World Environment Day 2025: 4 Easy Ways to Help #BeatPlasticPollution
This World Environment Day, the message is loud and clear: #BeatPlasticPollution.
Plastic has infiltrated every part of our environment - from oceans and rivers to the food we eat and water we drink. While the scale of the issue can feel overwhelming, the good news is plastic pollution is one of the most fixable environmental challenges, with clear, achievable solutions already within reach.
At Containers for Change, we believe in the power of collective action. Every bottle or can returned is one less piece of plastic ending up in landfill, polluting waterways, or harming wildlife.
Four simple ways you can help beat plastic pollution
1. Return your empty drink containers
If it has a 10c refund label, don’t bin it — return it! Take your eligible bottles and cans to your nearest refund point to keep them out of landfill and give them a second life.
2. Make it easy to collect on the go
A significant amount of container waste happens outside the home — at beaches, barbecues, shopping centres, parks, cars – the list goes on.
Keep a small bag or box in your handbag, backpack, or car to help you collect your containers when you’re out and about. When it’s easy to do the right thing, you’re far more likely to stick with it.
3. If you see a container on the ground, pick it up!
You don’t need to organise a clean-up to make a difference. If you spot a stray bottle or can, pick it up and return it (Psst: This is where tip #2 comes in handy!). This one small act is simple, effective, and helps reduce waste in our communities.
Bonus tip: Give the container a quick rinse if needed and keep a bottle of hand sanitiser with you.
4. Get your friends collecting (and keep them accountable)
Recycling is contagious — in the best way. Share your small wins, challenge your mates, or rally school, sports team or workplace to start collecting. The more people involved, the bigger the impact.
Progress over perfection
You don’t have to be a zero-waste expert to make a difference. By returning your containers, picking one up when you see it, and inspiring others to join in, you’re helping build a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Ready to make an impact?
Sign up to become a member and start tracking your returns today.