Cork Airport has launched the first reverse vending machines (RVMs) at a transport hub, as part of the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) under a pilot programme.
The Lord Mayor of Cork, Councillor Dan Boyle, officially unveiled the RVMs at a ceremony in the airport yesterday.
There are now two pink charity RVMs and two standard RVMs in the airport, with one of each located landside and airside therein.
The option allows passengers the choice of donating their deposits to six children’s charities – under Return for Children – or use them for purchases at the airport cafes, food court, and bar.
This development makes Cork Airport the first major airport and transport hub in Ireland to pilot RVMs and marks another progressive step in the transport hub’s commitment to sustainable business practices.
At the end of the pilot programme, the airport will review the level of recycling and make adjustments as needed.
All funds raised by the charity RVMs will be evenly distributed among the six children’s charities encompassing the Return for Children programme: Barnardos Ireland, Barretstown, Childline by ISPCC, the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation, LauraLynn Children’s Hospice and Make-A-Wish Ireland.
‘Making A Difference’
Speaking about the launch of the pilot scheme, the CEO of Re-turn, Ciaran Foley, said, “We are delighted to partner with Cork Airport to launch Ireland’s first charity reverse vending machines.
“This initiative promotes sustainability by facilitating recycling through the DRS at this important transport hub, while also supporting truly worthy organisations which provide vital supports to thousands of children.
“Every bottle or can recycled through our charity RVMs contributes directly to making a difference in the lives of children in need.”
Niall MacCarthy, the managing director of Cork Airport, welcomed the pilot scheme.
MacCarthy said, “We are absolutely committed to playing our part in ensuring a sustainable future for Irish aviation.
“We’re delighted to have the best energy reduction of all Irish airports and commercial semi-state bodies in the last two years.
“Recycling plastic bottles and aluminium cans is a must-have, and we are proud to be the first transport hub in Ireland to pilot this scheme.”
A spokesperson for Return for Children, Kerry McLaverty, highlighted the innovation of the charitable vending machines, saying, “Cork Airport’s commitment to sustainability and community support is inspiring.
“By placing your empty bottle or cans in one of the Re-turn machines, every passenger has the chance to make a difference.
“We’re grateful to Cork Airport for leading the way in making meaningful change possible through everyday actions.”
Read More: Deposit Return Scheme Reaches 635m Returns – Department Of The Environment
