Since 1982 more than 90 Billion bottles and cans have been returned and recycled in New York because of the 5-cent refundable deposit on beer and soda containers. Making the Bottle Bill one of New York's most effective environmental programs.

It is time to make New York's most successful litter prevention and recycling program even more effective. Because the bottle bill was enacted in 1982, before bottled water and sports drinks became popular, it did not include non-carbonated beverages. According to NYPIRG, it does not make sense for the bill to cover a bottle of sparkling water and for plain water to end up as pollution.

The Bigger Better Bottle Bill updates the State's redemption program to include bottled water and other non-carbonated beverages.

***It also requires beverage companies to transfer unclaimed bottle deposits to the State's Environmental Protection Fund to support clean air, water, and open space***

Sustainable Pratt is in support of the proposed updates to New York's Bottle Bill! You too can Take Action!