For Bonython Primary School Deputy Principal Marc Warwick, sustainability is an ongoing journey and education is key.

That’s why when the ACT Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) launched in June 2018, it quickly became part of the school’s sustainability and recycling approach.

The scheme allows people to return eligible bottles, cans and cartons in exchange for a 10 cent refund per item.

“It was a way to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill,” Marc said.

“We put it to a group of our Year 5 and 6 student leaders and co-created a way forward. Student leaders took on the responsibility of developing and implementing a strategy for collecting and returning eligible drink containers, receiving 10 cents for each.”

The students worked out how to collect and store containers and educated their peers about using the new container bins, with container returns incorporated into the classroom.

“Students have looked at how many containers have been returned, graphed the amount of waste saved from landfill and the amount of money raised through using ACT CDS,” Marc said.

“In addition students have visited the ACT Recycling Discovery Hub to learn more about the recycling process, with the site also hosting professional learning opportunities for Bonython staff.”

Funds raised through container refunds supported school initiatives.

“In the first year we made around $700, and we put that money towards our Year 6 graduation activities,” Marc said.

Since then, refunds from the scheme have been used to support the school’s garden and sustainability work, where students learn about how things grow and how compost works. Garden produce has been used in cooking sessions with students, some of which has been supplied to the school canteen.

Prior to COVID-19 restrictions, produce was harvested by students and sold at an onsite market stall to the school community.

“Students understand that recycling is the right thing to do and that their choices reduce the amount of waste that goes to landfill,” Marc said.

“They’re starting to see that they can really make a difference, and as we value integrity, doing the right thing is important.”

Find out more about the Container Deposit Scheme here: https://actcds.com.au/

Book your own visit to the Recycling Discovery Hub at: www.cityservices.act.gov.au/recycling-and-waste/recycling-discovery-hub