The Ministry for the Environment is consulting on proposals aimed at transforming recycling in New Zealand, including a beverage container return scheme (CRS), which includes wine bottles. While New Zealand Wine is supportive of sustainable packaging solutions, their position does not consider the proposed CRS to be the best for New Zealand.

The proposed CRS in its current form may introduce a significant cost and resource burden on wine producers, and not achieve the intended sustainability goals. Wine industry members are urged to submit feedback to MfE, submissions close on 8 May.

The NZW advocacy team will share information to guide submissions, please keep an eye on the members’ page.