Can you use Lithgow's Return and Earn while practicing social distancing?

But with new social distancing rules and travel restrictions in place, are you still able to use the Lithgow RVM?

According to a Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (DPIE) spokesperson the site remains open for now and residents are free to use it, but with some stipulations.

"The health and wellbeing of Return and Earn participants, staff and return point operators are the primary focus in these difficult times. The latest updates and advice from government in relation to COVID-19 are being closely monitored and Return and Earn will follow government recommendations to ensure the safest environment possible," the DPIE spokesperson said.

Read more:

"Return and Earn can be accessed for returns if it is in line with the most recent advice from the NSW Government. Recent orders limit the reasons for people leaving their homes without a reasonable excuse. People continuing to use the Return and Earn scheme need to ensure they comply with the latest public health orders.

"Anyone visiting a Return and Earn return point should maintain social distancing of at least 1.5 metres from others and practice good hygiene including using hand sanitiser or wet wipes to clean hands before and after returning and to stay home if they feel unwell."

The spokesperson also pointed out that the RVM offers a new 'touch'-free' option for people that aren't comfortable touching the screens using an app on your phone. You still have to touch your containers however.

Additional signage and markings on the ground have also been implemented to remind residents to maintain social distancing.

In early December, the Lithgow Mercury revealed that 9,201,163 containers had been returned at the Lithgow Valley Plaza RVM.

New figures shared with the Lithgow Mercury show that 9.7 million containers have been returned at the Lithgow RVM. An increase of approximately 500,000 in about three months.

Sign up for our free newsletter and breaking news emails.