Each year, 500 billion plastic bottles are used by consumers. Unfortunately, only half of these are properly recycled with the rest ending up in landfills or waterways. This has huge ramifications on existing ecosystems which ultimately affects us. Plastic releases toxic estrogen-like chemicals which disrupt the hormones of animals and humans. In fish, these chemicals are absorbed into the muscle and fat of the fish - the parts humans eat.
In order to reduce plastic pollution and improve the ocean’s health, Frucor Suntory and the University of Otago have set up a reverse vending machine in NZ. The machine takes recyclable items, such as plastic bottles and, in return, gives students discount vouchers that can be used to purchase various drinks available on campus. One machine can hold up to 1500 units; once collected the items move into a recycling facility where they are recycled (see chart for more information)
Although the first time in NZ, these machines have been introduced all over the world. In the years that these machines have been around, they have illustrated return rates of 70% - 100%.
Reverse vending machines benefit the environment, wildlife and humans. They are a great step to reaching a sustainable future. Could we start seeing these machines in supermarkets or even schools in New Zealand?
To find out more about reverse vending machines use these links:
https://www.tomra.com/en/collection/reverse-vending
https://www.otago.ac.nz/news/news/otago743190.html
