The “Reuse Wins” report by Upstream Solutions highlights the environmental, economic, and social benefits of reusable packaging systems compared to single-use packaging. It presents data and case studies demonstrating how reuse can reduce waste, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and decrease pollution while promoting sustainable economic growth. The report argues that shifting to reusable systems in sectors like food service, retail, and shipping can save businesses money, create jobs, and protect natural resources. It calls for policy changes and business practices that support the transition to a circular economy where reuse is prioritised over disposability.
Parametric life cycle assessment modeling of reusable and single-use restaurant food container systems
This paper examines the potential for reusable container systems to reduce waste in restaurant takeout, addressing environmental and economic impacts compared to single-use packaging. Using a parametric life cycle assessment (LCA) and cost model, it analyses greenhouse gas emissions, energy, water use, and costs in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and assesses the role of customer behaviour. Findings show that reusable containers generally perform better environmentally, but their benefits diminish if customers make separate trips to return containers or excessively wash them at home. The study highlights how customer actions significantly influence the environmental outcomes of reusable systems.
Reusable plastic crates vs. single-use cardboard boxes – Two packaging systems in competition
The report compares two packaging systems: reusable plastic crates and single-use cardboard boxes. Commissioned by the Stiftung-Initiative-Mehrweg (SIM), it responds to studies by the European Federation of Corrugated Board Manufacturers (FEFCO) that claim corrugated cardboard packaging is superior. The report challenges this view, arguing that high reutilisation rates, which favour reusable systems, are critical for a circular economy. It highlights the environmental benefits of reusable packaging, particularly its role in reducing dependence on imports and promoting technological sovereignty. The report also calls for maintaining the waste hierarchy and using life cycle analyses to justify deviations from it.
A Critical view on packaging recycling and reuse in the European Circular Economy
The study, commissioned by the European Federation of Corrugated Board Manufacturers (FEFCO), examines recycling and reuse in packaging within the European circular economy framework. It underscores the importance of packaging design that is “fit for purpose,” optimising both sustainability and functionality. Findings show that, while paper and cardboard packaging achieve high recycling rates (82.3% in 2019, exceeding the EU’s 2025 target), plastic packaging lags behind. The study acknowledges packaging’s role in reducing food waste and suggests that policies should consider both recyclable single-use and reusable options to balance environmental impact and practical demands. The report offers recommendations for future policies to support sustainable and efficient packaging solutions in line with the European Green Deal.
Assessing Climate Impact: Reusable Systems vs. Single-use Takeaway Packaging
This study involved modelling to measure the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from reusable takeaway packaging compared to single-use equivalents. The results indicate that, for most types of takeaway packaging used in Europe, reuse through a safe, efficient system for collection, washing, inspection, and redistribution has potential to yield greater environmental benefits than recycling or discarding single-use containers. The study also highlights key aspects to optimise in designing and operating reuse systems.
Unveiling the Complexities: Exploring LCAs of Reusable Packaging in the Take-Away Sector
This report examines the challenges in Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) of reusable versus single-use packaging for takeaway, comparing two industry-commissioned studies with academic analysis. It highlights issues like low return rates, assumptions around washing and transport, and the impact of transparency on credibility. Key findings stress that suboptimal designs in reuse LCAs can skew results, underscoring the need for future-focused systems. The report advocates for realistic assumptions and robust data in evaluating reuse policy, aiming for improved sustainability insights for the fast-food packaging sector.
Reinventing Glass
This document discusses the environmental impact of single-use glass packaging, which has a higher carbon footprint compared to alternatives like plastic and metal. It argues for prioritising reusable glass to reduce carbon emissions and lessen environmental harm. The report critiques the European Commission’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) for exempting single-use glass from several circular economy requirements, such as deposit return systems, thereby giving it an undue advantage. Recommendations include setting stringent reuse and recycling targets specifically for glass, equalising deposit-return system rules across all materials, and implementing high recycled content standards to encourage glass circularity. The EU is urged to lead the shift towards reusable glass in packaging policies, supporting a more sustainable, low-carbon future.
Assessing Climate Impact: Reusable Systems vs. Single-use Takeaway Packaging – Addendum Report
This report is an Addendum to the main report, titled ‘Assessing Climate Impact: Reusable Systems vs. Single-use Takeaway Packaging’ (hereafter referred to as the ‘main report’). The main report demonstrated the potential greenhouse gas (GHG) savings from implementing a reuse system for takeaway items compared to single-use alternatives. The aim of this Addendum is to build on the main report and apply the ‘per serving’ climate impact within the context of reuse schemes in two European cities: Aarhus (Denmark) and Berlin (Germany).
Facilitating the Adoption of Takeaway Reuse Systems
This report by Eunomia, commissioned by Zero Waste Europe and endorsed by New ERA, examines the costs and policy measures needed to transition from single-use to reusable takeaway packaging. It finds that reusable systems, though initially more costly for vendors, offer significant environmental benefits by reducing litter and carbon emissions. The report recommends fiscal measures like taxes or levies on single-use packaging to level the playing field and fund reuse systems. It also suggests setting mandatory targets for reuse rates and implementing supportive policies to ensure high return and rotation rates, ultimately aiming for widespread adoption and significant environmental impact.
Burning Questions – Pathways to a circular plastic packaging system in Germany
The report examines Germany’s packaging system, revealing that despite high collection and recycling rates, much of the plastic waste is incinerated, leading to significant environmental costs. The analysis shows that transitioning to a circular economy could cut waste, lower CO2 emissions, and reduce reliance on virgin plastic by 2040. It emphasises the need for a shift towards circular resource management, focusing on waste prevention and material reuse. Achieving this requires political will, industry action, and collaboration between stakeholders.
