At least 40% of transport packaging (tertiary) and 10% of collective packaging (secondary) should be reusable by 2030.

These are some of the objectives set by the future European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, approved in November in the European Parliament and only pending formal adoption by the Council for publication in the OJEU and entry into force in 2025.

 

In addition to these challenges, the percentage of reusable packaging must reach 10% in the case of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and the HORECA sector will have three years from the entry into force of the regulation to guarantee the option of reusable packaging for takeaway food and beverages, with a target of 10% of use of these formats by 2030. 

This new legislative paradigm means that sustainability is no longer an option, but a legal obligation and an opportunity to lead the change and invites the industry to implement technically and economically viable reuse systems, promoting systems that extend the useful life of packaging. To this end, we must bear in mind that, according to EN 13429, packaging reuse systems are divided into three circuits: closed (within a company or an organised group of companies), open (reusable packaging is shared between non-predetermined companies) and hybrid.

 

These systems not only reduce the environmental impact, but also offer multiple benefits: tax savings, compliance with current legislation and optimisation of the packaging life cycle. However, their implementation is not without its challenges. It is crucial that packaging is designed with reuse in mind and that there are clear protocols for collection and reconditioning. In parallel, digitisation systems must be developed to improve traceability and better manage use cycles. 

 

Therefore, and in order to help companies to adapt to this scenario, ITENE offers assessment services to determine whether a packaging is reusable and, if it is not, to implement the necessary changes in its design, as well as to develop packaging reuse systems. In this way, we accompany industry in the process of transforming the life cycle of packaging, moving together towards the circular economy. 

 

Reuse is not only a key strategy for the future, but also a reality for the circularity of packaging and for complying with the European Packaging Regulation.

 

Javier Zabaleta

Managing director of Itene