The future of our planet and society demands we move from the ‘take, make, dispose’ industrial model of the last century to a more sustainable circular economy by using products longer and developing innovations and business models that enable and encourage us to do so.
Reusable packaging is a potent method of minimizing waste and reducing our reliance on virgin materials. As it gains momentum in the food and services industries, there are still some obstacles to widespread application and adoption.
Transition to reusable packaging within the food services industry demands significant action and co-operation throughout the value chain. The safety and hygiene properties of the products and the containers must be assured and sustainable logistics systems developed for both distribution and preservation of the products. Also, the environmental impacts such as the carbon footprint and recyclability of the packaging must be considered. The McKinsey group recently published an article on the impact of reusable packaging, including figures from comparative studies of the pros and cons of reusable vs. single-use recyclable food packaging. The studies cited show, that for example the rotation and handling of reusable packaging can increase CO2 emissions as well as water consumption significantly.
The EU’s push for reusable packaging, particularly in the HORECA (hotels, restaurants, and catering) sector, has raised concerns about practicality. Critics argue that reuse targets can drive manufacturers to revert to conventional materials, such as fossil-based plastics, due to durability requirements. Additionally, reusable systems demand significant infrastructure investments (e.g., for washing and storage facilities), which are costly and resource-intensive, potentially undermining the environmental benefits.
In some instances, misconception and misuse among consumers have even proven counterproductive to moving the sustainability agenda forward. Active reuse needs to be consistent over extended periods to fulfill its environmental potential. Consumer surveys verify what a lot of us have experienced along the way: keep-cups and thermos mugs accumulating and gathering dust on the shelves of kitchen cabinets.
Emissions from the production and distribution of reusable packaging can’t be overlooked either. Other critical questions address a wide array of challenges, such as safeguarding hygienic safety, extending the lifecycle of reusable packaging, the convenience of purchase, use, and recycling, building consumer preference, and easy access to science-based data on impact throughout the process chain, to mention a few.
We all need to be able to make educated and validated decisions. How can we assure we are helping reduce emissions and lowering the use of virgin materials, while maintaining the safety, health, and convenience of end-users, when relevant and comparable information on different materials can be hard to find?
The food services industry and packaging designers are actively seeking new ways to ensure all packaging is safe, easy to sort, and more efficient to recycle. But we all need to be aware of the impact of our individual choices, as well.
How do we ensure the relevant facts and figures are easily accessible? What are the actual benefits and what do they require of us? How does the change affect our everyday routines and what are its implications beyond our own deeds?
The key is all of us making educated, science-based choices. As businesses and regulation create an environment more conducive to reuse, we need to be sure of what, where and when is the right, safe, and most impactful choice for us and the planet.
3 key tips for the consumers:
- Always ensure the hygiene of your reusable packaging and its recyclability at the end of its lifecycle.
- When using single-use packaging, make sure you recycle and keep the circular economy rolling.
- Remain proactive and seek information on how to make the right choices.
