EU to Adopt New Packaging Rules For eCommerce Deliveries

EU to Adopt New Packaging Rules For eCommerce Deliveries

The European Union is on the verge of implementing major new packaging rules aimed at reducing the environmental damage caused by eCommerce deliveries. With millions of online orders made every day, the increase in packaging waste generated as a result has become a growing problem. The European Commission has therefore proposed new regulations which target the eCommerce and food delivery sectors.

In this article, we’ll examine the upcoming changes in greater detail, the specifics of the new rules, and how retailers can make packaging more sustainable.

The environmental impact of packaging waste

The massive growth of eCommerce over recent years has brought convenience to consumers but has also resulted in a substantial increase in packaging waste.

Current packaging practices often lead to the excessive use of certain materials. The result is unnecessary layers and superfluous packaging that’s frustrating to open and difficult to dispose of.

Think about the last package you ordered – chances are it included multiple types of plastic packaging like bubble wrap and air cushions. It’s this sort of single-use packaging that contributes significantly to plastic pollution and has a severe impact on the environment.

Packaging waste from online deliveries often includes a variety of materials, from plastic products to paper cuttings. Despite many of us being committed to recycling, much of this often ends up in landfills or the ocean, exacerbating the current environmental crisis.

According to the European Parliament, the amount of packaging waste has been increasing rapidly over the last decade, highlighting the urgent need for more sustainable solutions.

Why a packaging waste regulation is necessary

The European Union has recognised the need to reduce packaging waste and address its associated environmental impacts. The existing rules have proven to be inadequate in curbing the rise in waste from online orders.

Therefore, the European Parliament has proposed regulations which aim to address the problem. How? By promoting reusable and refillable packaging as an environmentally friendly solution.

Many European consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the environmental problems their purchases have. However, businesses have championed sustainable packaging as well. The current packaging formats often involve high empty space ratios and double walls, which waste materials and increase transportation costs and emissions due to larger package sizes.

What is changing

The new EU packaging regulations will introduce several key changes to reduce unnecessary packaging and promote reusable alternatives. The changes, which will come into effect over the space of several years, include:

  • Greater focus on reusable packaging: eCommerce businesses will be strongly encouraged to adopt packaging that can be reused regularly. This change aims to minimise single-use packaging, resulting in packaging materials being reused multiple times.
  • Introduction of new refillable packaging solutions: The regulations will promote refillable packaging, allowing customers to refill their own containers instead of purchasing new ones. This is particularly relevant for plastic bottles and other consumer goods.
  • Stricter packaging waste regulations: The new rules will tighten the regulations around packaging waste by banning certain plastics by 2030, and require online retailers to reduce the amount of waste they generate. It will include targets for reducing needless layers and ensuring that packaging is collected separately for recycling.
  • Increase of recyclable packaging: European countries will see an even greater push towards recyclable packaging. eCommerce businesses must ensure that their packaging can be recycled efficiently and comply with the latest EU rules to increase environmental protection and sustainability.
  • Adoption of deposit returns system: To promote the reuse of packaging materials, EU countries will see the implementation of deposit return systems. This system aims to incentivise customers to return used packaging in exchange for a deposit, reducing the likelihood of unnecessary packaging ending up in landfills.
  • Greater focus on packaging minimisation: The new regulation will address the issue of wasted space in packaging. Online sellers will have to abide by a maximum empty space ratio of 50% for grouped, transportation, and eCommerce packaging. Efficient packaging designs that minimise weight and volume will also be required.

How you can make your packaging more sustainable

eCommerce businesses will play an important role in the successful implementation of these new packaging rules. By adopting innovative and sustainable packaging solutions, your business will significantly reduce your impact on the environment and boost your green credibility with eco-conscious consumers. Here are a few recommendations your business should start to employ.

Use reusable packaging every time

By switching to more environmentally friendly packaging, you will help to reduce waste and lower your shipping costs in the long run. It can be designed to be durable and returnable, creating a system that benefits the environment and your business.

Implement refillable packaging options

Using refillable packaging will help significantly cut down on single-use and plastic packaging. Final distributors of beverages and food, such as fresh fruit, should offer consumers the option of using their own container. Refillable containers will reduce the need for new packaging and boost repeat custom.

Optimise packaging design

Reducing the empty space ratio in packaging will lead to significant material savings and help to reduce transportation emissions. Businesses should look into investing in packaging designs that are tailored to the size of the product to avoid unnecessary bulk.

Ditch plastic packaging and prioritise recyclable materials

Using recyclable materials for packaging means that once the packaging is no longer needed, it can be processed and reused rather than discarded. Businesses should prioritise using materials that can be easily recyclable within the EU market.

Introduce deposit return systems

By encouraging customers to return their packaging, it will help to massively reduce waste. Setting up a convenient return system and offering perks, such as future discounts, will help encourage more customers to get involved.

Reduce superfluous packaging

Businesses should evaluate their packaging procedures to identify and eliminate unnecessary layers and materials. Simplified packaging will reduce waste and make products more appealing to environmentally conscious customers.

How to adapt to the new regulations

The European Union’s new packaging rules for eCommerce deliveries mark a significant step towards reducing packaging waste and promoting greater sustainability. With an increased focus on recyclable, refillable, and reusable packaging, the EU hopes that the new regulations will help lessen the environmental impact of the eCommerce sector.

Your business must adapt to these changes by using more innovative packaging solutions that comply with EU legislation and the expectations of European consumers.

The transition period will allow businesses to adjust to these EU wide rules. However, the goal of the regulations is clear: to foster innovation and encourage a more environmentally friendly approach to packaging. That’s where a sustainable fulfillment partner like Autofulfil can help.

Autofulfil: your sustainable fulfillment partner

Choosing a sustainable fulfillment partner will help your business comply with the new EU packaging regulations when they are formally approved by the European Council. Autofulfil is committed to sustainability, already helping hundreds of businesses integrate eco-friendly practices.

From using fully biodegradable paper-based packaging when shipping orders, to minimising the empty space ratio and usage of packaging materials, Autofulfil’s sustainable 3PL solutions boost your eCommerce business’s green credentials. Learn more about our sustainable fulfillment solutions, including carbon-neutral fulfillment in Ireland, by getting in touch with our team.