It is possible to more sustainably transport collateral packages to taromats and other collection points. After placing the container in the taromat, the remaining empty bag should not be thrown away. Everyone can ensure that there is a durable reusable bag at home, which does not have to be thrown away at the container collection point. The public institution "Defense System Administrator" (USAD) emphasizes that by using the same bag again and again, nature can be better protected from waste, and the return of containers can be made more sustainable.
"We aim to turn every returned bottle or can into a valuable secondary raw material. When recycling single-use beverage packages returned by residents, they become plastic, glass, aluminum or steel raw material from which various new items can be made. Thus, the deposit system helps save resources and contributes to more sustainable production. We want to point out that the journey of empty bottles and cans to container collection points can be more sustainable," says Gintaras Varnas, head of USAD.
USAD's initiative has created a special bag for transporting containers, thus reminding us that it is worth returning the packaging and it is important to replace single-use bags with reusable ones. According to the initiators, a durable and convenient bag or bag to transport containers can be found in every home. You just need to search, find and use it regularly.
It reminds that everyone can contribute to "Šlamanchi".
USAD's new idea also sends a message to the current "Slamanchi" campaign: the deposit for each package can be donated to taromat - to be used for the redemption and preservation of old-growth forests. 10 tare units equals one square meter of preserved forest. That's why USAD urges - "Change the container to the trash can."
All people who support the idea on social networks can win a limited-edition bag decorated with "Šlamancių" paraphernalia for transporting containers. Those who want a unique prize should follow the "It's worth giving back" account on the Facebook and Instagram platforms and participate in various contests.
The changes paid off in stores
According to G. Varna, society supports sustainability initiatives. As an example, he cites the decline in the use of single-use plastic bags. After the ban on the free distribution of very thin plastic bags came into force, their use in shopping centers has decreased significantly. Instead, the demand for durable reusable bags - environmentally friendly alternatives - has increased.
Calling attention to the importance of change, the "Slamanchite" bag is made of recycled plastic, very durable, large and comfortable to carry. The creators of the product design hope that the bag will last a long time and remind you that every single-use paper or plastic bag can be changed into a reusable one. This can further reduce waste and make your habits more sustainable.
"Continuously using the same bag should reduce the amount of bags thrown away at container collection points. I hope that the new initiative will serve as a reminder through social media that even small changes matter, even one beverage package returned to the dispenser. The results of the deposit system show that with more sustainable daily habits, it is possible to consistently and efficiently achieve great results in protecting nature", says G. Varnas.
According to USAD, 9 out of 10 people in Lithuania support the deposit system and return the container. In this way, forests, parks, forest campsites and beaches are protected from beverage packaging waste, and thousands of tons of PET plastic, glass and metal go to recyclers. During the first half of this year, more than 336 million euros were returned in Lithuania. beverage packaging.
