FAQs

What is a container deposit law?

This law requires a minimum refundable deposit on beverage containers to ensure an increased rate of recycling. Essentially, 10 cents would be added to the cost of every refundable item and that money would be returned to the customer when they returned the beverage container to be recycled.

What may be included in returns?

Usually includes plastic water bottles, glass/aluminum bottles/cans and sometimes larger glass bottles such as liquor and wine bottles.

Why is the law beneficial?

Sustainability -Beverage containers account for 40-60% of litter. In states that have a container deposit law this litter is reduced dramatically and recycling is increased.

– Aluminum is especially valuable because it only takes 5% of the energy used to make the original can to make a recycled can. The finished product is indistinguishable from the original.

 – Landfills have become overcrowded and recycling is a way to reduce the trash load.

Street Entrepreneurs

-For many homeless individuals in states which have a container deposit law collecting and redeeming recyclable containers is their main source of income. A container deposit law in NC will boost homeless citizens’ income and provide them with a sense of pride in their work.

State Funding

-Any unclaimed deposits can go to fund important state projects.  Perhaps the money could go towards increasing school funding or teacher’s wages.