How Can You Make Extra Money Recycling? 💰

Make Money Recycling 💰: Looking to earn a bit more alongside your day job? Did you know that you could earn extra income just by collecting and recycling bottles and cans? Across Australia, container deposit schemes (CDS) are offering financial rewards for returning eligible drink containers. Some dedicated recyclers are even making as much as $15,000 per year simply by collecting and redeeming recyclables. We cover more below.

First off, what is a container deposit scheme?

Some people may be unfamiliar with the term ‘container deposit scheme’, especially for our first-time and casual readers. To give you some context, a container deposit scheme is a structured initiative designed to encourage recycling and reduce rubbish by placing a refundable deposit on single-use beverage containers such as plastic soda bottles.

When consumers purchase a drink in a bottle or can, they pay a small extra fee – typically around 10 cents per container – which is included in the purchase price. This deposit serves as an incentive for consumers to return their empty bottles and cans to designated collection points, such as reverse vending machines, recycling centres or participating retail outlets.

Upon returning the container, consumers receive their deposit back in the form of cash, store credit or vouchers. This system not only motivates individuals to recycle but also significantly reduces the amount of plastic, glass and aluminium waste that ends up in landfills or pollutes the environment.

It is important to take note that container deposit schemes have proven effective in various regions worldwide (Denmark, for example), increasing recycling rates, reducing rubbish in public spaces and fostering a circular economy where materials are continuously reused.

Additionally, these programs create economic opportunities, as some people and organisations actively collect recyclables to earn extra income or support charitable causes, which we will specifically cover more of in this blog.

---

>Download Now: Free PDF Business Owners Guide To Commingled Recycling Bin Services

---

More on how you can make extra money by recycling rubbish

Who wouldn’t want to make some cash, right?

As mentioned above, most Australian states have a container deposit scheme that allows you to return eligible drink containers in exchange for a refund, usually around 10 cents per item. These schemes are designed to reduce rubbish and encourage recycling.

All you need to do is collect eligible bottles and cans, take them to a designated collection point and receive cash or store credits.

Where to find recyclables to recycle and make money

If you want to maximise your earnings, here are some of the best places to find recyclables:

• Your own home – Start by collecting bottles and cans from your household.
• Friends and family – Ask your friends, neighbours or relatives if they’d like to contribute their recyclables to your efforts. We strongly advise you to not rummage through other bins without prior permission.
• Local businesses – Cafes, restaurants and offices often dispose of large quantities of drink containers.
• Public bins and events – Whilst some people rummage through bins to collect recyclables, always ensure you have permission before doing so.
• Community cleanup events – Participating in community cleanups can help you gather a large number of recyclables while also contributing to environmental conservation.

Make money recycling: some useful tips

• Sort and store efficiently. Keep your bottles and cans organised to make returns easier and faster.
• Check eligibility. Not all drink containers qualify for refunds, so make sure you check your state’s guidelines.
• Stay consistent. Collecting regularly can help you build a steady side income.
• Consider partnering with others. Collaborating with local businesses or community groups can help you gather more recyclables efficiently.
• Be mindful of storage. Make sure you store your collected recyclables properly to avoid attracting pests or creating clutter.

Has there been a success story of making money recycling?

One of the best examples of how profitable recycling can be comes from a recent story featured on The Project TV. Individuals across Australia, known as “Canbassadors,” have turned recycling into a side business, earning up to $15,000 annually by collecting bottles and cans from public bins, neighbourhoods and local businesses.

Sayo Leahy, one such recycler, has built a steady income stream by leveraging the container deposit scheme. By consistently collecting, sorting and returning bottles and cans, he not only contributes to environmental sustainability but also earns a reliable secondary income. This success story highlights how dedication and resourcefulness can turn a simple recycling habit into a profitable venture.

Whilst some people appreciate the environmental benefits of these initiatives, others have raised concerns about individuals rummaging through bins without permission.

We can’t stress this enough: If you’re considering collecting recyclables from public or private places, always seek consent to avoid any issues.

More than money: the environmental implication

Recycling bottles and cans isn’t just about making money – it’s also about reducing waste and protecting the environment. Every bottle returned means less plastic and glass ending up in landfills or polluting our streets and waterways. By participating in a container deposit scheme, you are directly contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable planet.

Make money recycling: Waster’s final thoughts

If you’re looking for a simple and eco-friendly way to earn extra income, bottle and can recycling is a great opportunity. Check your local container deposit scheme, start collecting and turn trash into cash! Whether you do it as a hobby, side hustle or community initiative, your efforts will make a difference both financially and environmentally.

Contacting Waster

Looking for a specific bin service? Check out our waste recycling shop and find the best deals in terms of pricing and services.

Also, please call 1300 WASTER (1300 927 837), or email us at enquiries@waster.com.au if you have any further questions.