Research by Waste Management Institute of New Zealand (WasteMINZ) unveiled a daunting statistic: Kiwi households discard an astonishing 1.76 billion plastic containers annually, with single-use drink bottles dominating this figure. The study has revealed that each New Zealand household disposes of approximately 188 single-use drink bottles each year. Alarmingly, an estimated 97 million plastic drink and milk bottles end up in household rubbish bins rather than recycling bins, resulting in 39% of recyclable plastic bottles and containers being relegated to landfills by weight. The repercussions of this plastic deluge are far-reaching, but a simple change in consumption can turn this around.


As the first country globally to conduct such an extensive examination of kerbside plastic recycling, New Zealand now stands at the forefront of an opportunity for transformative change. By leveraging the findings of this study, we can significantly improve our recycling rates and reduce our environmental footprint.

A simple yet impactful solution lies within our reach: the shift from single-use plastic bottles to aluminium cans. Aluminium’s high recyclability and sustainability make it a superior alternative. Unlike plastic, which degrades in quality through the recycling process, aluminium can be recycled indefinitely without losing quality. This infinite recyclability not only reduces the burden on landfills but also conserves energy and resources, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Businesses, brands, and individuals can play a crucial role in this transition. By opting for aluminium cans, we not only make a more environmentally conscious choice but also support a circular economy where materials are continually repurposed and reused.

So next time you are standing in the dairy about to grab a cold drink. Grab the can. It's a simple choice that can turn the tide against plastic waste and pave the way for a cleaner, greener future. One drink at a time.