to buy uniforms, host an event, replace or repair equipment, or go on an excursion.

“We’ve seen an incredible response from the people of Taree, and surrounding areas like Wingham, who have really embraced the Return and Earn scheme. Being able to support your local community through donations to schools, sports groups, local charities and not for-profits is an added incentive for everyone to use the reverse vending machines and makes the positive act of recycling even more rewarding.”

The benefits of using Return and Earn aren’t just financial – people across the state, returning containers, are also contributing to a cleaner environment.

With the scheme aiming to reduce the amount of litter volume in NSW by 40 per cent by 2020, everyone involved will be making a positive impact on our environment.

Groups can check their eligibility and apply to be on their nearest RVM in the ‘Donation Partners’ section of the TOMRA Cleanaway website tcnsw.com.au.

Local machines can be found in Taree, Wingham and Old Bar.

TOMRA Cleanaway is the network operator for the NSW Return and Earn scheme. Donation partners are selected based on their eligibility on a first-come-first-serve basis and will be rotated quarterly.

The closing date for applications for next quarter for local not-for-profits is April 30.

Reverse Vending Machines are the only container return option that supports local donation partner options; over-the-counter collection points, automated depots and donation stations do not have local donation partners