Reusable takeaway packaging could reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions compared to single-use alternatives if return and washing systems are properly implemented and optimised, according to a new study.
Set in the “near future” of 2030, the report envisions reusable packaging reaching a steady state whereby it can be collected, washed, and redistributed through centralised means.
The research found that the adoption of reusable containers within a “well-designed reuse system” has the potential to reduce GHG emissions for “most packaging options”.
The only exception to this was pizza boxes which the study finds will likely need further innovations in design to “fully unlock the benefits of reuse”. For example, the study suggests reducing the weight of a reusable pizza box by 20% – equivalent to 85 grams.
The study by Zero Waste Europe, Reloop and TOMRA, “Assessing Climate Impact: Reusable systems vs. Single-Use Takeaway Packaging” was produced by Eunomia Research & Consulting and examined at the GHG emissions associated across a wide range of common takeaway packaging.
The types of packaging included cups, burger boxes, bowls, pizza boxes, and sushi containers. The study compared single-use to reusable packaging in an optimised reuse system.
The extent to which carbon benefits could be realised differs by each container type.
Commenting on the research, Andy Grant, Technical Director at Eunomia Research & Consulting, said: “The extent to which carbon benefits could be realised differs by each container type, with the strongest case for reusable cups which we calculate could break even with single-use after only six returns in an optimised return system.
“There is still work to do for larger and heavier containers such as pizza boxes which as things stand will be difficult to justify for reuse, and will require more innovations in design to find their place.”
In nearly all types of packaging examined, the study found that reusable packaging can significantly reduce GHG emissions compared to single-use plastic or paper containers.
The study also revealed each container’s “breakeven point”, which it defined as the point at which reuse matches the carbon footprint of single-use, for greenhouse gas emissions within a robust return system.
It found that returning a bowl thirteen times or a coffee cup six times proved sufficient to break even, with any further returns becoming a net positive in terms of carbon emissions avoided.
Aline Maigret, Head of Policy at Zero Waste Europe, commented: “Focusing on the potential for reducing GHG emissions, this study reiterates the relevance of switching from single-use packaging to reusable ones.
This study reiterates the relevance of switching from single-use packaging to reusable ones.
“As institutional negotiators are gearing up for the negotiations of the packaging rules in the EU, we count on them to acknowledge this potential by mandating ambitious reuse targets.”
Building upon the recent evaluation of life cycle assessments conducted by Zero Waste Europe and Reloop, the study urges policymakers to fight for a cleaner 2030, particularly as discussions commence shortly on the forthcoming reuse targets within the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulations (PPWR).
