Learning Expedition

15 May, 2024, Paris

Learning Expedition

On May 15, New ERA, in collaboration with Réseau Vrac et Réemploi (RVR), led a group of refill and reuse enthusiasts on an immersive journey through Paris to explore practical, real-world solutions within the reuse and refill industry. This hands-on learning expedition provided participants with invaluable insights into the sector’s innovation and growing infrastructure.

The day began with a coffee at Starbucks, where participants used reusable mugs, showcasing the importance of simple everyday actions in reducing waste. The group then visited the Acquarys washing center, which highlighted advanced techniques for cleaning reusable containers. We also witnessed a Loop corner in action at one of Carrefour’s 150 locations across France, demonstrating how reusable packaging is seamlessly integrated into a retail environment. Participants further explored how intelligent collectors of reusable containers operate in office settings, followed by observing a refill station in a pharmacy. The day concluded with a zero-waste lunch at La Maison du Zéro Déchet, which also served as a prime networking opportunity with key stakeholders from the reuse and refill ecosystem.

This expedition underscored the critical role of legislation in driving the growth of reuse and refill solutions. France’s comprehensive legal framework, including the AGEC Law (2020), the 3R Implementing Decree (2021), and the Climate and Resilience Law (2021), serves as a foundation for expanding reuse at a national level. These policies are pivotal in creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive in the circular economy. With the upcoming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), there is hope that it will further accelerate the development of reuse and refill solutions across Europe.

Companies should stay tuned for next year’s Learning Expedition, which promises to provide a deeper understanding of these evolving opportunities, ensuring we remain at the forefront of innovation in the sector. Witnessing these developments firsthand is essential for companies aiming to stay competitive and align with the shifting regulatory landscape and consumer expectations.

May 13, 2024December 1, 2024

Refill and Reuse Trade Fair 2024

13 May, 2024, Paris

Refill and Reuse Trade Fair 2024

A global milestone in circular innovation

The 6th edition of the International Refill & Reuse Trade Fair, co-organized by New ERA alongside Réseau Vrac et Réemploi and RCube, marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of the refill and reuse industry. Held at the Parc Floral in Paris on May 13-14, 2024, the event brought together over 2,000 professionals from across the globe, creating a dynamic space for innovation and collaboration.

With 160 exhibitors from diverse industries, attendees explored cutting-edge solutions that are driving the shift towards a circular economy. The event featured 33 conferences and masterclasses, where over 75 speakers shared insights into market trends, regulatory developments, and the practicalities of implementing reuse systems.

New ERA took pride in hosting 21 of its members among the exhibitors, showcasing a wide array of refill and reuse solutions. The fair was more than just an exhibition; it was a hub for networking, knowledge exchange, and fostering partnerships that will propel the industry forward.

This year’s event highlighted both the achievements and the challenges in scaling reuse systems, reinforcing the need for innovation, investment, and collaboration across the sector. The momentum continues to build, with excitement already growing for the next edition on May 26-27, 2025.

September 7, 2023December 1, 2024

Reuse Event Brussels 2023

7 September, 2023, Brussels

Reuse Event
Brussels 2023

On September 7, 2023, New ERA and Planet Reuse hosted the rEUse Event in Brussels, gathering over 120 participants to explore the role of reusable packaging systems in Europe. Held in front of the iconic House of European History, the event highlighted critical discussions on the environmental, social, and economic benefits of reuse, particularly in light of the ongoing Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) negotiations.

The event kicked off with a video by Fernando Antunes Amaral, illustrating the severe socio-ecological impact of Portugal’s eucalyptus plantations. These “green deserts,” driven by the pulp and paper industry, contribute to wildfires and environmental degradation. Amaral stressed that millions are spent on lobbying to present single-use paper packaging as more sustainable than reuse.

Fernando Rodríguez-Mata set the stage with an overview of the PPWR, highlighting critical upcoming votes and measures to drive reuse in the takeaway, beverage, and transport sectors. Manon Sennéchael presented the rEUse campaign, emphasising the savings potential and market opportunities offered by reusable packaging models.

The second half of the event featured two panel discussions. The first, “Building on Success”, showcased thriving reuse systems across Europe, including representatives from Vytal, Bout’ à Bout’, Corplex, and Uzaje, who demonstrated the environmental and economic benefits of well-designed reuse initiatives.

The second panel focused on the PPWR’s role in unlocking Europe’s reuse potential, underlining three key principles: Collaboration, Ambition, and Urgency. Panelists stressed the need for transparent, well-coordinated systems and the importance of finalising the regulation swiftly to drive the transition towards a circular economy.

The event concluded with a preview of the #WeAreReuse campaign, showcasing the human face of businesses committed to reuse. The rEUse Event successfully highlighted the pressing need for stronger legislation and collaboration to scale reusable systems across Europe, offering both environmental and economic gains.

Category: Events