Catherine Conway, Director and Reuse Lead at GoUnpackaged, shares her expertise on reusable packaging and the initiatives of the Refill Coalition. She discusses the challenges posed by single-use packaging in supermarkets and innovative solutions for in-store refills. The conversation explores the importance of standardization in the reusable sector, as well as the shift in consumer behavior towards more sustainable practices. Catherine highlights the potential for economic growth and job creation through effective collaboration and communication in promoting refills and returns.
The Refill Coalition's collaborative approach aims to standardize refill and return systems, enhancing accessibility and efficiency in reusable packaging.
Designing user-friendly reusable packaging systems is crucial for increasing consumer participation and combating waste in supermarkets.
Deep dives
Revolutionizing Retail Packaging
Reusable packaging systems are highlighted as a powerful solution to combat waste and pollution in supermarkets. The Refill Coalition, established in 2020, aims to standardize in-store refill and online consumer returnable systems. This initiative is being tested in trial phases at various retailers, with Aldi focusing on dry goods and Ocado preparing for online returnables. The design of these new systems emphasizes ease of use for consumers and efficiency in supply chains, potentially setting a new standard for sustainable packaging.
Innovative Returnable Models
Ocado is developing a consumer returnable system that delivers pre-filled mini-bulk containers to customers, who can return them after use. This system aims to simplify the return process while ensuring convenience for consumers, potentially enhancing return rates. The trial will explore various factors, including the impact of deposit schemes on consumer behavior. The goal is to determine which components in the returnable model can effectively encourage greater participation in reuse programs.
The Importance of Collaboration and Standardization
Collaboration across the supply chain is emphasized as essential for successful implementation of reusable systems. By creating standardized solutions, businesses can work together to make reuse more accessible and efficient across various retailers. The open-source nature of the refill coalition shows a commitment to sharing knowledge and resources, encouraging industry-wide adaptation for sustainable practices. Despite acknowledging challenges like entrenched single-use habits, there is a strong belief that through collective efforts, a shift towards a more sustainable future is achievable.
As the Director and Reuse Lead at GoUnpackaged, Catherine Conway has become one of the leading voices in the world of return and refill. In this episode of the Circular Economy Show, Catherine reflects on the goals of the Refill Coalition, the critical role of design in reusable packaging, and how we can scale these solutions for a more circular future.
For more information about the UN plastic treaty mentioned in this episode and the role of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation in leading it forward, have a look at our resources here.
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review, or leave us a comment on Spotify. Your support helps us to spread the word about the circular economy. And if you have any burning questions for the team at the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, drop us a line a podcast@emf.org.
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