Reuse

A growing trend, but not a new one

Reusable packaging is clearly on the rise, particularly in the hospitality industry and at events. Laws are also being passed that set increasingly ambitious targets, such as for take-away packaging. That makes sense, because in some cases these containers are only used for a few minutes before they end up in the bin.

Nevertheless, reusable packaging is not actually new. Various systems involving reuse of packaging have been around for years:

• Beer bottles and crates with a deposit
• Reusable shopping bags and fruit and vegetable bags
• Packaging-free shops where you can bring in your own packaging
• Refill systems for cosmetics and laundry products
• Commercial reuse systems such as europallets, bulk containers, crates and many more.
   

A need for new systems and business models

We have many challenges to overcome in order to encourage more reuse. One important aspect is standardisation of packaging to allow it to be used easily by different parties and for different applications. There is also a great need for efficient logistics systems for collecting, returning, transporting and cleaning. Innovative business models should make it possible to reduce costs further and improve convenience for consumers. Finally, important questions remain in the areas of hygiene, food safety and product guarantees.
 

What is the role of Fost Plus actually?

• Maintaining inventories and benchmarking existing reuse systems
• Identifying sectors and packaging where reuse is possible
• Supporting companies (and other stakeholders) in the transition to reusable packaging
• Initiating and participating in pilot projects involving reuse
• Scaling up promising ideas and projects