Rally supports 10c deposit plan

Over 200 people rallied outside Victorian Parliament today to support Greens legislation for a 10c deposit on drink bottles, cans and cartons in Victoria.

"We know that 94% of Victorians support a deposit on drink containers. The only ones who oppose it are the companies who create the litter. The government has to decide who they represent," said Greens MLC Colleen Hartland.

"This morning I was part of the 'human sign' on St Kilda beach. At a time when the community is calling for action, how can the government refuse a scheme that will save 350,000 tonnes of CO2-e, at no cost to the taxpayer?  If they can't do this, how will they make the difficult choices?" said Ms Hartland.

"At the rally, I handed 4,000 postcards to a 6 year old child who volunteered to step in for the Environment Minister. I have to say, it was good of young Ewan Fowler to show such an interest in Victoria's future. Our own government refused several requests to send a representative."

The Greens Private Members Bill will be debated in Victorian Parliament in June. Greens Senator Scott Ludlam introduced a similar 10c deposit bill to the Senate last week. On Friday 22 May, Environment ministers from around
the country will meet in Hobart to discuss recycling.

Send an email to key MPs to tell them you want the bill passed through Parliament and made law.

For comment: Colleen Hartland 9689 6373