Revolutionizing reusable packaging will require collaborative solution

A new report emphasizes the need for standardized reusable packaging systems to combat plastic waste and encourages unified efforts to achieve global adoption.

Joseph Winters reports for Grist.

In short:

• A Seattle cafe's reusable cup program failed due to logistical issues and a lack of coordination with other businesses.
• The nonprofit PR3 is creating standards for reusable packaging to promote uniformity and efficiency in reuse systems.
• For wide adoption, businesses need standardized containers and unified logistics, while educating consumers on reusables' importance.

Key quote:

“If we want everyone to move in the same direction, we need to set some design parameters for how we want the system to function.”

— Claudette Juska, co-founder, PR3.

Why this matters:

Plastic waste from single-use containers harms health and the environment. Standardized reusable packaging systems, promoted through collaborative efforts, could significantly reduce this waste globally. Read more: Get BPA out of food packaging, US health professionals tell feds.