Environmental groups are pushing for a system which rewards people for recycling.

Following the government promising to ban single-use plastic bags, a coalition of environmental groups called Plastic Free NZ are asking for more.

They've put together an action plan that includes further bans on avoidables such as straws, a levy on problematic items like food packaging, and setting ambitious reduction targets.

Papa Kore zero waste programme spokesperson Urs Signer told Mike Hosking another option which would be great for communities is a refund for empty containers scheme.

"Groups like marae committees and scab groups can start becoming centres for collecting bottles and start making a bit of money for their community groups. The only players who aren't keen are the packaging groups."

LISTEN TO URS SIGNER TALK WITH MIKE HOSKING ABOVE