World Environment Day 2022

Looking to be kinder to our planet? You can enact change with your recyclables.
Grace MacKenzie
June 03, 2022

Overview

Under the theme of Only One Earth, the 2022 edition of World Environment Day lands on Sunday, June 5. An annual occurrence since its inception in 1973, the United Nations Environment Programme initiative calls on people from all walks of life to consider the impact they have on the planet, and works to raise awareness, inspire change and celebrate action.

One such action is the NSW Government's Return and Earn scheme, which provides an action-based solution for anyone to responsibly dispose of the bottles, cans and cartons we all generate as our thirst is quenched during day-to-day escapades. And it couldn't be more simple, either. First step: collect your recyclables (after making sure they're accepted). Next: find a return spot near you (there are over 600 throughout NSW), transport yourself there and get returning. Choose between a refund or charitable donation and that's it — you're taking steps towards making the planet better for all.

At the time of writing, 7,504,250,101 drink containers have been returned via the program — and over $30 million has been received by charities and community groups. These whopping numbers are illustrative of the powerful impact of small actions. And if you wanted some slightly more personal stats, check out the handy impact calculator, which allows you to see the direct impact your returning has on water, energy and landfill.

What better time to start doing good with your recyclables than World Environment Day? Head to the website to find out more.

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