#1: A Europe-wide challenge remains that reuse rates are still too low and consumers are hesitant when it comes to using reusable packaging. The expert panel reflected on these challenges while emphasizing the need to make it easier for consumers to choose reusables rather than seeing them as part of the problem.
#2: We need to talk about the true cost of packaging. Indeed, single-use is often the cheaper alternative for the food service industry today. However, many of the costs associated with single-use packaging remain hidden and are ultimately borne by all of us. Greater transparency and comparable conditions are needed for reusable packaging systems to be successfully scaled up.
#3: Ultimately, we need the cooperation of all relevant system actors. This includes a fully functioning and standardized reusable packaging infrastructure (collection, sorting, cleaning, transport), the willingness of consumers to use reusable options and policy support measures (financial incentives) for successful scaling.
So, essentially, we know what works. Now we need strong allies from the gastronomy and food sectors to commit to reusable options and stand up against the flood of single-use packaging.
The International Reusable Packaging Trade Fair was clear proof that the movement in favour of reusable systems is gaining momentum and that it is possible to overcome the existing single-use culture. KLU is supporting this endeavor with numerous research projects to make reusable the standard in the long term.
By Jonah Blits, Ph.D. Candidate at KLU
Jonah Blits started his PhD program at Kühne Logistics University in September 2023 under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Alexa Burmester and Prof. Dr. Sandra Transchel. His research focuses on the impact of reusable packaging on B2C supply chains.
