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University of Adelaide students first to reverse vend

recycleThe Adelaide University Union and The University of Adelaide have partnered to install the first reverse vending machine on a campus in South Australia and the first in Adelaide’s CBD. The Envirobank machine will form part of the University’s approach to manage its recyclable waste.

The machine looks like a typical vending machine but instead of inserting coins to receive a drink or snack, students will be able to place empty cans or plastic bottles in the machine for an opportunity to win a prize.

“Reverse vending machines are a modern, instant cash-for-cans style solution to recycling,” says Narelle Anderson, managing director Envirobank.

The machine has been installed in line with the University’s target to reduce the amount of waste ending up in landfill.

“Each machine can hold up to 3,000 bottles and cans and every item will be scanned and recorded to provide accurate environmental reporting for the University,” says Ms Anderson.

The sophisticated machines also identify non-recyclable material, crunch cans and bottles on site and automatically alert staff when full to ensure that all material is recycled efficiently.

The introduction of the Envirobank machine is a student driven initiative and all funds collected via the container deposit refund will assist in offsetting the Adelaide University Union’s carbon footprint – providing an even greater environmental benefit.

“The reverse vending machine is designed to make recycling easy and fun for students, and ultra effective for the University’s waste management services,” says Ms Anderson.

Joel Dignam, environmental officer of the Student Representative Council says the introduction of the Envirobank machine will assist the University to engage its students to recycle through fun rewards.

“We are proud to be providing the first reverse vending machine on a campus. Not only does the machine reduce the huge amount of waste sent to landfill, it uses a grass roots approach to encourage and educate students on the benefits of recycling,” says Mr Dignam.

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