How to Encourage Packaging Reuse
Reduce, reuse, recycle – we’re all familiar with the three R’s that are helping to minimise packaging waste. Fortunately, attitudes to reduce and recycle have shifted, with producers and consumers recognising the benefits. However, reuse or refill schemes are seeing lower rates of adoption. What can we do to put reuse on par with reducing and recycling?
Reduce & Recycle
In the past, bigger was better, so layers of packaging tempted shoppers to buy. However, times have changed. Now, many brands are exploring ways to reduce the volume of boxes, bottles, packets and pouches. Our changing attitudes to waste mean those brands still using excessive packaging are being called out and it can damage their reputation.
The UK,, we have also developed successful systems for recycling. According to WRAP, 88% of UK households regularly recycle* packaging and other waste. In 2020, 44% of all waste was recycled, with Councils across the UK investing in the processing facilities that make it possible.
However, when it comes to reuse, shoppers are taking their own bags to the shops, yet there has been less action on, or take up of, packaging reuse systems.
Can we Make Packaging Reuse Commonplace?
Tesco, in partnership with Loop, recently ran a refill trial across several stores. This project provided good insight, however, the take-up from customers was lower than anticipated. There are barriers preventing the wide-scale adoption of packaging reuse.
It seems that perceptions of cost, convenience and cleanliness are preventing the shifts in behaviours that have been seen with recycling. Therefore, we’re asking what is needed to make reuse commonplace?
Hubbub and Starbucks are aiming to incite change by supporting innovation in packaging reuse. They have allocated ‘Bring it Back’ funding to the following UK projects:
- PECT (in partnership with RECOUP) – to research the perceptions & barriers relating to reusable packaging
- Green Street – setting up a returnable coffee cup and food packaging system in Bradford
- Reath Tech – developing advanced reuse tracking software and footprint calculator to evidence the commercial & environmental benefits of reusable packaging
- Keep Scotland Beautiful – launching a collaborative reusable cup deposit scheme in the Highlands
- Again – working with Central London takeaway restaurants to organise doorstep collection and cleaning of reusable packaging
- Junee – connecting relevant logistic and cleaning services, to make reusable packaging viable and convenient for traders and customers.
It will be interesting to see how these projects progress and if they can play a part in making reuse, not single-use, the default option. Will these be the key to widespread change?
Read more about Bring it Back here: https://www.bringitbackfund.co.uk/about
Encourage Customers to Reuse E-commerce Boxes for Returns
As a cardboard packaging manufacturer, we rely on high recycling rates. This is because, the fibres from used boxes are processed into new sheets of cardboard, which we transform into bespoke boxes.
We are also keen to encourage packaging reuse. The biggest interest has been in ways to encourage online shoppers to reuse their e-commerce shipping boxes for returns. This ensures the same standard of packaging protects returned goods, which lowers the risk of damage during shipping. What’s more, it’s more convenient for the customer, and cheaper too!
The best option is to incorporate tear strips and adhesive strips into the box design.
STEP ONE: Tear strips make the boxes easy to open. This prevents wrap rage, the need for sharp implements to get inside or damage to the box.
STEP TWO: An adhesive layer is covered with a strip, which can be pulled off to securely reseal the packaging.
It’s a simple, yet effective solution that increases packaging reuse.
Has your company got any questions about reusable e-commerce packaging? For advice and a quote for incorporating tear and adhesive strips into your box design, get in touch. We can be contacted on enquiries@abcbox.co.uk or 01296 436888.
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