For one Melbourne man, donating his refunds from the cans and bottles he returns through Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic) is helping to fuel global impact.

What started as an exercise in sustainability for Craigieburn’s  Mohammed and his family has grown into a humanitarian mission. He collects discarded cans and bottles from his community and turns them into aid for families in Gaza.

“I believe that if you have the means to help others, you also have a responsibility. I first heard about the scheme from a family friend and thought I’d give it a try. I never guessed it could be something we used to support people in Gaza – that something as basic as a few empty cans or bottles can mean survival for someone else.”

While Mohammed has always been aware of the need to recycle and its importance, over the past two years, the scheme has facilitated a unique fundraising opportunity. In the early days, he was getting container refunds of around $30 to $40 per week. Since bringing more people on board with his fundraising efforts, Mohammed says they are now collectively raising up to $500 each month, enough to provide life-saving meals to dozens of people.

“It’s gotten more and more popular,  with people now contributing to our fundraising by giving me their  containers. I’ve got family members who help me collect, and my next-door neighbour as well; we all pull our cans and bottles together. I’ve even set up a spot at work, and at the end of the week, I’ll take them to the refund point.”

Mohammed and his family then  donate the container refunds to global aid charity, Muslims Around The World.

“The work they do is close to my heart and has been something I’ve supported for years to get aid directly to people who need it most.”

The charity organisation provides essential aid in over 30 countries, including food, water and medical supplies.

“There’s no shortage of people who need help. Part of Islam is the idea of giving back to those in need and helping people to get back on their feet. It’s such an important thing, we are pretty fortunate here in Australia, but for people in Palestine, Lebanon or Syria, they need our support.”

For Mohammed, CDS Vic has been the perfect avenue for a consistent effort that delivers both local and international benefits.

“If we all put our hands together, we can do something to make a better community, and we can have a lasting impact. I encourage it so much. It helps the environment, keeps your community clean, and keeps your recycling bin empty. At the same time, the money we raise goes to a very important cause.”

To find your nearest CDS Vic Refund point, visit cdsvic.org.au