Brewers Association opposes CDS

The Australian arm of the Brewers Association has spoken out in opposition to the proposed national container deposit scheme (CDS), suggesting it unfairly puts pressure on beverage producers and consumers.

“Our industry supports an active commitment to responsible product stewardship and our members voluntarily invest in packaging optimisation, recycling and litter reduction initiatives,” said Denita Wawn, CEO of the Brewers Association.

Carlton and United Breweries, Lion Ltd and Coopers Breweries are members of the Brewers Association and between them represent 95% of the beer market in Australia. Wawn said these companies have actively contributed to the progress of increasing packaging recycling and reducing litter.

“However, the Brewers Association also believes that product stewardship policies should represent best available cost and efficiency, and be non-discriminatory in applying to all packaging - not just beverages,” Wawn said. “More particularly, policies should not unfairly penalise the beer industry and its customers, nor increase the price that Australians pay for their favourite beer.

“Unless these issues can be fully resolved, the Brewers Association does not support the introduction of any national container deposit scheme,” Wawn concluded.