Re-turn, the operator of Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme, has launched its new Community Initiative Map available on Re-turn.ie, designed to help members of the public find local initiatives to support using donations from the Scheme. By using this tool, everyone can connect with and contribute to important causes more effectively than ever before.
The Re-turn Community Initiative Map is a user-friendly tool that allows visitors to locate the nearest community fundraiser where plastic bottles and cans can be donated. With over 700 initiatives currently listed, and additional causes being added regularly, the map is a growing resource that connects people with local fundraising efforts. Community fundraising organisers can now be added to the map, expanding their reach and impact, by contacting communitites@re-turn.ie.
Since the launch of the Deposit Return Scheme, more than 2,300 schools, clubs, and community organisations have registered their own fundraising activities. This widespread participation underscores the enthusiasm and commitment to supporting local causes in each community through the recycling of plastic bottles and cans.
Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme is a not-for-profit organisation tasked with achieving EU recycling targets and the move away from the ‘disposal’ culture to one of returning valuable materials and keeping them in the circular economy. By opting to return plastic bottles and cans to local fundraising initiatives, consumers are not only contributing to a circular economy but making a real difference in their local communities.
Commenting on the launch of the Re-turn Community Initiative Map, Ciaran Foley, CEO of Re-turn said: “We have been amazed by the public’s efforts to start grassroots initiatives across Ireland. It has been inspiring to see communities come together to fundraise for local clubs, town defibrillators, school pitches, and much more through the Scheme. Our dedicated team at Re-turn developed the Community Initiative Map to help people easily find and support local fundraisers where they can donate their plastic bottles and cans, rather than reclaiming their deposits. These initiatives provide a fantastic way for people to give back to their community while also contributing to a more sustainable future. We encourage everyone to explore the Community initiative Map and see how they can get involved.”
Communities and event organisers who want to register initiatives or get guidance on how to set up an initiative can contact communities@re-turn.ie